Welcome to Washington County, VA! Let’s Take a Tour

Julie Kroll

If you’re new to Washington County, chances are you haven’t had the chance to explore Abingdon, Damascus and all of the amazing communities that make the region so special. Not to worry, though – we’ve put together a quick overview to serve as your guide as you familiarize yourself with your new home.

Abingdon

As the county seat, the town of Abingdon has the highest population in the region and a vibrant arts, culture and crafts scene to match. Many galleries and artisan’s shops can be found throughout town, including the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace, a unique venue that combines shopping, music and cultural preservation, and William King Museum of Art, where rotating exhibits provide exciting variety. For a special combination of entertainment and history, there’s the Barter Theatre, which has been lovingly preserved from its early roots and still produces excellent shows to this day.

Abingdon does have an idyllic historic district that’s perfect for perusing on any given day. With 145 buildings contributing to the architectural landscape, there’s plenty to see and admire, especially since there’s such a variety of building styles (Colonial Revival, Craftsman and Queen Anne, to name a few).

Abingdon is also the start/end of the Virginia Creeper Trail, and many traveling hikers and bikers make a point to stay a little longer here to explore all the area has to offer before returning home.

Damascus

Known as “Trail Town USA,” Damascus is a hub for all things outdoor recreation. The town earned its title for the seven popular trails that intersect within town limits, including the Virginia Creeper Trail and the Appalachian Trail, which are major attractions for hikers and bikers from all around. The town’s culture and economy revolves around this outdoor tourism, serving as a junction point for people traversing the trails. Outdoor outfitters, restaurants and lodging establishments all offer valuable services to those journeying through Damascus.

Many of the trails in this region were former railroads that have been converted into hiking trails, and one remnant of that in Damascus is Backbone Rock, the “world’s shortest tunnel,” leftover from the old Beaver Dam Railroad. It’s a fun spot to take pictures and a quirky accolade for the town.

Emory

Home to Emory & Henry University, Emory is a quiet college town with deep historical roots. The college itself was founded in 1836, and that long legacy gives a sense of cultural permanence to the community. Many of the town’s events center around the university, including concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions, lectures and more. Outside of events, some residents and visitors simply love to walk the campus grounds, taking in the buildings, green spaces and the duck pond.

Glade Spring

Located directly off of I-81, the small town of Glade Spring offers refuge for travelers and locals alike. It’s a small community with more than 2,000 residents, providing a quiet and rural way of life but located close enough to take advantage of amenities and attractions found in nearby communities. Like many small towns, it’s a close-knit group of folks, and they come together throughout the year at charming festivals and gatherings, such as the annual Glade Spring Farmers Market’s Fall Festival.

Saltville

Named for the natural salt springs and marshes, the town of Saltville was a hub of salt production for many years. The site of two Civil War battles (First and Second Battles of Saltville), historical markers dot the town, serving as a guide for tours related to both the Civil War and early salt production.

Also worth visiting is the Museum of the Middle Appalachians, which encompasses the area’s history from the Ice Age to the Space Age. Saltville also has some incredible trails and outdoor areas, like the Well Fields Recreation Area, a popular spot for birding and fishing. Live music is easy to find as well at the Town Commons and Palmer Mill.