Virginia’s centuries-old history is reflected in the look of many of its communities, where preserved buildings and unique architecture provide a scenic, enchanting environment. With a beautiful Atlantic coast and mountainous settings as well, it is no wonder Virginia is a popular destination for visitors and transfers alike.
Housing museums, galleries, historic buildings, and much more, many of Virginia’s downtown areas act as the center of culture and commerce for its communities. Let’s look at two Virginia cities with charming downtowns worth exploring.
Bristol
Bristol is an exceptional Virginia community in the Appalachian Region of the state. It is near the Appalachian Trail, making it a common destination for visitors seeking to enjoy the area’s abundant natural beauty. Bristol is a relatively small city, but it has an outsized reputation due to its history as one of the birthplaces of country music and its lovely downtown.
Bristol’s State Street is the center of life in the community, and it was here that some of the most influential country music sessions of all time were recorded in the 1920s, giving rise to the industry. The Birthplace of Country Music Museum is appropriately based downtown, and State Street is lined with an abundance of other museums, shops, breweries, and delicious restaurants. This unique town is located within two states and has a line that runs through the middle of its famed street separating Virginia from Tennessee.
Bristol’s downtown has plenty of options for entertainment. There are terrific shopping destinations comprising 30 local artisans within just six blocks, which makes buying local hand-crafted goods easy and convenient. And the town has a superb arts reputation; it has many galleries, live music venues, and downtown art festivals throughout the year.
Bedford
Bedford is a peaceful, charming city in the Lynchburg Metropolitan Area with easy proximity to gorgeous natural destinations, including the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests. Bedford has a quiet, family-friendly feel and is only a short drive from bigger cities like Roanoke and Lynchburg. Bedford’s historic charm makes it a wonderful place to live, and many of the city’s shops, architecture, and restaurants are in the downtown area.
Bedford’s downtown is roughly four blocks of stores, galleries, and tasty restaurants. Because its buildings date back hundreds of years, this area has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There are monuments and statues throughout the town, including its famous D-Day Memorial, an homage to its many residents who fought in this pivotal World War II battle. The downtown also houses scenic public parks, including Centertown Park.
There are lively events throughout the year, including Centerfest, one of the core traditions of Bedford’s downtown. This annual summer event includes a farmer’s market, art displays, live music, and more. While Bedford may be small, its charming and bustling downtown contributes to its reputation as a historic hotspot.
