Come for the mountain views, stay for the theater, trails, and comfort food worth planning a trip around. Abingdon packs Appalachian heritage, live performances, and an impressively good food scene into a walkable, easygoing town. Here are five can’t-miss ways to spend a weekend in Abingdon, Virginia.
Catch a Show at the Legendary Barter Theatre
Start your weekend with a standing ovation-worthy night at Barter Theatre, one of the longest-running regional theaters in the country—and easily Abingdon’s claim to fame. Founded in 1933, the theater got its name during the Great Depression, when actors famously accepted food instead of cash for tickets. (Yes, really.)
Today, Barter serves up everything from Shakespeare and classic dramas to crowd-pleasing musicals and modern comedies. Book seats on the historic Gilliam Stage for big productions like Elf the Musical or Guys & Dolls, or opt for the smaller Smith Theatre for intimate, experimental performances. Weekend shows sell out fast, so snag tickets early. Even if you’re not seeing a show, stop by to admire the Colonial Revival architecture and browse the lobby’s historic displays—it’s a must for first-timers.
Bike or Stroll the Virginia Creeper Trail
Time to head outside. The Virginia Creeper Trail is one of the most beloved rail-to-trail paths in the Southeast, and lucky for you, it starts right in Abingdon. This 34-mile scenic route winds through forests, farmland, bubbling creeks, and charming wooden bridges—all at a blissfully easy pace.
Rent bikes from a local outfitter or simply walk the shaded stretch near the trailhead. Early mornings are magic here, with misty mountain air and fewer crowds. Want the full experience without the uphill effort? Take a shuttle to Whitetop Station and coast downhill. Fall brings a kaleidoscope of color, but weekends get busy—arrive early, and you’ll see why everyone raves about it.
Wander Abingdon’s Storybook Downtown
Abingdon’s downtown feels like it was designed for wandering. Brick sidewalks, Victorian-era buildings, and centuries of history give it a storybook feel—without the stuffy museum vibes. Start on Main Street, then explore side streets to uncover hidden architectural gems and locally owned shops.
Pop into Market on Main for curated gifts and regional finds, then dig through vintage treasures at Foxglove Antiques. The Boho Collective is perfect for clothing and handmade jewelry, while Holston Mountain Artisans showcases Appalachian crafts. Wine lovers should duck into Katbird’s Wine & Gourmet Shoppe, and if you’re visiting on a weekend morning, don’t miss the Abingdon Farmers Market for fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade goodies.
Step Back in Time at The Martha Washington Inn & Spa
Few places capture Abingdon’s history quite like The Martha Washington Inn & Spa. Dating back to the early 1800s, this grand landmark has hosted everyone from President Franklin D. Roosevelt to Elizabeth Taylor—and today, locals affectionately call it “The Martha.”
Wander the elegant halls, explore the gardens, and soak up the old-world charm. Book a massage or facial at the on-site spa, or relax in one of the cozy sitting rooms. Hungry? Grab dinner at Sisters American Grill for elevated comfort food, or sip cocktails in the adjoining lounge. Feeling brave? Ask the staff about the inn’s ghost stories—it’s famously rumored to be haunted. Staying overnight or not, The Martha is a can’t-miss stop.
Eat and Drink Like You’ve Lived Here Forever
Abingdon’s food scene is small but mighty, blending Appalachian roots with chef-driven creativity. Book a table at The Tavern, set inside an 18th-century building, for refined Southern classics—don’t skip the bacon-wrapped scallops or hand-cut steaks. For cozy, elevated comfort food, 128 Pecan delivers with dishes like smoked pork belly and braised short ribs. Wine lovers should make a beeline for Rain, known for one of the area’s best wine lists and seasonal plates like pan-seared trout.
Mornings belong to The Girl & The Raven, a downtown favorite serving flaky pastries, hearty breakfast plates, and the beloved Bluegrass Biscuit. The drink menu is just as tempting, with everything from matcha lattes to coffee cocktails and mimosas.
Cap off your day with a drink at Sweetbay Brewing Company, where creative craft beers flow in a rustic taproom. Or head to Tumbling Creek Cider Company for a cider flight made with Virginia apples—expect bold flavors like Smoked Jalapeño and Smoked Apple Whiskey Barrel.
