In Lush Western Virginia, Charming Abingdon Has an Active Arts Scene and Oozes History

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains in rolling western Virginia, charming Abingdon is the Washington County seat and dates from the mid-1700s. It has a lively arts scene and is proud of its heritage.

Main Street is lined with beautifully restored Victorian structures, red brick Federal-style buildings with white-frame windows, antique shops, music stores, tea parlors and some wonderful restaurants and cafes. The William King Museum has five galleries and sponsors artist talks as well as workshops.

The Barter Theatre has a full season of performances and a long list of famous alumni, including Ernest Borgnine and Gregory Peck. Abingdon’s Arts Depot has studios, classes and hosts the Appalachian Center for Poets and Writers. Heartwood is a community gathering place and the hub for local craftsmen, foodies, and musicians.

The town highlights its heritage with celebrations such as the Crooked Road Music Fest and the Virginia Highlands Festival. Abingdon is the final stop on the Virginia Creeper Trail and at the northern tip of the Overmountain Victory Trail.

Neighborhoods are leafy, and some have red brick sidewalks. Homes are mostly ranch ramblers, raised ranch ramblers, bungalows, plantation-styles and Colonials.

Washington County Park on South Holston Lake includes a boat launch, and the lake permits skiing and fishing. The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area includes the state’s highest point, hiking trails, camping, and a fishing lake.

Abingdon has 8,300 people, with 45% of them age 45 or better. The population has remained steady during the last decade. Thirty-two percent of locals hold a four-year college degree.

The cost of living is 8% below the national average, and the median home price is around $365,000. Real estate prices have increased 2% from a year ago.

Summers bring temperatures in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, while winters range from the 20s to 30s, with an annual average of 47 inches of rain and 16 inches of snow.

Johnston Memorial Hospital provides medical care. Public transit is available through District Three Public Transit, which has a van service. Locals enjoy a public library and a low crime rate. Politics lean to the right.