smithfield tourist attractions

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Enewsletter, visit genuine smithfield for hams, history, hospitality & heart.

A visit to charming  Smithfield  (home of the world-famous ham) is a true “step back in time” to a genuine small-town experience. Smithfield, incorporated in 1752, maintains its quaint river town feel and is known worldwide for its famous ham curing process.

Begin your visit at the  Visitor Center  on Main Street - also home to the  Arts Center @ 319  - offering tourist information, a gallery/gift shop and the chance to chat with resident artists. Further down Main Street is the  Isle of Wight Museum , with its overview of the county’s history and the world's oldest ham (113+ years old!).

Go for a short country drive to explore the County’s two historic forts in beautiful natural settings overlooking the James River.  Historic Fort Huger , the "Gateway to the Confederate Capital," offers a self-guided walking tour to view mounted cannon and the ghost fleet. Just down Route 10 is  Fort Boykin Historic Park , constructed in 1623 to protect the colonists from the Indians and raiding Spaniards, the fort features scenic overlooks and a secluded river beach.

Dine your first night in town riverside at  Captain Chuck-a-Muck’s  (featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-in’s & Dives” and enjoy one of Chuck’s featured cocktails as you celebrate a beautiful waterside sunset.

Start out at  Darden’s Country Store and Smokehouse , a family-run farm and country store for over 50 years. Call ahead to see if Tommy or Dee Dee can give you a tour of the family’s smokehouse. Then head back to town to peruse the  galleries and unique shops  along Main and Church Streets. Don’t miss the 1750  Isle of Wight Courthouse  or the Schoolhouse Museum.

Treat yourself to lunch at  Taste of Smithfield , and be sure to take a delicious assortment of peanuts and ham products.

After lunch head out to one of the town’s most treasured sites, Historic St. Luke’s – Virginia’s oldest church for a fascinating guided tour.

Finish your day with dinner at  Smithfield Station  or one of the area’s other fine dining establishments. Then toast the day at the town’s own brewpub  Wharf Hill Brewing Company .

Start your Sunday morning with the fabulous Sunday Brunch served at  Smithfield Station  or the  Smithfield Inn , then perhaps take a self-guided walking tour of the Historic District featuring over 50 historic buildings. Or head back to  Windsor Castle Park  for a leisurely stroll or to rent a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard (available seasonally). Finish your time in Smithfield with lunch at the  Ice Cream Parlor , followed of course by your favorite frozen treat!

More To Do:

• Ragged Island Wildlife Management
• Smithfield Events  

This getaway was submitted by  Smithfield & Isle of Wight Convention & Visitors Bureau .

• Smithfield & Isle of Wight Convention & Visitors Bureau - 800-365-9339

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Discover things to do, places to stay, and where to dine in Smithfield. 

Amber Miller

• Jul 13, 2022

A DAY IN SMITHFIELD, VIRGINIA: TRAVEL GUIDE

I took my parents on a day trip around the most charming small town in the 757... Smithfield, Virginia! I've been lucky enough to call this place home for the past 2 years and there is so much to love, enjoy, and experience. I gathered our full list of "must do's" for y'all to check out and reference to when planning your next weekend getaway to the Ham Capital of the World!

Kayaking at Windsor Castle Park:

One of my favorite places in Smithfield is Windsor Castle Park . This little slice of heaven is located on the Pagan River and Cypress Creek. We rented kayaks to tour around and enjoy the beautiful morning weather and cruise by Smithfield Station to see the boats docking. Seeing the town's natural beauty from this point of view was such a unique experience! There is so much to do at WCP such as walking or running the trails, natural playscapes for the kids, kayaking on the river, riding on the mountain bike path, a dog park for your furry friends, cast a line at the fishing pier, and plenty of picnic space for an afternoon lunch with family and friends. If you love the outdoors, Windsor Castle Park will be one of your hotspots in Smithfield!

Farmers Market - Downtown Smithfield

There's nothing like supporting local small businesses like the ones at the Farmer's Market in Downtown Smithfield! These businesses create every single thing they sell in some way, shape, or form -- they are so talented! We always make sure to go by and stop at West Village Barkery for Roscoe's favorite venison stick treats! Then we stroll around and check out the flowers, produce, witty signs, candles, soap bars, and so much more! Some of my favorite stands are: Farm to Florist , Linda's Natural Goat Milk Soap, Scraps to Crafts , Sycamore Springs, and so many more. You have to check them out! The Farmer's Market is located right on N. Main St. in the parking lot of BSV bank and is held every Saturday from April - November from 9:00am - 12:00pm.

Cure Coffeehouse:

We made a pit stop by Cure Coffeehouse , the most adorable small town cafe right next to Smithfield Winery. They have the best craft beverages such as espresso beverages, pour overs, nitro coffee, wine and craft beer, loose-leaf teas, fresh-squeezed lemonades, as well as unique house-made specialty syrups. My top choice is the Creme Brulee Latte! The best part about Cure -- the all day breakfast menu!! I got the yogurt and granola parfait and it was OUTSTANDING! We also ordered the Pimento BLT and the pimento hit just right. They also have a variety of salads, sandwiches, and share-able fare such as cheese and charcuterie boards! This cafe gives all the positive vibes and is a hotspot for a study group, catching up with a friend, or an afternoon photoshoot!

Shopping in Downtown Smithfield:

Downtown Smithfield has some of the cutest shops you have ever seen, hands down! From the Christmas Store to Pearls and all the way down to Fleur de Fou -- you will find a variety of everything! We spent some of the afternoon peaking in the stores and still weren't able to cover them all! Some of the ones we were able to catch were: Pearls , When Pigs Fly , Beyond Main (which I have featured in a previous blog post I wrote about top boutiques in the 757) , Perfectly Natural , Victoria's Rose , and Fleur de Fou ! I snagged some special kitchenware for the summertime, lavender bath bombs, and a swig coffee mug. It sure was a successful shopping trip. I am excited to take a trip back down to Main Street to cover the rest of the amazing stores!

Isle of Wight County Museum:

THE WORLD'S OLDEST HAM SAY WHAT?!?! When we heard the oldest ham and the oldest peanut were located right here in Smithfield, we had to go check them out at the Isle of Wight County Museum ! Smithfield is known for its hams, and the museum's star attraction receives plenty of visitation. In 1902, one of P.D. Gwaltn ey Jr.'s cured hams was overlooked, and for 20 years, it hung from a rafter in a packing house. Fast forward to 1924 where it was fashioned with a brass collar and kept in an iron safe for guests to view! This is where it began being advertised as the world’s oldest Smithfield ham! Gwaltney also took it to expositions with him to show off the preservative powers it held! On top of that, the museum itself is so interactive such as the country store and tells many historic stories all throughout! The world's oldest ham just had it's 120th birthday party last weekend.... so Hammy Birthday to him! Each July, the museum hosts a birthday party for the Ham where they have a sleepover the night before, and everyone sings "Hammy Birthday." It is always preceded by a sleepover the night before. Oh, and n ot only does he have his own camera, "The Ham Cam" which shows what the Ham is up to 24/7, but he also tweets.... @worldsoldestham - so go give him a follow!

Porcine Pigs

When walking throughout Smithfield, you'll notice eight life-size statues of market hogs, also known as the “Porcine Parade." These are painted by local artists to reflect on the history and culture of the town! I was able to spot 3 of them: The Cultural Pig (Artist: Jennifer Lycke - celebrating the arts), The Magnolia (Artist: Lois Chapman Tokarz - highlighting the town's rich history of photographs from the museum), and The Swine & Roses (Artist: Sheila Gwaltney - showcasing the culinary arts of Smithfield). Smithfield sure is the "Ham Capital of the World!" Hats off to all of the amazingly talented artists that donated their time, talents, and materials to create them for this town! Keep your eyes peeled when strolling through the town of Smithfield -- you'll see them everywhere now (or you can just ask for my cheat sheet of addresses!).

St. Lukes Historic Church & Museum:

We had the opportunity to visit Virginia's Oldest Church Building, St. Luke's , built back in the 1600's! Serving as a symbol of religious freedom, packed with over 400 years of vibrant, American History . You can explore the grounds of this landmark while learning all about its journey from experts themselves. Inside the church, you will find Artisan Mannerism Architecture with romanesque, gothic, and Jacobean influences within their designs. In their Ancient and Memorial Park Cemetery, thousands of Virginians rest where good stewardship and an active historical interpretation and education program assure their memory. This historic landmark signifies the importance of our 1st Amendment Rights and the unique nature of the American Constitutional Republic. They have many events you can attend, you can host your own , or just be a part of their support team. I could talk for hours about ALL the information we learned on our tour, but if there was one significant piece I took away from this tour, it's that in the school system we are taught the highlight points -- but what happened in between those points is true beauty! If you're a history guru, wander through St. Luke's and experience their guided tour into the oldest brick church in the state! Book your tour, HERE !

Smithfield Inn

It was "MURDER MYSTERY NIGHT" at Smithfield Inn and I was all in! We dressed up, grabbed a cocktail (his lavender martinis are a MUST), and sat at a round table to watch the show. The show was very entertaining and put on by local actors/actresses. At the end, you had to guess who committed the murder as a table and it was super challenging. Throughout the night we also were served a three course meal! Amongst us all, we were able to try the salad, crab cakes, ribeye, bread pudding, chocolate mousse, and of course my favorite... peach cobbler - YUM!!! There is never a dull moment at this Historic Restaurant and Tavern Bed & Breakfast on Main Street. They have amazing food, relaxing atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and the BEST people! The Smithfield Inn also won "Best of" Readers Choice Award in 2021. Fun fact, George Washington was actually a guest here back when it was established in 1752.

The Smithfield Arts Center

The Arts Center is located within the Smithfield Visitors Center and exhibits the works of local and regional artists! They host multiple shows throughout the year for citizens to come out and admire the beautiful work. The Arts Center also hosts working studios for eight resident artists, a gift shop with creations by its member artists, and an arts classroom for lessons! I was so amazed at all of the beautiful artwork displayed that these talented artists created!

Smithfield Station

Last but certainly not least, Smithfield Station , the most charming hotel and dining experience with views of the Pagan river! I actually shared this destination with you all last summer for a couples staycation . It's a one-of-a-king quaint waterfront inn with elegant rooms, nearby gift shops, a divine seafood restaurant, a fully equipped marina, and of course the most gorgeous views of the town! I highly recommend grabbing a drink and sitting out on the boardwalk to watch the sunset. You won't regret it! Smithfield Station was voted as the "Best of Virginia", Boaters Choice, Top Wedding Venue, Traveler's Choice and Diner's choice all in the year of 2020! WOW! It's safe to say that Smithfield Station should be at the top of your list when visiting Smithfield!

T here are so many ways to enjoy this beautiful town! Smithfield has everything you could imagine and adheres to a variety of interests, ages, and activities. I hope this travel guide was helpful for you in planning your next weekend getaway (or staycation!) to this quaint and charming destination that I am blessed to call home. Smithfield is a small town with lots of heart and you'll feel like a local before ya know it. I hope to see ya around town! Till next time...

XOXO - Amber

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2 comentarios

Girl you missed the best part of Smithfield, Qdaddys! Great food and the restaurant is aesthetically pleasing for pictures if that’s what you are looking for. You gotta swing by next time you are there.

The murder mystery show was performed by a group called All Y'All Players. Check out our website and Facebook page for more information, www.allyallplayers.com. Thank you Amber Miller for the wonderful article and for attending the show, Just Desserts!! 😁😍🎭🥂

Attractions

Things to do around and near smithfield, more than ham, smithfield virginia, so much more than ham.

The Town of Smithfield’s tagline is “Hams, History, Hospitality and HeART… we’ve got something for everyone!” and there really is so much this small town has to offer.

As you drive down Main Street in historic downtown Smithfield, it doesn’t take long to realize this small town truly is a hidden gem in Virginia. You’ll take in beautiful historic architecture, small-town quaintness, and smiling neighbors as you make your way to the waterfront, where Smithfield Station provides the best location to experience this charming town. We can’t express enough how proud we are of our town.

Things to do near Smithfield, VA

Discover a variety of activities near Smithfield, VA. Immerse yourself in history at museums, explore nature on scenic trails, savor local cuisine, and enjoy outdoor adventures like kayaking and golf. Smithfield’s offerings promise a diverse and enjoyable experience for all.

So What’s Close To Smithfield? A Lot!

Boardwalk shops at smithfield station.

• Pagan River Wine Merchants
• J. Davis Salon
• Riverbend Gifts by RM Designs
• KW Countryside Realty

10 Minutes Or Less…

Around smithfield.

• Smithfield & Isle of Wight Visitor Center
• Windsor Castle Outdoor Park
• Taste of Smithfield Restaurant
• Downtown Arts Center
• Cypress Creek Golf Course
• The Isle of Wight County Museum
• The Old Courthouse of 1750
• The Schoolhouse Museum
• Historic Fort Huger
• Fort Boykin Historic Park
• Historic St. Luke’s Church

35 Minutes Or Less

Newport news.

• Virginia Living Museum
• The Mariners Museum
• US Army Transportation Museum
• Ferguson Center for the Arts (shows)
• Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center
• Historic Endview Plantation

Downtown Norfolk / Portsmouth

• Spirit of Norfolk Dinner Cruise
• Carrie B Showboat
• Battleship Wisconsin
• Naval Base Cruises
• The Rover Sailing Cruise
• Virginia Zoo
• The Chrysler Museum of Art
• Chrysler Hall musicals & shows
• Norfolk Tides baseball games
• Scope Arena concert & event venue
• Harrison Opera House
• The NorVa concerts & theater
• Old Dominion University
• Olde Towne Portsmouth
• Children’s Museum of Virginia
• College Run Farms
• Chippokes State Park
• Surry Seafood Co

45 Minutes Or Less

• The Ferguson Center for the Arts
• Yorktown Battlefields
• The Riverwalk at Yorktown Beach
• Charter Fishing on the Chesapeake Bay

Williamsburg

• Historic Williamsburg
• Jamestown Settlement and Ships
• Water Country USA
• Busch Gardens
• Go Ape Ropes Course
• Outlet Shops
• Merchant Square in Colonial Williamsburg
• William and Mary University
• Williamsburg Winery

1 Hour Or Less

Virginia beach.

• Oceanfront Boardwalk, ParaSailing, Dolphin Watching – you name it!
• Farm Bureau Live Amphitheater
• The Sandler Center
• Offshore Charter Fishing for Tuna, Mahi, Wahoo and Billfish
• Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours

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Connect with us.

• 415 South Church Street, Smithfield, VA 23430
• [email protected]
• (757) 357-7700

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Calendar of Events

Something's always cookin' in Genuine Smithfield! With the town's natural beauty and temperate climate as a backdrop, it's not surprising the locals boast about so many special events offered throughout the year. Parking is easy and you'll find the living is easy in Genuine Smithfield. So visit us for the Farmers Market, Vintage Market, The Smithfield Wine and Brew Fest, Hog Jog, the Friday Night Concert Series or our old-fashioned Christmas Parade - to name just a few - and you'll discover one more way to savor our small-town charm.

• Arts & Culture
• Community Event/Fundraiser
• Concerts/Live Performances
• Family/Children
• Festivals/Parades
• Guided Tours
• Holiday Event
• Lecture/Educational Program/Workshop
• Markets/Sales/Promotions
• Outdoors or Recreation
• Party/Celebration
• Vendors & Musician Information
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025

• Recently Added
• Event Name A - Z
• Event Name Z - A

The Life and Legacy of The Marquis de Lafayette: A Traveling Exhibit on Display at the Isle of Wight County Museum

Isle of Wight County Museum Aug 23, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

Back to School Story Walk

Hayden's Lane Aug 23, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

Annual Isle of Wight Arts League Members Show and Sale

The Arts Center @ 319 Aug 23, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

Beginner/Intermediate Introduction to Acrylics

The Arts Center @ 319 Aug 23, 2024 Starts at 01:00 pm

2024 Friday Night Summer Concert Series

Main Street Stage at 228 Main Street Aug 23, 2024 Starts at 07:00 pm

Christ Episcopal Church Aug 24, 2024 Starts at 07:30 am

Smithfield Farmers Market

Bank of Southside Virginia Parking Lot Aug 24, 2024 Starts at 09:00 am

Isle of Wight County Museum Aug 24, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

Smithfield Vol. Fire Dept. Open House

Smithfield Vol. Fire Department Aug 24, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

Hayden's Lane Aug 24, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

The Arts Center @ 319 Aug 24, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

Cold War Defense: Carrollton-Nike Park Walking Tour

Nike Park - Carrollton Aug 24, 2024 Starts at 02:00 pm

Isle of Wight County Museum Aug 25, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

Hayden's Lane Aug 25, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

The Arts Center @ 319 Aug 25, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

Live Jazz at the Winery

SummerWind Vineyard and Tasting Room Aug 25, 2024 Starts at 02:00 pm

Nominate a Hospitality Hero

Smithfield & Isle of Wight Tourism Visitor Center Aug 26, 2024 All Day Event

Travel Advisory - Cypress Creek Bridge

Smithfield Station Waterfront Inn, Restaurant, Marina and Conference Center Aug 26, 2024 All Day Event

Isle of Wight County Museum Aug 26, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

Hayden's Lane Aug 26, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

The Arts Center @ 319 Aug 26, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

Become a Hambassador!

Smithfield & Isle of Wight Tourism Visitor Center Aug 27, 2024 All Day Event

Isle of Wight County Museum Aug 27, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

Hayden's Lane Aug 27, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am

The Arts Center @ 319 Aug 27, 2024 Starts at 10:00 am