Be sure to visit the Historic Triangle’s #1 Day-Trip Destination—Genuine Smithfield! A relaxing (and free!) ferry ride across the James River and a lovely country drive brings you to the heart of Main Street.
Enjoy a little piece of heaven on the banks of the Pagan River. The historic area bustles with galleries, restaurants and specialty shops among quaint Gothic, stately Colonial and sprawling Victorian homes. The river takes center stage in the historic district where area icon, Smithfield Station, holds the spotlight with its replica Victorian Coast Guard Station Lighthouse, hotel, restaurant, marina and shops. Just across the street is one of three convenient entrances to Smithfield’s riverside Windsor Castle Park with its Natural Playscape area for children, over four miles of walking trails, a rolling kayak/canoe launch (with a seasonal outfitter), picnic areas and a mountain bike path.
Great dining abounds in the Ham Capital of the World—from the historic Smithfield Inn and riverside dining at Smithfield Station, to a gourmet bakery, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor, a specialty coffee shop and Taste of Smithfield, the flagship ham shop and cafe of Smithfield Foods. The town also boasts two brewpubs, Wharf Hill Brewing Company and Red Point Taphouse. Just outside of town is Blue Sky Distillery, Serendipity Meadworks and SummerWind Vineyards and tasting room.
Begin your visit at Smithfield’s Visitor Center, which shares space with the Arts Center @319 where you can peruse the gallery and gift shop. Historic attractions include St. Luke’s Church and Museum, the 1750 Isle of Wight Courthouse, Fort Boykin Park, Fort Huger and the Schoolhouse Museum. Stop by the Isle of Wight Museum with its replica Smokehouse, Civil War exhibit and its most notable artifact—the world’s oldest ham. Pick up a map at the Visitor Center for a self-guided tour of the town’s Porcine Parade—eight life-size hog statues situated throughout the historic district, each statue created by a local artist to reflect the area’s culture and heritage.
Plan your trip around one of the many special events the area offers—from free outdoor concerts to our award-winning farmers market. You’re sure to enjoy your time in one of the most idyllic small towns in the USA Genuine Smithfield, Virginia! 757-357-5182, 800-365-9339, VisitSmithfield.com
