There’s a lot to love about Farmville. Well known for Green Front Furniture and Longwood University, it offers hiking, biking and world-class getaways at places like the boutique Hotel Weyanoke. Some of Farmville’s best gems are tucked just slightly below the surface. Here are three secret and not-so-secret spots around Farmville perfect for a day of exploring.
What: Downtown Farmville
Located about an hour from both Richmond and Charlottesville, Farmville as a whole has probably been on your radar. But if you haven’t taken a day or even better a weekend to explore its charming downtown scene, you’re missing out.
Why you may not have heard of it: Good question! Farmville’s downtown has something for everyone. From shopping to delicious dining to the High Bridge Trail for history and fitness enthusiasts, it’s the perfect place to spend a day doing whatever it is you enjoy most.
Why it’s notable: Most recently Farmville made headlines when Longwood University hosted the 2016 Vice Presidential debate. Farmville’s downtown, in particular, is chock full of historic buildings, delightful shops and irresistable eateries.
Plan your day: Start by exploring one of Green Front Furniture’s massive tobacco warehouses. Refresh yourself with a bite at beloved Farmville landmark Walker’s Diner before heading on down Main Street to explore shops like Sweet Violet, Penelope or Amish Originals. Feeling in need of a little exercise? Rent a bike at the Outdoor Adventure Store for a spin on High Bridge Trail or around town. Round out your day with an ice-cold local brew from Three Roads Brewing Company.
Photo credit Brian Scythes
What: The Burnside and Early Technical Trails
There’s a good chance you’ve heard of High Bridge Trail State Park and all it has to offer for biking enthusiasts, as well as horseback riders and hikers. At thirty one miles long, the park was once a rail bed. You might be missing out on two hidden gems during your visits.
Why you may not have heard of: Tucked off to the left if you’re riding towards the bridge from Farmville, these two trails require mountain bikes. However with plenty of twists, turns and a satisfying loop back to the beginning it’s well worth the pre-planning.
Why it’s notable:
Video courtesy of local outdoor enthusiast Brian Vincent.
Plan your day: Make sure to ride out to High Bridge and enjoy the spectacular 360-degree views more than 125 above the Appomattox River. On your way back, stop to catch your breath at the downtown plaza and snap a pic with the famous LOVE sign. Cool off with a glass of wine at the Virginia Tasting Cellar or reward yourself with a delicious slice of pizza from Perini’s.
What: Farmville’s Public Painted Murals
Farmville loves art. So much, in fact, that it’s painted all over town. Lace up your walking shoes and come explore Farmville’s many beautiful murals. Our offerings come from professional artists, Longwood University alumni, Monty Montgomery, as well as younger talent including the Student Artist Mural Project
Why you may not have heard of them: Like most murals, Farmville’s are tucked in out of the way places. The Student Artist Mural Project recently completed their largest project to date on a retaining wall on South Street in Farmville.
Why they’re notable: Farmville’s public painted murals are notable for their diversity of subject matter, from Monty Montgomery’s triptychs to the murals on the tarpaper shacks at Moton Museum. Plus if you stick around you’ll find some truly charming “easter egg” murals. Keep an eye out for the troll bridge near Charley’s and a beautiful pair of butterfly wings near The Attic Pawn Shop on Main Street.
Plan your day: Begin your day with breakfast at Effingham’s before taking in the original and largest Monty mural on the side of the Farmville Presbyterian Church. Stroll back up the street to Longwood University’s campus to enjoy the rest of Monty’s work. It’s a short drive to the Moton Museum for a close up view of the tarpaper shack mural. Make sure to get a tour while you’re there. Head downtown to catch the rest of the murals including those from the Student Artist Mural Project. Feeling inspired? Red Door 104 and Mainly Clay are two options to let your own creativity loose––just check twice before applying any paint to buildings.
We can’t wait for you to join us in Farmville to explore these secret, and not-so-secret places. We know you’ll discover even more things to love along the way.