Location: Smithfield
Top Things to do in Smithfield
What to do and see in Smithfield, United States: The Best Places and Tips
Smithfield is a town in Isle of Wight County, in the South Hampton Roads subregion of the Hampton Roads region of Virginia in the United States. The population was 8,089 at the 2010 census.
Restaurants in Smithfield
1. Historic St. Luke's Church
Overall Ratings
5 based on 386 reviews
Visit Virginia's Oldest Church in Smithfield, Virginia. Whether your interest is ancient cemeteries, 17th-century Virginian and Early American History, or architectural history, a visit to the Church, gift shop, and grounds is a must while in the Greater Williamsburg and Coastal Virginia regions. Historic St. Luke's Church Museum is operated and owned by Historic St. Luke's Restoration, Inc. And is a fully-tax deductible, 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
Reviewed By J David H - Virginia Beach, Virginia
St. Luke's may have been built as early as 1632 and is a gorgeous example of an English rural church and has both Gothic & Jacobean features. The interior is a must to tour.
A majority of funding is through their on site gift store which is fabulous! The items are eclectic and prices fair. The staff is friendly and ready to assist Tour tickets for the church are obtained in the gift store. Adults are $8, students $5 and 6 and under FREE.
If you think the exterior resembles Historic Jamestowne Church your right, but this church may be even older. Most experts now believe the building to have been constructed 75-100 years later than 1632 as originally thought.
Once inside you will view the stain glass windows to the rear. The glass was installed in the 1950's during a major renovation. The windows were retrieved from a European church that closely dates St. Luke's. There is also a one of a kind parlor organ from 1600's the foundation purchased in 50's from an estate sale. It was later found out a family Norfolk England owned.
There is so much more that could be written about the stunning property, but why not discover for yourself. On occasion Episcopal services are held, look for dates on their website, or Facebook page.
The trip is not far for anyone in Hampton Roads. I would recommend a visit to see this beautiful piece of local history.
2. Windsor Castle Park
Overall Ratings
5 based on 135 reviews
Reviewed By Ray P - Ipswich, United Kingdom
Having walked down Main Street and then to the river crossing we chose the park as our route back. With a combination of paths and boarded walkways this is a tranquil setting to enjoy the countryside and water surrounding the town, Great addition to the local amenities and well worth the time to explore.
3. Smithfield and Isle of Wight Visitor Center
Overall Ratings
5 based on 74 reviews
Reviewed By Ken P - Norfolk
Learned a lot about the development of Smithfield. The historical slant was obvious and easily followed -- less of a set of artifacts, and more of a historical timeline. I did not know that originally peanuts were king in Smithfield before a pier fire and the peanut business moved to Suffolk.
4. Isle of Wight County Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 74 reviews
Museum chronicles the history of the Isle of Wight County with a special emphasis on water, ham and agricultural industries. The exhibits include prehistoric fossils, Native American and Colonial artifacts, a turn-of-the-century country store, displays interpreting the Smithfield ham industry and perhaps the museum’s most notable artifact: the world’s oldest, edible cured ham.
Reviewed By 2_4SXM - Land O Lakes, Florida
Nicely appointed museum sharing history of the establishment of county, agriculture, local life, and how Smthfield ham company began. Very informative, lots of displays, timelines, period clothing, artifacts, and great tactile displays for children or adults. A definite hands-on learning museum. No one should miss this gem. Once done, pop into the Christmas Store across the street.
5. Smithfield Farmers Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 41 reviews
Reviewed By Katie C
They have fantastic baked goods, fresh fish/meats, fresh produce. Perfect for a day out. Everyone there was extremely friendly. Although I don't remember the name of the truck, there was a vendor selling fantastic pink lemonade. Definitely refreshing as you walk around. Beautiful place.
6. 1750 Isle of Wight Courthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 30 reviews
This building served as Isle of Wight County’s courthouse from 1752 until 1800. Curing this time it was the center of county colonial government. Completed in 1752, it is one of only four remaining arcaded colonial court buildings in Virginia and the only colonial courthouse boasting the distinctive semi-circular apse. In 1799, a clerk’s office was constructed adjacent to the courthouse.
Reviewed By Steven P - Jersey City, New Jersey
The historical society has a guide who will take you back into colonial history of legal justice. It is a wonderful history lesson. Built around 1750, this structure was used as a courthouse for fifty years by the town of Smithfield. Typical of courthouses across Virginia, this is one of the very few remaining arcaded colonial court buildings. I found this a very worthwhile visit.
7. Fort Huger
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By MissVA2006 - Virginia
This is a Civil War fort and has infomation and markers in the area describing it. There is a trail through the woods and over a little bridge to get to the fort. Replica cannons surround the area and the fort gives great views of the James River and the ghost fleet!
8. Fort Boykin
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 22 reviews
Reviewed By Oranutan1 - Hampton, Virginia
You can get in a nice hike part of which which will take you along the beach. If you want more, come out of the park and turn right on the road. There is very little traffic and you will wind up hiking along the water again.
9. Painted Garden Gallery
Overall Ratings
4 based on 2 reviews
Painted Garden Gallery is a Fine Art Gallery. Robbie Perrotti Younger is Owner/Artist. Robbie displays her Original Artwork and also her one of a kind Mural Style Painted Furniture on re-purposed vintage pieces. Her Artwork has been featured in many publications, locally, newspapers, Hampton Roads Magazine, Flourish Magazine and Nationally Jan/Feb 2010 Victoria Magazine. She is currently listed in Who's Who in Marquis in American Art 2013. Painted Garden Gallery has all price points with "Art 2 Go" with her Art Greeting Cards, Postcards and "Fun Art" with cats, roosters, and flowers on recycled wood blocks. She recently added giclees of her original work to accommodate all Collectors. Meet the Artist Wed-Sat Wed 12-5;30/ Thur-Sat 12-6 or by Appointment.
Reviewed By Mark G - Catonsville, Maryland
The Painted Garden Gallery is located in the downtown historic district of Smithfield.Met the painter/owner of this shop that specializes in painted furniture as well as traditional paintings and other unique items.There was a painting in the back of the shop of a women sitting on a sofa that was absolutely fabulous.Talented painter.
10. Arts Center at 319
Exhibiting the works of local and regional artists in multiple shows throughout the year. The Arts Center also hosts working studios for eight resident artists, a gift shop that features creations by its member artists and an arts classroom. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the resident artists as new works of art are being created.
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