Explore The Beauty Of Surry County, Va With This Comprehensive Travel Guide
Surry County, located in the heart of Virginia, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This charming county is home to stunning natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant culture that is sure to captivate any traveler. From its breathtaking landscapes to its delicious cuisine, Surry County has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a journey through Surry County to explore its top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, and much more.
Top Attractions
Surry County boasts a wide range of top attractions that are sure to leave visitors awestruck. The Bacon’s Castle, built in the 17th century, is a must-visit for history buffs. This historic house museum was once home to the affluent Bacon family and is now open to the public for tours. Another must-visit is Chippokes Plantation State Park, which offers a glimpse into the county’s agricultural heritage. The park features hiking trails, horseback riding, and a working farm that showcases 19th-century farming techniques. The Smith’s Fort Plantation, a National Historic Landmark, is also worth a visit for its rich history and stunning architecture.
Hidden Gems
Surry County is full of hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. One such gem is the Surry Seafood Company, a local restaurant that serves up some of the freshest seafood in the area. Another hidden gem is the Surry County Wine Trail, which features several wineries that offer tastings and tours. The Bacon’s Castle Gift Shop is also a hidden gem, offering unique souvenirs and gifts that are sure to delight visitors.
Food Scene
The food scene in Surry County is a foodie’s paradise. The county is known for its delicious seafood, including blue crabs, oysters, and clams. The Surry Seafood Company, as mentioned earlier, is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Another popular spot is the Surry County BBQ Trail, which features several BBQ joints that serve up mouth-watering pulled pork, ribs, and brisket. For those with a sweet tooth, the Surry County Farmer’s Market is a great place to indulge in local honey, jams, and baked goods.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Surry County is an affordable destination for travelers on a budget. Many of the county’s top attractions, such as Chippokes Plantation State Park and the Smith’s Fort Plantation, offer free admission. Visitors can also save money by exploring the county’s natural beauty through hiking and biking trails. The Surry County Farmer’s Market is also a great spot to find affordable local produce and snacks.
Outdoor Adventures
Surry County is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of outdoor adventures. The Chippokes Plantation State Park, mentioned earlier, is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The James River is also a great spot for kayaking and fishing. For those looking for a more relaxing outdoor experience, the Surry County Parks and Recreation Department operates several parks with picnic areas and playgrounds.
Historical Landmarks
Surry County is steeped in history, with several historical landmarks that are worth a visit. The Bacon’s Castle, as mentioned earlier, is a must-visit for history buffs. The Smith’s Fort Plantation and the Surry County Courthouse are also worth a visit for their rich history and stunning architecture. The Jamestown Settlement, a living history museum that tells the story of America’s first permanent English colony, is located just a short drive from Surry County.
Family-Friendly Activities
Surry County is a great destination for families, offering a wide range of family-friendly activities. The Chippokes Plantation State Park is a popular spot for families, with hiking trails, bike rentals, and a working farm that offers educational programs. The Surry County Parks and Recreation Department also operates several parks with playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. The Surry Seafood Company is also a great spot for families, with a kid-friendly menu and outdoor seating.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Surry County is full of off-the-beaten-path experiences that are sure to delight adventurous travelers. The Surry County Wine Trail, mentioned earlier, is a great way to explore the county’s wineries and vineyards. The Surry County ATV Park is also a unique experience, offering miles of trails for off-road vehicles. For those looking for a more relaxing off-the-beaten-path experience, the Smithfield Station Marina offers boat rentals and fishing charters.
Natural Wonders
Surry County is home to several natural wonders that are sure to impress visitors. The James River is a stunning natural beauty, offering breathtaking views and a wide range of recreational activities. The Hog Island Wildlife Management Area is also worth a visit for its stunning wildlife and birdwatching opportunities. For those looking for a more secluded natural wonder, the Surry County Parks and Recreation Department operates several parks with hiking trails and wildlife viewing areas.
Vibrant Nightlife
Surry County may be a small county, but it has a vibrant nightlife scene that is sure to impress visitors. The Surry Seafood Company offers live music on weekends, while the local wineries often host events and tastings. The Smithfield Station Marina also offers live music and a lively atmosphere.
Local Markets
The Surry County Farmer’s Market is a great spot to find locally grown produce, homemade jams and jellies, and unique gifts. The market is open on Saturdays from April through October and features a wide range of vendors. The Surry Seafood Company Gift Shop is also a great spot to find locally made souvenirs and gifts.
Beaches and Mountains
Surry County is located in the heart of Virginia’s coastal region, making it a great spot to explore nearby beaches. Virginia Beach and the Outer Banks of North Carolina are both just a short drive away. For those looking for a mountain escape, the Blue Ridge Mountains are also within driving distance.
Cultural Immersion
Surry County is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, offering visitors a unique cultural immersion experience. The Surry County African American Heritage Society offers tours and educational programs that showcase the county’s African American history. The Surry County Wine Trail is also a great way to learn about the county’s winemaking traditions.
Art and Music Scene
Surry County has a thriving art and music scene, with several galleries and performance spaces. The Smithfield Little Theatre is a great spot to catch a live performance, while the Smithfield Cultural Arts Center features rotating exhibits and events. The Surry Seafood Company also hosts live music on weekends.
Walking Tours
Surry County is best explored on foot, with several walking tours that offer a glimpse into the county’s rich history and culture. The Bacon’s Castle offers guided tours of the historic house museum, while the Surry County Courthouse and the Smith’s Fort Plantation offer self-guided tours. The Surry County African American Heritage Society also offers guided tours that showcase the county’s African American history.
Architectural Marvels
Surry County is home to several architectural marvels that are sure to impress visitors. The Bacon’s Castle, built in the 17th century, is a stunning example of Jacobean architecture. The Smith’s Fort Plantation and the Surry County Courthouse are also worth a visit for their stunning architecture. The Jamestown Settlement, located just a short drive from Surry County, is also home to several stunning colonial-era buildings.
Historical Sites
Surry County is steeped in history, with several historical sites that are worth a visit. The Bacon’s Castle, as mentioned earlier, is a must-visit for history buffs. The Smith’s Fort Plantation and the Surry County Courthouse are also worth a visit for their rich history and stunning architecture. The Jamestown Settlement, a living history museum that tells the story of America’s first permanent English colony, is located just a short drive from Surry County.
Biking Routes
Surry County is a great destination for cyclists, with several biking routes that offer stunning views and challenging terrain. The Virginia Capital Trail is a 52-mile bike trail that runs from Richmond to Williamsburg, passing through Surry County along the way. The Chippokes Plantation State Park also offers several biking trails that range in difficulty.
Wellness Retreats
Surry County is a great spot for those looking for a wellness retreat. The Smithfield Station Marina offers yoga classes on the waterfront, while the Surry County Parks and Recreation Department operates several parks with walking trails and outdoor fitness equipment. The Surry County Farmer’s Market is also a great spot to find locally grown produce and healthy snacks.
Surry County is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, this charming county is sure to captivate any traveler. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to visit Surry County and explore all that it has