Genuine Smithfield, known worldwide for salt-cured ham, is a cultural arts destination as well as a quaint river town. The area offers year-round cultural arts events, and with the Smithfield Station and other area marinas, downtown Smithfield is easily accessible by water and land.
Plan your visit around our many events and concerts including: the Smithfield Farmers Market (featuring live music every week), Friday Night Summer Concert Series, Smithfield Music concerts, productions at the Smithfield Little Theatre, and the "Sundays at Four" Chamber Concert Series. Smithfield VA Events offers three boutique special events each year as well: Smithfield Wine & Brew Fest, BOB Fest & 8K Chilly Bob Roadrace ("Bloody Mary's, Oysters, BBQ and Brunswick Stew"), and the Smithfield Bacon, Bourbon & Music Fest.
Be sure to stop by the Visitor Center - also home to the Arts Center @ 319 - offering tourist information, a gallery/gift shop and the chance to chat with resident artists. Browse the exclusive shops & galleries of Smithfield's historic district including the Taste of Smithfield, Smithfield Foods' flagship shop and restaurant.
History:
The Isle of Wight Museum offers an overview of the county's history & the world's oldest ham, a 1902 example of Smithfield's famous ham curing process. Just across the street is the 1750 Isle of Wight Courthouse, modeled after the Capitol Building in Colonial Williamsburg. The Genuine Smithfield Walking Tour of the historic district boasts over 50 historic buildings exuding the charm of bygone eras. Just outside of the historic district is Historic St. Luke's Church and Musem, Virginia's oldest church offering hourly guided tours.
Smithfield offers a variety of dining options, such as the Smithfield Station, Smithfield Inn, Gourmet Bakery, Ice Cream Parlor, Taste of Smithfield, as well as RingO's Donuts and Q-Daddy's BBQ located just outside the historic district. Another unique establishment is Captain Chuck-a-Muck's on the river in the scenic village of Rescue.
Located in the historic downtown district are the Smithfield Station, the Smithfield Inn, and Mansion on Main Bed & Breakfast. Located just outside the Historic District is the Hampton Inn & Suites - Smithfield offering a complimentary hot breakfast each morning and a heated indoor pool, as well as the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites: Carrollton/Smithfield.
All attractions listed are free with the exception of Historic St. Luke's Church and the Isle of Wight Museum which charge a nominal fee.
Custom tours can be arranged. For further information or ideas to personalize your itinerary, contact the Visitor Center at 757.357.5182, Toll Free at 800.365.9339 or via email to: kmountjoy@isleofwightus.net.