Perched just above the Virginia-North Carolina state line, Danville is an understated and underrated Southern town that offers a surprising amount to see, do, and eat. Located on the fall line of the Dan River, its waterfront location brings excellent views and recreational activity in abundance. Whether you want to take a stroll on the 13-mile Riverwalk Trail, shop at local boutiques, or visit a picturesque vineyard, there’s something for every type of traveler in Danville. The town of around 40,000 has plenty of history behind its modern offerings, so make time to get a quick overview at the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History—and you can even opt to spend the night in hotels housed in historic buildings. Keep reading for our favorite things to do during a weekend in Danville, Virginia.
What To Do In Danville, Virginia
Take The Riverwalk Trail
The Dan River was once a major source of industry in Danville, but today its beloved for its natural beauty and the recreational activities it offers. A 13-mile paved path runs along the Dan River through parks, historic sites, and local businesses. Hop on or off at any point to see points of interest including the Dan Daniel Memorial Park, Anglers Park, the Carrington Pavilion, historic downtown Danville, and more.
danvilleva.gov/2035/Danville-Riverwalk-Trail
Explore The River District
One of the town’s most lively neighborhoods, the River District is a hot spot for dining, shopping, and recreation that all centers around the Dan River. Spend some time strolling the picturesque streets, making leisurely stops in any places that strike your fancy—from inviting cafes to buzzy bars.
Visit The Danville Museum Of Fine Arts And History
For a crash course in Danville history, plus access to a rotating lineup of fine art exhibits, the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History is a one-stop shop for all things Danville culture. Located inside the 1859 Sutherlin Mansion, the museum features permanent exhibits on the Civil Rights Movement in Danville, Danville Hall of Famers, and Camilla Williams, the first Black soprano to perform with a major American opera company.
danvillemuseum.org; 975 Main St., Danville, VA 24541; 434-793-5644
Spend Time In The Danville Science Center
A huge hit with families, but also well-suited to adults with an interest in all types of science, the Danville Science Center is an excellent place to spend an afternoon learning and playing. With a low cost of admission ($12 for adult access to all exhibits and the digital dome), you’ll get to discover all kinds of interactive activities and exhibits dedicated to topics like water, movement, and the Arctic. Kids ages 8-13 will love the Creativity Lab, and everyone can marvel at the wonders of the universe in the 44-foot dome screen that screens nature films and astronomy shows.
dsc.smv.org; 677 Craghead Street, Danville, VA 24541; 434-791-5160
Go Shopping
Local specialty shops and boutiques are easy to come by in Danville. There’s a shop to suit everyone’s interests, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast (check Moss Mountain Outfitters) or a certified bookworm (The Dog-Eared Page Bookshop is a must-visit). For a meaningful memento to mark your time in Danville, head to River District Artisans in the heart of the River District. The shop represents and exhibits the works of dozens of independent artists and artisans, which means you’ll find everything from fine art to candles, soaps, crochet, and jewelry.
riverdistrictartisans.org; 411 Main Street, Danville, VA 2454; 434-228-4125
Take A Self-Guided Tour of Millionaires’ Row
Snag a self-guided walking tour brochure from the Danville Welcome Center or Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History, then set out on foot to see this historic stretch of Main Street. Boasting one of the South’s best groupings of Victorian and Edwardian architecture, the ornate, historic houses on this street are perfect for oohing and aahing at as you spend some time stretching your legs in the sunshine. Visit in the spring and you’ll have the bonus of catching their gorgeous grounds and gardens in bloom. Be sure to look out for five architecturally distinctive churches that also grace this district.
Where To Eat And Drink In Danville, Virginia
Get A Healthy, Homecooked Meal
Focused on being friendly to diners with allergies and dietary restrictions, King Cropp Kitchen is the place to go if you want a delicious meal you can also feel good about later. The restaurant’s menu features dishes specifically designated as gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan, but still appeals to those without special dietary needs. For something comforting, try a signature Mac Bowl, where mac and cheese gets jazzed up with toppings like fried cauliflower florets in garlic buffalo sauce or smoked pulled chicken and barbecue sauce. Sides like fried cabbage and homemade coleslaw accompany hits like bronzed catfish with lemon aioli or Creole shrimp.
kingcroppfood.com; 1050 Main Street, Danville, VA 24541; 434-548-0127
Start Or End Your Day At A Quaint Café
Crema & Vine is one of those all-day spots that draws a regular crowd of locals but is just as inviting to visitors. During the day, it functions as a neighborhood coffee shop serving joe from Red Rooster Coffee in nearby Floyd, plus a fairly robust selection of breakfast items, sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. The Chorizo Burrito is a hit at breakfast, while the pizzas (cooked in a 1,000-degree oven and offered on a traditional, thin, or gluten-free crust) are ordered well into the evening. When the sun starts to set, folks come in to experience the 16-bottle self-serve wine station or grab a craft beer to pair with a cheese plate or charcuterie board.
Dine On The Dan River
You won’t find better ambiance than inside or outside Cotton in the River District Mills. Sit inside among the soaring ceilings, exposed brick walls, cozy booths, and giant picture windows, or opt for a seat on the patio for sweeping views of the Dan River. Come in early to take advantage of happy hour, featuring $2 off select appetizers and discounts on beer, wine, and cocktails, then stick around for dinner. The varied menu includes everything from jumbo lump crab cakes to tomato-braised short rib to fish and chips.
cottonatriversidemill.com; 109 Bridge St., Suite 600, Danville, VA, 24541; 434-421-6711
Sample Local Brews
Get a taste of the local craft beer scene on a mini brewery tour. Ballad Brewing, housed inside a 19th century tobacco warehouse, is one of the coolest places to grab a drink. The building’s conical corner tower and solid brick façade hints at the impressive design that awaits inside. The large brewery and event space offers lots of cozy seating areas in an expansive open room that frequently hosts events like trivia and bingo. Order a flight of favorites like their Kolsch, Balladeer IPA, and Just Pressed lime ginger sour. At 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Co., you can support a family business that takes pride in producing quality beer, wine, and food that’s meant to foster celebration and connection. On any given day, you’ll find 10 taps flowing with creations like Migrating Coconuts, an English porter with coconut, and Revelry Saison. They also offer a selection of in-house and Canyon Road wines, plus simple bar eats from an in-house food truck called The Cauldron.
balladbrewing.com; 600 Craghead St., Danville, VA 24541; 434-799-4677
2witcheswinebrew.com; 209 Trade St. Danville, VA 24541; 434-360-4192
Stop At A Nearby Vineyard
Technically located in the neighboring town of Chatham, Homeplace Vineyards is more than worth the 30-minute drive north. The four-generation family tobacco farm was transformed into winery in 2004. Today there are approximately 5,600 vines on nine scenic acres of rolling hills. Come by on a Saturday when the taproom, which was built using logs from original tobacco barns on the property, is open to the public. The property produces three red varieties, three whites, and a sweet strawberry wine that’s excellent on a warm summer day.
thehomeplacevineyard.com; 568 Rigney Circle, Chatham, VA 24531; 434-432- 9463
Where To Stay In Danville, Virginia
Have A Resort Experience
You’re likely familiar with the Caesars name, but you may be surprised to learn that one of the legendary casino resorts has a home in Danville. The destination resort has everything folks have come to expect from the brand including a massive casino, full-service spa, pool, excellent dining options, elegant bars, and nightly entertainment.
caesars.com/caesars-virginia; 1100 W. Main St., Danville, VA 24541; 434-483-4500
Stay At A Neighborhood Boutique Hotel
Located in the residential Holbrook-Ross Historic District, this colorful and modern accommodation is housed in a property originally built for a group of nine doctors. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Holbrook Hotel features a playful midcentury modern design across its rooms and suites and offers amenities like an EV charging station, guest laundry station, and rooms with fully stocked kitchenettes.
theholbrookdanville.com; 990 Main St., Danville, VA 24541; 434-234-5040
Spend The Night In A Historic Landmark
Sister property to the Holbrook Hotel, The Bee reimagines the home of the town’s former newspaper, the Danville Register and Bee, into an elegant 47-room hotel. In 2020, the River District gem reopened with much fanfare. The rooftop veranda is a top spot for yoga classes and happy hour. If you book a room, make sure to check it out and take advantage of the complimentary continental breakafsat each morning too.
danvillebeehotel.com; 420 Patton St., Danville, VA 24541; 434-234-9440