Shortly after the Jamestown settlement was established, Captain John Smith crossed the James River & traded with the Warraskoyack Tribe, first residents of present-day Isle of Wight County. Established in 1634 as one of the original 8 shires of the Virginia Colony, this rural community with its towns of Windsor & Smithfield is rich in history.
The flat terrain, rural setting, historic attractions & Main Street in downtown Smithfield make the county a very popular destination for bikers.
The East Coast Greenway, an urban trail system linking 3,000 miles of bike/ped trails across 16 states included Smithfield & Isle of Wight County in its trail connecting the Historic Triangle (Williamsburg/Jamestown/Yorktown) with the Great Dismal Swamp Canal Trail.
Each April, the County hosts its "Hams, History, Hospitality & HeART" Bicycle Tour, a Relay for Life event that features 12, 35 & 50 mile rides past historic sites & through downtown Smithfield.
The Nike Park to Fort Boykin & Return Bike Route is available at the Visitor Center. Windsor Castle Park, in downtown Smithfield offers walking trails, a mountain bike path, dog park, state-of-the-art kayak/canoe launch & picnic areas. Mountain bikers will also find a 2.5-mile wooded trail at Carrollton Nike Park.
While cycling through, don't miss shopping & dining in charming downtown Smithfield. Make your first stop the Visitor Center - also home to the Arts Center @ 319 - offering tourist information, a gallery/gift shop & the chance to chat with resident artists. There you can find information on our historic sites, including the Isle of Wight County Museum, Schoolhouse Museum, Historic St. Luke's Church, Fort Huger & Fort Boykin Historic Park, all within cycling distance over bike-friendly terrain. Be sure to pick up a map and brochure on the town's Porcine Parade - eight life-size statues of market hogs, painted by local artists to reflect an aspect of the town's rich history, culture & recreation. Also ask for a Passport to Savings discount card for area merchants.
Looking for an elegant B&B, or beautiful waterfront setting? You'll find comfortable accommodations here too!