The Complete Guide to Visiting Danville, Virginia

Southern hospitality. City amenities. Small town charm. If that sounds like the perfect fit for a not-too-quiet getaway, start planning a trip to Danville, Virginia.

With a larger-than-expected historic footprint, a lively and growing River District, and restaurants worth writing home about, there’s plenty to be discovered in this Southern Virginia city. Whether you’re in town for casino thrills or a peaceful day on the water, use our guide to find the best things to do during your visit to Danville.

WHERE TO STAY

The Bee Hotel

Once home to The Danville Register & Bee, this former newspaper headquarters has been transformed into a convenient place to stay near the River District. There’s historic charm to each of the rooms and suites.   
 

The Holbrook Hotel

Another historic renovation, the Holbrook is a 1957 building reimagined as a quiet escape just outside the Holbrook-Ross and Old West End neighborhoods.
 

The Laurel Hotel

The Laurel is a good choice if you want to stay near, but not at, Caesars Virginia. It’s another boutique reimagination, this time of the 1903 Dan River Company Office Building.  
 

Caesars Virginia

For glitz, glam, and activities galore, stay at Caesars Virginia. On offer at the resort: a casino, spa, pool, restaurants, bars, and endless entertainment.
 

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK 

Crema & Vine

A coffee shop by day and wine bar in the evening, Crema & Vine is a local favorite inside a former gas station.
 

Golden Leaf Bistro

Split appetizers on the patio or dine on the seasonal menu in the heart of the River District.
 

Cotton at Riverside Mill

Spacious and retro-chic, Cotton has waterfront views and a crowd-pleasing menu. We love the crispy brussels sprouts and pimento crab dip.
 

Me’s Burgers and Brews

A neighborhood spot where every great burger tells a story, and specialty burgers are named for famous authors. Try the Dan Brown with bacon, bleu cheese, and marinated mushrooms, or the Octavia Butler tuna burger with lemon dill aioli.

Ballad Brewing

Take a break from strolling the Riverwalk Trail with a Kolsch or a Lime Ginger Sour beer at this brewery.  
 

2 Witches Winery & Brewing Co.

Enjoy live music every weekend at this winery/brewery combo.
 

Moon River Thai

Expect curry dishes, noodles, fried rice, and more Thai classics at this River District spot.
 

TOP ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO

Riverwalk Trail

Make this trail the top of your to-do list in Danville. Whether you’re interested in soaking up the natural beauty or learning about the local history of industry, there’s plenty to take in along the path. Take note of Dan Daniel Memorial Park and Anglers Park, and don’t be afraid to stop off when you pass charming parts of historic Danville.

Get all you need to know about exploring the Dan with our complete Dan River guide.

• Dan Daniel Memorial Park – Walking trails, fields, a skate park, and the Danville/Pittsylvania Veterans Memorial
• Anglers Park and Ridge Mountain Bike Trail System – Haven for mountain bikers, plus hiking and running
• Riverfront Park – Direct access to the Riverwalk Trail, plus a massive otter slide and a spray ground.  

Caesars Virginia

Try out the slots and card games, see a big name at the Pantheon, or dine at one of the on-site restaurants, like Ramsay’s Kitchen from Michelin-starred chef Gordon Ramsay.  
 

River District Social

Golf simulators, bowling lanes, pool tables, and live tunes will keep you entertained all night long at this lively sports bar.

Holbrook-Ross Historic District

Discover turn-of-the-20^th century homes and local history when you visit this historic district, the center of the growing Black professional community in Danville dating back to the 1880s.
 

Millionaires Row

For architecture lovers, head to this historic district in Danville to see a variety of styles, including Victorian and early 1900s homes and churches. There’s even more to be seen on the side streets.  
 

Danville Science Center

A destination for family fun, the Danville Science Center has permanent and touring exhibitions. Don’t forget to see a film or explore the solar system at the Digital Dome theater.
 

Danville Otterbots

Cheer on the Otterbots of the Appalachian League at Legion Field. You’ll definitely want to stop by the team store for an Otterbots t-shirt to take home.

Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History

The center of the Danville Historic District is this building, once the Italian villa-style home of Major William T. Sutherlin. Stop by for rotating exhibits and learn the compelling Civil Rights story at the heart of the museum.  
 

Explore Nearby Small Towns

Go for a charming side quest to a few small towns near Danville.

• Martinsville – Small town vibes, but larger attractions, including Martinsville Speedway, the Virginia Museum of Natural History, and Philpott Lake.
• Chatham – Quaint town with roots dating back to 1777. Spot red geraniums in the summer or explore during the holiday season for Hallmark-esque charm.
• South Boston – Home to Berry Hill Resort, a historic and luxurious resort nestled in the forests of Southern Virginia.  

VIRginia International Raceway

You’ll find this road course in Alton, along with much more — the “motorsport resort” has onsite lodging, forests, go-karting, off-road racing, and dining options.
 

JUST DOWN THE ROAD…

Destinations to explore

Clarksville | Travel 50 miles east and you’ll reach Clarksville, perfect for lake town vibes (you’ll definitely want to get out on the water on the Kerr Reservoir).
 

Lynchburg | Around 70 miles north of Danville is Lynchburg, an ideal destination for families, history lovers, and those seeking an approachable outlet to the outdoors – don’t miss the Riverwalk Trail along the James.
 

Farmville | Although it will take around an hour and 45 minutes to get to Farmville, the two cities pair well for a Virginia road trip getaway. You’ll find a massive furniture campus unlike any other, Civil Rights history, and a charming downtown.
 

Smith Mountain Lake | Head north on 29, then start west to find Smith Mountain Lake, also known as the Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
 

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with your family, a Virginia vacation’s got all that you love, all in one place. Use this guide to Danville to help you start planning your Virginia vacation today!