Visit Genuine Smithfield for Hams, History, Hospitality & HeART
A visit to charming Smithfield (home of the world-famous ham) is a true “step back in time” to a genuine small-town experience. Smithfield, incorporated in 1752, maintains its quaint river town feel and is known worldwide for its famous ham curing process.
Day 1:
Begin your visit at the Visitor Center on Main Street - also home to the Arts Center @ 319 - offering tourist information, a gallery/gift shop and the chance to chat with resident artists. Further down Main Street is the Isle of Wight Museum, with its overview of the county’s history and the world's oldest ham (113+ years old!).
Go for a short country drive to explore the County’s two historic forts in beautiful natural settings overlooking the James River. Historic Fort Huger, the "Gateway to the Confederate Capital," offers a self-guided walking tour to view mounted cannon and the ghost fleet. Just down Route 10 is Fort Boykin Historic Park, constructed in 1623 to protect the colonists from the Indians and raiding Spaniards, the fort features scenic overlooks and a secluded river beach.
Dine your first night in town riverside at Captain Chuck-a-Muck’s (featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-in’s & Dives” and enjoy one of Chuck’s featured cocktails as you celebrate a beautiful waterside sunset.
Day 2:
Start out at Darden’s Country Store and Smokehouse, a family-run farm and country store for over 50 years. Call ahead to see if Tommy or Dee Dee can give you a tour of the family’s smokehouse. Then head back to town to peruse the galleries and unique shops along Main and Church Streets. Don’t miss the 1750 Isle of Wight Courthouse or the Schoolhouse Museum.
Treat yourself to lunch at Taste of Smithfield, and be sure to take a delicious assortment of peanuts and ham products.
After lunch head out to one of the town’s most treasured sites, Historic St. Luke’s – Virginia’s oldest church for a fascinating guided tour.
Finish your day with dinner at Smithfield Station or one of the area’s other fine dining establishments. Then toast the day at the town’s own brewpub Wharf Hill Brewing Company.
Day 3:
Start your Sunday morning with the fabulous Sunday Brunch served at Smithfield Station or the Smithfield Inn, then perhaps take a self-guided walking tour of the Historic District featuring over 50 historic buildings. Or head back to Windsor Castle Park for a leisurely stroll or to rent a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard (available seasonally). Finish your time in Smithfield with lunch at the Ice Cream Parlor, followed of course by your favorite frozen treat!
More To Do:
This getaway was submitted by Smithfield & Isle of Wight Convention & Visitors Bureau.