Smithfield, Virginia

Located on a bluff overlooking the James River, Fort Huger played a strategic role in the dark days of the Civil War. The fort was constructed in 1861 by slaves and freed blacks and was intended to protect Richmond and the nearby Fort Boykin. The fort is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was extensively restored in 2007. There are self-guided walking trails which lead visitors through the site and interpretive panels describe what you can expect to see. Highlights of your visit include extensive views of the James River and the James River Reserve Fleet and some mounted cannons.

Fort Huger, Fort Huger Drive, Rushmere, VA 23430

Windsor Castle Park encompasses more than two hundred acres of naturally beautiful land in the heart of Smithfield’s downtown district. Located along the banks of Cypress Creek and the Pagan River, the riverside park was dedicated in 2020 and is home to scenic overlooks, a path for mountain biking, a fishing pier, a launch for canoes and kayaks, a dog park, an open grassy area, a picnic area, a wooded network of trails, and Windsor Castle, the park’s historic manor house. The land once belonged to Arthur Smith, who was an ancestor of Arthur Smith IV, the founder of the town.

301 Jericho Rd, Smithfield, VA 23430, Phone: 757-542-3109

If you are traveling with kids:

The Isle of Wight County Museum was established in 1976 and shares the county’s story through a variety of interactive exhibits, such as the turn-of-the-century general store, along with displays that interpret the area’s history during the colonial era, the Civil War, the Cold War, the Blackwater River, and the ham industry of Smithfield, Virginia. Other exhibits include pre-colonial and colonial artifacts, prehistoric fossils, and the oldest edible cured ham in the world.

103 Main St, Smithfield, VA 23430, Phone: 757-356-1223

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

The 1750 Isle of Wight Courthouse is a historic building that acted as the courthouse for the Isle of Wight County between the years of 1752 and 1800. During the time period, the building was the center for the colonial government of the county, bearing witness to the country’s earliest days of democracy. The Isle of Wight Courthouse is one only four arcaded colonial court buildings still standing today in the state of Virginia, and is the only one that boasts a distinct semi-circular apse. There is no admission fee for people to visit the historic courthouse.

130 Main St, Smithfield, VA 23430, Phone: 757-356-9016

Smithfield’s Fort Boykin has played a part in the history of the United States since the year 1623, when “the Castle” fort was built to protect the colonists of Jamestown from raiding Spaniards and Native Americans. Situated on top of a bluff that overlooks the scenic James River, the commanding view of the site offers an excellent observation point. Fort Boykin today still stands primarily intact, providing a great example of well-preserved military architecture during the Civil War era. The fort, which is open daily to visitors, is also located along the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail.

7410 Fort Boykin Trail, Smithfield, VA 23430, Phone: 757-357-0115

The Blue Sky Distillery, owned and operated by Kim and Mark Rangos, is an award-winning micro distillery based out of Smithfield, Virginia, specializing in producing premium handcrafted spirits. There is no fee for distillery tours or tastings, making it a great place for both visitors and locals alike who are over the age of twenty-one to try some new spirits and see how they’re made. The Blue Sky Distillery tasting room is open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from noon until 4:00pm. Bottles can also be purchased in the Distillery Store, as well as shirts, hats, and other kinds of merchandise.

17466 Benns Church Blvd. Smithfield, VA 23430 23430, Phone: 757-746-8342

Located in the historic district of Smithfield, the Nelms House is an excellent example of the Victorian Queen Anne architectural style. The gorgeous interior has been carefully restored to reflect the building’s original beauty, featuring period decor, furniture, drapery, floors, and paint. The Nelms House offers a coffee/tea room for buffet refreshments consisting of local products, a Victorian boutique, and rooms that have been designed to act as a local art gallery. Visitors can also take a tour of the Victorian Era house as well, and special activities and events are hosted at the Nelm House throughout the year.

308 Main St, Smithfield, VA 23430, Phone: 757-334-9568

Where to Eat

Since 1752, Wharf Hill served as the center of Smithfield, Virginia. Both the 1752 Inn and the 1750 Courthouse can be seen for the top of the hill, while visitors could catch the steamboat along the Pagan River by taking a trip downhill. Wharf Hill is also now home to the Wharf Hill Brewing Company, a brewpub where guests can still see many elements of the building's past. This craft brewery, bar, and full-service restaurant offers some of the town’s friendliest staff, delicious food, and beers made by the brewpub’s owner and brewers, Tom Owen and Dave Walker.

25 Main St, Smithfield, VA 23430, Phone: 757-357-7100

Taste of Smithfield is the flagship store and restaurant of Smithfield Foods, and is known as a place that understands “what quality food means.” The extensive retail store and full-service restaurant offers some of the best hams around, as well as memorabilia from the small town of Smithfield, and more than two hundred flavors of peanuts. Taste of Smithfield captures the true atmosphere and history of the little town, serving a menu that consists of homemade soups, fresh salads, signature salads, 100% Angus beef burgers, and more. Ten craft beers on tap from Virginia microbrewers are available as well.

217 Main St, Smithfield, VA 23430, Phone: 757-357-8950