Amherst Travel Guide

Comprehensive travel guide for Amherst, Virginia, including places to visit, outdoor adventures, where to stay, and local culture.


Introduction to Amherst

Located in Central Virginia, Amherst is a small town with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to offer its visitors. It is home to several museums and historical landmarks, parks, and hiking and biking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.

List of Places to Visit in Amherst

Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a relaxing getaway, Amherst has something to offer everyone. Here is a list of the top places to visit in Amherst:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Amherst County Museum and Historical Society: Located in the renovated Old jail, the museum houses exhibits showcasing the history of agriculture, transportation, and industry in Amherst County.
  • Winton Country Club: A historic property located on the Northeast slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a clubhouse perfect for hosting events.
  • Mt. Pleasant National Scenic Area: A national forest site that is surrounded by scenic beauty and is home to historic trails, small communities, and wildlife habitats.

Natural Attractions of Amherst: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Riverside Park: A beautiful park located on the banks of the scenic Buffalo River. The park has several picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails that offer visitors an opportunity to enjoy nature.
  • Lovingston Winery: A winery located in historic Lovingston that offers wine tastings, vineyard tours, and scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
  • Crabtree Falls: A scenic waterfall located in the George Washington National Forest. It features a series of cascading waterfalls that offer stunning views along the way.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Amherst

Amherst offers a wide array of hiking and biking opportunities for its visitors. Here are some of the top trails in the area:

  • Virginia Blue Ridge Railway Trail: This 7-mile trail follows the former route of the Virginia Blue Ridge Railway, which was constructed in the early 1900s to transport timber and agricultural goods.
  • The Blue Ridge Parkway: A 469-mile scenic drive that winds its way through Virginia and North Carolina. It offers multiple hiking and biking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Crabtree Falls Trail: A popular hiking trail that takes visitors on a 2.7-mile journey to the base of Crabtree Falls. This trail, while steep in parts, offers stunning views of the area’s natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Amherst: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy while in Amherst. Here are some of the top things to do:

  • Lovingston Wine Tasting: Take a tour of Lovingston Winery and taste some of Virginia’s finest wines.
  • Visit a Local Farmers Market: Local markets offer fresh produce from the surrounding farms, as well as handcrafted goods and other unique items.
  • Take a Guided Tour: Learn about Amherst’s cultural and natural history by taking a guided tour of the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Amherst

A week in Amherst will give visitors enough time to experience everything this small town has to offer. Here is a proposed itinerary for a week in Amherst:

Day 1: Visit the Amherst County Museum and Historical Society in the morning. Take a picnic to Riverside Park in the afternoon.

Day 2: Spend the day hiking one of Amherst’s scenic trails, such as Virginia Blue Ridge Railway Trail or the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Day 3: Visit Lovingston Winery and some of the local vineyards in the afternoon.

Day 4: Take a day trip to the nearby Shenandoah National Park and hike some of its trails.

Day 5: Visit the historic Winton Country Club and enjoy a round of golf.

Day 6: Take a guided tour of the area.

Day 7: Visit one of the local farmers’ markets and purchase unique local goods and produce.

Food and Drink Scene of Amherst

Amherst offers a wide array of culinary experiences, from traditional Southern cuisine to international specialties. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Country ham: A staple of Southern cuisine, country ham is a salt-cured ham that is typically smoked and served with biscuits and gravy.
  • Fried chicken: A Southern classic, fried chicken is often served with sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread.
  • Peach cobbler: Made with fresh, juicy peaches and a flaky crust, peach cobbler is a must-try dessert in Amherst.

Local Beverages

  • Virginia wines: Virginia is known for its wine production, with several vineyards and wineries in the area.
  • Hard Cider: Amherst is also home to several hard cider makers, offering visitors a unique taste of local beverages.

Where to Stay in Amherst: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Amherst offers a variety of lodging options to suit visitors’ preferences and budgets. Here are some of the top places to stay:

  • The Lodge at Old Creek Road: A quiet bed and breakfast located in a peaceful, natural environment.
  • Holiday Inn Express Amherst: A modern hotel offering comfortable rooms and convenient amenities.
  • Winton Country Club: A historic property with a clubhouse perfect for hosting events and overnight stays.

What to Buy in Amherst: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Amherst can take home unique souvenirs and local products to remind them of their trip. Here are some of the must-buy items:

  • Handcrafted pottery and ceramics: Made by local artisans, pottery and ceramics make unique souvenirs.
  • Local wine and hard cider: Virginia wines and hard ciders are unique beverages that can only be found in the area.
  • Handmade quilts and textiles: Handmade quilts and textiles make excellent souvenirs and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Amherst

Amherst’s culture is steeped in Southern tradition and hospitality. Visitors can expect to experience friendly locals, delicious Southern cuisine, and a slower pace of life.

Best Time to Visit Amherst

The best time to visit Amherst is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. The summers can be hot and humid, while the winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Amherst

Do:

  • Do try the local flavors and cuisine.
  • Do take a hike or bike ride on one of the many trails in the area.
  • Do visit the unique local shops and markets.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Amherst

Amherst is a safe community with low crime rates. Visitors should still take basic safety precautions, such as locking their vehicles and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in Amherst

Amherst has quality medical facilities and emergency services available in case of illness or injury. Visitors should carry their health insurance information and any necessary medications with them.

Getting to Amherst: Transportation Options and Logistics

Amherst is easily accessible by car, bus, or air. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Amherst

  • Lynchburg Regional Airport: Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, approximately 20 miles from Amherst.

Bus Stations Near Amherst

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, approximately 20 miles from Amherst.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore the area and surrounding attractions.

How to Get Around in Amherst

The best way to get around Amherst is by car, but there are also several bike-friendly routes in the area for those who prefer a more eco-friendly mode of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Amherst: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Amherst is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Monticello: Visit the former home of Thomas Jefferson, located in nearby Charlottesville.
  • Natural Bridge State Park: Explore the naturally formed limestone bridge and surrounding park.
  • Appomattox Court House National Historical Park: Visit the site where the Civil War ended and explore the park’s museums and exhibits.

Conclusion

Amherst, Virginia, offers visitors a wide array of cultural and natural experiences, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With its welcoming locals, unique culinary experiences, and natural beauty, Amherst is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of Virginia.