Danville Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scenes, where to stay, and transportation options in Danville, South Virginia, USA.


Introduction to Danville

Danville, a charming city in South Virginia, is surrounded by natural beauty and rich in history and Southern charm. Explore the city’s numerous attractions, outdoor adventures, delicious food and drink, and friendly locals.

List of Places to Visit in Danville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History: Admire the museum’s collection of American and European art, decorative arts, and Virginia and Danville history.
  • Tank Museum: A must-visit for history and military enthusiasts showcasing historic tanks and other military vehicles.
  • The Historic North Theater: A beautifully restored venue that presents movies, plays, concerts, comedy shows, and other special events.

Natural Attractions of Danville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Danville Riverwalk Trail: A riverside trail with a serene view of the Dan River, great for walking, biking, and running.
  • Piedmont Environmental Center: A natural preserve with trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots.
  • Smith Mountain Lake: A stunning lake located near Danville, perfect for boating, fishing, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Danville

  • Anglers Ridge Trail System: A 35-mile trail system with varying difficulty levels, great for mountain biking and hiking.
  • Danville Riverwalk Trail: A paved trail along the Dan River stretching 3.45 miles suitable for walking, jogging, and biking.

Best Things to Do in Danville: Activities and Tours

  • Museums and Historical Sites Tour: Explore the city’s rich history and culture by taking a guided tour of Danville’s museums and historical sites.
  • Food and Drink Tour: Taste Danville’s local cuisine, including BBQ, southern dishes, and local brews, on a guided food and drink tour.
  • Danville Science Center: A great interactive museum for kids and adults alike featuring fun learning experiences in science and technology.

Week-Long Itinerary for Danville

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, Tank Museum, and The Historic North Theater
Day 2 Take a hike in Anglers Ridge Trail System
Day 3 Walking tour of Danville’s historic sites
Day 4 Explore Riverwalk Trail and enjoy a picnic at Piedmont Environmental Center
Day 5 Visit Danville Science Center, Danville Community Market, and see a show at The Historic North Theater
Day 6 Visit Smith Mountain Lake for water activities or relax at Danville parks
Day 7 Experience Danville’s food and drink scene with a guided tour and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the town

Food and Drink Scene of Danville

Must-Try Dishes

  • BBQ: Al’s Pitt BBQ, Checkered Pig BBQ & Ribs, and Smokey Pig Bar-B-Q are some of the best places in Danville for delicious BBQ.
  • Peanut Soup: A local speciality, this soup features peanuts as the star ingredient and has a rich and creamy texture.
  • Sweet Potato Pie: A Southern classic dessert that is a must-try in Danville.

Local Beverages

  • Vines & Wines: A winery offering guided tours and tastings with a patio seating area overlooking scenic views of Danville.
  • Ballad Brewing: A microbrewery offering a unique selection of craft brews and a cozy atmosphere for beer enthusiasts.

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

  • Courtyard by Marriott: A contemporary hotel located in the heart of Danville offering comfortable and stylish rooms.
  • The Gingerbread House: A charming bed and breakfast in a beautifully renovated historic home.
  • Comfort Inn & Suites: A well-furnished hotel offering excellent amenities and fantastic service for a comfortable stay.

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

  • Virginia Diner Peanuts: A perfect gift for peanut lovers, these peanuts have a delicious roasted flavor and are available in a variety of flavors.
  • Handcrafted Pottery: Danville has a rich tradition of pottery making, and you can find unique handcrafted pottery at the Danville Farmer’s Market.
  • Moonshine and Whiskey: Danville has a history of moonshining, and you can still enjoy the experience with local distilleries like Virginia Sweetwater and Three Crosses Distilling.

Local Culture and Customs of Danville

Danville is known for its rich Southern culture, including warm hospitality, BBQ, and love for country music. People in Danville are friendly and welcoming and enjoy sharing their stories with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Danville

The best time to visit Danville is in the spring and fall seasons when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Danville

Do:

  • Try Southern cuisine and local specialities like Peanut Soup and BBQ.
  • Respect southern customs and traditions.
  • Enjoy the local music scene.

Don’t:

  • Don’t miss out on Danville’s outdoor adventures like hiking and biking trails.
  • Don’t underestimate the southern heat; always carry water and stay hydrated.
  • Don’t forget to be respectful of the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Danville

Danville is a safe destination for travelers. As with any location, it is always best to keep a close eye on personal belongings and take proper safety measures for personal safety.

Health in Danville

Danville has excellent medical facilities and services available for visitors. For medical emergencies, dial 911 or head to Danville Regional Medical Center.

Getting to Danville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Danville

  • Piedmont Triad International Airport: The closest major airport to Danville, located about 50 miles south in Greensboro, North Carolina.
  • Lynchburg Regional Airport: Located approximately 49 miles north of Danville, this airport is a convenient alternative.

Bus Stations Near Danville

  • Greyhound Bus Stations: Located in Danville and offers bus services to various destinations.

Other Options

  • Rent a car from nearby airports or train stations, or book a private car service.

How to Get Around in Danville

The best way to get around Danville is by car or bicycle. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Danville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Greenfield Historic Park: A beautiful venue with a rich history and is a great place for picnic and outdoor fun. It is located just a few miles from Danville.
  • The Blue Ridge Parkway: A scenic drive that passes through the Appalachian Mountains and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Conclusion

Danville is a fantastic destination to experience Southern culture, outdoor adventures, and rich history. Whether you’re traveling solo, with your family, or with friends, Danville will welcome you with open arms and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Downtown Danville Downtown Danville Riverwalk Trail Riverwalk Trail