The Family Adventure
Create lasting memories with activities the whole family will love
Adventure for All Ages
Bring the whole family to Abingdon for a perfect blend of arts, outdoor adventure, and educational experiences. This 5-day itinerary is designed with children and adults in mind, offering activities that will engage, entertain, and create lasting memories for everyone in your family.
Your 5-Day Family Getaway
Day One: Arrival & Exploration
Afternoon: Check-in & Downtown Stroll
Arrive in Abingdon and check into your family-friendly accommodations. We recommend the Fairfield Inn & Suites for their spacious rooms, indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast, or a vacation rental home for more space and kitchen facilities.
Take a leisurely walk through historic downtown Abingdon to get oriented. Pick up a free "Kids' Scavenger Hunt" map from the Visitor Center to make the walk more engaging for younger family members.
Evening: Family Dinner
Enjoy dinner at BoneFireBBQ, a family-friendly restaurant with a kids' menu and casual atmosphere. Their award-winning barbecue is a hit with all ages.
Night: Dessert & Planning
Stop by Anthony's Desserts for a sweet treat. While enjoying your desserts, review your itinerary together and let each family member choose an activity they're most excited about.
Day Two: Theatre & History
Morning: Breakfast & Museum
Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation or visit Balkan Bakery for pastries and hot chocolate that kids will love.
Visit the William King Museum of Art, which offers family-friendly exhibits and often has interactive activities for children. Check their calendar for any special kids' workshops during your visit.
Midday: Historical Exploration
Explore the Abingdon Muster Grounds, the northern trailhead of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. Kids can learn about Revolutionary War history through interactive displays and beautiful grounds for a picnic lunch.
Evening: Family Theatre Experience
Attend a family-friendly show at Barter Theatre. Check the current season lineup for productions appropriate for children. Barter often stages adaptations of beloved children's books and family classics.
Before or after the show, enjoy dinner at 128 Pecan, which offers a varied menu with options for both adults and children.
Day Three: Outdoor Adventure
Morning: Bike Rental & Shuttle
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to Virginia Creeper Trail Bike Shop. They offer bikes for all ages, including tag-alongs for younger children and bike trailers for toddlers.
Take the shuttle to Whitetop Station for a mostly downhill, 17-mile scenic ride to Damascus. This is perfect for families as it's easier for children and offers spectacular views.
Midday: Trail Lunch
Stop for lunch in Damascus at MoJoe's Trailside Cafe, a family-friendly spot right on the trail. Their outdoor seating area is perfect for a break before continuing your ride.
Evening: Pool Time & Relaxation
Return to your accommodation for some relaxing pool time. If you're staying at a hotel with a pool, this is the perfect way to unwind after an active day.
For dinner, order pizza delivery from Moon Dog Brick Oven and enjoy a casual meal while sharing stories from your day's adventure.
Day Four: Farm & Nature Day
Morning: Farmers Market
If it's Saturday, visit the Abingdon Farmers Market (open 8am-1pm). Kids can meet local farmers, sample fresh produce, and perhaps pick out ingredients for a picnic lunch.
On other days, visit Country Boy Produce for a similar experience with fresh, local goods.
Midday: Farm Visit
Take a short drive to Dreamland Alpaca Farm where children can meet alpacas, learn about fiber production, and even feed these gentle animals. Call ahead to confirm tour times.
Enjoy your picnic lunch at the farm or at a nearby park.
Afternoon: Nature Exploration
Visit Natural Tunnel State Park (about 30 minutes from Abingdon) to see the remarkable "Natural Tunnel" and explore family-friendly hiking trails. The chairlift down to the tunnel floor is a highlight for kids.
Return to Abingdon for dinner at Moon Dog Brick Oven, offering wood-fired pizzas and a casual atmosphere perfect for families.
Day Five: Arts & Farewell
Morning: Arts Workshop
Participate in a family art workshop at Arts Depot, a cooperative gallery and studio space. Check their calendar for scheduled workshops or call ahead to arrange a private family session with one of their artists.
Midday: Souvenir Shopping
Spend some time browsing downtown shops for souvenirs. Visit Mamma J's for local crafts and The Country Gardener for unique gifts.
Enjoy lunch at The Country Gardener Cafe, offering sandwiches and salads in a charming setting.
Afternoon: Matinee & Farewell
Complete your Abingdon experience with a matinee performance at Barter Theatre. If possible, choose a different show from your earlier visit to experience the variety of productions offered.
Before departing, stop by the Barter Theatre gift shop to pick up a memento of your family adventure, such as a show poster or theatre-themed souvenir.
Where to Stay
Fairfield Inn & Suites
Family-friendly hotel with indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and spacious rooms. Many rooms include mini-fridges and microwaves for snacks.
Visit Website →Family Vacation Rentals
Spacious homes with multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and yards where children can play. Perfect for families wanting more space and home-like amenities.
Browse Options →Hampton Inn
Reliable family accommodations with free breakfast, outdoor pool (seasonal), and rooms with two queen beds perfect for families. Located near shopping and dining options.
Visit Website →Family-Friendly Dining
BoneFireBBQ
Award-winning barbecue with a dedicated kids' menu. Casual atmosphere perfect for families with children of all ages.
Visit Website →Moon Dog Brick Oven
Wood-fired pizzas that appeal to all ages. Build-your-own pizza options let kids customize their meals, and the casual setting welcomes families.
Visit Website →MoJoe's Trailside Cafe
Located right on the Virginia Creeper Trail in Damascus, offering sandwiches, wraps, and refreshing beverages. Outdoor seating perfect for families taking a break from biking.
Visit Website →Ready to Plan Your Family Adventure?
Let us help you create the perfect family getaway to Abingdon. Our Concierge Connection service can assist with family-friendly show recommendations, accommodation bookings, and special experiences for children.