Get Outside, Explore Arts & History, Where to Eat & Drink , Where to Stay

With its riverfront parks, historic homes, and tree-lined streets, Smithfield is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and stay awhile. Just an hour from Norfolk and under two from Richmond, it’s an easy getaway that feels worlds away from the hustle.

Spend your days exploring historic sites, sampling small-batch spirits, and snapping photos with the town’s beloved pig statues—a nod to Smithfield’s famous ham. Here’s how to make the most of your time in this underrated destination that’s ready to roll out the welcome mat for you.

Get Outside

Take a Walking Tour

Begin your visit with a self-guided stroll through historic downtown Smithfield, where more than 50 beautifully preserved buildings brim with timeless elegance. Several homes are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including Berryman Mansion and the Wentworth-Grinnan House. Pick up a map at the Visitor Center on Main Street. With three weeks’ notice, the Visitor Center can even arrange a guided tour at no charge.

Stroll through a Riverside Park

Windsor Castle is a 208-acre public park set on the banks of the Pagan River and Cypress Creek where you can walk across four miles of shaded trails, let your kids explore the natural playscape (with a slide and sandbox), or launch a kayak or canoe for a leisurely paddle. You’ll also find a dog park, scenic overlooks, picnic spots, and a historic circa 1725 manor house.

Spot Colorful Public Art

Keep your eyes open for eight life-size pig statues across town, like “Swine and Roses” and “Windsor Castle Pork,” each one hand painted by local artists. Known as the Porcine Parade, these colorful hogs reflect Smithfield’s heritage as the Ham Capital of the World. Pick up a map at the Visitor Center, then walk the town in search of each whimsical, photo-worthy piece of public art.

Step Back into History

Step back in time at Fort Boykin Historic Park, originally built in 1623 to defend the Jamestown colony. This well-preserved site showcases military architecture from the Civil War, and even played a role in the Revolutionary War and War of 1812. Wander shaded trails, explore the fort’s earthworks, and take in the views across the James River. Don’t miss the enormous black walnut tree. It’s more than 200 years old and is one of the largest in Virginia.

Visit with Alpacas

For a unique experience, meet the friendly alpacas of Smithfield and Isle of Wight County. At Fluffy Honey Farm, book a therapeutic alpaca walk or guided farm tour. Courthouse Pastures Alpacas and Central Hill Farm Alpacas Plus also offer visits by appointment. Pet the gentle animals, learn about their care, and shop for ultra-soft alpaca fleece products, like socks, gloves, and scarves.

Explore Arts & History

Get to Know Regional Artists

Co-located with the Visitor Center on Main Street, The Arts Center @ 319 is your gateway to the local arts scene where rotating exhibits feature talented regional artists. Explore eight working studios, pick up handcrafted items in the gift shop, or sign up for an art class like jewelry-making or acrylic painting. Monthly “Art in Small Bites” shows offer mini-masterpieces for sale.

See the World’s Oldest Ham

Yes, you really can visit the world’s oldest ham. It’s on display at the Isle of Wight County Museum, and it even has its own Twitter account. Dating to 1902, this legendary ham can be seen 24 hours a day thanks to a live “ham cam.” Learn how Smithfield became famous for pork and peanuts, explore a replica country store, and check out exhibits on the Civil War and Cold War.

Shop Quaint Boutique Finds

Smithfield’s Main Street is a boutique-lover’s paradise. Pop into Pearls for coastal-chic women’s apparel and home accents. When Pigs Fly features whimsical décor, colorful pottery, and upcycled treasures. At Perfectly Natural Soap you’ll find handcrafted bath and body products made from eco-friendly ingredients. Plan to browse, gift, and of course, treat yourself as you stroll the shops.

Visit a Historic Church

Step back through four centuries at St. Luke’s, Virginia’s oldest brick church. Built in 1689, this architectural landmark offers visitors a rich look at America’s early religious history. Stroll the manicured grounds, take a self-guided smartphone tour, and explore exhibits on faith, community, and colonial life. The surrounding historic cemetery is a place for quiet reflection.

Walk Civil War Trails

Perched high above the James River, Fort Huger once guarded the southern approach to Richmond, the Confederate capital. Today, this 22-acre site invites visitors to explore original Civil War trails, mounted cannons, and scenic overlooks with views of the James River Reserve Fleet. Take in the contemplative green spaces and interpretive signage as you explore the historic fort.

Tour a Rare Colonial Courthouse

One of only six remaining arcaded colonial courthouses in Virginia, this stately brick building offers a window into early American democracy. It’s said to have been modeled after the Capitol Building in Colonial Williamsburg and served as the county seat for 50 years. Inside, explore beautifully restored chambers and learn about colonial justice. Free public tours are available.

Where to Eat & Drink

Explore the Craft Beverage Scene

For a small town, Smithfield boasts a surprisingly robust craft beverage scene. Sip botanical-infused spirits at Commonwealth Gin and small-batch whiskey at Blue Sky Distillery. Sample local pours at Smithfield Winery, Bon Vivant Wine & Brew, and SummerWind Vineyard. Wharf Hill Brewing has creative brews on tap in an authentic brewpub, while Breezy Hill Meadworks wows with its honey-based meads in the countryside, just 15 minutes from downtown Smithfield.

Try a Food and History Tour

The monthly walking food and history tour is a delicious way to explore Smithfield. Start at Smithfield Station, then sample local bites from up to six restaurants, while uncovering the town’s pork and peanut history. Savor views of the Pagan River, meet local chefs, and step inside historic buildings as your guide shares the stories behind each dish.

Where to Stay

Settle Into Historic Comfort

In Smithfield’s historic district, Mansion on Main is a restored 1889 Queen Anne-style home. This boutique B&B features four elegant guest rooms, each with period antiques, intricate crown moldings, and private baths. Start your morning with fresh-brewed coffee and a homemade breakfast in the grand dining area, then step outside to explore Main Street’s shops, cafes, and historic sites.

Stay Where Guests Have for Centuries

Dating back to 1752, the historic Smithfield Inn has welcomed guests for centuries, including George Washington himself. Stay in one of five one-of-a-kind second-floor suites with plush bathrobes and cozy sitting rooms. For added charm, the Luter and Todd Suites have gas fireplaces. The separate Garden House offers two bedrooms, perfect for friends and families. In the morning, enjoy a complimentary Southern breakfast at Smithfield Gourmet Bakery & Café.

Overnight in a Lighthouse Suite

Set along the Pagan River and just across from Windsor Castle Park, Smithfield Station features 22 boutique rooms featuring king-size beds, fireplaces, and walk-in tile showers. Most rooms feature private balconies for river views. For something extra special, book one of two distinctive lighthouse suites: the Captain Sinclair Suite and the Captain Todd Suite. The property’s signature feature, The Light at Smithfield Station, is a replica of a Chesapeake Bay-style lighthouse.