Danville, Virginia Travel Guide

Discover Danville, Virginia: A Southern gem rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore historic landmarks, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant culinary scene.

Nestled in the southern part of Virginia, Danville is a charming city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its rich textile and tobacco heritage, Danville has transformed over the years into a vibrant destination with something for everyone. History enthusiasts will find Danville to be a treasure trove of historical landmarks and museums. The Last Capitol of the Confederacy houses artifacts from the Civil War, while the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History offers a deep dive into the city's storied past. Walking through the historic district, you’ll be transported back in time by the beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. For those who love the outdoors, the Dan River provides ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The Riverwalk Trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride, offering scenic views of the river and surrounding nature. Anglers will find the river teeming with fish, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day on the water. Danville's culinary scene is another highlight, featuring a mix of traditional Southern cuisine and modern eateries. From classic barbecue joints to upscale dining establishments, there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss out on the local farmers' markets, where you can sample fresh, local produce and handmade goods. In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Danville hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The Danville Harvest Jubilee and the Bright Leaf Brew Fest are just a few of the many celebrations that bring the community together and attract visitors from near and far.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Danville.

Visit the Danville Welcome Center for maps and local recommendations.
Check out the Riverwalk Trail early in the morning for the best views and cooler temperatures.
Plan your visit around one of the city's annual festivals for a richer experience.
Don't miss the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and unique crafts.
Try the local barbecue joints for an authentic taste of Southern cuisine.

Explore Danville: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Danville

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Dan Daniel Memorial Park

Discover the tranquil beauty and recreational delights of Dan Daniel Memorial Park in Danville, Virginia, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families.

4.7

JTI Fountain

Experience the tranquility of JTI Fountain in Danville, Virginia, where serene beauty meets community spirit, perfect for relaxation and memorable moments.

4.7

Danville Science Center

Explore interactive exhibits and educational fun for all ages at the Danville Science Center, a top-rated science museum in Virginia.

4.6

Anglers Park

Discover Anglers Park in Danville, a serene park offering picturesque views, nature trails, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation and family outings.

4.6

Best landmarks in Danville

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

2 Witches Winery & Brewing Company

Experience the best of craft brewing and winemaking at 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Company in Danville, Virginia.

4.8

Ballad Brewing

Explore the essence of craft brewing at Ballad Brewing in Danville, Virginia, where local flavors and community spirit blend perfectly in every glass.

4.8

Dan Daniel Memorial Park

Discover the natural beauty and recreational charm of Dan Daniel Memorial Park in Danville, Virginia, your perfect getaway for relaxation and fun.

4.7

Crema & Vine

Experience the charm of Crema & Vine, Danville's premier café for breakfast delights and exquisite wines in a cozy setting.

4.7

Best restaurants in Danville

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

King Cropp Kitchen

Experience culinary excellence at King Cropp Kitchen in Danville, Virginia – where fresh ingredients meet creative cooking for an unforgettable meal.

4.8

Coco Ni Inc.

Discover delicious French crepes at Coco Ni Inc., an affordable gem in Danville offering sweet and savory delights in a cozy atmosphere.

4.7

Moon River Thai Bistro

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand at Moon River Thai Bistro in Danville – where every dish tells a story.

4.7

Nana Karen's on Main

Experience Southern hospitality and delicious home-cooked meals at Nana Karen's on Main in Danville, Virginia.

4.7

Best bars in Danville

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

King Cropp Kitchen

Discover the culinary delights of King Cropp Kitchen in Danville, Virginia – a perfect blend of local flavors and vibrant atmosphere.

4.8

Crema & Vine

Discover the perfect blend of coffee, breakfast, and fine wines at Crema & Vine, Danville's charming culinary oasis.

4.7

River District Social

Discover the lively ambiance, delicious cuisine, and sports excitement at River District Social in Danville, Virginia.

4.7

Me's burgers & brews

Experience the best of Danville with mouthwatering burgers and local brews at Me's Burgers & Brews, a must-visit culinary hotspot.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Danville

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

River District Social

Discover River District Social in Danville, VA – a lively sports bar offering great food, drinks, and entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.7

Shannie's Bar and Grill

Discover the perfect blend of delicious grilled cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere at Shannie's Bar and Grill in Danville, VA.

4.4

Santana's Restaurant & Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Santana's Restaurant & Grill in Danville, Virginia, where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.

4.3

Boston's Bourbon Street Bistro and Bar

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Boston's Bourbon Street Bistro and Bar, where grill specialties meet lively nightlife in Danville, Virginia.

4.8

Best shops in Danville

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

The Brick Running & Tri Store

Explore Danville's premier running and triathlon store for gear, advice, and a community of fitness enthusiasts.

4.9

Galactic Treasures

Explore a mystical treasure trove of unique gifts, aromatherapy supplies, jewelry, and more at Galactic Treasures in Danville, Virginia.

5.0

Ginger Bread House & Garden

Explore the unique charm of the Ginger Bread House & Garden, a delightful gift shop offering handcrafted treasures in Danville, Virginia.

4.6

Hobby Lobby

Discover your creative side at Hobby Lobby in Danville, a premier destination for craft supplies, home decor, and artistic inspiration.

4.5

Explore Danville on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Danville, mapped for you.

Danville Essentials

Danville is located in south-central Virginia, near the North Carolina border. The nearest major airport is Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) in Greensboro, North Carolina, about 50 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Danville. Another option is Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), located about 70 miles away. If you prefer traveling by train, Amtrak's Crescent route stops in Danville, connecting it to cities like New York, Atlanta, and New Orleans. Driving is also a viable option, with Danville accessible via U.S. Route 58 and U.S. Route 29.
Danville is a small city, and many attractions are within a short distance of each other. The city's public transportation system, Danville Transit, offers bus services throughout the city. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available. If you prefer driving, car rentals are available, and the city is easy to navigate with plenty of parking options. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bike to explore the Riverwalk Trail and other scenic areas.
The official currency in Danville is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies. Traveler's checks are less commonly used but can be cashed at most banks.
Danville is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The North Danville and Westmoreland neighborhoods have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially after dark. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Danville has several medical facilities, including Sovah Health-Danville, which provides comprehensive healthcare services. Pharmacies are available across the city for over-the-counter medications. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-emergency issues, the Danville Police Department and local fire stations can provide assistance.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the weather, but avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants or events. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be courteous to other passengers and give up your seat to elderly individuals. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Southern cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't rush your meals; dining is often a leisurely activity in Danville.
To experience Danville like a local, visit the Community Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and local crafts. Explore the River District for unique shops, dining, and entertainment options. Engage with locals at events like the Danville Harvest Jubilee and the Festival in the Park. Take a stroll along the Riverwalk Trail for beautiful views of the Dan River and the city's historic architecture. Don't miss the Danville Science Center and the AAF Tank Museum for a deeper dive into the city's history and culture.

When is the best time to visit Danville?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Danville

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Danville. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lum]
- Thank youThanks
  [thaynks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/My bad
  [ex-kyooz mee/my bad]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [haw y'all doo-in']
- Fine. And you?Fine. How 'bout you?
  [fahyn. how 'bout yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [y'all speak ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI don't git it
  [ah don't git it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu, please
  [kan ah chek owt thee menu, pleez]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat no meat
  [ah don't eat noh meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up, please
  [ah'll set-tul up, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help!]
- Go away!Git outta here!
  [git out-uh heer!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call thee cops!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call a dock!]
- I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [ahm all turnd around]
- I'm illI'm feelin' sick
  [ahm feelin' sik]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ah wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [ahm just lookin']
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much duz it cost?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [thats tooh pry-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can you drop the price?
  [kan yuh drop thee price?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [its one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrer
  [tomorrer]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [fawr]
- 5Five
  [fahyv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
- 8Eight
  [ayt]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [wheres a/the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kan yuh show mee (on thee map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh ticket (to ....)]

History of Danville

One of Danville’s most significant historical moments came in April 1865, when it served as the last capital of the Confederate States of America. After the fall of Richmond, Confederate President Jefferson Davis and his cabinet fled to Danville, where they set up a temporary government at the Sutherlin Mansion. This brief period, although lasting only eight days, is a pivotal chapter in the city’s history and marks Danville as a key location in the final days of the American Civil War.
Danville emerged as a significant tobacco market in the 19th century, establishing itself as a major player in the tobacco trade. The city's location along the Dan River and its rail connections turned it into a bustling center for the tobacco industry. Warehouses and processing plants dotted the landscape, and the annual tobacco auctions became a major economic event. This tobacco boom greatly influenced the city’s development and growth, leaving a lasting legacy on Danville’s economy and culture.
On September 27, 1903, Danville was the site of one of the most famous train wrecks in American history – the wreck of the Old 97. This Southern Railway mail train, known as the Fast Mail, derailed at the Stillhouse Trestle, resulting in the deaths of eleven people. The tragic event was immortalized in the ballad 'Wreck of the Old 97,' which became a popular folk song and brought national attention to Danville. The story of the wreck remains a poignant part of the city's historical narrative.
Danville played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. The city was the site of numerous protests and demonstrations against racial segregation and inequality. One of the most notable events occurred in June 1963, known as 'Bloody Monday,' when a peaceful protest was met with violent police response. These events highlighted the intense struggle for civil rights in Danville and left an indelible mark on the community’s fight for justice and equality.
In recent years, Danville has undergone significant revitalization efforts, particularly in the historic River District. This area, once the heart of the city’s tobacco and textile industries, has been transformed into a vibrant hub of activity. Historic buildings have been repurposed into modern apartments, shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. The River District’s rejuvenation symbolizes Danville’s resilience and commitment to preserving its rich history while fostering economic growth and community development.