Crewe VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Crewe, Virginia.
1. Crewe Railroad Museum
RAILWAY HISTORY & EXHIBITS
Crewe Railroad Museum offers visitors a chance to explore railway history through numerous artifacts, photos, and memorabilia housed in a building constructed similarly to the original Crewe Passenger station. The outdoor area features a Steam locomotive, Diesel locomotive, freight cars, a caboose, and a passenger coach that was once part of the N&W Powhatan Arrow passenger trains from the 1940s and 1950s. The museum is conveniently located on land donated by the Norfolk Southern Railroad, adjacent to their operational yards, providing excellent viewing spots for rail enthusiasts.
2. Nottoway Falls
NATURAL SCENIC BEAUTY
Nottoway Falls is a natural attraction offering visitors a peaceful escape to enjoy the beauty of cascading waters in the Virginia countryside. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the falls while taking in the surrounding natural landscape. The falls provide excellent opportunities for nature photography and peaceful reflection away from urban environments.
3. Nottoway County Courthouse
HISTORIC LEGAL ARCHITECTURE
The Nottoway County Courthouse stands as one of the area's significant historic buildings, showcasing traditional Virginia architecture. The courthouse has served as the center of local government and judicial proceedings for generations of county residents. Visitors can appreciate both the historical significance and architectural details that make this building a noteworthy landmark in the region.
4. Schwartz Tavern
COLONIAL-ERA PUBLIC HOUSE
Schwartz Tavern represents an authentic piece of colonial Virginia history as one of the area's preserved historic buildings. The tavern once served as a gathering place for locals and travelers in early America, offering food, drink, and lodging. Today, visitors can explore this historic structure to gain insight into the social and cultural life of Virginia's past.
5. Burke's Tavern
HISTORIC REFRESHMENT STOP
Burke's Tavern stands as another important historic establishment that provides a glimpse into Virginia's past. The tavern played a significant role in local history as a stopping point for travelers and a social hub for the community. Visitors can appreciate the preserved architecture and historical significance of this landmark building.
6. Oakridge
HISTORIC VIRGINIA ESTATE
Oakridge is a historic property that exemplifies traditional Virginia estate architecture and design. The estate offers visitors a window into the lifestyle of prominent families in the region's past. The grounds and buildings showcase the craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities of an earlier era in Virginia history.
7. Blackstone Walking Tour
SELF-GUIDED HISTORIC EXPLORATION
The Blackstone Walking Tour allows visitors to explore numerous historic buildings and sites throughout this charming Virginia town at their own pace. The tour highlights architectural details, historical information, and cultural significance of various structures in Blackstone. Visitors will gain a comprehensive understanding of the town's development and importance in regional history.
8. Longwood University
HISTORIC ACADEMIC INSTITUTION
Longwood University welcomes visitors to explore its historic campus featuring distinctive architecture and beautiful grounds. Founded in 1839, this public university combines rich educational tradition with modern academic facilities. Visitors can enjoy walking the campus, viewing historical markers, and potentially attending cultural events or athletic competitions.
9. Metro Richmond Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Metro Richmond Zoo offers visitors close encounters with over 2,000 animals representing more than 190 species from around the world. The zoo provides various interactive experiences including feeding giraffes and budgies, riding camels, and exploring the safari train ride. Families can spend an entire day enjoying both the animal exhibits and amenities such as picnic areas, a playground, and concessions.
10. Hampden-Sydney College
HISTORIC MEN'S LIBERAL ARTS
Hampden-Sydney College, founded in 1775, is the tenth oldest college in the United States and offers visitors a glimpse of a historic campus with Federal and Colonial architecture. The college maintains its tradition as one of only three remaining all-male liberal arts colleges in the United States. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, historic buildings, and potentially attend cultural or sporting events open to the public.
11. Lake Phoenix Scuba and Family Campground
UNDERWATER ADVENTURE PARK
Lake Phoenix Scuba and Family Campground offers a unique recreational experience centered around a clear quarry lake perfect for diving enthusiasts of all skill levels. The facility features underwater training platforms, sunken objects to explore, and comprehensive dive services including equipment rental and instruction. Beyond scuba diving, visitors can enjoy camping, swimming, volleyball, and other family-friendly activities in a beautiful natural setting.
12. Amelia County Court House
HISTORIC JUDICIAL CENTER
The Amelia County Court House stands as a significant historical landmark showcasing traditional Virginia judicial architecture. This historic building has served as the center of county government and legal proceedings for generations. Visitors interested in history and architecture will appreciate the preservation of this important civic structure.
13. Bear Creek Lake State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Bear Creek Lake State Park offers visitors a 40-acre lake surrounded by beautiful Virginia woodland, perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating activities. The park features well-maintained hiking trails, picnic areas, camping facilities, and cabin rentals for extended stays. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and stargazing in this tranquil natural setting.
14. The Adventure Park at Sandy River Retreat
AERIAL FOREST CHALLENGE COURSE
The Adventure Park at Sandy River Retreat challenges visitors with an exciting aerial forest experience featuring ziplines, rope bridges, and climbing elements suspended among the trees. The park offers courses of varying difficulty levels, making it suitable for adventurers of different ages and abilities. Beyond the treetop adventures, the retreat also offers yurt accommodations, hiking trails, and other outdoor recreational opportunities.
15. Twin Lakes State Park
DUAL LAKE RECREATION AREA
Twin Lakes State Park features two beautiful lakes, Cedar Crest and Goodwin, offering visitors opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating in a serene natural setting. The park provides numerous recreational facilities including a beach area, boat rentals, hiking trails, picnic shelters, and camping options. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the diverse ecosystems within the park's 548 acres of Virginia woodland and wetlands.