Seemingly frozen in time, Little Washington awaits your exploration. This quaint village sits nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era.
Little Washington is often called “The First Washington of All”. There are 28 Washingtons in the United States, but this one came first. In July 1749, a young George Washington surveyed this land. He was just 17 years old at the time. He noted in his journal, “In the Blue Ridge Mountains . . . I laid off a town.” Assisted by two chain men, he laid out the town in a five-block by two-block grid. Remarkably, that grid remains the same today.
The Virginia Assembly officially established the town in 1796. But even before that, people started calling it Little Washington. This was to distinguish it from big Washington, D.C., less than 70 miles away. Little Washington is truly little. It feels more like an English village than a town. The population is less than 150. This count excludes the llamas, sheep, goats, and chickens. Some chickens even live in an ornate chicken house with stained glass windows.
Despite its small size, Little Washington boasts impressive accolades. Within its five-block by two-block area, you will find world-class establishments. The Inn at Little Washington is a Five Diamond/Five Star hotel restaurant. R.H. Ballard’s is one of the top 50 shops in the South, according to Southern Living Magazine. The Theatre at Washington, Virginia, features world-renowned musicians.
The entire town of Little Washington is a National Historic Landmark. This recognizes its history and architecture. It is also on the Virginia Landmarks Register. As you stroll, you might see farmers driving John Deere tractors loaded with hay bales. You might also spot an antique Rolls Royce parked near The Inn at Little Washington.
Thanks to The Inn at Little Washington, DC’s elite have discovered the charms of Little Washington. They seek a restorative escape from city life. Many are buying land and building estates nearby. There is hardly any traffic here.
Little Washington has become a cycling and culinary destination. National Geographic even named it the “Number 1 Bicycle Tour for Foodies in the World”. They called it the Tour d’Epicure. The town enjoys a resurgence of energy. This is partly due to investments into Little Washington. New restaurants and shops are planned.
The town’s zoning laws prevent strip malls and subdivisions. Instead, you will find lovely shops like R.H. Ballards. You can also explore art galleries, antique stores, and gourmet grocery stores.
Little Washington retains its historic charm. It invites you to step back in time. Imagine young George Washington surveying this very land. The same grid he laid out still exists today. Little Washington offers a unique experience. It is a blend of history, luxury, and rural beauty. As you leave, remember the spectacular sunsets over the Blue Ridge Mountains. We hope you will return to Little Washington soon.