Hit the Road: A 30-mile getaway to Petersburg

Last month, we kicked off our summer road trip series, Hit the Road, with an outdoor adventure to Shenandoah National Park. If you checked it out, we’d love to hear about it.

This month, we’re continuing the series with a 30-mile trip to Petersburg for a quick getaway. From Civil War history to award-winning barbecue, this nearby city offers a little bit of everything — making it the perfect end-of-summer stop.

Here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.

• Drive time: ~26 minutes from City Hall
• Est. population: 30,791
• Avg. high in July: 90°

🎟️ Things to do

Petersburg Company Walking Tours

Options for tours include an Old Towne walking tour, “High Street Hearsay” — aka the Gossip Tour — and “Lights, Camera, Petersburg.” Tickets start at $25.

Petersburg National Battlefield

Explore the 2,700 acre park which tells the story of the nearly ten month siege and the collapse of the Army of Northern Virginia.

Petersburg Pickers

Stop by this eclectic shop to peruse fashions, home decor, antiques, and other consignment treasures.

Peter Jones Trading Station

Also called the Stone Lumber House, this historic site is thought to be the oldest building in Petersburg, dating back to 1665.

River Street Market

If you’re visiting on a Saturday, this community farmers market is a must. Pick from the freshest produce + enjoy local artworks.

🍔 Grub to eat

The Brickhouse Run

Try British + American specialities at this Old Towne pub.

Saucy’s Bar.B.Q.

If you aren’t full from their award-winning eats, order a slice of the famous peanut butter pie.

Buttermilk Bake Shop

Please your sweet tooth with a doughnut, cinnamon roll, sticky bun, or cake by the slice.

Trapezium Brewing Co.

Sample the brews at this Old Towne taproom. Bonus: They’re opening a third location soon in Church Hill.

Demolition Coffee

Swing by this hip shop for an afternoon pick-me-up of espresso or tea.

🛏 Overnight accommodations

If you decide to turn this quick day trip into an overnighter, here are some spots to stay.

The Ragland Mansion, 205 S. Sycamore St.

Located in the Poplar Lawn district, this historic Italianate was restored as a Bed and Breakfast in 1998. Rates start at $96 per night.

The Thomas Wallace House, corner of Market and Brown Streets

This 1855 home, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is where President Lincoln met with General Grant before the end of the Civil War. Enjoy four bedrooms + three bathrooms at an average price of $359 per night.

Scents of Cedar, 15126 Providence Rd.

Escape to the woods and stay at this cozy, custom-designed log cabin home. $125 per night includes a full breakfast in the morning.