A Weekend Guide to Danville, VA for Food and Wine Lovers

ByLaura Wine Destinations

If you’re looking for a Virginia weekend getaway that combines great food and drinks, history, architecture, and plenty to explore outdoors, I’d recommend adding Danville and the Southside (aka SoSi) to your list.

Before visiting, I knew very little about the area. I definitely wasn’t expecting to find a self-serve wine bar in a converted gas station, a signature martini inspired by one of Danville’s most famous residents, and some of the best crab cakes I’ve had.

In the past two decades, this city has transformed its historic tobacco warehouses and former mill buildings into restaurants, hotels, breweries, and gathering spaces. Along the way, it’s also embraced its past, from restoring the Gilded Age mansions on Millionaires’ Row to telling the stories of Danville’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.

Whether you’re into good food and drinks, local history, or simply exploring somewhere new, these are the places I’d recommend adding to your itinerary.

Thanks to Visit SoSi for hosting me. All recommendations and opinions in this guide are entirely my own.

Curving walking paths and colorful flower beds line Danville Riverfront Park beside the Dan River, with rocky river islands, a pedestrian bridge, and an arched bridge creating a scenic view of the River District waterfront.

Where to Dine in Danville

One of my favorite parts of visiting Danville was trying its restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a nice dinner, a casual brunch, or a farm-to-table meal, here’s where I’d recommend dining.

The Schoolfield Restaurant

Front window of The Schoolfield Restaurant with a large red crab logo and the words "The Schoolfield Restaurant".

The Schoolfield Restaurant was one of my favorite meals in Danville. Housed in the former Schoolfield Lunch building that once fed workers from the neighboring Dan River Mills, it’s now a local favorite for seafood and steaks, with a great cocktail list.

I almost ordered the Canadian Whiskey Sea Scallops, but I’m so glad I went with the crab cakes. They were packed with big lumps of crab and some of the best I’ve had.

The cocktail menu has creative literature-themed names like Tequila Mockingbird and Gone With the Gin. I loved trying the Lady Astor Martini, which has a fun backstory I’ll get to later. If you’re in the mood for wine, you’ll find bottles from Virginia’s Barboursville Vineyards alongside a nice selection of domestic and international wines.

Toasted pita triangles surround a creamy crab dip topped with herbs on a white plate at The Schoolfield Restaurant in Danville.
Two golden crab cakes are served with roasted asparagus, seasoned rice, cherry tomatoes, and a creamy sauce at The Schoolfield Restaurant in Danville.
Warm chocolate dessert topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a fresh mint leaf on a white dessert plate at The Schoolfield Restaurant

The Schoolfield Restaurant, 1009 W Main St, Danville, VA 24541

King Cropp Kitchen

Patio seating with colorful umbrellas outside King Cropp Kitchen in Danville, Virginia.

King Cropp Kitchen is proof that allergy-friendly dining doesn’t have to be limiting. The restaurant started as a food truck before moving into a former house, with several intimate dining rooms and a spacious front patio. Since then, the locally sourced ingredients, creative cocktails, and homey atmosphere have made it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

After Chef Chris and Darcy King’s son developed food allergies from a tick bite, they reimagined the menu so they knew exactly what went into every dish. You’d never know it from the menu, though. The truffle tots are a must to start, and my grilled salmon paired perfectly with a French Chardonnay from the Languedoc-Roussillon.

The cocktail menu is fun, with drinks like the Danville Scandal, Pickle-tini, and the Lady Astor Martini. Don’t overlook the wine list, either. It’s small, but there are some great bottles to choose from.

Crispy truffle tater tots topped with grated Parmesan and herbs served with two dipping sauces at King Cropp Kitchen.
Bottle of Famille Antech Chardonnay 2024 on a wooden table at King Cropp Kitchen. The label reads "Famille Antech Chardonnay 2024."
Crispy fried cauliflower tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce with sesame seeds and green onions at King Cropp Kitchen.

King Cropp Kitchen, 1050 W Main St, Danville, VA 24541

Don’t Plan a Wine Trip Without This Checklist

After years of planning wine trips around the world, I created the checklist I wish I’d had from the start. It walks you through exactly what to do and when, from early research to week-of to-dos, so planning your trip feels simple instead of stressful.

    Graphic featuring a wine trip planning checklist. The left side shows a timeline of when steps should be completed, and the right side displays a checklist.

    Ramsay’s Kitchen

    Entrance to Ramsay's Kitchen featuring a large illuminated sign reading "Ramsay's Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay" and a portrait of Gordon Ramsay above the host stand.

    Located inside Caesars Virginia, Ramsay’s Kitchen is worth checking out even if you’re not staying at the resort. If you’ve always wanted to try one of Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants, this is your chance. Inside, it has the feel of a modern steakhouse, while the patio overlooks the Three Sisters smokestacks from the former Dan River Mills.

    The signature Beef Wellington is a great choice if it’s your first visit, but barbecue fans shouldn’t miss the ribs served with a warm cast iron skillet of cornbread and honey butter. Or if you’re a seafood lover, one of my favorites was the crab cake with herb aioli.

    The wine list is every bit as extensive as you’d expect from a Gordon Ramsay restaurant, so there are plenty of options if you’re looking for a pairing. If you have room for dessert, don’t miss the sticky toffee pudding or the peach cheesecake.

    Crispy chicken wings topped with sliced jalapeños and green onions served with a side of dipping sauce at Ramsay's Kitchen.
    Modern dining room at Ramsay's Kitchen with wood ceiling accents, leather chairs, and rows of neatly set tables.
    Barbecue ribs with a baked cornbread topped with honey butter at Ramsay's Kitchen.

    Ramsay’s Kitchen, 1100 W Main St, Danville, VA 24541

    Golden Leaf Bistro

    Historic red brick building with black awnings at the entrance to Golden Leaf Bistro in Danville.

    Golden Leaf Bistro is a great choice if you’re spending the day exploring Danville’s River District. Just a short walk from Riverfront Park and the Riverwalk Trail, it’s an easy stop for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

    I stopped by for brunch and had the stuffed French toast, which also included eggs and crispy bacon. Inside, the quirky décor pays tribute to the building’s tobacco history with vintage signs and an antique cash register. If the weather is nice, grab a seat on the back patio, where you’ll also find an outdoor bar and live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

    The seasonal cocktail menu changes throughout the year with current drinks like a lavender lemon drop martini and watermelon paloma. While you won’t find Virginia wines here, the wine list still has plenty of good options.

    Pink cocktail with a chili salt rim, lime wedge, and ice served at Golden Leaf Bistro.
    Brunch plate with stuffed French toast, scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a side of syrup at Golden Leaf Bistro.
    Covered outdoor bar with wooden counters, high-top stools, and exposed brick walls at Golden Leaf Bistro.

    Golden Leaf Bistro, 215 Craghead St, Danville, VA 24541

    Links Coffee House Cafe

    Outdoor seating in front of Links Coffee House Cafe with the "LINKS Coffee House Cafe" logo displayed on the front window.
    Cozy seating area inside Links Coffee House Cafe with a wooden table, upholstered chairs, a large decorative mirror, and exposed brick accents.

    Links Coffee House Café is a great stop for a quick breakfast or light lunch in the River District. My bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich on an English muffin was the perfect start before heading out for a day of exploring.

    There were plenty of comfortable places to sit, and it seemed to be a popular spot for locals catching up over coffee. If you’re not a coffee drinker like me, you’ll also find specialty teas, matcha, smoothies, and other non-coffee drinks on the menu.

    Links Coffee House Café, 319 Craghead St, Danville, VA 24541

    Midtown Market

    Exterior of Midtown Market in Danville with vintage storefront, striped awning, and American flags as two women walk toward the entrance on a sunny day. The hanging sign reads "Midtown Market."
    Photo courtesy of Visit SoSi

    If you’re planning a picnic or just need something quick, stop by Midtown Market in Danville’s Old West End. It’s a small local market near Millionaires’ Row where you can pick up boxed lunches, prepared foods, fresh produce, and meats.

    I tried one of their lunches with a turkey sandwich and a fudgy brownie that was worth saving room for. The chicken salad is the local favorite and was even been praised by Paula Deen as one of the best on the East Coast.

    Midtown Market, 7 Chambers St, Danville, VA 24541

    Where to Sip in Danville

    From self-serve wine bars to a signature martini with an interesting local story, Danville has a great mix of places to grab a drink. These were my favorite spots.

    Crema & Vine

    Exterior of Crema & Vine with a covered patio, outdoor seating, and brick building in Danville.

    If you’re looking for a good glass of wine in Danville, Crema & Vine is the place to go. Housed in a former gas station that’s been completely transformed, it’s a coffee shop by day and wine bar by night. Inside, leather lounge seating, oversized globe lights, and self-serve wine stations make it hard to believe what the building used to be.

    I stopped by for breakfast, where we enjoyed mimosas, bagel sandwiches, and fresh fruit on the patio. If you’re there later in the day, the menu also includes specialty sandwiches, pizzas, salads, and shareable boards. And with 16 wines on tap, it’s a great way to try a few different sips before deciding which pairs best with your meal.

    After breakfast or a glass of wine, take a walk along Millionaires’ Row or visit the Danville Museum just across the street.

    Interior of Crema & Vine with a long communal table, hanging glass pendant lights, wine displays, a self-pour wine station, and a coffee bar.
    Mimosa flight with carafes of fruit juices, sparkling wine on ice, and a filled champagne flute at Crema & Vine.
    Shelves stocked with bottles of red wine beside café seating inside Crema & Vine.

    Crema & Vine, 1009 S Main St, Danville, VA 24541

    Lady Astor Martini Trail

    Lady Astor martini with a lime wedge served beside a bookmark that reads "Visit SoSi Danville VA Pittsylvania Co. The drink Lady Astor never ordered."

    One cocktail you shouldn’t miss in Danville is the Lady Astor Martini. Nancy Langhorne Astor was born in Danville in 1879 and went on to become the first woman to be seated in the British Parliament. Ironically, she was also a strong supporter of temperance, so it’s playfully referred to as “the drink Lady Astor never ordered.”

    The recipe calls for vodka, white cranberry juice, Cointreau, and fresh lime juice. I first tried it at The Schoolfield Restaurant, but you can also find it at King Cropp and Me’s Burgers & Brews, each with their own twist.

    If you’d like to learn more about the woman behind the drink, stop by the Langhorne House, Lady Astor’s birthplace. The restored home is now a museum where you can learn more about one of Danville’s most influential residents.

    Mixology at Ramsay’s Kitchen

    Espresso martini with a foamy top and three coffee beans served during a mixology demonstration at Ramsay's Kitchen.
    Craft cocktail with egg white foam garnished with a rosemary sprig from a mixology demonstration at Ramsay's Kitchen.

    If you’re looking to brush up on your cocktail skills, Ramsay’s Kitchen offers a Tuesday evening Mixology MasterClass. You’ll learn how to make a classic cocktail, create your own signature drink, hear a little cocktail history along the way, and enjoy appetizers during the class.

    I got to watch a demo and sample a few of the cocktails, including an espresso martini, a bourbon cocktail with an egg white foam (my favorite), and a whiskey cocktail finished in a smoker box. It definitely made me want to come back and take the full class.

    Reservations can be made through OpenTable, where you’ll find it listed as the Ramsay’s Kitchen Mixology MasterClass. Also, I got the inside scoop that they’re planning to start offering wine tastings soon, so keep an eye out for that.

    Ramsay’s Kitchen, 1100 W Main St, Danville, VA 24541

    More Places for Wine Tasting

    While SoSi isn’t a traditional wine region, there are a couple wineries and places for wine tasting in the area. I didn’t have time to visit these on my trip, but they’re on my list for my next visit.

    Vintages By the Dan

    If you’re exploring the River District, you’ll find Vintages By The Dan just across from the Riverfront Park. The shop carries more than 400 wines, including a good selection from Virginia, and offers free wine and beer tastings on Saturday afternoons.

    Two Witches Winery & Brewery

    As Virginia’s first combination winery and brewery, Two Witches has more of an urban tasting room feel than a vineyard vibe. Along with wine and beer, you’ll find wine slushies and live concerts on weekends.

    Homeplace Vineyard

    Located 30 minutes north in Chatham, Homeplace Vineyard is a family-owned winery that grew out of a former tobacco farm. Today, the tasting room is housed in a cabin built with logs from the property’s old tobacco barns, and the winery produces both dry and sweet wines.

    Things to Do in Danville

    I enjoyed exploring several different parts of Danville during my visit. If you’re only in town for a day or two, here’s how I’d prioritize your time in each neighborhood.

    Explore the River District

    View of the Dan River with rocky islands, green vegetation, and a bridge in the distance from the Riverfront park overlook.
    Historic steel truss bridge along the Riverwalk Trail in Danville's River District.
    Laura standing inside the giant red LOVE sculpture in Danville's River District.

    If it’s your first time in Danville, I’d start in the River District. You can easily spend a day here hopping between restaurants, wine shops, boutiques, and attractions.

    One of my favorite spots was the new Riverfront Park. Don’t miss the overlook for the best views of the Dan River and the old mill building. Then take a walk or bike along part of the nearly 12-mile Riverwalk Trail.

    I also had a surprisingly good time doing the SoSi Safari, a scavenger hunt to find 13 animal sculptures throughout downtown. My favorites were taking a selfie with the giant orange elephant and finding the blue snails hidden nearby.

    River District Social is worth checking out if you’re up for a little friendly competition. I even managed to bowl a strike at candlepin bowling (yes, the small-ball version we play in New England!) and tried out the golf simulators.

    Walk the Old West End

    Historic red brick Victorian mansion with decorative iron fencing in Danville's Old West End.
    Stone lion statue on the front porch of a historic home framed by an ornate wrought iron fence in Danville's Old West End.
    Virginia historical marker for the Last Confederate Capital in front of the Danville Museum.

    If you love historic architecture, don’t miss the Old West End. I recommend walking along Millionaires’ Row or, even better, taking a guided tour if you have the time. One of the highlights of my visit was getting an inside look at the restored Sublett-Miller House and hearing the story of how the owners brought it back to life.

    Also, if you tried the Lady Astor Martini, this area is where you’ll find the Langhorne House, her birthplace and now a museum.

    While you’re in the neighborhood, don’t miss the Danville Museum of Fine Arts & History. I spent a couple of hours here learning about Danville’s Civil Rights history, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1963 speech. And they have a great exhibit about opera singer and Danville native Camilla Williams.

    Go Beyond Downtown

    Outdoor pool at Caesars Virginia with lounge chairs, cabanas, and the hotel tower overlooking the pool deck.
    Large Roman centurion helmet sculpture displayed in the landscaped entrance area at Caesars Virginia.
    Fireworks burst behind the illuminated LOVE sculpture and historic smokestacks outside Caesars Virginia at dusk.

    If you’re looking for a fun evening or relaxing afternoon, head over to Caesars Virginia. Even if gambling isn’t your thing, it’s worth getting a day pass to use the pool and spa facilities.

    As you walk around the property, you’ll still see the iconic Three Sisters smokestacks from the former Dan River Mills. Before you leave, don’t miss the LOVE sign at the base of the smokestacks for one of my favorite photo spots in Danville. We happened to catch a spectacular fireworks show that was free for the public the night we were there.

    Day Trips From Danville

    If you have an extra day or two, Danville also makes a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Here are a few nearby spots that are worth the drive.

    Gretna & Chatham

    Bright dining room at The Pod restaurant in Gretna with wood accents, modern lighting, communal tables, and a cozy reading nook in the background. Text on the wall reads "SWEET PEA'S."
    Toasted sandwich filled with roast beef, fig spread, spinach, and goat cheese cut in half and served on a metal tray with parchment paper at The Pod restaurant in Gretna.
    Bright red LOVE sign in Chatham with colorful illustrations inside each letter celebrating local agriculture, history, and community.

    I recommend taking a short drive to explore the area north of Danville. Start in Gretna with breakfast or lunch at The Pod. I loved their Fig Delight sandwich with roast beef, creamy goat cheese, spinach, and walnut fig butter. Before heading out, consider booking an alpaca tour at nearby Funky Fleece Farm.

    Continue down to Chatham, where you can browse the shops and historic downtown before stopping at The Homeplace Vineyard for a wine tasting. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, stop by the farmers market at the Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex, snap a photo at the LOVE sign, and check the calendar for events like horse shows and motocross.

    VIRginia International Raceway

    Entrance sign for Virginia International Raceway with directions to the kart track surrounded by trees and landscaped grounds. Text reads "Welcome to VIR Virginia International Raceway" and "VIR Kart Track."
    Sports cars drive along the winding road course at Virginia International Raceway with rolling green hills and safety barriers lining the track.
    Blue race car with the number 13 parked inside a garage at Virginia International Raceway before heading out for a track session.

    If you’re a motorsports fan, make time for VIRginia International Raceway. I took a behind-the-scenes tour, where we watched cars flying around the course and got a look at the facility beyond race day. The property has a lodge and villas overlooking the track, and you can even camp on-site, which I think would be such a fun way to spend a race weekend with a group.

    I was also surprised by how much there is to do even when races aren’t happening. You can tour the facility, race go-karts, or grab a meal at the historic Oak Tree Tavern.

    Danville Tours

    Landscaped park in Danville's River District with winding brick paths, garden beds, benches, and a large black "HOME" sign mounted on a brick wall.
    Brass tobacco leaf marker embedded in the sidewalk, surrounded by stone pavers and grass. The marker is engraved with the number "10."
    Virginia historical marker in front of the Yancey House and Grasty Library, recognizing its role as a lodging place for African American travelers during segregation and later as a branch library serving Black residents.

    If you want to learn the stories behind Danville’s historic buildings and neighborhoods, I highly recommend booking a tour with local guide Joyce Wilburn. She’s part of the Danville Historical Society, and shared so many details that I never would have picked up exploring by myself.

    Our custom driving tour included stops throughout the River District, Millionaires’ Row, the Danville Museum, and the Yancey House and Grasty Library. Along the way, we learned about Danville’s tobacco and textile history, Civil Rights legacy, and ongoing revitalization. It gave me a much better understanding of how the city’s past has shaped what it’s become today.

    In addition to custom tours, Joyce also offers guided walking tours, like The Secrets Inside, Tales of Tobacco, Textiles, and Trains, and the Millionaire’s Row Mini Tour. She’s even created themed experiences like a cocktail and ghost story tour through the Old West End.

    🚌 Book a Tour of Danville

    Recommendations may be affiliate links on which I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me share new wine destinations with you and I only recommend products and services that I love and think you’ll love too!

    Where to Stay in Danville

    Hotel lobby at The Bee with black paneled walls, leather seating, a chandelier, and a historic printing press on display.
    Rooftop lounge at The Bee with cushioned seating, large umbrellas, and views overlooking downtown Danville.
    Modern suite kitchen at The Bee featuring an island, stainless steel appliances, and three leather bar stools.

    If you’re spending a weekend in Danville, I recommend staying at The Bee Hotel. It’s right in the River District, so I could easily walk to the Riverfront Park, the Riverwalk Trail, and many of my favorite restaurants, bars, and shops.

    The hotel is in the former headquarters of the Danville Register and The Bee newspapers. It opened as a boutique hotel in 2020, and you’ll still notice little nods to the building’s newspaper history, like an antique printing press in the lobby.

    I stayed in a suite with a full kitchen, bar seating, a living room, and a separate sleeping area. The windows looked out into a hidden courtyard with loungers. My favorite spot, though, was the rooftop deck. On Thursday evening, they host happy hour with live music. We enjoyed drinks and appetizers there one evening, and the views of the city were fantastic.

    The same hotel group also operates The Holbrook Hotel on Millionaires’ Row and The Laurel Hotel next to Caesars Virginia if you’re looking to stay in a different area.

    🏨 Book The Bee Hotel
    🏨 Book The Holbrook Hotel
    🏨 Book The Laurel Hotel

    FAQs About Visiting Danville

    When is the best time to visit Danville?

    Danville is a year-round destination, but I think spring and fall are the best times to visit. The weather is great for exploring the River District, walking the Riverwalk Trail, and enjoying outdoor patios.
     
    If you like festivals, the Danville Wine Festival takes place in April, with tastings from Virginia wineries, live music, and local vendors. Or in May, nearby Gretna is home to the Strawberry & Wine Festival, with regional wineries, fresh strawberries, food vendors, and shopping along Main Street.

    What’s the best way to get to Danville?

    The easiest way to get to Danville is by car. The closest airports are Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO), about an hour away, and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), about 90 minutes away.
     
    You can also take Amtrak’s Crescent train, which stops in downtown Danville twice a day on its route between New York and New Orleans.
     
    I think you could get by without a car if you’re only planning to explore downtown, but I’d recommend having one if you want to visit VIRginia International Raceway, Gretna, Chatham, or nearby wineries.

    How many days do you need in Danville?

    I’d recommend spending two to three days in Danville. That gives you enough time to explore the River District and Old West End, enjoy several great restaurants, and visit places like Caesars Virginia or VIRginia International Raceway. If you want to take day trips to Gretna, Chatham, or nearby wineries, I’d add another day.

    Keep Exploring Virginia Wine Country

    It’s exciting to see how much Danville has transformed in such a short time. Historic buildings have found new life as restaurants, hotels, and gathering spaces, while the city continues to honor the history that makes it unique. It’s a destination that’s clearly on the rise, and I think it’s well worth visiting now.

    If you’re planning to explore more of the state, don’t miss my guides to Charlottesville’s Monticello wine region and Northern Virginia wine country.

    Check out More International Wine Destinations

    Posted In: Wine Destinations

    Author

    I'm your go-to gal for all things wine and wanderlust. With a WSET Level 3 certification in wine and passport stamps from 30 countries and counting, I’m here to help you explore the world, one glass at a time.

    You’ll Also Love

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *