From the Virginia250 Passport to myriad events around the Commonwealth, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and the role that Virginia played in shaping the country in the 1700s. For one window into the 18th century, consider visiting Virginia’s oldest taverns that hosted prominent Revolutionary figures and served other important functions in the form of banks, hospitals, post offices, schools, bakeries, and more.
1710 Tavern
As its name suggests, the first portion of this building was erected in 1710, with the remainder completed only two years later. It continued to evolve with the construction of its bar, which was completed in the middle of the 18th century.
During its over 300 years of existence, this historic spot has been a tavern, an inn, and even the home of pharmacist Dr. Henley, and, later, preservationist Richard Rennolds. Visitors will find original elements of design as well as updates that bring their own significant character.
In its current form, guests can partake in a dining experience in the award-winning restaurant’s fine dining area or casual outdoor patio with menus that lean into seafood, Southern-style favorites, and locally-sourced ingredients. Or, settle in at the bar to sip on seasonal, hand-crafted beverages and George Washington’s alleged favorite cocktail, the Cherry Bounce.
314 S Water Ln, Tappahannock, VA 22560
Gadsby's Tavern
This tavern in the heart of Old Town Alexandria was established in the late 1700s. Frequented by the likes of John Adams, James Madison, James Monroe, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington, Gadsby’s consisted of both a tavern and a hotel housed in two buildings.
The former hotel portion of the property now serves as a ballroom and a restaurant, with brunch, lunch, and dinner available in its Colonial-style dining area. Modern menus feature classics that pay homage to Virginia with dishes like Peanut Soup, a French onion soup that incorporates one of George Washington’s preferred wines (Madeira), and a crab macaroni and cheese as a nod toward one of Thomas Jefferson’s favorite foods. Meanwhile, what was a tavern in the spot’s early days is now a museum housing a range of pieces that tell the story of John Gadsby, the hotel, and the tavern.
138 N Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Hanover Tavern
Since 1733, travelers, stagecoach passengers, courthouse visitors, and locals have gathered at Hanover Tavern. Today's building took shape in phases beginning in 1791 and stands as a beautifully preserved reminder of Virginia’s early days.
Along the way, the Tavern welcomed guests including Patrick Henry, George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette, Charles Dickens, and many others. Patrick Henry even worked there in his youth, greeting guests, tending bar, and sharpening the public speaking skills that would later help shape a nation.
Now visitors can tour the historic property, explore exhibits, enjoy educational programs and performances, dine onsite, and catch live productions in the restored theater space operated in partnership with Virginia Repertory Theatre & Chamberlayne Actors Theatre.
13181 Hanover Courthouse Rd, Hanover, VA 23069
Michie Tavern
Established in 1784 by Revolutionary War veteran William Michie, Michie Tavern offered weary travelers a place to eat, rest, and gather in early Albemarle County. Although originally built in northern Albemarle County and later relocated near Monticello in the 1920s, the tavern remains one of Virginia’s most recognizable historic stops and continues to capture the spirit of an 18th-century roadside inn.
In its modern form that still reflects its 18th century origins, visitors can enjoy a traditional Southern meal, browse period-inspired shops, and explore historic buildings that bring early Virginia to life. One standout experience is the 1784 Pub, tucked into the oldest section of the tavern, where guests can sip Virginia beer, wine, cider, and mead, enjoy light fare, and even try colonial-era games while soaking up the atmosphere of centuries past.
683 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Red Fox Inn & Tavern
Established in 1728, The Red Fox Inn & Tavern has welcomed travelers for nearly three centuries. Originally known as Chinn’s Ordinary, the inn became an important stop along Virginia’s early travel routes and later witnessed generations of history unfold, serving everyone from colonial travelers to notable cultural figures like Jackie and John F. Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor, and Paul Newman.
Today, visitors can experience that history firsthand in the heart of Middleburg’s Hunt Country. The property blends historic character with modern hospitality through overnight stays, intimate tavern dining, seasonal menus, and relaxed gatherings at the Night Fox Pub. Guests can also stroll the gardens and courtyards or use the inn as a home base for exploring the area’s shops, wineries, and equestrian traditions.
2 E Washington St, Middleburg, VA 20117
The Tavern
Built in 1779, The Tavern has welcomed travelers for nearly 250 years. Originally operating as a tavern and overnight inn for stagecoach passengers heading west, the building became woven into the story of Southwest Virginia while also serving over the years as a post office, bakery, hospital, and gathering place for the community. Visitors included Andrew Jackson, Henry Clay, and Pierre Charles L'Enfant.
Today, guests can step inside the historic stone-and-timber building for dinner and drinks, settle in beside one of its fireplaces, dine in the courtyard, and experience a setting where centuries of Virginia history still feel remarkably close.
222 E Main St, Abingdon, VA 24210
Additional Historic Taverns in Virginia to Visit
Looking for more early taverns in Virginia? Add these to the list.
- Boyd Tavern, 449 Washington St, Boydton, VA 23917
- King’s Arms Tavern, 416 E Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA
- Rising Sun Tavern, 1304 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
- Schwartz Tavern, 111 Tavern St, Blackstone, VA 23824
- Wayside Inn & Larrick’s Tavern, 7783 Main St, Middletown, VA 22645
Note: Not all historic taverns on this list may operate as taverns with restaurants or stays. Some may be preserved as historical properties for observation and/or education purposes.