Daycation in Botetourt County, Virginia: Things to See and Do

Virginia is for lovers, and history lovers planning a day-cation in Botetourt County, Va., will be delighted with the richness of history and tradition found here. The average summer temperature in this locale is a pleasant 75 degrees, so you can wander through historic districts in comfort while you admire buildings from the eighteen and nineteenth centuries.

Greek revival, late Victorian, and Gothic revival architectural styles are represented, and many of these sites are listed on the Virginia Historic Landmarks Register. Famous Americans like Thomas Jefferson, Meriwether Lewis, and William Clark are entwined with the history of Botetourt County, Va.
Historic Sites

The Fincastle Historic District encompasses Carper, Hancock, Catawba, and Back Streets, as well as Griffin Alley. This area was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969. Call Cassandra Bulmer to schedule a guided tour, during which you will see actual documents signed by Thomas Jefferson, ancient church cemeteries, and old cisterns. An adult ticket is $8.00, and children up to 18 are free.
Guided Tours
Botetourt County Registered Historic Sites

A nice addition to a guided tour of historical Fincastle is a tour of a special exhibit at the Fincastle Museum, "Schools of Fincastle". This exhibit details the history of schools in Fincastle from the eighteen century to present. This exhibit is available by appointment only, and you can schedule it with Bulmer.
Schools of Fincastle

The Fincastle Museum is housed in the restored cabin home of James Mattern Early. It showcases area antiques and is open by appointment only.
Fincastle Museum

The Botetourt County Historical Museum is located at 1 West Main Street, Fincastle, VA. 24090. It is housed in an eighteenth century building, and includes eight galleries and over 800 artifacts. The Botetourt County Historical Museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm, and on Sunday from 2 to 4 pm. It is located behind the Botetourt County Courthouse, a Greek revival style building added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
Botetourt County Historical Museum

Heritage Days in Fincastle are Saturday, September 19 from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, September 20 from 12 pm to 5 pm. There is something for everyone at this fun annual festival, and this year's live performance is by The Wright Kids. Stroll at your own pace through vendor stalls of arts, crafts, and foods.

Stay for a day or a week and enjoy the rich heritage and culture of this small American town.

Resources:

Botetourt Historic Society, www.bohistsoc.org/index.htm
Historic Fincastle, Inc., www.hisfin.org