ONLEY VA TRAVEL GUIDE CONTENTS
Location | Directions | History | Things to Do | Places to Eat | Places to Stay | Weather | Zip Code | Population
Onley VA Travel Guide. Discover genuine Southern hospitality, local culture, and rich heritage. Stroll through the downtown area, where you’ll find unique shops and tasty eateries.
Hotels in Onley VA
Also, venture out to nearby nature trails to take in the area’s beautiful landscapes. Be sure to visit the historic Onley Train Depot, an attraction history enthusiasts will appreciate.
Explore more shopping and dining options at the Four Corner Plaza – this place has it all!
You can access an impressive variety of stores and restaurants that cater to every requirement.
Onley is also just a stone’s throw away from downtown Onancock. Check out its picturesque waterfront, tasty eateries, or visit its art galleries or performing arts center.
The area provides plenty of great restaurant options catering to every palate imaginable! While here, don’t forget about exploring these two unique towns simultaneously.
Where is Onley VA?
The town is situated on the eastern side of Virginia in Accomack County. It has easy access to both Atlantic Ocean waters and Chesapeake Bay beauty.
It is located at the midpoint of the Eastern Shore of VA. It has easy access to Chincoteague (30 miles to the north), as well as Cape Charles (35 miles to the south).
How to get there
The directions here are very simple. Just stay on US13 until you see the big “Welcome to Onley” sign.
Visitors coming from the Maryland area, it is a 35-mile drive from the MD / VA state line.
From the Bay Bridge Tunnel, it is 35 miles to the north.
History
Onley is a town steeped in history. It’s remarkable to note that the area was formerly called “Crossroads” in the mid-1880s and was relatively unremarkable.
However, this all changed when the New York, Philadelphia, and Norfolk Railroad (NYP&N) arrived. It turned Crossroads into a vibrant center and it was renamed “Onley.”
The town probably derives its name from Governor Henry A.’s nearby estate “Only.” Onley was once a hub for farmers and watermen to transport fresh seafood and produce up north.
Today, Onley remains a thriving center of commerce on the Eastern Shore.
Currently, there are more than 80 retail businesses in town. This includes the only Walmart in the area, a YMCA facility, as well as Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital and ESRH Community Health Center for residents.
The Accomack County Woman’s Club has been preserving its legacy since its founding back in 1925.
Residents can enjoy the local amenities that include the Onley Recreation Association’s tennis complex and pool along with various churches catering to spiritual needs.
Besides these wonderful aspects of living here, folks can also appreciate the efforts of SPOTS (Society for Preservation of Onley’s Train Station). It strives to restore and redevelop the historic train station as a venue for local festivals and gatherings.
If you ever decide to visit, you’ll experience an enticing blend of modern luxuries combined with a small-town personality.
Things to do
You’ll find a delightful mix of activities that showcase the town’s charm and natural beauty. Here are a few things to do when visiting this lovely Eastern Shore community:
Onley Recreation Association
One of the major highlights is the Onley Recreation Association. It’s the perfect place to take a plunge in the pool or test your tennis skills on their top-notch courts.
Explore Local Churches
This town offers several options for visitors to attend services. This includes the Onley United Methodist Church, St. Peter the Apostle’s Catholic Church, and Onley Baptist church, just to name a few.
Shopping and Dining
This area provides large chain stores including Eastern Shore’s exclusive Walmart outlet. The Four Corner Plaza offers a wide variety of shopping options and it is one of the major retail areas on the Lower Shore.
Outdoor Activities
The surrounding areas have several locations where residents and visitors can engage in outdoor activities. So, take a break from daily routines by visiting nearby parks or hiking through lush nature trails.
Explore and spend some time getting active at the area’s beaches. They are ideal for swimming or trying out various water sports options such as surfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
For a truly memorable experience, take a ferry ride over to Tangier Island. Visitors will meet the boat at the Onancock Wharf. The ride takes about an hour to reach the island.
Stay a While
From cozy bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, you’ll find the perfect place to rest in Onley. Enjoy a comfortable stay and the warm hospitality that the Eastern Shore is known for.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Onley, VA has plenty to offer.
Places to Eat
Not only are there numerous eateries in Onley, but there are several restaurants in downtown Onancock, as well.
Places to Stay
Whether you enjoy bed and breakfasts or more contemporary hotels, there is something here just right for you.
Lodging Options
The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites’ well-appointed quarters inspire true relaxation. They provide a complimentary breakfast plus access to fabulous indoor swimming areas.
Not only does the hotel offer exceptional amenities, but its strategic location also provides ease of travel to nearby attractions and establishments for shopping and dining.
Onancock Options
In Onancock, visitors can have a more intimate experience with charming bed and breakfasts and inns.
The Charlotte Hotel & Restaurant
For those considering their options, the boutique Charlotte Hotel & Restaurant is an excellent choice. The beautifully restored 1907 building radiates elegance while offering luxurious accommodations to guests. Furthermore, it features a restaurant on-site that specializes in locally sourced cuisine matched with an extensive wine list.
The Inn at Onancock
Book your stay at The Inn at Onancock and experience a charming bed and breakfast. Each room is uniquely decorated to give it its own distinct character. What’s more, guests can enjoy indulging in a gourmet breakfast each morning as well as a wine and cheese social hour in the evenings.
Spinning Wheel Bed and Breakfast
Located in a Victorian-style home, the Spinning Wheel Bed and Breakfast offers a charming and comfortable stay. Each room is uniquely decorated, and the innkeepers provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere. A delicious homemade breakfast is served each morning to kickstart your day.
Weather
You can expect moderate precipitation throughout each season with an average annual rainfall measured at around 45 inches.
Although there is no specific wet season, afternoon thunderstorms tend to occur more frequently during the summer months.
While it does not snow often in Onley, occasional snowy periods provide a picturesque landscape.
Population
As of the 2020 Census data, the population was 735.
Zip Code
The zip code is 23418.
Hope you enjoyed our Onley VA Travel Guide. Be sure to leave a comment. Thank you!
