Updated January 19, 2023. One of the many positives about the state of Virginia is how it can be both urban and rural from one side to the next. If you grew up in a small town, you may remember walking to the neighborhood corner store. These five country stores offer a sense of nostalgia and a retro feel that take you right back to being a kid again.
The Dilly Dally
Specializing in locally and Virginia-made products, the Dilly Dally is a great place to stop for lunch on a road trip. It is home to delicious hot dogs, homemade chicken salad, and Ashby’s Sterling ice cream, just to name a few delectable treats. The accompanying country store is home to local honey and salsa, maple syrup, candles, soaps, and more. The Dilly Dally is 110 years old and counting. 1511 Eddy Ave., Salem
Boone’s Country Store
The family-owned and -operated Boone’s has been in business since December 1975. The third generation of the family are currently owners. Boone’s baked goods are made from scratch right on site — and it shows. Boone’s coconut cake is legendary and so tasty it’s been known to make guests come back for more the next day. There are fresh vegetables grown organically, meat and cheeses, and lots of other interesting items, such as handmade quilts and crafts. 2699 Jubal Early Hwy., Boones Mill
Homestead Creamery Farm Market
Two dairy farmers combined their efforts to open the Homestead Creamery over 20 years ago. Today, Homestead Creamery is a network of small dairy farms that are family-run. The Farm Market retail shop is located right next to the Creamery. It’s worth a trip this spring or summer just to enjoy the decadent ice cream in the warm sunshine on a porch rocking chair. There are locally sourced gifts, fresh milk, hot sauce, and more. If you have a good time, it’s worth looking into joining the Farm Market Loyalty Program to earn free food and drinks. 7254 Booker T. Washington Hwy., Wirtz
Country Corner
Visit Roanoke’s Country Corner to check out its greenhouse and garden center for all your spring planting needs. There are lots of region-specific souvenirs, so this is a great place to bring out-of-town family members. There are freshly made local baked goods, Roanoke T-shirts, and more. 4273 Challenger Ave., Roanoke
The Floyd Country Store
If you want a true, authentic country-store experience, hop in your car and drive down to Floyd’s, dubbed “a great little country store in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.” If you love anything nostalgic, the barrels of old-fashioned candy, toys, and games don’t disappoint. The lunch counter has cozy homemade soups, sandwiches, and lots of pies. Don’t miss the authentic soda fountain with make-your-own sundaes, banana splits, and cones. 206 S. Locust St., Floyd
Feature image courtesy Homestead Creamery Farm Market
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