Introduction to Danville, Virginia
Danville, Virginia is 40 miles NE of Greensboro, North Carolina (center to center) and 71 miles NW of Raleigh, North Carolina.
Danville History
In 1728, William Byrd led an expedition to determine the boundary between Virginia and North Carolina, when he accidentally set foot on the place that is now known as Danville. It was beside the river Dan and Byrd was captivated with the region's beauty. Earlier, numerous tribes had inhabited the area, but the first white settlement was established in 1792. It was initially named "Wynne’s Falls," in honor of the first settler. The place was renamed Danville on November 23, 1793, because of its location to the Dan River. Danville was founded as a tobacco market. Industrial growth in the area began with the opening of the largest single-unit yarn mill in the world in 1882.
Danville and nearby Attractions
- Birthplace of Lady Astor
- Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History
- Cain Creek Shopping Center
- Danville Golf Club
- Arey Lake
- Stonewall Jackson Park
Things To Do In Danville
Among the sites of historical importance near Danville are the Birthplace of Lady Astor and the Sutherlin House. One can also visit Tank Museum, Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, Danville City Jail, Ralph R. Landes Medical Library, Danville Public Library, and Westover Branch Library. The shopping centers provide a host of entertainment facilities for visitors. There are also several parks where one can indulge in various sports and other physical activities. In addition, the city hosts several annual celebrations including the Festival in the Park and the Old 97 Rail Days.
Danville Transportation
Danville Regional Airport is about six miles away and can be reached within a few minutes.
Danville Higher Education
The local institutes of higher education include Danville Community College, Averett College, and Danville Regional Medical Center School of Nursing.