Small Towns of Virginia Series

Small Towns of Virginia Series - Paris

The Ashby Inn makes Paris well known throughout Northern Virginia.

Usually a town of 49 residents is forgotten when it is near one of the largest population centers of the United States. But amid the rolling hills of Northern Virginia sits the tiny hamlet of Paris which for centuries has attracted many of our nation's leaders. Originally called Pun'kinville, Paris is named in honor of the Marquis de LaFayette. The village that sits in a hidden corner of the intersections of Routes 17 & 50 is home of the well-known Ashby Inn & Restaurant. The 1829 inn has received numerous national reviews for its fine dining and lodging at its Bed & Breakfast.

Paris sits in the middle of one of the largest fox hunt and steeplechasing regions in the nation. The landscape is full of decades and centuries old farms that create one of the most lush landscapes in Virginia. Sky Meadows State Park, which is two miles to the south on Route 17, is home to many equestrian paths and many times motorists will share the two lane Route 17 with horse back riders. The park is a relatively recent addition to the area as it was created out of donated land in 1975.

To get to Paris take either Route 50 East or West to where it meets Route 17 west of Upperville. Head south on US 17 to Route 701 and turn right.

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