Indoor attractions, outdoor experiences and a growing Uptown district
Martinsville is a southwest Virginia city that was once home to major manufacturing companies for furniture, textiles and chewing tobacco. Today, the city has a growing population, new local restaurants and businesses, and an increasing housing market. Most notably, it is home to Virginia’s biggest natural history museum and the Martinsville Speedway. “Martinsville is a wonderful place, offering urban amenities amidst rural beauty. Being part of a smaller community has its advantages. You get the sense of a large city, but with a closer network of support, connection and belonging,” says Tammy Cope, branch manager of the Martinsville Library. Folks can hang out at public parks or head to the Smith River for its canoeing, kayaking, fishing and nearby trails. Outdoor enthusiasts visit – or move to - the city to be close to Philpott Lake, a 3,000-acre body of water surrounded by miles of untouched wilderness. Whether visiting for the music festivals, viewing the award-winning exhibits at the museum or putting down roots, Martinsville is a small city that is not to be missed.
Though small, Martinsville is growing quickly, with small businesses inhabiting many of the old textile buildings that once served as Martinsville's industry.
The Martinsville speedway is a huge draw to the area during the warmer months, featuring a popular Nascar weekend.
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Parks, rivers, lakes and the Virginia Museum of Natural History
Perhaps the crown jewel of Martinsville is the Virginia Museum of Natural History; with its award-winning exhibits and educational programs, tourists, locals, and students of all ages can benefit from it. “The museum isn’t just about looking at specimens in a case. It’s about understanding how humankind and the Earth have evolved. We focus on research, collections and education,” says Dr. Noel T. Boaz, founder of the Virginia Museum of Natural History and long-time Martinsville resident. The museum has operated for about 40 years and is run by Dr. Joe Keiper, its current director. “The museum has become a cornerstone for Martinsville and beyond, and we’ll continue building on that legacy,” Dr. Boaz says. Town parks, trails and bike paths let neighbors get outside together. About 20 miles northwest is Philpott Lake, which is popular among travelers, tourists, and residents. The city is surrounded by wilderness and isn’t far from the mountains and hiking opportunities.
Jack Dalton Park is one of several local neighborhood parks, with playing fields and a trail loop.
The Virginia Natural History Museum is one of Martinsville's claim to fame, with classes and activities for local students. The museum is also a center of research in paleontology.
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Community events, festivals and gatherings at the Virginia Museum of Natural History
The Martinsville Speedways has a NASCAR weekend, and the city also hosts a Rooster Walk music and arts festival at Pop’s Farm. Smith River Fest celebrates the 45-mile waterway with vendors, fly fishing, kayaking and other outdoor events. City residents also host community gatherings like trivia nights, Dungeons and Dragons campaigns, pub runs, card tournaments and open mic nights at local brewpubs, game stores and theaters. “Martinsville is a great place to live and raise a family. It has a strong public education system, and we’ve been able to attract talented people from around the world,” Dr. Boaz says. The museum even hosts several events that aren’t just educational. “We’ve always strived to be a welcoming space for everyone. From hosting Girl Scout sleepovers to concerts and weddings, the museum has become a community gathering place,” Dr. Boaz says. “It’s not stuffy or exclusive—it’s inclusive and educational. Our biggest events, like Dino Fest where kids show up in dinosaur costumes, bring people from all over."
Martinsville City Public School programs and library resources
Martinsville City Public Schools is graded an overall C-plus on Niche and is home to four schools. Patrick Henry Elementary School and Albert Harris Elementary School are both rated a C, while Martinsville Middle School is graded a C-plus. Martinsville High School has a B-minus and is known for its bulldog mascot, dual enrollment opportunities and career readiness for its students.
Martinsville students and adults can attend educational and extracurricular activities at the Martinsville Branch Library. “The clubs we currently have on offer include S.T.E.A.M Club and Lego clubs for kids; book clubs that meet on- and off-site; knitting, crochet, and other crafting groups; and community-led Bible study groups,” Cope says. The branch also offers a Friends of the Library book sale event where the community can buy limited edition books or complete series to help generate money for the entire library system.
Martinsville High School serves the area's oldest learners and offers dual enrollment opportunities and career readiness for its students.
Albert Hill Elementary scores a C from Niche, and is one of several schooling options for Martinsville's youngest students.
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Low median home prices and growing residential areas on the southeast side of town
Martinsville is split between the northwest/central part of town, which is more developed with small neighborhoods and commercial businesses, and the southeast's forested suburban areas. The median single-family home price in Martinsville is about $150,000, which is significantly lower than the national average. At that price, buyers can purchase manufactured homes on their own land, fixer-upper ranch-style homes and Cape Cods. A smaller assortment of homes that range in value between $200,000 and $300,000 can include colonial-inspired estates from the 1970s, single-story 1920s ranch-style homes and early 2000s brick traditionals. A very small number of homes cost over $500,000 and are located in the forested suburban areas by Lake Lanier. These larger estates can have over 4,000 square feet of space and include spacious yards, wide driveways and both midcentury and contemporary designs.
Communities of Townhomes are common in Uptown Martinsville, with prices being very affordable.
Larger homes in a variety of styles line many Uptown streets, like these on Church St.
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Incoming local businesses and major shopping centers in Martinsville
New businesses and long-time staples in the Martinsville Historic District are often found on Main Street and Church Street. The city calls this their “Uptown” district instead of downtown and is going through revitalizations to encourage more economic growth. Brewpubs, sandwich shops, cafes, bars and sit-down restaurants all congregate within a mile radius of one another. Residents can spend a day learning about local history, viewing the classic Federal and Romanesque architecture, or enjoying a meal or game of brewpub trivia. For big shopping trips to grocery stores like Kroger and Aldi, Commonwealth Boulevard has several national brands and chains like Applebee’s Grill and Bar, Belk Department Store, Walmart and Lowe’s.
Hugo's Restaurant and Sports Bar is a great place to grab a beer and catch the game.
Wild Magnolia hosts events like karaoke night. Though less busy in the winter, this hot spot gets busy in the summer, so get there early if you want to get in.
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Rural but not isolated
Because it is right near the North Carolina border, Martinsville is about 55 miles or 1 hour from Greensboro to the south. Its major highways nearby include Routes 220 and 58. Route 220 takes drivers north about 1 hour to Roanoke and its commuter rail, which heads north to Richmond and Washington, D.C. Several public bus stops in the city line major streets and are serviced by the RADAR transportation non-profit or the Piedmont Area Regional Transit system bus lines.
Crime and possible flooding in Martinsville
According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, in 2023, Martinsville's violent and property crime rates fluctuated above and below the state and national averages. Like with many Virginia towns, creeks, rivers and waterways that cut through the hills can be known to overflow during times of heavy rainfall.
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On average, homes in Martinsville, VA sell after 57 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Martinsville, VA over the last 12 months is $160,250.
10.33 acres of undeveloped land in the Horsepasture District of Henry County ready for your vision to be put into fruition. Whether it's a homestead, private retreat or your dream home building site the options are there. Located only 10 minutes from grocery stores, doctors offices, restaurants and your much needed for southern living in Virginia-Rural King or Tractor supply where all your garden
Just like the scent of a brand-new car, this home welcomes you with a fresh, clean feel the moment you step inside. Thoughtfully updated throughout, you'll appreciate the new flooring, fresh paint, remodeled main-level bathroom, updated kitchen cabinets, countertops, modern light fixtures, and more. The spacious living room is perfect for entertaining family and friends, offering plenty of room
60 +/- Acres with appx20 acres of fenced & cross fenced fields. The remainder consists of a mix of mature poplar, oak, maple, hickory, beech, walnut, and pine timber valued at up to $100K. The property is divided by the wide, bold Snow Creek. One-acre pond. Mountain views abound with Turkey Cock Mountain Wildlife Management to the East and Chestnut Mountain to West. With a 12ftX24ft lean-to in
Walk to Lester Park, minutes to Lake Lanier & Forest Park Country Club, and a fully renovated Tudor for under $200K, this is Martinsville living done right! Fully renovated Tudor just off historic Mulberry Rd. This 2BR/1.5BA home blends classic charm with modern updates and an open floor plan that feels bright, spacious, and move-in ready. The kitchen has butcher block countertops, stainless
More than just a home, this unique brick Colonial Revival home offers incredible flexibility for multigenerational living, Airbnb income, a home-based business, or a combination of all three. With 2,478 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, multiple living areas, and a private-entry suite, there's room for extended family, aging parents, guests, or rental income. The separate living space is
Countryside Estates - Tract 8 - 5.18 acres with shared pond. Private, secluded and woodsy. No Mobiles or Double wides allowed. Convenient to Rocky Mount and Martinsville. All owners share in maintenance of road when needed. Purchasers responsible for well and septic.
Looking for a solution to the high cost of living these days? I've got your solution! This rare property is perfect for multigenerational living, optional AirBnB or longterm rental income, and it's got the perfect fenced in backyard for kids, fur babies or gardening. You'll find that this maintenance free brick ranch offers 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a versatile basement bonus room ideal for a
Have you been searching for a move-in ready home with low maintenance? Look no further! This charming cottage offers comfortable one-level living with 1 bedroom and 1 full bathroom, all conveniently located close to Martinsville city amenities. Built in 1996, this home features updated plumbing, a newer roof, and a beautifully updated bathroom, giving you peace of mind and modern comfort. Step
Location, location, location! Landmarks in Martinsville include TAD Cavern and Martinsville Speedway. Approximately one hour away from Winston Salem State University, North Carolina Central University, and Greensboro, NC. Charlotte, NC, is about a two-hour drive away. 1016 Askin Rd and 1018 Askin Rd are both for sale. When combined, the new owner will have approximately .4 acres of land. Both
DON'T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO CALL THIS PRIVATE OASIS YOUR OWN! THIS METICULOUSLY CRAFTED HOME SITS ON 23 ACRES AND OFFERS 4 BEDROOMS AND 3.5 BATHROOMS WITH 3,500 SQFT AND THE OPTION TO EXPAND IN THE BASEMENT. THERE ARE MANY CUSTOM FEATURES IN THIS HOUSE THAT INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO; CUSTOM WALNUT CEILINGS, ITALIAN GRANITE KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS, CUSTOM MAPLE CABINETS, CANADIAN BIRCH FLOORS;
Welcome to this charming Tudor-style home on historic Mulberry Rd in Martinsville, VA--where timeless 1940's character meets modern updates. The non-traditional floor plan is like the marriage of a 3 story home & split level, with a renovated lower-level kitchen and living space that feels bright, open, and inviting--offering a unique alternative to traditional floor plans, perfect for people who
Investor Opportunity in Martinsville! This 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath home, built in 1942, is already income-producing and tenant-occupied. With approx. 848 sq.ft., it offers a manageable footprint with updated features that make it low maintenance and appealing to renters. Upgrades include modern flooring, updated lighting fixtures, and energy-efficient double-pane windows. the exterior trim has been
The Chief Tassel building has seen a lot of change in its nearly 100 year history, but it’s always retained its quirky charm. After falling into disrepair in the early 2000s, we did a top-to-bottom renovation, keeping all of the historic character that makes the building unique, but bringing it up to modern times with all new systems, lighting, appliances, and more. The property features 20 one
Welcome home to Ridge View Apartments, a beautifully maintained apartment community designed for comfortable, modern living.Ridge View offers spacious two- and three-bedroom apartment homes with layouts that give you room to live, work, and relax. Each apartment features a fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances, large closets, and the convenience of an in-unit washer and
IMPORTANT: IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN RENTING AN AVAILABLE UNIT OR SCHEDULING A TOUR PLEASE PUT AN APPLICATION IN BY CLICKING APPLY NOW. ONLY INQUIRIES THAT ARE ACCOMPINIED BY AN APPLICATION (INCLUDING REQUESTS FOR TOURS) WILL BE RESPONDED TO.Discover the perfect place to call home at Meadow Run Apartments, a well-maintained rental community at 101 Wood Street in
Property Id: 1387914Charming Brick Duplex (second floor unit) conveniently located in Martinsville. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, washer dryer located in basement, nice yard. Within 10 minutes of numerous amenities, such as: schools, grocery stores, various shopping, medical facilities/hospital, churches, museum of natural history, movie theater, restaurants, gas stations, water recreation,
Offered by PMI Commonwealth. To view the most accurate information on the listing or to schedule a viewing online, please visit our website. A full list of properties available can also be found here. This posting is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.Note about availability. The available date is the soonest a tenant could take possession of the property. Properties CANNOT be made
AVAILABLE NOW! Welcome home to this beautifully updated 4 bedroom, 1 bathroom property located in Martinsville, VA. This home features energy-efficient mini-split heating and cooling, providing year-round comfort and lower utility costs. Washer and Dryer Hookips in unit. The functional layout offers spacious bedrooms, a convenient half bath for guests, and a welcoming living area perfect for
2 bedroom 1 bath home with charm. Every room is inviting with natural light. Kitchen equipped with a fridge and stove. Beautifully built deck for grilling off the kitchen entrance. Home has central heating and air. Located at the end of the street for quiet enjoyment. This house can be your to call home for $1000.00 per month. Additional Tenant Fees: RBP (Resident Benefit Package)
Live in Uptown Martinsville! Enjoy walkable access to local retail shops, restaurants, coffee shops, Virginia Museum of Natural History and Piedmont Arts. Have a furry, four-legged friend? Wonderful...they are welcome with approval and nearby is the Dick and Willie walking trail for exercise (for you both!) The Henry is an early 1900's historical building, originally a hotel, which was renovated
1 MONTH FREE WITH A 13 MONTH LEASE!!! 4-bedroom, 2-bath single-family home featuring central heating and air conditioning. Includes washer and dryer hookups, an attached carport, and an unfinished basement offering additional storage space. Spacious layout with privacy and comfort.
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