Abingdon's downtown historic district is among the most beautifully preserved in the American South, featuring over 20 blocks of 18th- and 19th-century architecture housing independent restaurants, galleries, boutiques, and cultural institutions. The Barter Theatre, Martha Washington Inn, and William King Museum anchor a streetscape that has remained remarkably intact for over 200 years. The town was founded in 1778 and has been recognized by numerous travel publications as one of the most beautiful small towns in America. Walking the district from the William King Museum to Barter Theatre is a genuine cultural pilgrimage.