Virginia State

Visit Thee Draper Village, located in the center of town and a favorite local hangout for over 125 years. Reimagined for today’s visitors while offering a nostalgic small town feel, the Village boasts a knockyour-socks-off brunch at the Merc restaurant, a coffee roastery and a unique marketplace showcasing local artisans, gifts, gourmet products and more. Keep your taste buds happy with a trip to the Harvest Table, a family-friendly, farm-to-table restaurant with live music, outdoor dining and a regional menu inspired by Appalachian heritage. DANCE Tap your toes along The Crooked Road’s Heritage Music Trail, with more than 300 miles of scenic terrain and an endless array of musical experiences. From living legends to new artists, and hidden gems to jam sessions, no visit is complete without pausing to take in the sounds that echo in our valleys. Visit Galax in the summer for the Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention, the world’s largest and oldest of its kind. Or join the flat-footing, fast-fiddling fun any time at the Floyd Country Store, where authentic Appalachian traditions come to life on the dance floor! BLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS The Floyd Country Store—Floyd 150 J O S H U A T. M O O R E Home of the Birthplace of Country Music, the BLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS region echoes with the passion of history’s most dominant country music pioneers. Annual festivals, historic venues and nightly jamborees celebrate Virginia’s global influence, creating a rich musical soundtrack for all travelers – whether meandering along winding roads, or venturing out onto scenic rivers and trails. F L O Y D C O U N T RY S T O R E ( F L O Y D ) : B R I A N C A M P / V I R G I N I A C R E E P E R T R A I L ( WA S H I N G T O N C O U N T Y ) : S A M D E A N JAM Join the award-winning Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion in celebrating its 20th anniversary this year! This three-day event provides an electrifying music experience for festivallovers, digging deep into the roots of Appalachian music with incredible performances from widely acclaimed artists. Also mark your calendar to visit Floyd in July for the fiveday FloydFest, one of the most unique music festivals in the state. With nine stages featuring worldwide artists, as well as camping, activities, a children’s universe and more, this experience will be one for your festival scrapbook! IMMERSE Known as the “Gateway to Southwest Virginia,” the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center and Marketplace showcases our state’s traditional music and regional craft. Home to ‘Round the Mountain, Southwest Virginia’s artisan network, discover eclectic and extensive collections from some of the region’s most talented artisans, whose creations include all types of media that you’ll want to take home. Plus, from bluegrass to gospel and old-time to modern-day fusions, musical heritage comes to life at the headquarters of The Crooked Road. Virginia Creeper Trail—Washington County RIDE Head to Abingdon at Mile 0 to enter the beloved 34.3-mile Virginia Creeper Trail, named after the steam engine that once crept up the rails into the Iron Mountains. Traverse from Damascus to Whitetop, exploring fields and pastures full of wildlife while learning about the railroad’s significant role in Southwest Virginia’s history and economy. You can also intersect with the Appalachian Trail at several points on your journey, and there are plenty of opportunities to take a break for a hard-earned meal or sweet treat as well. VIRGINIA .ORG 151 BLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS SAVOR Bristol Rhythm and Roots—Bristol BLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS g VG M E E T S E N V I R O N M E N TA L S TA N D A R D S O F T H E V I R G I N I A G R E E N P R O G R A M q u O F F E R S A C C E S S F O R P E O P L E W H O A R E B L I N D O R H AV E L O W V I S I O N b c BUSES/GROUP S WELCOME P E T - F R I E N D LY FA C I L I T Y $ P R O V I D E S P R I N T E D M AT E R I A L I N B R A I L L E D PROVIDES DES CRIPTIONS BY A TRAINED AUDIO DES CRIBER P R O V I D E S A D E V I C E U S E D F O R C O M M U N I C AT I O N W I T H A N D B E T W E E N H E A R I N G I M PA I R E D ADMISSION REQUIRED I s W PROVIDES SIGN LANGUAGE PROVIDES ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS ADA-COMPLIANT Welcome Center at Bristol VG Narrows 77 52 Saltville Abingdon Wytheville Marion Appalachian Trail 304-535-6278; nps.gov/ appa. A public footpath that follows more than 2,100 miles of Appalachian Mountain ridgelines. Blue Ridge Parkway Mileposts 162.9 to 192.5, 828-298-0398; nps.gov/blri. “America’s Favorite Scenic Drive.”bj Blue Ridge Travel Association 2680 Grayson Pkwy., 276-773-0450; virginiablueridge.org. Visit the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwestern Virginia and enjoy outdoor recreation, museums, live theatre, themed parks and zoos, wineries and much more! Free guides. b The Creeper Trail vacreepertrail.com. Open year-round to hiking, mountain biking and horse back riding. The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail One Heartwood Cir., 276-492-2409; myswva. org/tcr; mtnsofmusic.com. Promotes the traditional music heritage of Southwest Virginia. bjI New River Trail New River Trail State Park, 800-933-7275; virginiastateparks.gov. 52 miles of biking, hiking, horseback riding. ‘Round the Mountain: Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Network One Heartwood Cir., 276-492-2410; roundthemountain.org. Unique crafts, handmade and homegrown in the Southwest Virginia.bjI 152 100 81 Pulaski 58 ABINGDON VIRGINIA MAIN STREET COMMUNITY Abingdon Visitor Center I-81, Exit 17, 335 Cummings St., 276-676-2282; visitabingdonvirginia.com. Open 7 days a week, MondaySaturday 9-5, Sunday 11-5. bjI Virginia Creeper Trail Welcome Center 300 Green Spring Rd., 276-525-4457; visitabingdonvirginia.com. Visitor information for the Creeper Trail, open Thurs-Sun 11am-6pm. jI The Abingdon Arts Depot 314 Depot Sq., 276-628-9091; abingdonartsdepot.org. Working artisan studios and gallery exhibits. bI Abingdon Muster Grounds 1780 Muster Pl., 276-525-1050; abingdonmustergrounds.com. Revolutionary War historic site and Overmountain Victory Trail visitor center. bj 52 Lambsburg 58 Meadows of Dan 77 Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail’s Commemorative Motor Route 1780 Muster Pl., 276-525-1050; nps.gov/ovvi. Start of driving trail following patriots’ march to Kings Mountain. bj Willis Gap Community Center 144 The Hollow Rd., 276-251-9906. Open jam every Friday 7pm-10pm. Music, food, dancing, family fun. bjI Sinking Spring Cemetery Russell Rd., between Main & Valley Sts., 276-676-2282; visitabingdonvirginia.com. Graves dating to 1776, selfguided tours available. b Settlers Museum of Southwest Virginia 1322 Rocky Hollow Rd., 276-686-4401; settlersmuseum.com. Experience the story of those who settled in Southwest Virginia. bj Southwest Virginia Cultural Center and Marketplace VG Located off I-81 Exit 14, One Heartwood Cir., 276-492-2400; swvaculturalcenter.com. Your gateway to Southwest Virginia craft, music, food and local culture. bI The Virginia Creeper Trail 300 Green Spring Rd., 276-676-2282; vacreepertrail.org. A 34-mile multi-use recreational trail. Bike, hike or equestrian. bj White’s Mill 12291 Whites Mill Rd., 276-628-2960; whitesmill.org. 1797 water-powered grist and flour mill. Call for tour information. b Historic Abingdon Walking Tour 335 Cummings St., 276-676-2282; visitabingdonvirginia.com. Self-guided walking tour of downtown Abingdon, founded 1778. j William King Museum of Art 415 Academy Dr., 276-628-5005; williamkingmuseum.org. Three exhibition galleries featuring art of the region and the world. bI Holston Mountain Artisans 214 Park St., 276-628-7721; holstonmtnarts.com. One of the oldest traditional craft cooperatives in the nation. b Christiansburg Welcome Center at Rocky Gap VG Virginia Tourism Corporation Mile Marker 61, I-77 Southbound Rocky Gap 24366 276-928-1873 AMERICA’S BEST SMALL TOWN FOOD SCENE ! 221 Barter Theatre 127 West Main St., 276-628-3991; bartertheatre. com. Enjoy comedies, dramas, world premieres and musicals on two stages. $b Historical Society of Washington County 314 West Main St., 276-623-8337; hswcv. org. Archives open to the public, genealogy research assistance. b Blacksburg Floyd 77 Galax Damascus 460 Radford 21 81 11 Bristol Rocky Gap Pembroke Virginia Tourism Corporation Mile Marker 0, I-81 Northbound Bristol 24201 276-466-2932 ARARAT The Hollow History Center 36 Marigold Ln., 276-251-5853; patrickchamber.com/profile. cfm?id=385. Includes historic cabins, farm equipment exhibit and covered picnic shelter. Laurel Hill: Birthplace of Gen. J.E.B. Stuart 1091 Ararat Hwy., 276-251-1833; jebstuart.org. Walk the grounds of the birthplace. bj ATKINS AUSTINVILLE Virginia Highlands Horse Trail Buck Dam Rd., 276-783-5196; fs.fed.us/r8/gwj/mr. Eastern terminus of 67.2-mile horse trail system with camps. j Shot Tower Historical State Park I-77, exit 24, north on Rt. 52, 800-933-7275; virginiastateparks.gov. BASSETT Philpott Lake Recreation Area 1058 Philpott Dam Rd., 276-629-2703. Boating, swimming, picnicking, hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, camping. bj BASTIAN Wolf Creek Indian Village & Museum 6394 N Scenic Hwy., 276-688-3438; indianvillage. org. Re-created prehistoric village, museum, gift shop, picnic area. $bj BLACKSBURG Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. 318 N. Main St., 540-951-0454 downtownblacksburg.com. Featuring unique cuisine, boutique shopping, art galleries, a farmers market and a historical movie theatre. Annual festivals include Summer Solstice fest, Art at the Market and Steppin’ Out. bjI Welcome Center at Lambsburg VG Virginia Tourism Corporation Mile Marker 0, I-77 Northbound Lambsburg 24351 276-755-3931 Alexander Black House & Cultural Center 204 Draper Rd., SW, 540-558-0746; blacksburghistory.org. Historic home of Alexander Black. b It’s always play time in Abingdon Historic Smithfield Plantation 1000 Smithfield Plantation Rd., 540-231-3947; smithfieldplantation.org. Historic home of Colonel William Preston. Interpreters and demonstrations. $ LOVEworks Mural in Blacksburg 211 Draper Rd. NW, 40-394-2120; virginia. org/listings/thearts/ loveworkinblacksburg. The artist Denisse Bento, incorporates natural elements found in Montgomery. j The Lyric Theatre 135 College Ave., 540-9510604; thelyric.com. This still-operating historic theatre was built in the 1929. bI Moss Arts Center 190 Alumni Mall, 540-2315300; artscenter.vt.edu. The Moss Arts Center in Blacksburg serves southwest Virginia with performing and visual arts experiences from much-loved classics and traditional forms, to fresh, unexpected expressions. $bIS Odd Fellows Hall 203 Gilbert St., 540-558-0746; blacksburghistory.org. A museum of African American Culture and former social spot. SEEDS - Blacksburg Historical Price House, 107 Warren St., 540-961-1133; seedskids.org. Rain or shin, fun discovery learning for children and the young at heart. Solitude Virginia Tech Campus, 540-231-9593; spec.lib.vt.edu/ archives/solitude. Historic home circa 1801; home to two Virginia governors. YOU’VE GOT TO EXPERIENCE The State Theatre of Virginia WE’VE GOT THE SHOW FOR YOU NOW PLAYING http://bartertheatre.com/VATravelGuide visitabingdonvirginia.com q u O F F E R S A C C E S S F O R P E O P L E W H O A R E B L I N D O R H AV E L O W V I S I O N b BUSES/GROUP S WELCOME c P E T - F R I E N D LY FA C I L I T Y $ P R O V I D E S P R I N T E D M AT E R I A L I N B R A I L L E D PROVIDES DES CRIPTIONS BY A TRAINED AUDIO DES CRIBER P R O V I D E S A D E V I C E U S E D F O R C O M M U N I C AT I O N W I T H A N D B E T W E E N H E A R I N G I M PA I R E D ADMISSION REQUIRED I s W PROVIDES SIGN LANGUAGE PROVIDES ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS ADA-COMPLIANT Trail T wn USA To make an inn reservation call or visit us online at: 276-475-3745 | www.DamascusInn.com ..es! . n ow ur .org l atdveamntascus l a sm ss itd e oneendl vis LOVEWork at the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center—Abingdon Virginia Tech 314 Burruss Hall, 540-2313548; vt.edu. One of Virginia’s largest universities. Museums, galleries open to public. bj Virginia Tech Museum of Geological Sciences 2062 Derring Hall, VT Campus, 540-231-3001; geol.vt.edu/outreach/museum. Largest display of minerals in Virginia plus seismograph, gemstones, fossils. bj Wonder Universe: A Children’s Museum New River Valley Mall, 782 River Rd. #812, 540-953-0103; wonderuniverse.org. Enjoy the benefits of playful learning! Ideal for kids birth-age 10. $b Kentland Farm 5250 Whitethorne Rd., 540-731-9353; vaes.vt.edu/college-farm. College farm includes a manor house, meat house and dairy. b BRISTOL VIRGINIA MAIN STREET COMMUNITY 154 Bristol Motor Speedway 151 Speedway Blvd., 423-989-6900; bristolmotorspeedway. com. NASCAR Races in April & September! Track tours available. $bI Caterpillar Crawl Historic Downtown Bristol, 423-989-4850; jlbristol.org. Family-friendly scavenger hunt inspired by Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar. I Country Music Mural and Marker 810 State St., 423-764-4171; bristoltn.org. 1927 “Bristol Sessions” noting Bristol as the Birthplace of Country Music. bjI Bristol Sculpture Walking Tour Downtown Bristol, 423-963-9667; aippbristol.org. Downtown Bristol self-guided walking tour of sculpture and art. bjI Historic Downtown Bristol Walking Tour Downtown Bristol / State St., 423-989-4850; discoverbristol.org. Selfguided walking tour of the Birthplace of Country Music. bI Bristol Sign State St., Historic Downtown, 423-989-4850; discoverbristol.org. National Register of Historic Places landmark spanning downtown Bristol, TN/VA. Paramount Center for the Arts 518 State St., 423-274-8920; paramountbristol.org. 1931 art-deco movie palace hosting a wide variety of entertainment. $b bjI Bristol Train Station 101 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 276-644-1573; thebristoltrainstation.org. It is currently utilized as an event facility and business offices. I South Holston Lake Off Hwy 421, South Holston Lake, 423-878-6931; tva.gov. Known for smallmouth bass fishing and many fishing tournaments every year. State Street Farmers Market 810 State St., 423-989-5500; statestreetfarmersmarket. com. The market is open from May through October. Sugar Hollow Park 23261 Sugar Hollow Dr., 276-645-7275; bristolva.org. Park featuring softball and soccer fields, picnic areas, campsites and more. Veterans War Memorial at Cumberland Square Park Cumberland Sq., 276-6457300; bristolva.org. Five lifesize bronze sculptures paying tribute to our servicemen and women. I CANA Lovill’s Creek Lake Recreation Area 979 Epworth Rd., 276-7303100; pickplaystay.com. 55-acre lake, fishing, hiking, picnic facilities and boat ramp. j CHILHOWIE Smyth County Regional Visitor Center 408 Whitetop Rd., 877-255-9928; visitvirginiamountains. com. Your gateway to the mountains and attractions of Smyth County. $bjI Aspenville Cemetery Hwy. 11, 276-646-3306. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Town of Chilhowie I-81 - Exit 35, 877-255-9928; chilhowie.org. Visitor’s Center, local dining, shopping, antiques, farmer’s market and events. bjI CHRISTIANSBURG Montgomery Co. Blacksburg Christiansburg Regional Tourism Office 755 Roanoke St., 540-3944470; gotomontva.com. Easy access to the outdoors and amenities you’d expect from two of the largest towns in Virginia! Blacksburg location is at 318 N. Main Street. bjI Cambria Historic District 500 Depot St. Historic railroad depot, antique shop and specialty shops. Christiansburg Aquatic Center and Skatepark 595 North Franklin St., 540-381-7665; cacpool.com. Competitive and leisure pools and a popular street-style skate park. bI AMANDA FLOWERS Discover Bristol (Bristol Convention & Visitors Bureau) VG 20 Volunteer Pkwy., 423-989-4850; discoverbristol.org. Advancing the economic vitality of Bristol as a yearround destination. Birthplace of Country Music Museum 101 Country Music Way, 423-573-1927; birthplaceofcountrymusic. org. Celebrating Bristol’s music history; a Smithsonian Institution affiliate. $b     VIRGINIA .ORG 155 BLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS BLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS g VG M E E T S E N V I R O N M E N TA L S TA N D A R D S O F T H E V I R G I N I A G R E E N P R O G R A M u O F F E R S A C C E S S F O R P E O P L E W H O A R E B L I N D O R H AV E L O W V I S I O N b BUSES/GROUP S WELCOME c Christiansburg Institute 140 Scattergood Dr., 540-394-5001; christiansburginstitute.com. African-American school once supervised by Booker T. Washington. Coal Mining Heritage Park Mile 4 of The Huckleberry Trail, 540-382-6975; huckleberrytrail.org. The former Merrimac Mine is a passive park and trail. j The Huckleberry Trail 755 Roanoke St., 540-382-6975; huckleberrytrail.org. Maintained rail to trail winds between Blacksburg and Christiansburg. bj LOVEworks Sculpture in Christiansburg 595 North Franklin St., 540-394-2120; virginia. org/listings/thearts/ loveworkinchristiansburg. The LOVEwork is located at the Christiansburg Aquatic Center. bj Montgomery Museum of Art and History 300 South Pepper St., 540-382-5644; montgomerymuseum.org. Artifacts from the New River Valley and local art exhibits. P E T - F R I E N D LY FA C I L I T Y $ P R O V I D E S P R I N T E D M AT E R I A L I N B R A I L L E D ADMISSION REQUIRED Starlite Drive-In Theater 275 Starlight Dr. SE, 540-382-2202; starlitedrivein.info. One of the few original drive-in theaters in the country! $ CRITZ Reynolds Homestead 463 Homestead Ln., 276-694-7181; reynoldshomestead.vt.edu. State and national historic landmark - birthplace of R.J. Reynolds. $bjI DAMASCUS Town of Damascus PO Drawer 576, 276-475-3831; visitdamascus.org. A destination for those seeking an outdoor recreation in a small-town setting! Hiking, biking, camping, fishing, birding, swimming, horseback riding, kayaking and motorcycle routes. Adventure Damascus Bicycles 128 West Laurel Ave., Exit 19 & 29, off I-81, 276-475-6262; AdventureDamascus.com Bike rentals, trail shuttles, and outfitter for the Virginia Creeper Trail, Appalachian Trail and Mt. Rogers area. 8am-6pm daily. Exit 19 & 29, off I-81. Visit Downtown Damascus. Family fun “where the trails cross!” bjI I SunDog Outfitter 331 Douglas Dr., US RT. 58 276-475-6252; sundogoutfitter.com Your one-stop source for gear and trail information for all trails in the Damascus area. Bike rentals, trail shuttles,. 8am6pm daily. Year-round. bj Historic Sidna Allen Home 5935 Fancy Gap Hwy., 276-728-2594; visittheblueridge.com. Historic Queen Anne-style home, tours, listed in National Register. DRAPER Floyd Chamber of Commerce 109 East Main St., 540-745-4407; floydchamber.org. Providing information and support to the Floyd area business community. j Draper Mercantile & Trading Company 3054 Greenbriar Rd, Va. Route 658, 540-994-5659; drapermerc.com. Restored 1800’s mercantile with restaurant, crafts, live music and more. DUBLIN Claytor Lake State Park 6620 Ben H. Bolen Dr., 800-933-7275; virginiastateparks.gov. $ D. C. Wysor Observatory and Museum 600 Dunlap Rd., 540-643-0755. Meade 16” LX200 telescope, vast collection of fossils and more. Randolph Park 5100 Alexander Rd., 540-674-1513; pulaskicounty.org. State-of-the-art water park and playground. bj ELLISTON Nature Conservancy’s Falls Ridge Preserve Falls Ridge Rd., 434-295-6106; hikingupward.com/ovh/ fallsridgepreserve. A breathtaking travertine waterfall, old limekiln and caves. j V I R G I N I A pr i m l a nd.com ELK CREEK Elk Creek Dragway 711 Victory Ln., elkcreekdragway.com. Drag racing every Saturday night May-September. EMORY Woodrow W. McGlothin Center for the Arts at Emory & Henry College 30481 Garnand Dr., 276-944-6333; ehc.edu/mca. Theatre, music, visual arts, guest artists series. Box office 276-944-6333. bI FAIRLAWN Motor Mile Speedway/Motor Mile Dragway 6749 Lee Hwy., 540-639-1700; motormilespeedway.com. Nothing beats the roar of the dragway at 180 mph...in four seconds or less! $b FANCY GAP Devil’s Den Nature Preserve Cemetery Rd., 276-730-3100; pickplaystay.com. 280 acres, cave, forest, open meadow, trails and picnic facilities. bj 156 s W PROVIDES SIGN LANGUAGE PROVIDES ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS ADA-COMPLIANT Fotheringay House Route 11/460, 202-354-2211. Legend of American Revolution Colonel said to be buried standing. Meadows of Dan PROVIDES DES CRIPTIONS BY A TRAINED AUDIO DES CRIBER P R O V I D E S A D E V I C E U S E D F O R C O M M U N I C AT I O N W I T H A N D B E T W E E N H E A R I N G I M PA I R E D BLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS q FLOYD Floyd County Visitor Center & Tourism Office 109 East Main St., 540-745-4407; visitfloydva. com. Providing information to visitors, vacationers and Floyd residents. j Bell Gallery and Garden 112 North Locust St., 540-745-4494; bellgalleryandgarden.com. Features the work of 100+ local and regional artists/ craftspeople. Chateau Morrisette Winery and Restaurant MP171.5, Blue Ridge Parkway 540-593-2865; thedogs.com Tastings, tours offered daily. Fine dining, scenic views, special events.bjI Floyd Artisan Trail 540-745-2784; floydartisantrail.org. Annual June Tour featuring local art, craft and agricultural products. The Sun Music Hall 302 South Locust St., 540-745-6836; sunmusichall.com. Diverse national and regional music! Concerts, dances and workshops. b Wrenn Pottery 227 Remington Rd. SE 704-562-9825 wrennpottery.com Functional pottery for home and table located on Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 153.5. FRIES Rocky Knob Visitor Center VG Milepost 169, Blue Ridge Parkway, 276-952-2947; nps.gov/blri/rockknob.htm. Blue Ridge Parkway information, picnic area and Blackridge trailhead parking. j HILLSVILLE Blue Ridge Plateau Regional Visitor Center I-77 Exit 14, 239 Farmers Market Dr., 276-730-3100; visittheblueridge.com. Traveler and visitor information regarding Plateau Region. bjI Historic Fries Theater Main St., 276-744-2531 Concerts announced throughout the year. Weekly Jam every Thursday night at 6:30pm A Crooked Road venue. Town of Hillsville Visitors Center 410 North Main St., 276-728-2128; townofhillsville. com. Small visitor center open 24/7 in downtown Hillsville. GALAX Galax Visitors Center 110 East Grayson St., 276-238-8130; visitgalax.com. Capital of old-time music, antiques, artisans, quaint shops, outdoor recreation. Beaver Dam Creek Walking Trail Off Beaver Dam Rd., 605-1 Pine St., 276-730-3100; itsourstyle.com. Approximate 1/4-mile walking trail along wooded scenic stream. bj Carroll County Historical Museum 515 North Main St., 276-728-4938; visittheblueridge.com. History exhibits and information. Tuesday-Friday, 10:30am-4pm; Saturday, 10am-2pm. b Crooked Creek Wildlife Management Area Access Route 620 south from Route 58 at Woodlawn, 276-783-4860; pickplaystay.com. 1,600 acres, six miles of stocked trout streams, hiking, birding trails. bj Historic Hale-WilkinsonCarter Home 405 North Main St., 276-728-2494; townofhillsville.com. 4.5-story home of industrialist George L. Carter refurbished in 1920s. b Stewarts Creek Wildlife Management Area State Rt. 795, 276-728-4938; itsourstyle.com. 1,087-acre preserve below crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. j INDEPENDENCE Grayson County Tourism Office 107 East Main St., 276-773-8002; graysoncountyva.com. Information on lodging, camping, outdoor recreation, attractions, events, dining and shopping. b Grayson County Welcome Center 107 East Main St., 276-773-8002; graysoncountyva.com. Visitor Center, Museum, auditorium rental, gift shop and weekly jam. bI Grayson County Historical Society 107 East Main St., 276-7733320 Dedicated to uncovering and preserving the rich history of Grayson County and the surrounding region. Grayson County Recreational Park 85 Park Ln., 276-773-3841 Picnic areas, 5 athletic fields, swimming pool, tennis courts, & outside basketball court. Grayson County Virginia Heritage Foundation 578 East Main St. Established to promote, preserve, and educate the cultural and family heritages of Grayson County. bj Chestnut Creek School of the Arts and Museum 100 North Main St., 276-236-3500; chestnutcreekarts.org. Preserves cultural heritage through classes in traditional crafts and music. bj Rock Castle Gorge National Recreation Trail Milepost 167, Blue Ridge Parkway, 540-593-3503; blueridgeparkway.org/ vatrails.htm. Moderate 10.8-mile loop trail through diverse terrain. j The Rex Theater 113 East Grayson St., 276-236-5309; rextheatergalax.com. Venue for music, theater and weekly live bluegrass radio broadcasts. $bj Town of Fries 276-233-1104; friesva.com Visit Fries on the banks of the New River where adventure, music and trails await! bj Floyd Community Market 205 South Locust St., 540-745-7333; sustainfloyd. org. Artisan Market, Fridays 5-9pm; Farmers Market, Saturdays 9am-1pm, MayOctober. j June Bug Center 251 Parkway Ln., 540-7456550; junebugcenter.org. A community space for theatre and life-enhancing events. $b j Old Cranks Motorcar Museum 407 Railroad Ave., 276-236-5114; oldcranks. com. Collection of vintage automobiles and farm equipment. Open weekends. bjIQ Fries Visitor Center Main St., 276-233-1104 friesva.com/category/friesinfo-gift-shop. Visitor Center, local arts and crafts, regional merchandise The Blue Ridge Music Center Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 213, 276-236-5309; blueridgemusiccenter.org. Spring-Summer Traditional Concert Series. Free museum. $bjI Floyd County Historical Society Museum 217 North Locust St., 540-745-3247; floydhistoricalsociety.org. Preserving and sharing a unique history in SW Virginia. New River Trail State Park VG West Stuart Dr., 800-933-7275; virginiastateparks.gov. bj bj The Floyd Center for the Arts 220 Parkway Ln. S, 540-745-2784; jacksonvillecenter.org. Art galleries, gift shop, artist studios, art & craft workshops. b Matthews State Forest Mountain Bike Trails 655 White Pine Rd.; mtbproject.com/ trail/7016941/matthews-stateforest-mtb-trail. 8.2 miles of single-track adventure. Jeff Matthews Memorial Museum 606 West Stuart Dr., 276-236-7874; jeffmatthewsmuseum.org. Displays Indian artifacts, Civil War memorabilia and more. bjIQ Judge Matthews State Forest 106 Matthews Ln., 276-236-2322; dof.virginia.gov. Hiking, biking, natural resource education programs, wildlife watching. bj Matthews Living History Farm Museum 476 White Pine Rd., 276-773-3080; matthewsfarmmuseum.org. Preserving cultural heritage of upper New River Valley since 1900. MORGAN HARRIS BLUE RIDGE HIGHLANDS g VG M E E T S E N V I R O N M E N TA L S TA N D A R D S O F T H E V I R G I N I A G R E E N P R O G R A M Floydfest—Floyd VIRGINIA .ORG 157 q u O F F E R S A C C E S S F O R P E O P L E W H O A R E B L I N D O R H AV E L O W V I S I O N b BUSES/GROUP S WELCOME c P E T - F R I E N D LY FA C I L I T Y $ P R O V I D E S P R I N T E D M AT E R I A L I N B R A I L L E ADMISSION REQUIRED I Mount Rogers National Recreation Area 3714 Hwy. 16, 276-783-5196; smythcounty.org. Explore nature and the Appalachian Trail on Virginia’s highest mountain. bjI Mabry Mill Blue Ridge Parkway, M.P. 176.1, 540-952-2947; brptrails.com/brp1762. htm. One of the Blue Ridge Parkway’s most visited sites. bj Historic 1908 Courthouse and Grayson County Visitor Center 107 East Main St., 276-773-8002; graysoncountyva.com. History museum; gift shop; auditorium rental; tourism information. Smyth County Museum & Historical Society 123 East Main St., 276-783-7286; smythcountymuseum.org. Experience the history of Smyth County with free museum tours. I Mayberry Presbyterian Church MP180.1 Blue Ridge Pkwy., 276-952-8422; mayberrychurch.org. Built in 1925, one of five Historic churches in SWVA. b MARION VIRGINIA MAIN STREET COMMUNITY Appalachian Spirit Gallery 144 West Main St., 276-709-2909; appalachianspiritgallery.org. Celebrate the arts, traditions, lore and spirit of our mountains. I Art on 16 324 Commerce St., 810-318-8419; arton16. com. Contemporary local art and events. Open Fridays/Saturdays or by appointment. I Back of the Dragon Route 16, 276-988-5726; backofthedragon.com. Scenic 32-mile driving trail between Marion and Tazewell Virginia. j Hungry Mother State Park 2854 Park Blvd., 800-933-7275; virginiastateparks.gov. $bjI The Lincoln Theatre 117 East Main St., 276-783-6092; thelincoln.org. Historic landmark featuring live performances including Song of the Mountains. $b I Marion Downtown Main St., 276-378-5038; marionva.org/play-here. A little cool around every corner! Dining. Shopping. Lodging. Events. bjI PROVIDES DES CRIPTIONS BY A TRAINED AUDIO DES CRIBER Wayne C. Henderson School of Appalachian Arts 203 North Church St., 276-706-4010; thehenderson.org. Preserving, promoting and providing learning experiences rooted in Appalachian Culture. bjI MAX MEADOWS Fort Chiswell Animal Park 569 Red Hollow Rd., 276-637-6754; fortchiswellanimalpark.com. Take guided safari bus ride through 45 acres of animals. $b Fort Chiswell Mansion I-77/81 Exit 80, 276-637-1832; fortchiswellmansion.com. Historic mansion dates to 1840. Tours. MEADOWS OF DAN Blue Ridge Visitor Center 2609 JEB Stuart Hwy., 276-694-6012; patrickchamber.com. Less than one minute from the Blue Ridge Parkway, this center has many brochures and maps available to assist visitors. Lover’s Leap Scenic Overlook 8550 Jeb Stuart Hwy., 276-694-6094; visitpatrickcounty.org. A spectacular view along your journey through Patrick County. bj s W PROVIDES SIGN LANGUAGE PROVIDES ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEMS ADA-COMPLIANT The Crossroads Museum 107 East Main St., 276-773-3711; historic1908courthouse.org. Old photos of the county, old maps and cultural antiques. bI D P R O V I D E S A D E V I C E U S E D F O R C O M M U N I C AT I O N W I T H A N D B E T W E E N H E A R I N G I M PA I R E D Mayberry Trading Post 883 Mayberry Church Rd., 276-952-2155. Built in 1892, see original store and post office fixtures. Primland Resort 2000 Busted Rock Rd., 276-222-3800; primland.com. The ultimate 12,000-acre retreat for world-class golf, refined dining and outdoor activities. bj Primland’s Highland Golf Course 2000 Busted Rock Rd., 276-222-3800; primland.com. The Highland Course is like no other and winds its way through Primland’s mountain landscape, playing across ridge tops and over valleys, combining challenging golf with the breathtaking scenery at every turn. bjI Primland’s Sporting Clays 2000 Busted Rock Rd., 276-222-3800;; primland. com. Esquire Magazine rated Primland as one of the top twenty-five courses for shooting sporting clays in the nation. I MOUTH OF WILSON Grayson Highlands State Park 829 Grayson Highland Ln., 800-933-7275; virginiastateparks.gov. b NARROWS Mill Creek Nature Park Northview St., 540-726-2423; virginiasmtnplayground.com/ parks-and-recreation. Offers waterfalls, hiking trails, biking trails & easy parking. bj NEWBERN Wilderness Road Regional Museum 5240 Wilderness Rd., 540-674-4835; newriverhistoricalsociety.com. Located in 1800s house. Local area books, records. $ PEARISBURG Giles County 203 N Main St., 540-9212079; gilescounty.org. For Giles County tourism information. bI Dismal Falls Take Exit 98 from I-81 going north on VA-100, then Rt. 42 toward Bland, 540-552-4641; virginiasmtnplayground.com/ dismal-falls. 15-foot Dismal Falls is peaceful, pretty and easily accessed. j Giles County Historical Society Museum and 1829 Andrew Johnston House 208 North Main St., 540-921-1050; gilescountyhistory.org. Historic house, museum and Civil War site. bI Historic Newport Covered Bridge Rt. 601, 540-921-2079; virginiasmtnplayground.com/ history. Historic covered bridge with public access and picnic area. jI New River Water Trail New River, 540-921-2079; newriverwatertrail.com. Water activities for all experience levels. Fishing, paddle sports, nature watching. bj Pearis Cemetery Old Rt. 100, 540-921-2079. Trailhead to A.T. & historic cemetery. bj Whitt-