Visit Southwestern Virginia, bordered by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachian Plateau and other states, for an area that offers remarkable hiking and climbing opportunities. Stay in any of the towns dotting the landscape to discover unique and fascinating features.
Roanoke is the largest populated area on the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is known for stunning scenery along its 469 miles (755 kilometers). Plan a trip to the family-oriented Center in the Square, with activities and events spread out over multiple buildings. More family entertainment awaits at Mill Mountain Park, with a zoo, playground and discovery center. It’s easy to find the park just head for the huge Roanoke Star, said to be the world's largest freestanding illuminated human-made star.
In nearby Ferrum, start to follow The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail. This 300-mile (500-kilometer) route is described as the homeplace of America’s music.
Find extensive hiking trails in the area around Rocky Knob Recreation Area. Stop at Mabry Mill in Meadows of Dan to find out why this is a much-photographed spot.
Sport fishermen will want to cast a line in Patrick County, with its headwaters for multiple rivers.
The music theme continues in Floyd County at Floyd Country Store, which hosts jamborees in an old-fashioned candy store. In nearby Grayson County hike on some of Virginia’s highest mountains, with Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain both having an elevation greater than 5,500 feet (1,600 meters).
Tour a vineyard and have a glass of wine in Wytheville. Enjoy an evening of watching a live performance in Abingdon at the Barter Theatre, which opened in 1933. At that time, the price of admission included an option to pay with fresh vegetables.
Visit Tazewell, one of the oldest communities in Southwestern Virginia, with its surrounding breathtaking scenery. This includes the Mountain Heritage Loop, which has a view of a collapsed mountain that’s often referred to as God’s Thumbprint.
The extensive number of parks and trails in Southwestern Virginia attracts the most demanding outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
