Abingdon, Virginia, is the perfect hub for enjoying the music of the region
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA–JANUARY 2020–They say there is music in the mountains and in Abingdon, Virginia, it’s everywhere. Just off I-81, only ten minutes north of Bristol, Tennessee/Virginia and two hours northeast of Asheville, North Carolina, the trip to Abingdon is easy and for music lovers, it’s one to make again and again. From this idyllic setting in the Appalachian Highlands, the historic places and the Blue Ridge Mountains are extraordinary sights but it’s the amazing sounds that appeal to many. On day trips from Abingdon, a diverse array of musical venues and music history sites can be explored and enjoyed!
Abingdon is proud to be featured, along with its Southwest Virginia and Tennessee neighbors, in the popular new Ken Burns documentary, Country Music. Burns explores the history of this uniquely American art form, from its roots to its worldwide popularity. Of course, Southwest Virginia is part of that story and is a contemporary hot spot to enjoy not only this, often called “America’s music,” but other genres, as well.
The country music story begins just down the road, where visitors will find The Birthplace of Country Music Museum (101 Country Music Way, Bristol, Virginia 24201). An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, the museum employs theaters, interactive displays and memorabilia to relay the story of the famous 1927 Bristol Sessions recordings. It depicts the role of evolving sound technology in the sessions’ success and illustrates how this rich musical heritage lives on in today’s music. Additional rotating exhibits throughout the year add to the experience.
At the heart of The Crooked Road, Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, Abingdon is the perfect spot to start a musical journey. Located here, the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace (One Heartwood Circle, Abingdon, Virginia 24210) is the headquarters of The Crooked Road. The breathtaking facility showcases the music, crafts and attractions of the region through its galleries and events. Heritage music is highlighted every Thursday night at its Crooked Road Open Jams. The center also features interactive exhibits and information on the trail, which follows the region’s music history along Route 58. Many choose to stay in Abingdon as they go out and explore the Crooked Road’s attractions, outdoor recreation sites and interesting venues.
Abingdon has so many live music venues, there’s a different venue to try nearly every night of the week. Many offer the combination of exceptional food and drink, as well. Bone Fire Smokehouse & Musictorium (260 West Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210) is a serious smokehouse with a dedication to presenting original live music. The venue regularly features outstanding regional and national songwriters and musicians.
At White Birch Food and Juice (170 E Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210), patrons can choose from fresh-pressed juices, craft cocktails and a locally-sourced menu while listening to live performances.
Music also pairs well with local libations in Abingdon. Saturday afternoons are the perfect time to enjoy Abingdon Vineyards (20530 Alvarado Road, Abingdon, Virginia 24211) during their live concerts. Many also enjoy the live music line up at Wolf Hills Brewing (350 Park Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24211).
In the heart of downtown Abingdon is The Barter Theatre (127 West Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210). This historic jewel of a theatre offers professional performances throughout the year, with a healthy dose of musicals in the mix.
For those who just can’t get enough, Abingdon is also the perfect spot to explore the many regional music venues and attractions. Taking to the Crooked Road or forging a personalized musical trail of your own is easy when the lodging, restaurants and entertainment of Abingdon are your home base.
Where to stay
Of course, the stately, historic Martha Washington Inn and Spa is a destination of its own in downtown Abingdon. When it’s time to turn in, there is a variety of lodging options from which to choose. These include luxury inns, B&Bs, cottages, Virginia mountain cabin rentals and family- and budget-friendly flagship chains.
If you go
Two of Abingdon’s most popular spots appeal to outdoors types and history buffs. Customize your exploration of the area’s musical attractions with an added bonus:
Get outdoors: Just off Main Street is the bucket-list, Hall of Fame Virginia Creeper Trail (Abingdon Trailhead, 300 Green Spring Road, Abingdon, Virginia 24210). This 34-mile, multi-use trail passes through diverse landscapes, and crosses nearly 50 wooden trestles along the way. Forests, farmlands and river views all add to experience on this popular route.
A revolutionary story: Abingdon’s role in the fight for independence was critical. Citizen militia “Overmountain Men” gathered at The Abingdon Muster Grounds (1780 Muster Place, Abingdon, Virginia 24210) in 1789 to begin a two-week, 330-mile march to join in defeating the British at Kings Mountain, South Carolina, a turning point in the Revolutionary War.