From historic mining towns, to outstanding outdoor adventures, romantic inns and a rich music history, there are a variety of experiences to enjoy
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA–FEBRUARY 2026–The 19 counties of Southwest Virginia are filled with destinations that have personality all their own. Local communities are proud to share their history and culture, which are as diverse as the landscape here. Within a day’s drive of more than half of the United States population, this is a region known for its authentic experiences that showcase an amazing diversity of character, traditions and outdoor adventures. No matter the trip motivation, there is a destination to meet the moment and to exceed visitors’ expectations.
Trail Town, USA
Damascus is known as Trail Town, USA, and there is no better starting location for those who want to take on any of the more than a dozen trails that intersect here. Most popular are the Virginia Creeper Trail rails-to-trail path, the famed Appalachian Trail hiking route and the Iron Mountain Trail, a rugged backcountry path through the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests. The Damascus Trail Center (209 West Laurel Avenue, Damascus Virginia 24236; 276-323-3046) is a regional hub for outdoor recreation, connecting visitors with a wide range of natural resources in the region. Located in the middle of downtown, the center offers exhibits and programming with opportunities to learn more about the history, trail resources and opportunities in the region. Adventure Damascus Outdoor Company (128 West Laurel Avenue, Damascus, Virginia; 276-475-6262) is a second-generation, family-owned shop specializing in bike rentals, shuttles and trail advice. Whether over a slice of homemade pie at The Damascus Diner (109 South Shady Avenue, Damascus, Virginia 24236; 276-475-5454) or while enjoying a pint at The Damascus Brewery (32173 Government Road, Damascus, Virginia 24236; 276-475-7109), there are trail stories to be told everywhere here. The nearby Mount Rogers National Recreation Area (3714 Highway 16, Marion, Virginia 24354; 276-783-5196) has Virginia’s two highest peaks, Mount Rogers and Whitetop, both recording elevations of more than 5,000 feet. There are more than 400 miles of trails here, including 60 miles of the Appalachian Trail, 18 miles of the Virginia Creeper Trail and 67 miles of the Virginia Highland Horse Trail.
Romantic escape in Giles County
For a getaway with that special someone, Giles County offers a peaceful escape. The Lilly Valley Inn (125 River Ridge Drive, Pearisburg, Virginia 24134; 540-910-3123) is marked by quiet luxury and breathtaking panoramic views. From taking in the sunrise over the New River to learning new skills in the Rustic Roots cooking class, visitors can curate their stay to match their mood. An outing to JBR Vineyards (1360 Springdale Road, Pearisburg, Virginia 24134; 540-250-7291) offers a visit to one of Virginia’s popular boutique Virginia Farm Wineries. JBR passionately produces two grape varieties rarely grown in in the state, Riesling and Pinot Noir, and all wines are produced and bottled on the premises. Tastings are offered by appointment. Many enjoy spending time on the scenic New River with a 20-minute float trip or an afternoon canoe or kayak outing. New River’s Edge (665 Rocky Hollow Road, Pembroke, Virginia 24136; 540-599-8382) offers float trips and a variety of gear rentals. A fine meal is always a treat and The Palisades Restaurant (168 Village Street, Eggleston, Virginia 24086; 540-626-2828) is just the place for it. Diners will find contemporary cuisine, warm hospitality and unparalleled service, all served in an historic landmark building. Most of the meat, trout and produce is grown locally in the New River Valley, providing guests with the freshest ingredients while supporting the local economy.
Music sets the stage
Bristol is known as the “Birthplace of Country Music,” but Southwest Virginia’s musical experiences cannot be confined to one location. The Birthplace of Country Music Museum (101 Country Music Way, Bristol, Virginia 24201; 423-573-1927), a 24,000-square-foot Smithsonian-affiliated museum, is the perfect place to start a musical journey. The museum documents the famous 1927 Bristol Sessions and highlights the region’s rich musical heritage through multiple theater experiences, interactive displays and stationary exhibits. From the many popular local music venues to music-themed lodging options like The Sessions Hotel (833 State Street, Bristol, Virginia 24201; 276-285-5040) and the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (500 Gate City Highway, Bristol, Virginia 24201; 276-696-3660), (each with its own live music stage), it’s clear music is woven into Bristol’s identity. A road trip shows just how engrained music is to the entire region. A trip down The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail puts a diverse musical heritage on display. This 330-mile driving trail connects 10 major venues and more than 40 affiliated venues and festivals for visitors to enjoy.
Mining culture lives on
Southwest Virginia’s mining culture can’t be confined to one spot either. The Virginia Coal Heritage Trail spans seven counties and introduces travelers to working mines and museums that portray mining’s history here. Pocahontas was Virginia’s first coal boom town and converted historic buildings chronicle its mining history. The Exhibition Mine & Museum (215 Shop Hollow Road, Pocahontas, Virginia 24635; 276-945-9522) is the only one of its kind in Virginia, offering tours of the original Pocahontas #3 Coal Seam Mine. Visitors can see how coal was cut, blasted and loaded into mine cars. To the west is Dante, which was once the headquarters of the Clinchfield Coal Corporation, which closed its last mine in 1959. Today, the Dante Coal Mining and Railroad Museum (30 Streight Hollow Road, Dante, Virginia 24237; 276-495-1903) and Dante Coal Miner’s Memorial (506 Bunch Town Road, Dante, Virginia 24237; 276-495-1903) offer an opportunity to explore the town’s history. Nearby, Appalachia is a largely intact turn-of-the-century town with coal camps, mining equipment and railroad buildings still in their original locations.