Blue Ridge Highlands & Southwest Virginia
Trainspotters aren't the only ones who will find this museum fascinating. It is home to a large collection of photographs, sound recordings and film by O…
Myles New
Blue Ridge Highlands & Southwest Virginia
The Blue Ridge Highlands and the Roanoke Valley are two of the most attractive regions in the state, with farm-dotted valleys unfurling between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail roll across the mountains here, which are home to scenic rivers, streams and lakes. Old-time mountain music can be heard regularly, and wineries and craft breweries offer tastings in small towns and on mountain slopes. The most rugged part of the region – and the state – is the southwestern tip of Virginia, where mountain music was born. Turn onto any side road and you'll plunge into dark strands of dogwood and fir, and see fast streams and white waterfalls. You might even hear banjos twanging and feet stomping in the distance.
Attractions
Must-see attractions
Blue Ridge Highlands & Southwest Virginia
The Blue Ridge Mountains form an attractive backdrop at this winery 13 miles southwest of Floyd. Head to the swish tasting room to try the signature Black…
Blue Ridge Highlands & Southwest Virginia
During WWII, 30 Bedford National Guard soldiers joined the invasion of Normandy. Nineteen were killed in action on D-Day, the highest per capita loss of…
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
Blue Ridge Highlands & Southwest Virginia
This seriously beautiful area is well worth a visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike, fish or cross-country ski among ancient hardwood trees and the state's…
Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Blue Ridge Highlands & Southwest Virginia
Smith Mountain State Park is located on the north shore of an enormous, 32-square-mile reservoir, one of the most popular recreation spots in Southwestern…
Blue Ridge Highlands & Southwest Virginia
The jewel in Roanoke's cultural crown, this impressive museum is set in a sculptural steel-and-glass edifice. Inside, you'll find a small permanent…
Blue Ridge Highlands & Southwest Virginia
Heartwood is a showcase of regional crafts, cuisine, wine, craft beer and traditional music. There are exhibition spaces, retail galleries, a restaurant …
Blue Ridge Highlands & Southwest Virginia
One of the most photographed buildings in the state, the mill nests in such a gloriously green vale you'll think you've entered the opening chapter of a…
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Wildlife & NatureA fall road trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains of the USAJan 31, 2020 • 5 min read
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