Must see attractions in Blue Ridge Highlands & Southwest Virginia

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    Top Choice
    O. Winston Link Museum

    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…

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    Top Choice
    Chateau Morrisette

    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…

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    National D-Day Memorial

    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…

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    Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

    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…

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    Smith Mountain Lake State Park

    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…

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    Taubman Museum of Art

    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…

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    Heartwood

    Heartwood is a showcase of regional crafts, cuisine, wine, craft beer and traditional music. There are exhibition spaces, retail galleries, a restaurant …

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    Mabry Mill

    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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    Center in the Square

    The city's cultural heartbeat, where you'll find three museums, a butterfly garden, aquariums and a theater. The museums cover African American culture,…

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    White Rock

    The setting is lovely at this winery and brewery 17 miles east of Roanoke. Pop into the tasting room to try its crisp White Mojo, a blend of Pinot Gris,…

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    Fairy Stone State Park

    What's with the name? Well, the park grounds contain a huge amount of staurolite, a mineral that crystallizes at 60 or 90 degree angles, giving it a cross…

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    Roanoke Star & Mill Mountain Park

    Mill Mountain Park has walking trails, a discovery center, a zoo (adult $9, child aged three to 11 years $7) and grand views of Roanoke. It's also home to…

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    Peaks of Otter Winery

    The countryside around Bedford is speckled with vineyards, including this winery with attached orchard (pick your own fruit August through October). It…

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    Puckett Cabin

    The last home of mountain midwife Orleana Hawks Puckett (1844–1939), who delivered more than 1000 babies. The site of the property is dotted with…

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    Hickory Hill Winery

    This winery, anchored by a charming 1923 farmhouse, welcomes picnickers including family groups. Try its Mist, a blend of chardonnay and Vidal Blanc.

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    Smithfield Plantation

    This building from 1774 is an excellent example of late colonial architecture. Find it adjacent to the Virginia Tech campus.