Southwest Virginia is the launch pad for some of the best scenery in the entire Southeast. These are the day trips and weekend escapes worth every mile.
57 miles of trail along one of the oldest rivers in the world. Bike it, hike it, or kayak the river itself.
New River Trail State Park - DCR.Virginia.gov
Boating, swimming, camping, and fishing right in your backyard. The local hidden gem most people outside the area don’t know about.
Claytor Lake State Park
Hop on and just drive. Pull-offs, overlooks, and mountain views the whole way. No admission, no agenda needed.
Blue Ridge Parkway Map | Access Points near Roanoke, VA
Tiny mountain town with a huge soul. Hit the Friday Night Jamboree, browse local shops, and eat incredibly well for a town of 400 people.
Visitors & Tourism | Floyd County, VA
Wild ponies roaming free on a mountaintop. One of Virginia’s most underrated parks and an absolute must-do.
The best walks and hikes in Grayson Highlands State Park - Komoot
A 215-foot naturally formed rock bridge that has to be seen in person. Historic, stunning, and totally worth it.
Natural Bridge State Park - DCR.Virginia.gov
Charming historic downtown, the famous Barter Theatre, and access to the Virginia Creeper Trail. A full day in one small town.
Abingdon, VA
The birthplace of country music, a legendary speedway, and a state line running down the middle of the main street. Genuinely one of a kind.
Bristol, VA
The highest point in Virginia. Hike through open meadows, spot the wild ponies, and get above the treeline. Stunning on a clear day.
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area - Virginia Is For Lovers
Called the “Grand Canyon of the South.” Dramatic gorge views, whitewater rafting, and cabins if you want to stay the night.
Breaks Interstate Park | Explore & Experience Today
America’s newest national park. World-class climbing, white water, and the iconic bridge view that belongs on a postcard.
New River Gorge National River - National Park Service
Underrated city with a great food scene, craft breweries, and a gateway to Cherokee National Forest. A solid weekend base camp.
Welcome to Johnson City, TN
Monticello, UVA’s stunning Lawn, and one of the best restaurant scenes in the state. Wine country is right next door too.
Visit Charlottesville: Explore Charlottesville and Albemarle County
The Biltmore Estate, a wildly good food and arts scene, and Blue Ridge Mountain views in every direction. One of the most visited small cities in the South for good reason.
Explore Asheville | Things to Do, Events, & Hotels | Asheville, NC's ...
Charming Appalachian college town with hiking, waterfalls, local breweries, and easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway at its best stretch.
Explore Boone | Official Travel Website for Boone, NC