A World of Wonder Awaits
“The rapture of the spectator is really indescribable.” Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson loved scenic Virginia. But incredible mountain vistas are just the beginning. Hop in the car and head out on US 58 or the Blue Ridge Parkway to see America’s history, music, and folkways come to life.
The Great Outdoors
Blue Ridge Parkway
Take America’s favorite drive through 469 miles of rugged Appalachian Mountains. See bears, but do not feed them! Get on and off wherever you like.
Mabry’s Mill
The most photographed location on the Blue Ridge Parkway was built in 1910. The water-powered mill, blacksmith shop, and whiskey still give you a peek into southern Virginia life more than 100 years ago. Visit the restaurant and gift shop too!
Rock Castle Gorge
Hike the trails at Rocky Knob to see Rock Castle Gorge and 200 species of wildflowers, 45 species of trees, and 28 species of ferns along the way. Take Milepost 167.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve
This is a beautiful spot for a hike, and it’s off the beaten path. At some points during the walk, you can stop and hear nothing but the wind blowing through the trees. Fantastic!
Golf & Sports
Old Mill Golf Club
An 18 hole, par 70, public golf course with a friendly and hospitable feeling in nearby Stuart. Practice green, club rentals, snack bar, golf clinics, private lessons, individual club fitting and club repair are available.
Buffalo Mountain Ziplines
Experience the thrill of flying from treetop to treetop at Virginia’s highest and longest ziplines! Buffalo Mountain Ziplines offers 8 cables taking you as high as 150′ above the forest floor and spanning distances of over 2300′! Woo Hoo!
Fishing in Patrick County
Five rivers and four lakes offer great fishing in Patrick County. Bring your rod and tackle box to angle for trout, largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and bluegill.
Appalachian Ski Mountain
Ski in nearby Blowing Rock NC where just one night of cold temperatures allows the snowmakers to create fresh powder on the entire mountain. All slopes are groomed daily to give skiers fresh conditions with a corduroy-like surface.
Music & Festivals
The Crooked Road Music Trail
Experience firsthand how music is woven into the rich tapestry of tradition in Southwest Virginia along a 330 mile driving trail that connects over 60 affiliated venues and Festivals. Hear gospel, blues, ballads, and bluegrass.
Patrick County Monthly Music Jamboree
Come to the Rotary Building in nearby Stuart on the second Saturday of every month for the Patrick County Music Association Monthly Jamboree! Acoustic instruments only. Plenty of space for dancing, socializing, and grabbing a bite before the next band comes on. Doors open at 4pm. Music starts at 5pm. Free!
More Festivals in Stuart
Take a short drive to nearby Stuart for the Strawberry Festival in May, the Virginia State Peach Festival in August, and the Apple Dumpling Festival in October. While you’re in Stuart, visit the Historic Star Theatre and the Downtown Farm Market.
Food & Fun Stuff
Nancy’s Candy Company
Delicious home-made chocolate fudge in nearby Meadows of Dan. It’s the best ever!
Ayers Orchard
A century-old orchard where you can purchase fresh-picked fruits or pick your own. Visit the orchard in nearby Cana.
Sonkers and Antiques in Mount Airy
The inspiration for Mayberry on the Andy Griffith Show is Mt Airy NC. It is the home of a locally famous dessert – the ‘Sonker.’ Shop for antiques and try one of these delicious cobblers when you visit Mt Airy. As Sheriff Andy Taylor would say, “Mealtime is a mighty serious business down South.”
Hungry? You’ll never go hungry in southern Virginia!
You’ll find restaurants to suit every taste and budget in Meadows of Dan and nearby towns and villages. American classics, seafood, Greek, Italian, pizza, Mexican, sandwiches, and lots more.