The Virginia New River Valley (NRV) is a beautiful area with a rich mix of outdoor activities, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Here are some great things we recommend in the NRV:

Hiking and Outdoor Activities
silhouette photo of three person near tall trees
silhouette photo of three person near tall trees
Explore the New River

  • New River Canoe or Kayak Trips: Rent a canoe, kayak, or raft and explore the calm waters of the New River. There are several outfitters offering rentals and guided tours.

  • Fishing on the New River: Known for smallmouth bass and catfish, the New River is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.

waterfalls near green trees under white clouds and blue sky during daytime
waterfalls near green trees under white clouds and blue sky during daytime
Historical and Cultural Attractions

  • The Wilderness Road Regional Museum: https://www.wildernessroadregionalmuseum.com/ Located in Newbern, this museum tells the history of the region and the significance of the Wilderness Road in westward expansion.

  • Smithfield Plantation: https://www.historicsmithfield.org/ This historic plantation in Blacksburg offers a glimpse into 18th-century life in the New River Valley. It's a beautifully preserved home of the Preston family, early pioneers in the area.

  • Draper Mercantile and Trading Co.: https://draperisfordreamers.com/ A charming historic venue in Pulaski County, it's both a café and a local artisan shop, and also hosts live music and events.

  • Pulaski Theatre: https://pulaskitheatre.com/ A restored 1930s-era theater, it hosts concerts, movies, and plays.

a shelf with vases and pots
a shelf with vases and pots
Virginia Tech and Campus Attractions

  • Virginia Tech Campus: https://www.vt.edu/ Take a walk around this beautiful campus in Blacksburg, known for its limestone buildings, drill field, and iconic Burruss Hall.

  • Hahn Horticulture Garden: https://hahngarden.vt.edu/ Located on Virginia Tech’s campus, this beautiful garden is free to the public and showcases a variety of plants and landscaping designs.

  • Lane Stadium: https://hokiesports.com/ For sports enthusiasts, catch a Virginia Tech Hokies football game if you're visiting during the season. The atmosphere is electric!

A large building surrounded by trees and flowers
A large building surrounded by trees and flowers
Art and Music

  • Moss Arts Center: https://artscenter.vt.edu/ This modern facility at Virginia Tech features world-class performances, art galleries, and exhibitions from renowned artists and performers.

  • Floyd Country Store: https://www.floydcountrystore.com/ Just a short drive from the NRV, this venue in Floyd is famous for its Friday Night Jamboree, where you can enjoy live bluegrass and traditional Appalachian music.

person playing guitar
person playing guitar
Local Wineries and Breweries
bread and bread on brown wooden chopping board
bread and bread on brown wooden chopping board
Shopping and Local Markets
fruit stand on the street during daytime
fruit stand on the street during daytime
Annual Events and Festivals

  • FloydFest: https://floydfest.com/ This popular annual music and arts festival takes place near the Blue Ridge Parkway and draws major artists and music lovers from all over.

  • Steppin’ Out Festival (Blacksburg): https://blacksburgsteppinout.com/ A large street festival held every summer featuring local vendors, crafts, and live entertainment.

  • New River Valley Fair: https://nrvfair.com/ A classic country fair with rides, food, livestock shows, and music, held annually in Dublin.

woman selling inside store during daytime
woman selling inside store during daytime
Exploring the Appalachian Trail
green trees near mountain
green trees near mountain