ER V VA CO SW S s & I tie D Ci MarchMarcarch 22015 200 ri Your keykey to Local Festivals, EveEvents,Eve T Eateries, Landmarks, Museums & MoreMorMor in tthehe TTriCitiesriCities & SSouthwestouthwest VVirginiairginia AAreasreas

Welcome to DISCOVER DIISCOVERSCOVER TriCities & SWVA, a new publication highlighting some of the  tthehe IInsidenside  many interesting events & places that our area has to offer. Jonesborough ...... page 4 If you have comments, Area Attractions ...... pages 4-5, 12-13, 17-20, 23-24 please contact Steven Jameson at 276-645-2521 or Bristol ...... pages 6 & 8 [email protected] Abingdon ...... pages 10-11 A BH Media Group Publication Story and Photo contributors: Smyth County ...... pages 14 &16 • Laura J. Mondul • David Crigger Wytheville ...... pages 21 & 24 • Jeff Simmons • Doug Thompson Floyd...... pages 25-26 Designed by Carol Sue Repass

Left: Bristol Motor Speedway; Above Right: Museum; Right: Memorial Day Parade; Below Left: Muddy Creek - Photos by David Crigger

DISCOVER ◊ 3 JONESBOROUGH - by Laura J. Mondul The historic Town of Jonesborough, Built in 1886, the Oak Hill School has Jonesborough also has much to offer for Tennessee, has worked hard to preserve its been carefully restored to look as it origi- visitors interested in the other performing heritage while developing an eclectic com- nally did, right down to the color of the arts. The Jonesborough Repertory Theatre munity for the arts. The small-town environ- walls. Visitors can now visit the school and offers live performances year round, includ- ment welcomes visitors to this distinctive see what education was like for the town’s ing the well-known USO show, honoring our community while offering an appreciation of fi rst settlers. nation’s veterans. the arts usually found in larger cities. There For visitors that prefer a guided tour of For music-lovers, musicians from the is no shortage of things to do in this charm- the town’s historic sites, Jonesborough also region perform live every week at Music on ing town. offers walking tours of the town several the Square. The performances are free, so Founded in 1779, Jonesborough is known days a week. The tour provides visitors a visitors need only bring a lawn chair and sit as Tennessee’s oldest city and retains some more comprehensive, detailed history of back and enjoy the music. of its original buildings. The downtown area what town life was like hundreds of years The historic downtown district is also is listed on the National Register of Historic ago. packed with photo studios, art galleries, Places. Known as the Storytelling Capital of the specialty shops with handmade jewelry, The oldest surviving building in Jones- World, Jonesborough is home to the Inter- cafes and restaurants, and much more. borough is the Christopher Taylor house, national Storytelling Center. Dedicated to Visitors interested in the arts and crafts built in 1777. Originally located about preserving the art of storytelling, the center won’t want to miss the McKinney Center, a mile outside the town, the house has houses the Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall, located in the former Booker T. Washington been relocated into the historic downtown as well as a state-of-the-art performance School building. The school houses the Mary district. Sightings of the ghost of Andrew theater, a gift shop, and rents rooms for B. Martin Program for the Arts, and holds a Jackson have been reported at the house – weddings, events, business meetings and juried art show for four weeks every year. Jackson lodged at the residence in 1788. the like. The center also keeps a ‘teller- Art-lovers can also enjoy Fine Art in the The Chester Inn, built in 1797, is also in-residence’ from May through October, featuring a different artist each week. Park, a judged and juried art show occurring among the preserved historic structures. the third weekend of each October. Constructed as a hotel, the inn is now open Perhaps the most well-known aspect as a historic site, The Chester Inn Museum. of the town is the National Storytelling Jonesborough Days is a patriotic festival The museum chronicles the history of Jones- Festival, held in the beginning of October held every July, and is organized to cel- borough, and features exhibits detailing the each year. The festival transforms down- ebrate America’s heritage. The weekend history of the State of Franklin, The Chester town Jonesborough into a city of tents, from features a parade, games, an animal petting Inn, the 1873 cholera epidemic, and much smaller tents to those seating up to 1,600. zoo, a children’s area, live music on the more. The museum also features activities The tents feature storytellers and perform- Main Stage, as well as arts, crafts, food and specifi cally for children, including a scaven- ers from around the country. The festival of course fi reworks. ger hunt. entertains visitors from far and wide with Jonesborough has many distinctive lodg- The Jonesborough/Washington County its dedication to oral tradition as a means ing accommodations, with charming bed History Museum is another opportunity for of preserving culture and history, and of and breakfasts, historic inns and upscale history enthusiasts. Exhibits bring history educating and entertaining both young and lodges and suites. For the outdoorsman who to life as they depict scenes from frontier old. Since its creation in 1973, the festival wants to experience nature at its best, the life in Tennessee, provide local education has grown from a total of 60 people, audi- town even has campgrounds. With so many history, and there is also a rotating exhibit ence and performers, to now boasting over unique and historically signifi cant activities, honoring veterans. 30 world-class storytellers and thousands of Jonesborough is a perfect destination for visitors. travelers looking for a piece of Americana. AREA ATTRACTIONS LISTED ALPHABETICALLY BY TOWN DISCOVER: ABINGDON, VA 276-628-3167 276-628-3161 Abingdon, VA 24210 www.fairviewhistorichomestead. www.themartha.com 276-628-2960 FESTIVALS blogspot.com http://whitesmill.org/ Plum Alley Day Walnut Grove-Yeary Cabin www.abingdonkiwanis.org/plum- Keller Interpretive Center Between Valley Street and Plumb MUSEUMS balleyday.html 1780 Muster Place Alley Fields-Penn 1860 House Abingdon, VA 24210 Abingdon, VA 24201 Museum Highlands Festival 276-525-1050 276-676-2282 208 West Main Street vahighlandsfestival.org/ http://abingdonmustergrounds. http://visitabingdonvirginia. Abingdon, VA 24210 com/keller-interpretive-center/ com/listing/walnut-grove-yeary- 276-676-0216 HISTORICAL SITES cabin/ Fairview Historic Homestead The Martha Washington Inn Heartwood: Southwest Hillman Highway 150 West Main Street Whites Mill Virginia’s Artisan Gateway Abingdon, VA 24210 Abingdon, VA 24210 12291 Whites Mill Road One Heartwood Circle -continued on page 5 4 ◊ DISCOVER -continued from page 4 Abingdon, VA 24210 Holston Mountain Artisans 20530 Alvarado Road Abingdon, VA 24210 276-628-3161 214 Park Street Abingdon, VA 24211 276-492-2400 www.themartha.com Abingdon, VA 24210 276-623-1255 www.heartwoodvirginia.org 276-628-7721 www.abingdonwinery.com www.holstonmtnarts.com THE ARTS Wolf Hills Brewing Co. William King Museum LOVEwork in Abingdon Arts Depot 350 Park Street Center for Art and Cultural 150 West Main Street 314 Depot Square Abingdon, VA 24210 Heritage Abingdon, VA 24210 Abingdon, VA 24210 303-550-8762 415 Academy Drive 800-435-3440 276-628-9091 www.wolfhillsbrewing.com Abingdon, VA 24210 www.abingdonartsdepot.org www.visitabingdonvirginia.com 276-628-5005 DISCOVER: BIG STONE www.williamkingmuseum.org Barter Theatre ‘Round the Mountain: 127 West Main Street Southwest Virginia’s GAP, VA PARKS Abingdon, VA 24210 Artisan Network FESTIVALS One Heartwood Circle Virginia Creeper Trail 276-628-6991 Gathering in the Gap Music Abingdon, VA 24210 Abingdon, VA 24210 www.bartertheatre.com Festival 276-492-2407 www.vacreepertrail.com/ www.gatheringinthegapmusicfes- Crooked Road: Virginia’s www.roundthemountain.org tival.com/ SPAS Heritage Music Trail One Heartwood Circle TOURS MUSEUMS Healing Waters Day Spa and Abingdon, VA 24210 Historic Abingdon Virginia Salon 276-492-2409 Harry W. Meador Coal Museum GhostWalk 107 Charwood Drive www.thecrookedroad.org East Third Street and Shawnee 110 North Main Street Abingdon, VA 24210 Avenue Abingdon, VA 24210 276-628-4233 Heartwood: Southwest Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 423-743-9255 www.healingwatersdayspa.com Virginia’s Artisan Gateway 276-523-9209 www.abingdonghostwalk.com One Heartwood Circle www.bigstonegap.org/attract/ The Martha Washington Inn and Abingdon, VA 24210 coal.htm WINERIES AND BREWERIES Spa 276-492-2400 150 West Main Street www.heartwoodvirginia.org Abingdon Vineyard and Winery PARKS -continued on page 12 APPALACHIAN Named Best BBQ In Tennessee CAVERNS Voted #1 Best of Bristol

• Mrs. Proffitt’s BBQ Beans • Homecut French Fries • Creamy Cole Slaw • Amazing Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing 420CaveHillRoad • Southern Sweet Tea AND MUCH MORE!! Blountville, TN 37617 423.323.2337 Monday-Thursday 11am-7:30 pm www.AppaCaverns.com Friday & Saturday Lunch 11am-2:30pm • Supper 4:30-8:30 *TOURS STARTING AT $7.50 423 538-7543 $2.00 off Coupon 900 Elizabethon Hwy, Bluff City BRISTOL - by Laura J. Mondul As stated on the iconic sign down- the Foundation Event Facility at the recreational area and almost 2000 acres town, Bristol is a good place to live. But Birthplace of Country Music Mural, and of undeveloped forested knobs. The it’s also a great place to visit. features weekly live performances. forest features numerous hiking trails Heralded as the Birthplace of Coun- But there is much more to Bristol and beautiful scenery. Water enthusi- try Music, Bristol TN/VA offers many at- than downtown. Several miles out of asts can rent paddle boats or canoes to tractions for visitors. The city straddles the downtown area is the famous Bris- tour the lake. The park features picnic the state line of Tennessee and Virginia tol Motor Speedway, a favorite of NAS- areas and a rustic lodge that is avail- – downtown State Street divides the CAR fans across the country. Known for able for rent, a nine-hole golf course, city, with Tennessee on one side and its steep-banked turns, the racetrack and even a train that is sure to bring a Virginia on the other. brings more than 200,000 visitors a smile for youngsters. The park also of- fers a Nature Center that is open to the State Street offers a bustling down- year. Furthermore, the Bristol Dragway, also known as Thunder Valley, is located public year-round, and herb and fl ower town atmosphere, lined with antique gardens. stores, historic buildings, charming at the complex. And every year dur- cafes and restaurants, as well as unique ing the holiday season, the racetrack Another treat for the outdoor en- specialty stores and other businesses. features the breathtaking “Speedway thusiast is South Holston Lake, which in Lights,” an annual holiday light show features boating, waterskiing, camping, Bristol has always been a supporter that allows visitors to drive through the swimming, and the TVA South Holston of the arts. State Street also features complex, including the actual race- Dam, which provides electricity to the historic Paramount Theatre and track, ending at the Christmas Village in many of the surrounding areas and of- Theatre Bristol, which offer year-round the center of the track. fers scenic views of the lake and fantas- performances in dance, theatre and tic photo opportunities. The lake teems music. For outdoor enthusiasts, Bristol offers many scenic attractions and al with wildlife, the connected Holston Also downtown are numerous art fresco adventures. Steele Creek Park River offers some of the best trout fi sh- galleries offering a plethora of visual and Nature Center covers 2,200 acres ing in the world. treats. Bristol boasts many local artists, in scenic Bristol, Tennessee. The park For the visitor that enjoys shopping, and you can see and purchase their includes a 54-acre lake, 150 acres of in addition to the many shops available works at the many galleries on and -continued on page 8 around State Street. Open 7 Days a Week! If you visit at the right time Monday through Saturday 10am to 6pm of year, you can participate in New Menu the Haunted Historic GhostWalk Sunday 1pm to 6pm in downtown Bristol or watch the annual Christmas parade. In the fall, Bristol features the annual Rhythm and Roots Reunion, a three-day festival held downtown celebrating the BARGAIN HUNTERS city’s musical heritage, featur- FLEA MARKET MALL ing more than 20 stages with • Climate Controlled live music. The festival features Americana, bluegrass, folk, 2584 West State St, Bristol, TN Celtic, old-time and progressive (Old Food Lion Bldg) Appalachian music. 423-573-1217 Just off State Street is the Let’s Eat! Birthplace of Country Music Museum, featuring photos and The Village exhibits detailing the rich his- tory of music in Bristol, going Antique Mall back to the very fi rst country It’s all here. All new. music recordings on State Street Stop by today and enjoy! • Great Parking • Climate Controlled We’re now “beter than ever” with a wonderful in 1927 by the , new menu that’s sure to delight everyone in 1375 Volunteer Pkwy. Jimmy Rogers, Ernest Stoneman your family. We’ve kept all your old favorites and added lots more. Enjoy Biscuits and Bristol, TN and others. The Bristol Sessions Gravy or our Country Fried Steak Breakfast to start your day, our new Garden Salad for are known as the “Big Bang” of lunch and our fabulous High Range Ribeye 423-797-4412 Entree for dinner. Top things off with Shoney’s country music. Also for music famous Strawberry Pie or one of our hand- enthusiasts, The Pickin’ Porch dipped milk shakes. Or go with the popular All American Burger or the Slim Jim Sandwich and is located on State Street at don’t forget Shoney’s signature Onion Rings Famous All Day Buffet!

6 ◊ DISCOVER Top Left: Country Music Museum Saturday; Top Right: Irwin Tools Bristol Motor Speedway; Above left: Mountain Stage; Above Right: Night Snow; Far Left: Fireworks; Middle Left: Highlands Festival; Near Left: Creeper Trail Trestle; Below Left: Totem Pole; Below Middle and Inset: Rhythm & Roots Festival; Below Right: Highlands Festival - Photos by David Crigger

DISCOVER ◊ 7 -continued from page 6 downtown, the Bristol Mall also offers several large depart- "The Dragon Roars" ment stores, small retail shops, a food court and a movie theatre. Another movie theatre complex, Tinseltown USA, is June 13, 2015 located at Bristol, Virginia’s Exit 7 area off of Interstate 81 and offers state-of-the-art theatre experience. Also located at Tazewell County Fair Exit 7 are a plethora of restaurants, shops and hotels. Grounds, 515 Fairground In case you’re looking for that great photo opportunity, Rd., Tazewell, VA. 24651 Bristol features two “LOVEworks,” large outdoor art pieces, one at the Virginia Welcome Center of Interstate 81 and the $20 for single rider other on State Street. Furthermore, the huge guitar outside $25 for double riders the Bristol Chamber of Commerce on State Street is a favorite of visitors. And while you’re here, don’t forget to visit the Register: 10:00am to 12:00pm famous Bristol sign on State Street by the historic Trainstation, Run: 12:30pm to 5:00pm with Prizes, Great which declares Bristol as “A good place to live.” Food & Live Entertainment following! Please come and ride and show your support to the Veterans of Foreign Wars and The American Legion. Those of you that don't ride, come on out after the run and show your support and enjoy the Dragon Roars. For additional information please go to www.backofthedragon.com or contact Larry Davidson at 276-988-5725

Mon-Sat 10am - 8pm Sunday 1pm - 6pm First Our Snack bar offers pizza, hot Community Located on the dogs, French fries, mozzarella Bank 500 Gate City Highway Bristol, VA sticks, nachos and cheese, upper level of (276) 644-9599 popcorn, Slushres and a variety the Bristol Mall www.bouncebristol.com of chips, snacks and drinks.

Cedar Bluff Heritage Festival

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Be sure to look us up online for an updated calendar of events! www.HeartwoodVirginia.org ABINGDON - by Laura J. Mondul The historic town of Abingdon is During the “War Between the States,” many well-known actors, including nestled among the Blue Ridge Moun- the college doubled as a hospital for Gregory Peck, Patricia Neal, Ernest tains of Southwest Virginia. Rich in wounded soldiers from both sides, Borgnine, Ned Beatty, and many others. culture and scenic beauty, Abingdon resulting in the many ghost stories now Like many of the historic buildings in has something to offer for all visitors. surrounding the building. Today, the Abingdon, the Barter is rumored to be A designated Virginia Main Street, Martha Washington is an upscale hotel, haunted. Abingdon has a charm all its own. complete with a fi ne dining restaurant, For those visitors who are drawn to The downtown district features brick tennis courts, a fi tness center, a pool, a the ghostly, the town offers the Abing- sidewalks and tree-lined streets that library and a spa, all of which carefully don Historic GhostWalk around Hallow- evoke memories of a rich heritage. adhere to the elegance and splendor of een, which details the various haunts Established in 1778, Abingdon is alive the structure’s original architecture. -continued on page 11 with history, and played a part in both A short walk the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. down Main Street from the Martha Easterly-Coleman On Court One of the town’s well-known land- Your Full Service Design Boutique marks is the Martha Washington Inn, Washington is the a palatial residence built in 1832. In historic Barter The- Offering the finest in custom cabinetry, personalized 1858, the home became Martha Wash- atre, established interior design, timeless furniture, and unique gifts in ington College, which operated through in 1933 during the a boutique-like setting, Easterly-Coleman on Court is the Civil War and the Great Depression. Great Depression. proud to be Distinctively Different. The Barter was originated with the idea of allowing patrons to pay for their admission with produce from their farms and gardens. The famous theatre has been stage to

Award-winning ASID designers are available for every home design need, from custom cabinets to window treatments. Visit our boutique today at Easterly- Coleman on Court in historic Abingdon, VA.

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Happy Hour Specials 4-7 Mon-Thurs Damascus, Va 115 Charwood Drive Abingdon, Va 10 ◊ DISCOVER -continued from page10 stories. The Center features artisan and more. Each year, Main Street is and specters of the many centuries-old studios, cafes, restaurants, music packed with tents and booths selling buildings. venues and outfi tters, all housed in anything and everything Appalachian. Abingdon also offers many attrac- the eight-acre complex located next to For those visitors with a fi ne palate, tions for those interested in the arts. Virginia Highlands Community College. Abingdon is also home to the Abingdon The William King Museum of Art is a Outdoor enthusiasts will also fi nd Winery and Vineyard. Also, the town premier visual arts facility. The mu- plenty to do in Abingdon. The historic hosts a busy Farmer’s Market open two seum inhabits a former school building Virginia Creeper Trail, a former railway, days a week, offering fresh, locally dating back to 1913. William King fea- is now a 34-mile trail open to biking, grown foods. tures three main galleries, as well as a horseback riding and hiking. The scenic Historic Abingdon is home to a student gallery and a panoramic gallery trail begins in downtown Abingdon and plethora of exciting and fun things to that features self-curated shows by stretches through mountain passes, do – a town rich in history and cultural local artists. The museum also houses forests and streams to its culmination heritage with a strong focus on the artist studios, a reference library, re- at Whitetop, near the North Carolina arts. With too many things to do to search archives and an outdoor sculp- state line. include in one listing, visitors won’t ture garden. The historic White’s Mill has been want to miss a thing when visiting this Abingdon is also home to the Arts serving the outlying Abingdon com- charming town. Depot, a community-based art gal- munity since the 18th century. The lery housed in a 19th century freight mill has recently been renovated, and train station. The Depot features three visitors can now tour the Mercantile, galleries, and all art is available for which houses local artwork, handmade purchase. quilts, and more. White’s Mill also hosts A recent addition to the arts scene the Harvest Days festival in October, in Abingdon is Heartwood: Southwest featuring live music, fi shing and food. Virginia’s Artisan Gateway. Heartwood Speaking of festivals, a great time offers a visitor and sales center featur- to visit Abingdon is during the annual ing the work of artisans and musicians. Virginia Highlands Festival every sum- Visitors can learn about Southwest mer. The festival is held in downtown Virginia’s history, heritage, recreation Abingdon and features live music, arts and scenic beauty through songs and and crafts, food, handmade products Barter Theatre - File Photo

DISCOVER ◊ 11 -continued from page 5 420 Cave Hill Road Bristol, VA 24201 Bristol, VA 24201 Southwest Virginia Museum Blountville, TN 37617 276-664-9700 276-644-9700 Historical State Park 423-323-2337 www.believeinbristol.org www.believeinbristol.org 10 West First Street www.appacaverns.com Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 LOVEwork at Virginia Welcome The Pickin Porch 276-523-1322 DISCOVER: BREAKS, VA Center in Bristol 500 Gate City Highway www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/ PARKS Interstate 81 Bristol, VA 24201 276-645-0035 southwest-virginia-museum.shtml Breaks 66 Island Road www.pickinporch.org KY-VA 80 Bristol, VA 24201 THE ARTS Breaks, VA 24607 276-466-2932 Three Springs Forge www.virginia.org June Tolliver Playhouse 276-865-4413 7058 Reedy Creek Road 518 Clinton Avenue East www.breakspark.com Bristol, VA 24202 LOVEwork in Bristol 276-669-3726 Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 629 State Street -continued on page 13 276-523-1235 DISCOVER: BRISTOL, VA www.myswva.org/venue/june- FESTIVALS tolliver-playhouse Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion Trail of the Lonesome Pine www.bristolrhythm.com Amphitheatre/June Tollivery Playhouse MUSEUMS 518 Clinton Avenue East Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 Birthplace of Country Music 276-523-1235 Museum www.trailofthelonesomepine.com 520 Birthplace of Country Music Way Bristol, VA 24201 TOURS http://birthplaceofcountrymusic. Big Stone Gap Walking/Driving org/ Tour 619 Gilley Avenue THE ARTS Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 Birthplace of Country Music 276-523-2060 Museum www.bigstonegap.org 520 Birthplace of Country Music DISCOVER: BLAND, VA Way Bristol, VA 24201 THE ARTS http://birthplaceofcountrymusic. Julie’s Handmade Country Crafts org/ 1099 White Pine Drive Bristol Ballet Company Bland, VA 24315 628 Cumberland Street 276-688-4949 Bristol, VA 24201 DISCOVER: BLOUNTVILLE, 276-669-6051 TN www.bristolballet.org ATTRACTIONS Historic Downtown State Street Appalachian Caverns 36 Moore Street

The Virginia Creeper Lodge, located in Damascus Virginia. The Lodge is a perfect place to bring your family or neighborhood to stay when you want to ride the Va Creeper Trail. Southwest Virginia is home to some of the best Trout fishing, Hiking, 276-451-8516 or 276-492-1143 Biking, and Horseback riding in the state. The Virginia Creeper Trail offers Damascus, VA 30+ miles of Bicycling and Horserback riding adventure through parts of the Mount Rodgers National . 12 ◊ DISCOVER -continued from page 12 ATTRACTIONS Tinseltown USA Bristol Caverns 3004 Linden Drive 1157 Bristol Caverns Road Bristol, VA 24202 Bristol, TN 37620 276-669-0588 423-878-2011 TOURS www.bristolcaverns.com/ PRESERVING HISTORY FOR OVER 30,000 YEARS Haunted Historic Bristol Bristol Motor Speedway and Make Saltville Part of Your Destination! GhostWalk Dragway 501 State Street 151 Speedway Boulevard Easily accessed from I-81, Saltville is situated Bristol, VA 24201 Bristol, TN 37620 on the trail of many attractions, including 423-743-9255 423-989-6900 www.bristolghostwalk.com Virginia's acclaimed Civil War Trails, The www.bristolmotorspeedway.com/ Crooked Road Heritage Music Trail, Virginia DISCOVER: BRISTOL, TN FESTIVALS Birding & Wildlife Trail, and the artisan trail, -continued on page 17 Round the Mountain. • Museum • Well Fields of Middle Appalachians • Civil War Sites & Fortifications • Salt Park

GATEWAY TO MOUNT ROGERS www.chilhowie.org Learn more at www.saltville.org

Visit a Bus tours Tasting Rooms and Store Hours welcome! Monday – Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Distillery (Distillery opens at 12 noon on Sunday) & I-81 Exit 54 Winery (Groseclose, VA Exit) in One Location! 1167 Davis Valley Road See a moonshine still in action. 276.686.8855 Sample and purchase our famous www.davisvalleydistillery.com moonshines, vodka and wines www.davisvalleywinery.com Visit our Gift Shop. Enjoy!! Always drink responsibly DISCOVER ◊ 13 SMYTH COUNTY

From history buffs to fi shermen, bikers events can be found on the stage of The and wildlife watching and learning about to hikers, music buffs to movie fans, Smyth Lincoln Theatre, also in downtown Marion. history. The Virginia Salt Trail is a multi-use County can help fuel the passions of many The 500-seat theater presents a wide trail running 8.5 miles between Saltville and interests. variety of performing art shows throughout Glade Spring. For the history buff, Smyth County is the year. Restored in 2004, it is one of three For individuals who prefer to see the home to sites of historic importance dating existing Art Deco Mayan Revival theaters in county’s great views from a motorcycle back to the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. the country. Its stage is also home to Song seat, there’s the Back of the Dragon, a Annually, Saltville is host to re-enactments of the Mountains, an ongoing concert series 32-mile ride on Rt. 16 between Frog Level of two major Civil War battles. Saltville featuring old-time, bluegrass and Americana in Tazewell County and Marion. The Back of is also home to the Museum of the Middle musicians. The series is aired on PBS sta- the Dragon offers more than 260 curves and Appalachians that boasts exhibits worthy of tions around the country. reaches elevation up to 3,500 feet. major galleries. Its exhibits range from the April through December, Marion’s arts -continued on page 16 Ice Age (paleontologists continue explora- community hosts the Second Friday Alive tions in the community) to Saltville’s 80 After Five art walk in the downtown area. years as a company town. Visitors to the For outdoor enthusiasts, Smyth County museum can also view and purchase cop- offers a plethora of opportunities. ies from its collection of more than 4,000 photos. The world-famous crosses through Smyth County near Sugar In Groseclose, the Settlers Museum tells Grove and Groseclose. The county and the story of the people who settled South- Marion are a designated AT community. west Virginia and how its unique culture was formed. The museum grounds include a Marion is also home to Hungry Mother visitor’s center, 1890’s one-room school and State Park, where visitors can fi nd easy farm. and challenging hikes, fi sh from the banks or take a boat out on the In downtown Marion, visitors can explore lake, swim from the beach, a variety of exhibits in the Holston River enjoy a paddleboat ride or Heritage Center, which showcases history have a family picnic. The park organized by the Smyth County Historical & offers a variety of camping Museum Society Inc. Marion is also home to options from primitive to Sallie’s Crying Tree. It serves as a reminder cabins available for rent. of Sallie, a child who was purchased and brought to Marion as a slave in 1840. She The about 200,000 acres cried with grief and loneliness from being of National Forest land that separated from her family and would wrap make up the Mount Rogers her arms around the tree for comfort. National Recreation Area include a portion of Smyth 20th-century author Sherwood Anderson County. Virginia’s two highest lived and wrote in Smyth County and was peaks are within the Mt. Rog- buried in the community. ers NRA. The land is home to Coming soon is the Wayne C. Henderson a herd of wild, free-ranging School of Appalachian Arts being developed ponies that many people en- in the town’s 1908 Schoolhouse that was joy photographing. The NRA is saved from becoming a parking lot. open for camping, picnicking, The school’s name honors Wayne Hen- sight-seeing, bird watching, derson, a world-renowned musician and trout fi shing, hunting, hiking, luthier of handmade custom guitars, includ- bicycling, horseback riding, ing one for Eric Clapton and another for the cross-country skiing and swim- late Doc Watson. ming. Over a million visitors come to Mount Rogers every The school will offer music and year. instrument-making classes but will also encompass other traditional arts, includ- For gentle hikes, a river- ing storytelling, writing, art, gardening and walk is open in Marion and preserving. Saltville offers the Helen Williams Barbrow Interpretive Many examples of the region’s tradition- Trail in its well fi elds, which Above Top: Damascus Trail Days - Photo by Jeff Simmons al music as well as plays, movies and special are also a great spot for bird Above: The Lincoln Theatre - File Photo 14 ◊ DISCOVER Appalachian All meats Mountain Spirits, LLC smoked fresh Marion’s own Artisan Distillery onsite daily Specializingin TexasstyleBrisket, Pork,Chicken&Ribs Tasting Room & Mercantile 112 East Main St. Marion, VA 276-378-0867 VirginiaWhiskeys.com We offer local artisan goods, logo merchandise and our award winning spirits. 138 East Main Street Stop by for a tasting. Marion, VA 24354 Our spirits are located in most ABC stores in Virginia www.wolfes-bbq.com DRINK RESPONSIBLY!! 276-378-0823

Holston Hills Community Golf Course Come On Out And Play!

• Public Championship Golf • Pro Shop • Rental Clubs Available • Discounted Weekly Rates for Senior/Junior/Ladies • Full Service Grille • Reduced Rates After 2PM daily • Located Only 5 Minutes off I-81 (Exit 44)

1000 Country Club Road, Marion (276) 783-7484 www.holstonhillsgolf.com -continued from page 14 With all this activity, folks are bound also be booked there. In addition to shing in Hungry Mother fi to get hungry. From fast food to eateries Lake, the South Fork of the Holston River in Smyth County is also home Davis Valley with a pub atmosphere to fi ne-dining, the Smyth County features two special regula- Distillery and Winery in Groseclose. The community has a variety of dining establish- tion areas that have helped earn the river establishment features a Virginia ABC Store ments. The best known is the iconic Hi-Way recognition as one of the premier trout and Tasting Room. Drive-In just outside of Marion that’s known sheries in the state. fi for its unique Dip Dogs that folks will travel That’s only the beginning of opportuni- If golf is more your style, Holston Hills from far away to sample. The red bumper ties in Smyth County. There’s a drive-in Community Golf Course offers an 18-hole sticker that declares “got Dip Dogs?” has movie theater and entertainment complex, course as well as a swimming pool. Golfi ng been photographed around the globe. antique shopping, summer concerts and new is also available in Chilhowie and Saltville, possibilities arriving all the time. Appalachian Mountain Spirits Mercantile and Saltville offers a unique wave pool. & Stillhouse Store can be found on Main To learn more, individuals may stop in, From May through the early fall, mul- Street in downtown Marion. The mercantile call or email the Smyth County Tourism tiple farmers markets can be found through- offers tastings, the opportunity to learn how Center in the historic Bonham House in Chil- out the community, offering a wide array of the handmade corn whiskey is made and a howie just off Interstate 81 Exit 35. fresh produce. variety of goods for sale. Distillery tours can

Above Left: Hungry Mother Lake; Above Right: Rich Valley Fair; Near Right: Hungry Mother Festival; Far Right: Crab Orchard Museum; Below Bottom: Tazewell County Air Show - File Photos Near Below: Damascus Trail Days - Photo by Jeff Simmons

16 ◊ DISCOVER -continued from page 14 Bristol, TN 37620 THE ARTS Bristol Rhythm and Roots 423-274-8920 Appalachian Arts Center The Arts Place Reunion www.theparamountcenter.com/ 2157 Steelesburg Highway 124 East Main Street www.bristolrhythm.com Cedar Bluff, VA 24609 Chilhowie, VA 24319 Theatre Bristol 276-596-9188 276-759-1800 HISTORICAL SITES 512 State Street http://apparts.sw.edu/ Tennessee Ernie Ford Home Bristol, TN 37620 DISCOVER: CLINTWOOD, VA 1222 Anderson Street 423-383-5979 DISCOVER: CHILHOWIE, VA THE ARTS www.theatrebristol.org Bristol, TN 37620 THE ARTS Dickenson Arts Center and Gallery 423-989-4850 DISCOVER: BUCHANAN, VA Eller Instruments Pioneer Art League/PO Box 715 www.bristolhistoricalassociation. Clintwood, VA 24228 com/ernieford.html MUSEUMS 595 Horseshoe Bend Road Chilhowie, VA 24319 540-926-5358 MUSEUMS Art on Gold and Portraits on 276-646-3620 Gold Creations Jettie Baker Center The Mountain Music Museum www.ellerinstruments.com 19818 West Main Street -continued on page 18 and Mercantile Buchanan, VA 24066 626 State Street 540-254-3183 JOIN TODAY & Bristol, TN 37620 www.portraitsongold.com YOU WILL ENJOY: 423-573-2262 www.appalachianculturalmusic.org/ DISCOVER: BASTIAN, VA PARKS CULTURAL HERITAGE Steele Creek Park and Nature Wolf Creek Indian Village and Center Museum 4 Little Lane 6394 North Scenic Highway GUEST PASSES Bristol, TN 37620 Bastian, VA 24314 423-989-5616 276-688-3438 AvAilAble • NeW equipmeNt! www.friendsofsteelecreek.org/ http://www.indianvillage.org/ THE ARTS DISCOVER: CEDAR BLUFF, Paramount Center for the Arts VA 518 West State Street -continued from page 17 East Tennessee Celtic Festival Carter Holliday Art Gallery East Main Street www.uppereasttncelticsociety. 883 Thunderstruck Road NE Sarvisberry Gallery and Studios Clintwood, VA 24228 org/index.php?template=festival Floyd, VA 24901 174 Sarvisberry Lane SW 276-926-8694 www.carterholliday.com Floyd, VA 24901 www.townofclintwood.com/ PARKS 540-745-6330 jettie-baker-center/ Sycamore Shoals State Historic Crenshaw Lighting Studio www.sarvisberry.com Park 592 Paradise Lane Ralph Stanley Museum and 1651 W. Elk Avenue Floyd, VA 24901 Shankin Pottery Traditional Mountain Music Elizabethton, TN 37643 540-745-3900 297 Summer Lane NE Center 423-543-5808 www.crenshawlighting.com Floyd, VA 24901 249 Clintwood Main Street tnstateparks.com/parks/contact/ 540-745-3595 Clintwood, VA 24228 sycamore-shoals Floyd Artists Association – Blue www.ellenshankin.com 276-926-8550 Ridge Art Connection www.ralphstanleymuseum.com HISTORICAL SITES 203 South Locust Street The Jacksonville Center for the Floyd, VA 24091 Arts DISCOVER: COEBURN, VA Doe River Covered Bridge www.fl oydartists.com 220 Parkway Lane South Elk and Hattie Street Floyd, VA 24091 FESTIVALS Elizabethton, TN 37643 Granatelli Pottery 540-745-2784 Guest River Rally Festival 423-547-3850 207 Slusher Store Road www.jacksonvillecenter.org www.townofcoeburn.com/ Floyd, VA 24091 guestriver.php DISCOVER: EWING, VA 540-745-4613 The Natural Woodworking PARKS www.silviegranatelli.com Company THE ARTS 1527 Franklin Pike SE Wilderness Road State Park Hensley Polseno Pottery Floyd, VA 24901 Historic Lays Hardware Center 8051 Wilderness Road 1643 Starbuck Road 540-392-6287 for the Arts Ewing, VA 24248 Floyd, VA 24901 www.naturalwoodworkingco.com 409 East Front Street 276-445-3065 540-745-4624 Coeburn, VA 24230 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state- www.16hands.com The Sun Music Hall and Cultural 276-395-5160 parks/wilderness-road.shtml www.layshardware.com/ Arts Center June Bug Center DISCOVER: FLOYD, VA 302 South Locust Street DISCOVER: DAMASCUS, VA 251 Parkway Lane Floyd, VA 24901 CULTURAL HERITAGE Floyd, VA 24901 540-745-7883 FESTIVALS 540-745-6550 Floyd Historical Society Museum www.thesunmusichall.com www.junebugcenter.org Trail Days 217 North Locust Street www.traildays.us/ Floyd, VA 24091 Tom Phelps Studio Icove Lighting Design Gallery 540-745-3247 635 Stagecoach Road SE 5773 Franklin Park SE WINERIES AND BREWERIES www.fl oydhistoricalsociety.org Floyd, VA 24901 Floyd, VA 24901 540-745-3154 The Damascus Brewery 540-745-3546 FESTIVALS www.potterystuff.com 32173 Government Road www.icovelighting.com Damascus, VA 24236 Floydfest Troika Contemporary Crafts 540-314-2782 www.fl oydfest.com Little River Designs 203-205 South Locust Street www.thedamascusbrewery.com 446 Little River Road Floyd, VA 23901 MUSEUMS Floyd, VA 24901 DISCOVER: DUFFIELD, VA 540-745-8764 Floyd County Historical Society 540-745-4598 www.troikacrafts.com CULTURAL HERITAGE Museum www.little-river-bedandbreakfast. com Wilderness Trail 217 North Locust Street WINERIES AND BREWERIES 1420 Natural Tunnel Parkway Floyd, VA 24091 Painting Studio of Joli Ayn Wood Chateau Morrisette Winery Duffi eld, VA 24244 540-745-3247 657 Poor Farm Road 287 Winery Road SW 276-940-2674 www.fl oydhistoricalsociety.org Floyd, VA 24901 Floyd, VA 24091 www.danialboonetrail.com 540-449-5078 540-593-2865 Parks THE ARTS www.jolisart.blogspot.com www.thedogs.com Bell Gallery and Garden Natural Tunnel State Park Villa Appalaccia Winery 112 North Locust Street Phoenix Hardwoods 1423 Natural Tunnel Parkway 752 Rock Castle Gorge Floyd, VA 24091 2540 Floyd Highway North Duffi eld, VA 24244 Floyd, VA 24091 540-745-4494 Floyd, VA 24901 276-940-2674 540-593-3100 www.bellgalleryandgarden.com 540-745-7475 www.dcr.virginia.gov/state- www.villaappalaccia.com www.phoenix-hardwoods.com parks/natural-tunnel.shtml Blue Ridge Views Scenic Images 429 Penn Road SW Rhythm Fire Dance Company DISCOVER: FORT CHISWELL, DISCOVER: ELIZABETHTON, Floyd, VA 24091 477 Rain Dance Drive VA 540-239-2705 Floyd, VA 24901 TN HISTORIC SITES www.blueridgeviews.com 540-798-9516 FESTIVALS www.rhythmfi redance.com -continued on page 19 18 ◊ DISCOVER -continued from page 18 THE ARTS Kingsport, TN 37660 Fort Chiswell Mansion Jag’s HISTORIC SITES 423-229-9447 325 Factory Outlet Drive 21950 Riverside Drive Christopher Taylor House www.baysmountain.com/ Fort Chiswell, VA 24360 University Plaza #4 Main Street 304-323-5435 Grundy, VA 24612 Jonesborough, TN 37659 Warriors’ Path State Park www.fortchiswellmansion.com 276-935-4311 423-753-1010 490 Hemlock Road www.facebook.com/pages/ www.historicjonesborough.com/ Kingsport, TN 37663 DISCOVER: GATE CITY, VA JAGS/415489751804295 history/history-jonesborough-tn. 423-239-8531 tnstateparks.com/parks/about/ ATTRACTIONS php DISCOVER: HILTONS, VA warriors-path Creation Kingdom Zoo MUSEUMS The Oak Hill School 1642 Snowfl ake Road 212 East Sabin Drive DISCOVER: LIMESTONE, TN Gate City, VA 24251 A.P. Carter Museum Jonesborough, TN 37659 ATTRACTIONS 276-690-5450 3449 A.P. Carter Highway 423-753-9580 www.creationkingdomzoo.com/ Hiltons, VA 24258 Bright’s Zoo www.heritageall.org/education/ 3425 Highway 11 index.php 276-594-0676 programs/oak-hill-school/ 276-386-6054 Limestone, TN 37681 FESTIVALS 423-257-1927 www.carterfamilyfold.org MUSEUMS Grillin at the Gate www.brightszoo.com/ www.gcitygrillin.com/ THE ARTS Jonesborough/Washington County Historical Museum PARKS THE ARTS Carter Family Fold 117 Boone Street 3449 A.P. Carter Highway Davy Crockett Birthplace State Jonesborough, TN 37659 Park LOVEwork in Scott County Hiltons, VA 24258 423-753-1010 Highway 23 and 58 276-594-0676 1245 Davy Crockett Park Road historicjonesborough.com/visi- Limestone, TN 37681 Gate City, VA 24251 www.carterfamilyfold.org tors-center-jonesborough-tn.php 276-386-6521 423-257-2167 www.explorescottcountyva.com tnstateparks.com/parks/about/ DISCOVER: JOHNSON CITY, The Chester Inn Museum davy-crockett-birthplace DISCOVER: GALAX, VA TN 116 Main Street Jonesborough, TN 37659 DISCOVER: MARION, VA FESTIVALS FESTIVALS 423-753-4580 FESTIVALS HoustonFest Blue Plum Festival www.historicjonesborough.com/ houstonfestgalax.com/ www.blueplum.org/ thingstodo/chester-inn-museum. Hungry Mother Festival php www.hungrymotherfestival.com/ Leaf and String Festival HISTORIC SITES www.visitgalax.com/leafand- THE ARTS Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site MUSEUMS stringfestival.html 2620 South Roan Street Jonesborough Repertory The- Appalachian Spirit Gallery atre Old Fiddlers Convention Johnson City, TN 37601 144 West Main Street 125 ½ West Main Street www.oldfi ddlersconvention.com/ 423-936-3631 Marion, VA 24354 www.tipton-haynes.org Jonesborough, TN 37659 276-759-3890 THE ARTS 423-753-1010 www.appalachianspiritgallery.com MUSEUMS www.jonesboroughtheatre.com/ The Rex Theatre THE ARTS Grayson Street Hands On! Regional Museum DISCOVER: KINGSPORT, TN Galax, VA 24333 315 East Main Street Park Place Drive-in 276-238-8130 Johnson City, TN 37601 FESTIVALS 205 Park Boulevard 423-434-4263 Funfest Marion, VA 24354 DISCOVER: GRAY, TN handsonmuseum.org/ funfest.net/ 276-781-2222 www.parkplacedrivein.com FESTIVALS DISCOVER: JONESBOROUGH, Racks by the Tracks Appalachian Fair TN www.racksbythetracks.com/ The Lincoln Center www.appalachianfair.com/ 117 East Main Street ATTRACTIONS HISTORIC SITES Marion, VA 24354 MUSEUMS International Storytelling Center 276-783-6093 Exchange Place www.thelincoln.org East Tennessee State University 116 W. Main Street 4812 Orebank Road and General Shale Natural Jonesboro, TN 37659 Kingsport, TN 37664 History Museum 800-952-8392 423-288-6071 DISCOVER: MAX MEADOWS, Visitor Center and Gray Fossil Site www.storytellingcenter.net http://exchangeplace.info VA 1212 Suncrest Drive WINERIES AND BREWERIES Gray, TN 37615 FESTIVALS PARKS West Wind Farm Vineyard- 423-439-3659 National Storytelling Festival Bays Mountain Park and www.storytellingcenter.net/ Winery Planetarium 180 West Wind Drive DISCOVER: GRUNDY, VA events/national-storytelling- 853 Bays Mountain Park Road festival/ -continued on page 20 DISCOVER ◊ 19 -continued from page 19 chian-african-american-cultural- 540-994-8696 Max Meadows, VA 24360 DISCOVER: PINEY FLATS, center www.theratcliffemuseum.com 276-669-2020 TN DISCOVER: PULASKI, VA THE ARTS www.westwindwine.com/index. MUSEUMS php FESTIVALS Lambert’s Woodturnings Rocky Mount Living History 20 12th Street NE PulaskiFest DISCOVER: NORTON, VA Museum Pulaski, VA 24301 www.pulaskifest.com/ 200 Hyder Hill Road 540-980-5975 THE ARTS Piney Flats, TN 37686 MUSEUMS Central Drive-In 888-538-1791 Pulaski Theatre www.rockymountmuseum.com/ 5113 Kent Junction Road Fine Arts Center for the New 14 West Main Street Norton, VA 24273 River Valley DISCOVER: PENNINGTON Pulaski, VA 24301 276-679-3761 21 West Main Street 540-994-9555 www.centraldrivein.com GAP, VA Pulaski, VA 24301 www.pulaskitheatre.org 540-980-7363 THE ARTS Country Cabin II Appalachian www.facnrv.org DISCOVER: ROAN MOUNTAIN, Traditions Village Appalachian African-American 6034 Kent Junction Road Cultural Arts Center Raymond F. Ratcliffe Memorial TN Norton, VA 24273 230 North Leona Street Transportation Museum FESTIVALS 276-679-3541 Pennington Gap, VA 24277 51 Commerce Street Rhododendron Festival www.appalachiantraditionsinc. 540-546-5632 Pulaski, VA 24301 com www.myswva.org/venue/appala- 540-980-2307 -continued on page 23 CHECK OUT THESE SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS!

204 W. Main St. Museum of the Marion, VA Middle Appalachians

276-781-0250 “May all who enter as guests, leave as friends” 123 Palmer Ave • Saltville, VA Convenient to • the VA Creeper Trail • • Mt. Rogers & Appalachian Trail • Fly Fishing Destination Explore 18 natural and cultural Convenient to Back of the Dragon • Motorcycle Touring exhibits connected by salt. Enthusiasts Welcome See the new video exhibit  ‘Civil War at the Salt Works.’ www.collinshouseinn.com From I81, Exit 35 on Rt 107N, 8.5 mi 276-496-3633 Virginia Green Travelers or Exit 29 on Rt 91 N, 8.5 mi [email protected] Award Recipient www.museum-mid-app.org Hours: Mon.-Sat. • 10-4 | Sun. • 1-4

260 West Main St. • Abingdon, VA 276-623-0037 Open: 11 am - 10 pm • 7 days a week bonefiresmokehousebbq.com

20 ◊ DISCOVER WYTHEVILLE - by Laura J. Mondul Named for George Wythe, the fi rst signer of the Declaration includes the town’s fi rst fi re truck, early farming equipment and of Independence, Wytheville was founded in 1792. A town rich tools, military uniforms and more. in history, Wytheville is often known as the “Hub of Southwest For visitors who need to quench their thirst after a busy day Virginia” or the “Crossroads of the Blue Ridge.” With touring,touring, the WestWindWestWin Vineyard and Winery. This fourth-genera- plenty of outdoor activities and many cultural tion homestead offers hospitality, wonder- and historical sites, Wytheville is located at thee fulf views and of course, a plethora of wines convergence of two major interstates and is a forf sampling. convenient and exciting destination for visitors.s. The Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre is a At the time of Wytheville’s beginnings, the uniqueu and exciting way to experience Wy- town was located at the junction of two majorr theville.th Featuring a 200-seat arena, the the- western roads – the Ingles Ferry and the Peppersrs atreat provides four-course meals served and Ferry Trails. Today, the town is home to many customizedcu to complement the Broadway- fascinating historic sites that recall the early stylesty productions offered year-round. Also at days. thethe theatre is the Matterhorn Restaurant and Wytheville was the birthplace of Edith Bol- Lounge,Lou which offers authentic German cook- ling, who became the second wife of Presidentt ing,ing, and the Bier Garten, featuring café-style Woodrow Wilson. Downtown Wytheville now diningdini offered during warmer months. honors this famous First Lady with the Edith ThoseT visitors who enjoy scenery will love Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum, which is BigBig WalkerW Lookout, a 100-foot lookout tower located in the bottom fl oor of the historic at anan elevation of 3,405 feet. The BW Country Bolling home. The museum celebrates the StoreStore offers handmade arts and crafts from the history, heritage and romance behind this remark-ark region, as well as old-fashioned fudge, jams, able woman. jellies and relishes. Located just outside Wytheville and overlook- Outdoor enthusiasts will also be captivated ing the New River, Shot Tower was built more by the , composed of 5,609 than 200 years ago to make fi rearms for early set- acres and bor- tlers. Lead from nearby mines was melted atop dered by the the 75-foot-tower. Guests may now ascend the Appalachian Visit Our Museums tower, which is listed among the National Register Trail. of Historic Places. & Museum Gift Shop The Beagle The Wytheville Genealogical and Historical Ridge Gardens Association offers visitors an extensive collection and Herb of books, documents and records about the his- Farm features tory of the town. Furthermore, the Wythe County four miles of Historical Society operates the Wythe County nature trails, Historical Library, which is open to the public. 14 themed Located in the Wytheville Training School and Above Photos: Chautauqua Festival - displays, as Photos by Jeff Simmons Museum Tours: Cultural Center, the African-American Heritage well as a gift Museum explores the role of African-American’s in the history of shop with herbal bath soaps, Tues.-Fri. • 10AM -4PM Wytheville. The museum features artifacts and memorabilia as lotions, and herbs and season- 3rd Sat. • 12 – 4 PM well as information about the important cultural history of the -continued on page 24 town. All Three Located Visitors who are enthralled on Tazewell Street, by history won’t want to miss Wytheville, VA the Halloner-Gibney Rock Museum Shop Hours: House Museum. Built in 1823, the house was originally the Monday - Saturday residence of the town’s fi rst 1025 Peppers Ferry Road • Wytheville, VA 10AM – 4:30PM resident physician. The museum 975 Tazewell Street, features furnishings and records Wytheville from the era, and even a 19th-  Lunch & Dinner Buffets  century herb garden. 276-223-3372 The Thomas J. Boyd Museum also offers visitors a glimpse into  Discounted Kid’s Menu  www.facebook.com/ the life of the early residents wythevillemuseums of Wytheville. The collection Open 24 Hours a Day www.wythevillemuseums.com

DISCOVER ◊ 21 Left:Left: Snow in thethe Cove section ofof WytheWyt County; Top Middle and Top Right: Bland Festival of Leaves; Below Left: Appalachian Trail; Below Middle: Rocky Gap Spring; Below Right: Country Scene - Photos by Jeff Simmons

Below Left: Bland Festival of Leaves; Below Middle: Rural Retreat Lake; Below Right & Below Left Middle: New River Kayaking; Bottom Left: I-77 thru Bland County Fall Leaves; Bottom Right: Hillsville Flea Market - Photos by Jeff Simmons

22 ◊ DISCOVER -continued from page 20 Saltville, VA 24370 276-328-5200 145 East Main Street www.roanmountain.com/festival. 276-496-3633 www.clisso.com Wytheville, VA 24382 htm www.museum-mid-app.org 276-223-3484 Hercel Stallard Studios www.edithbollingwilson.org PARKS DISCOVER: WEBER CITY, VA 607 Spring Avenue SE Wise, VA 24293 Wythe County Genealogical and Roan Mountain State Park THE ARTS 1015 Hwy 143 904-318-3741 Historical Association Roan Mountain, TN 37687 The Pickin Parlor Jam Sessions www.hercelstallard.com 115 East Main Street 423-772-0190 The Pickin Parlor Wytheville, VA 24382 tnstateparks.com/parks/about/ U.S. Highway 23 WINERIES AND BREWERIES 276-228-2445 roan-mountain Weber City, VA 24290 www.wythecogha.org 267-386-2654 MountainRose Vineyard DISCOVER: RURAL RETREAT, 10439 North Reservoir Road FESTIVALS DISCOVER: WISE, VA Wise, VA 24293 Chautauqua Festival VA 276-328-2013 FESTIVALS www.wythevillefestival.org/ WINERIES AND BREWERIES www.mountainrosevineyard.com Wise County Famous Fall Fling Rural Retreat Winery and MUSEUMS www.wisefallfl ing.com/ Vineyards DISCOVER: WYTHEVILLE, VA Aftrican-American Heritage 201 Church Street THE ARTS ATTRACTIONS Museum Rural Retreat, VA 24368 410 East Franklin Street Fort Chiswell Animal Park 276-686-8300 Charles W. Harris Gallery Wytheville, VA 24382 569 Red Hollow Road www.ruralretreatwinery.com 124 Library Road SW 276-625-0042 Wytheville, VA 24382 Wise, VA 24293 www.visitwytheville.com/african- 276-637-6754 DISCOVER: SALTVILLE, VA 276-328-1251 american-heritage-museum.html www.charlesharrisgallery.org www.fortchiswellanimalpark.com MUSEUMS Butterfl y Flowers CULTURAL HERITAGE Museum of the Middle Clisso Photography 1934 Matney Flats 4896 Southridge Drive Appalachians Edith Bolling Wilson Memorial Wytheville, VA 24382 123 Palmer Avenue Wise, VA 24293 Birthplace -continued on page 24

DISCOVER ◊ 23 -continued from page 21 -continued from page 23 276-621-5411 ings. For fl ower-lovers, Butterfl y Flowers features the region’s 276-621-4511 www.beagleridgeherbfarm.com only butterfl y house along with its beautiful fl ower gardens. www.beagleridgeherbfarm.com Field of Flowers at Pleasant Hill Farm even allows visitors to cut Stony Fork Workshop their own fl owers from the 50 large fl ower beds and take them Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace 407 Gullion Fork Road home in a mason jar. Museum Wytheville, VA 24382 For children or the young at heart, the Fort Chiswell Animal 145 East Main Street 276-228-8349 Park is the perfect place to spend the afternoon. This 45-acre Wytheville, VA 24382 zoo features animals from six continents and offers hands-on, 276-223-3484 interactive fun for all ages. www.edithbollingwilson.org Wohlfahrt Haus Theatre/ Matterhorn Restaurant Keeping with Appalachian tradition, Wytheville offers many Thomas J. Boyd Museum and Lounge opportunities to experience live music. The town has the Sum- 295 Tazewell Street 170 Main Drive mer Saturday Concert Series at WestWind Winery and Vineyard, Wytheville, VA 24382 Wytheville, VA 24382 weekend Music at Big Walker Lookout, Gerta’s House of Music, 276-223-3331 276-223-0891 the Matterhorn Lounge Tuesday Night Music, the Old Stage Jam www.wohlfhahrthaus.com on Thursdays, and the WCC Bluegrass and Old Time Jam, plus PARKS much more. Big Walker Lookout and BW TOURS With so many ac- Country Store African-American Heritage tivities and attractions 8711 Stoney Fork Road Driving Tour and its convenient Wytheville, VA 24382 975 Tazewell Street location at the junc- 276-663-4016 Wytheville, VA 24382 tion of Interstates 81 www.scenicbeauty-va.com 276-223-3355 and 77, Wytheville is www.visitwytheville.com a great destination for THE ARTS a day trip or even a weekend. A blend of Beagle Ridge Herb Farm and the great outdoors, Flying Flowers history and heritage, 1934 Matney Flats Road Wytheville has some- Wytheville, VA thing for everyone. Buffalo Mountain - Photo by Jeff Simmons PLAY Home and Garden Decor & more... & SAVE! Wildwood Farms General Store Floyd, VA $ OFF 540-745-5155 4 Play 5 2380 Floyd Hwy S., Floyd VA About 5 miles south of Floyd on Rt. 221 Regular 3Pay Rates

Local produce and *Live Bluegrass canned goods Every Saturday

See our website for Hours: …full menu Have Lunch with us! Mon – Thurs: 10 – 5pm …music /event schedule Friday 10 – 6pm …daylily price list Saturday 10 – 9pm www.wildwoodfarmsdaylilies.com Like us on Facebook! Sunday 12 – 5pm

24 ◊ DISCOVER FLOYD - by Laura J. Mondul

Established in 1831 and originally named Jacksonville, ing gospel, bluegrass and old-time music for listeners of the Town of Floyd sits atop a plateau among the scenic all ages. Reminiscent of the traditional country store of Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwest Virginia. Known for its old times, the store has barrels of old-fashioned candy on many outdoor activities and thriving music and arts com- the porch, and sells clothing, supplies, food and more. munity, Floyd is a great destination for visitors looking for The store even has its own café serving homemade soups, adventure. sandwiches, and more. With over 40 miles of the run- For the art lover, Floyd is a mecca of unique and ning through Floyd County, this quaint Virginia town has creative art – ranging from visual arts, pottery, woodwork- a never-ending supply of scenic views. For the outdoor ing, sculpture, stained glass and every medium you can enthusiast, there are plenty of campgrounds, hiking and imagine. Twice a year, the 16 Hands art tour brings visitors mountain biking trails in the area. Rustic cabin rent- door-to-door to the shops and galleries of the many artists als, bed and breakfasts, and who call Floyd home. numerous charming inns and The Jacksonville Center for mountain resorts offer visi- the Arts has transformed an old tors many distinctive choices barn into a community show- for accommodations. Water place for rural tradition, arts enthusiasts are sure to enjoy and crafts. In addition to arts the Little River, which offers and crafts, the center features canoeing, kayaking and tubing mountain music, theater and adventures for everyone from dance and celebrates all aspects a greenhorn to more experi- of rural heritage. The center also enced river-goers. offers classes and workshops in a The small town of Floyd variety of unique and traditional is rapidly gain- art forms. ing popularity as a -continued on page 26 music destination. Located along The Crooked Road, Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, Floyd hosts annual music festivals as well as well as weekly “Where good friends meet” live music gather- ings. Floydfest is Breakfast • Lunch music festival held every year in July, featuring many musical genres includinguding rock, bluegrass, folk, Ap- palachian, and others. The festival also features local arts and crafts, dance workshops, morning yoga sessions, storytelling, po- DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS etry readings and camping. Above Top & Bottom: Floyd Jubilee; Above Festival-goers will also Middle: Floyd Fest - Photos by Doug Thompson Mon.-Fri. 6AM-4PM appreciate the annual Floyd County Arts and Crafts Festi- val, held every fall. Located on the campus of Floyd High Sat. & Sun. 7am-4pm School, the festival features over 180 foods and arts and crafts vendors and provides shuttlebus rides from nearby 540-745-2147 campgrounds. 113 E. Main St., Floyd Located in the quaint downtown area, The Floyd Country Store hosts the Friday Night Jamboree, featur- (Across from Courthouse) DISCOVER ◊ 25 -continued from page 25

- Photos by Doug Above: Floyd Jubilee; Above Right: -Floyd Photo Fest by Colleen Redman Thompson; Right: Floyd Yoga Jam Floyd is home to several wineries and vineyards, as well and wonderful cafes and restaurants to appease every palate. The Harvest Moon Food Store offers organic and bulk foods, as well as specialty items. And there are many unique gift shops and specialty stores throughout the downtown area where visitors are sure to fi nd that perfect keepsake. Located in nearby Meadows of Dan, Mountain Meadow Farm and Craft Market not only houses a gift shop with authentic handmade crafts, including the proprietor’s famous gourd art, but also holds the annual Indian Summer Days Festival and the Meadows of Dan Folk Fair. The farm also offers family fun with the seasonal corn maze and pumpkin patch. With structures and buildings dating back hundreds of years, visitors to Floyd will enjoy touring the historic sites. The Mabry Mill is a restored gristmill, sawmill and wood- working and blacksmith shop. The mill offers demonstra- tions of old-time skills like basketweaving, seat caneing, spinning and weaving. History buffs will also visiting the Floyd County Historical Society Museum, housed in the for- mer Ridgemont Hospital – Marie Williams House. Whether its arts and crafts, the great outdoors, music or history that piques your interest, Floyd is a great destina- tion for travelers looking for a unique place to visit.

26 ◊ DISCOVER Easterly Coleman Furniture in BOXWORKS Leao, VA offe 30,000 qae fee of howoom pace Gift Shop ille wh op-qal fe a com cae . 50 Euclid Avenue Bristol, VA 276-466-2269

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Johnson City Location Bristol Location 110 Med Tech Parkway 725 Midway Medical Park Johnson City, TN 37604 Bristol, TN 37620 423-929-2111 www.johnsoncityeye.com

John C. Johnson, Jr., MD James W. Battle, III, MD Board Certified Ophthalmologist Board Certified Ophthalmologist • Medical & Surgical Eyecare Services Cataract/Refractive Surgeon, Cataract/Refractive Surgeon, Glaucoma Specialist Vitreoretinal Services • Johnson City Eye Clinic Johnson City Eye Clinic Cataract & Refractive Services 110 Med Tech Parkway Johnson City, TN 37604 110 Med Tech Parkway 225 Midway Medical Park Bristol, TN 37620 Johnson City, TN 37604 • • • 423-929-2111 423-929-2111 Lasik Cornea Glaucoma www.johnsoncityeye.com www.johnsoncityeye.com • Retina & Vitreous Disorders Jennifer L. Oakley, MD Alan N. McCartt, MD Board Certified Ophthalmologist Board Certified Ophthalmologist Cataract/Refractive Surgeon, Cataract/Refractive Surgeon, Corneal • Pediatric Services Glaucoma Specialist Services Johnson City Eye Clinic Johnson City Eye Clinic • 110 Med Tech Parkway 110 Med Tech Parkway Cosmetic Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Johnson City, TN 37604 Johnson City, TN 37604 225 Midway Medical Park 423-929-2111 • Med Spa Bristol, TN 37620 www.johnsoncityeye.com 423-929-2111 www.johnsoncityeye.com Michael F. Shahbazi, MD Calvin L. Miller, MD Board Certified Ophthalmologistolo Board Certified Ophthalmologist General Ophthalmology, Glaucomacom Specialist General Ophthalmology Johnson City Eye Clinic Johnson City Eye Clinic 110 Med Tech Parkway 225 Midway Medical Park Johnson City, TN 37604 Bristol, TN 37620 423-929-2111 423-929-2111 www.johnsoncityeye.com www.johnsoncityeye.com Amy B. Young, MD, FACS Randal J. Rabon, MD, FACS Jeffrey O. Carlsen, MD Peter A. Lemkin, OD Board Certified Ophthalmologist Board Certified Ophthalmologist Boarard Certified Ophthalmologist Doctor of Optometry General Ophthalmology, Cataract/RefractiveRefract Surgeon, Pediatric Specialist Johnson City Eye Clinic Cataract Surgeon LASIK Cataract/Refractive Surgeon 110 Med Tech Parkway Johnson City Eye Clinic Johnson City Eye Clinic Reconstructive/Cosmetic Surgery Specialist Johnson City, TN 37604 110 Med Tech Parkway 110 Med Tech Parkway Johnson City Eye Clinic 423-929-2111 Johnson City, TN 37604 Johnson City, TN 37604 110 Med Tech Parkway www.johnsoncityeye.com 423-929-2111 423-929-211142 Johnson City, TN 37604 www.johnsoncityeye.com www.johnsoncityeye.come.com 423-929-2111 wwww.johnsoncityeye.com

A Vision of Johnson City Eye Clinic Johnson City/Bristol 423-929-2111 www.johnsoncityeye.com