A TASTE OF Southwest Virginia

Locally Yours

From restaurants to hikes to theatrical performances, here are some ways to get a true taste of Southwest Virginia.

DINE IN A GREENHOUSE

Thanks to a local chef in Bristol, a former dilapidated lot has been transformed into a local eatery called the Bristol Gardens & Grill. Greenhouses laden in vegetables and herbs now dot the property while locally sourced meat is smoked on-site. You’re guaranteed a true taste of Southwest Virginia!

BARTER FOR A THEATRE PERFORMANCE

The Barter Theatre in Abingdon is the longest-running professional Equity theatre in the United States. Opened during the 1930s, the theatre’s ideology was “with vegetables you cannot sell, you can buy a good laugh.” Admission was 40 cents—or the equivalent in produce! Whatever grub you could spare gained you admission. This tradition carries on every June during Barter Days, so be sure to pick your finest produce as proceeds go to Feeding America Southwest Virginia.

CREEP ALONG THIS VIRGINIA RAIL TRAIL

The Virginia Creeper Trail, named after the struggles of early steam locomotives as they “creeped” up the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a 55-kilometre recreation trail popular with hikers and cyclists. Follow the old rail route that meanders through wide expanses of farmland to dense forests. You’ll traverse over 47 wooden trestles and bridges, enjoying impeccable views of waterways like the Holston River and Laurel Creek.

WET YOUR WHISTLE AT THE OLDEST BAR IN THE STATE

In the heart of Abingdon’s historic downtown lies The Tavern. Built in 1779, a year after the town was established, these old stone walls have worn many hats. The local watering hole has been an antique shop, bank, bakery, barber shop, cabinet shop, general store, post office and more! Nowadays, the beloved pub serves up delectable German fare. Grab a seat on their beautiful garden terrace overlooking country greenery for a bite or a bevvy surrounded by rich history.

TRULY ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY IN BURKE’S GARDEN

Named after one of Tazewell County’s original surveyors, Burke’s Garden is Virginia’s highest valley. Completely surrounded by Garden Mountain, rightfully earning the nickname “God’s Thumbprint” that’s exactly what it looks like! To add to the whimsy, there are no stoplights, no working post office, no newspaper delivery, no cable television—not even cellphone service. If you’re looking to truly disconnect, a visit to Virginia’s largest rural historical district should do the trick! DS