The Complete Guide to Visiting Blacksburg, Virginia

Although best known as the home of the Virginia Tech Hokies, Blacksburg is more than just a college town. Approachable and charming, Blacksburg offers small town vibes with a gateway to the mountains right outside its doors.

Check out where to stay, local restaurants to sample, boutique stores to shop, and nearby outdoor attractions you won’t want to miss. Use our complete guide to get the most out of your visit to Blacksburg, Virginia.

WHERE TO STAY

Mountain Lake Lodge

You may recognize Mountain Lake Lodge from the iconic film “Dirty Dancing,” but there’s much more than movie nostalgia at this historic resort. Stay here and you’ll be around a half hour outside Blacksburg, tucked in the mountains and primed for outdoor exploration.
 

The Inn at Virginia Tech

Stay right on Virginia Tech’s campus with comfortable rooms and suites, Southwest Virginia dining at Preston’s Restaurant, and handcrafted cocktails at Continental Divide Lounge & Bar.  
 

Main Street Inn

Located in the heart of downtown, this 34-suite hotel provides easy access to restaurants, entertainment, and local shopping.
 

Blacksburg Bed & Breakfast

Settle in downtown Blacksburg at this B&B made up of three connected homes. The property is just steps from the Huckleberry Trail and a block from campus, and features a pool and patio.

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK 

Rising Silo Brewery

Enjoy a local brew and a fresh meal at this farm brewery that focuses on bringing the flavors of Appalachia to your plate.

Beliveau Farm Winery

Sample local wines from grapes grown on the property. You can even stay at the Manor House, located at the winery.

622 North

You’ll find this wine bar and restaurant inside a renovated Victorian-style building.

Bottom of the Stairs

This restaurant underneath a popular student hangout has some of the best barbecue in town — consider it a must-try if you want to get the local experience.

Cabo Fish Taco

A Baja-inspired Mexican restaurant, Cabo Fish Taco is located in one of Blacksburg’s oldest historical properties and is a local favorite.

Carol Lee Donuts

Fuel your morning with something sweet from this local bakery.

Big Lick Ice Cream

Big Lick is your source for from-scratch, small-batch ice cream, popsicles, and ice cream sandwiches.

Blacksburg Bagels

Grab a bagel from the storefront bakery on Kabrich Street, or keep your eyes peeled around town for wholesale bagels and bread.  

TOP ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO

Appalachian Trail

The AT goes through neighboring Giles County, making for an ideal outdoor excursion from Blacksburg. Summit McAfee Knob — the most photographed site along the Appalachian Trail — and survey the surrounding Catawba Valley, Tinker Cliffs, and Roanoke Valley.

Cascade Falls

Another must-do hike near Blacksburg, this trail will lead you along a creek to a scenic waterfall in Jefferson National Forest. The four-mile loop is generally rated at moderate difficulty.  

Pandapas Pond

This eight-acre manmade pond down Route 460 West is ideal for fishing, canoeing, and hiking. There are plenty of trails to explore and you’ll likely spot native Virginia wildlife, from eastern box turtles and red-backed salamanders to Great Horned owls and white-tailed deer.

Claytor Lake State Park

Around 30 minutes southwest of Blacksburg you’ll find Claytor Lake State Park, a popular spot in warm weather. Explore the shore, rent boats from a private outfitter (Claytor Lake Water Sports or Mountain 2 Island) or cast a line on the fishing pier. You can even stay the night at a campsite, or rent out a lodge or cabin at the park.

New River Trail State Park

Head out for a day of fun on the New River. Access the waters in Pembroke, where local outfitters (New River’s Edge, Tangent Outfitters) will equip you with everything you need for paddleboarding, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, or fishing.

Hahn Horticulture Garden

Explore nearly six acres of teaching and display gardens on Virginia Tech’s campus. The grounds are open every day of the year, free of charge.  

Huckleberry Trail

For an outdoor excursion that sticks a little closer to downtown Blacksburg, head out on foot or bike on the Huckleberry Trail. The 15-mile, paved, multi-purpose trail connects Blacksburg and nearby Christiansburg.

Center for the Arts

Catch a performance, see an art exhibition, or attend a special event at this VT venue, only a short walk from downtown.

The Lyric Theatre

Originally constructed in 1929, the striking Art Deco and Spanish Colonial Revival building that houses The Lyric Theatre is a staple of downtown Blacksburg. It’s a must-visit to see a movie or a live performance — and enjoy some popcorn, of course.

Explore Local Shops

Main Street is dotted with local businesses to peruse. Sample a sweet treat from Sugar Magnolia, browse the shelves at Blacksburg Books, or get inspired for your next craft project at New River Art & Fiber.

Visiting during warmer months? Stop by the weekly Blacksburg Farmers Market or bimonthly Vintage Market. 

Sinkland Farms

Depending on the time of year, you can meet animals, pick pumpkins, get lost in a corn maze, or pose in sunflower fields at this scenic farm in nearby Christiansburg.

Alexander Black House

Stop inside this striking Victorian-style building while you’re exploring downtown Blacksburg. The cultural center features rotating art and history exhibits, including outdoor sculptures, and hosts special programs.

Historic Smithfield

Explore the gardens and grounds of this former plantation and take a tour of the building to learn about all who lived and worked on the estate. The 18^th century home serves as a basis for all kinds of historical exploration, from the American Revolution to slavery, indigenous groups, Appalachian culture, and the broader impact of history on current events.  

JUST DOWN THE ROAD…

Roanoke | A mountain city around 40 miles east of Blacksburg, the Star City of the South has more outdoor adventure, plus the metro appeal of museums, restaurants, and downtown attractions. 
 

Giles County | Blacksburg’s Montgomery County is nestled next to Giles, also known as Virginia’s Mountain Playground. Here you’ll find miles of trails to explore, from the New River to the Appalachian Trail.
 

Floyd | Around 30 miles south of Blacksburg you’ll find Floyd, a small town with big music history. Make a stop along The Crooked Road, Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, and stock up on goodies (and tunes) at The Floyd Country Store.
 

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with your family, a Virginia vacation’s got all that you love, all in one place. Use this guide to Blacksburg to help you start planning your Virginia vacation today!