LOVE on Rt 81
As you come to the I-77 and I-81 crossroads, choose the path of love and explore Southwest Virginia - Blue Ridge Highland region. "America's Most Scenic Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway, runs through this region of Virginia and offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.
Wytheville and Marion
LOVEwork in Wytheville
Wytheville
You can search the world over and not find another town with the name of “Wytheville.” The name is just the beginning of the unique and interesting things to experience in this beautiful small town in Southwest Virginia.
Visit the birthplace and childhood home of First Lady Edith Bolling Wilson at the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum.
Experience the most spectacular views of the Appalachian Mountains from 3,405 feet above sea level at Big Walker Lookout or stroll through lavender gardens at Beagle Ridge Herb Farm.
Make it a “point” to visit Wytheville’s Big Pencil, a landmark on Main Street which pays homage to another era of business.
LOVEwork in Wytheville – The letters honor aspects of Wytheville’s history that have made an impact on the community.
LOVEwork at Big Walker Lookout – Big Walker Lookout celebrates over 70 years with their LOVEwork celebrating the beautiful mountain and forest views, hiking and biking trails, handmade crafts and Old Time Music.
Eat:
- Graze on Main
- The Log House 1776
- Wiffle Pops
- Cedar Bay Cafe
- Seven Dogs Brewery
- Seven Sisters Brewery
Stay:
Marion
The town of Marion is alive with arts, music, drama, shopping and dining. Enjoy this energetic small town.
Catch a show at The Lincoln Theatre or ride the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail. Dine, wine and shop at Sisters Cafe and Shops and be sure to take home a sweet treat from Hester's Country Store & Fudgery.
LOVEwork in Marion – The LOVEwork in Marion is interactive - incorporating a chalkboard feel, for the community to share messages of love for Marion and Virginia.
Eat:
- Four Season Bakery and Deli
- The Speakeasy Restaurant & Lounge
- Wolfe’s BBQ Restaurant
- The Black Rooster Restaurant,
- 27 Lions
- Wooden Pickle
- Davis Valley Winery & Distillery (right outside of Town of Marion)
Stay:
Abingdon
LOVEwork in Abingdon
As the town is known for its local artisans, crafts, cuisine and music, the LOVEwork is an important way of incorporating this strong regional artisan network. Abingdon offers art of historic proportions.
LOVEwork in Abingdon – Abingdon celebrates being the first community to ever host the original Virginia is for Lovers LOVEwork by contracting a local artisan from the Holston Mountain Artisan co-op organization to create an exact replica of that installation.
Bike along Virginia’s Creeper Trail, 34-mile rail-trail that is considered one of the best bike trails in the nation. Take the trail out to Mount Rogers National Recreation Area to check out a melding of rare spruce-fir forest, open meadows, wild ponies and rock prominences.
Enjoy cultural activities at the William King Museum of Art, catch an off-Broadway smash hit at the Barter Theatre or be a part of Virginia’s musical heritage as you explore The Crooked Road: Virginia's Heritage Music Trail at the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace. While at the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace, check out the work of regional artisans and musicians to learn about Southwest Virginia’s history, heritage, outdoor recreation and scenic beauty. The flavors of the are nothing short of inspiring for a visit to the Appalachian Mountains.
Be sure to snap a photo with the LOVEwork at Southwest Virginia’s Cultural Center & Marketplace!
Eat:
Bristol
LOVEwork in Bristol
A journey to Bristol should start downtown at the state line on State Street. Tennessee and Virginia are divided by brass markers and double yellow lines and are the ultimate photo opp. The Birthplace of Country Music Museum, a Smithsonian-affiliated museum, opened in 2014 and honors Bristol’s musical roots, which began with the historic 1927 Bristol Sessions. The museum tells the story of the Sessions recordings, explores how evolving technology shaped their success and highlights how this rich musical heritage lives on in today’s music.
Enjoy a live-music performance at the Paramount Center for the Arts or watch The Bristol Pirates play some ball. Shop at Cranberry Lane on State Street and take a selfie with the infamous Bristol, Virginia - Tennessee sign.
In keeping with the region’s nationally recognized status as the birthplace of country music, the Arts and Entertainment District of Believe in Bristol spell out LOVE in musical instruments on the LOVEwork in Bristol Downtown.
Eat:
Check out our map of places where you can add more LOVE to your vacation. Be sure to share your pictures on social media by tagging @VisitVirginia using the hashtag #LOVEVA.