The town of Blacksburg is known for being the home of many things but primarily, the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. It’s often been recognized as one of the best college towns, but before that it was the home to native inhabitants and then, English colonists. Today, visitors will be able to witness the colorful history of the town through the many attractions, sites, restaurants and more. Some of the more unique places that you should definitely visit are Lane Stadium, The Artful Gallery, the Hahn Horticulture Garden, Historic Smithfield Plantation, and the Blacksburg Museum and Cultural Foundation.
Hahn Horticulture Garden
The Hahn Horticulture Garden is one of the largest public gardens in the state of Virginia. It can be found on the Virginia Tech campus and is open daily at no cost to the public. The garden was established in 1984 and is named after T. Marshall Hahn, the former president of Virginia Tech. All aspects of the garden have been built and planted by students, faculty, staff, and volunteers of the university. Some of the garden’s most amazing features include the perennial border with more than 90 species, a pond with Japanese maples, and a stream garden with over 20 species of bog and aquatic plants.
Address: 200 Garden Lane, Blacksburg, VA 24061, Phone: 540-231-5970
Historic Smithfield
Built in the early 1770s, the Historic Smithfield was home to Col. William Preston. It remained the family home until 1959, when it was then donated to the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities. The plantation has a rich history and the descendants of the Preston family include several of Virginia’s future governors, legislatures, and key individuals who founded and shaped many of the state’s current universities. Tours of the preserved plantation will take you through the unique architecture, which includes unusual details in room placement as well as ornate bedroom furniture. Other aspects include decorative arts from the 18th and 19th century, portraits, and many Native American relics and artifacts which were found on
Address: 1000 Smithfield Plantation Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060, Phone: 540-231-3947
The Lyric Theatre
The Lyric Theatre is a restored 1930s movie house that is now being used as a non-profit which hosts live music performances and showcases first-run and indie films. The organization was formed to increase the community’s interaction with arts and culture. The diversity of the performances, programs, and events intends to attract various patrons and can vary from live programs and films to gallery displays and art exhibitions. The independent, documentary, and foreign films titles that are played there are a great choice for an interesting date night with a loved one. There are even several movies and performances which are free to the public, so be sure to check their website before heading over.
Address: 135 College Ave., Blacksburg, VA 24060, Phone: 540-951-0604
Blacksburg Museum and Cultural Foundation
The Blacksburg Museum and Cultural Foundation is a renowned cultural institution in Virginia. The foundation focuses on sponsoring an array of events which promote cultural awareness. Some of the events include concerts, exhibitions, lectures, community events, and several other activities. It’s a wonderful place for visitors of all ages to better understand the art, history, and cultural heritage of Blacksburg. Some of their most popular events include the Alexander Black Tie Gala and the Blues Brews & BBQ. During the summer months, be sure to visit the gardening exhibits at the Alexander Black House where you’ll also be able to see a display of seed catalogs and tools from the past.
Address: 204 Draper Rd SW, Blacksburg, VA 24060, Phone: 540-558-0746
Rising Silo Farm Brewery
The Rising Silo Farm Brewery was created as part of a community movement which brought creative collaborators together in a shared farm space. The team aims to create the best fermented drinks using only the best ingredients so that it tastes authentic and flavorful. Their brews are created using ground water from a nearby well and ingredients sourced from their farm. Some of their most popular brews which can be found on tap are the Eastern Divide Pils, which is a German-style Pilsner, the Leggy Blonde, which is a blonde ale, and the Thunder Snow Stout, which is a vanilla oatmeal stout using locally roasted coffee.
Address: 2351 Glade Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060, Phone: 540-750-0796
Glade Road Growing
Glade Road Growing is family-run farm that is housed on two separate plots which have historically been pastures for decades. Visitors of all ages will love exploring the rolling landscape; little ones especially love seeing the chickens, pigs, and other farm animals. You will be able to purchase fresh meats and veggies at the farm and their freshly dug potatoes, Napa cabbage, spaghetti squash, gold beets, butter crisp head lettuce, and shishito peppers are popular items. In addition to the farm and kitchen, you’ll also be able to take a tour of their brewery, have a chill drink, and just relax in the wonderful atmosphere surrounding you.
Address: 2351 Glade Rd, Blacksburg, VA 24060, Phone: 540-808-0672
Blacksburg Farmers’ Market
The Blacksburg Farmers’ Market can be found in the heart of downtown Blacksburg. It is managed by the nonprofit Friends of the Farmers Market organization and is a great opportunity for visitors to meet members of the community, support local businesses, and go home with an array of delicious fruits, veggies, baked goods, and more. The market’s been around since the 1980s and is now home to hundreds of vendors all years long. Right in the heart of it, you’ll find Market Square Park, which is also a great place to have a picnic, people watch, and enjoy performances by local musicians.
108 W Roanoke St, Blacksburg, VA 24060, Phone: 540-239-8290
622 North
622 North is an amazing restaurant, wine lounge, and bar that is housed in a beautiful Victorian building in Blacksburg’s historic downtown district. They’re open for both lunch and dinner and have an eclectic assortment of dishes to choose from on their menu. During the warmer months, you can choose to dine on their patio, overlooking the garden, Main Street, and the Blue Ridge mountains in the background. The full-service bar is a great casual space to hang out with friends, play a game of pool, or watch a big game. Additional features and amenities include over a hundred wines from all over the world, hand-crafted specialty cocktails, and a private dining room for more intimate events.
Address: 622 N Main St, Blacksburg, VA 24060, Phone: 540-951-1022
Zeppoli's Italian Restaurant
Renowned for their menu filled with authentic, homemade cuisine, Zeppoli's Italian Restaurant can be found right in the heart of Blacksburg, Virginia. The dining establishment is perfect for a romantic date night or a dinner with friends and family; it is often the base for many celebrations by families in the community. In addition to the incomparable culinary experience, you’ll also be treated to amazing service and hospitality. All of the food is fresh, made from scratch, and follows traditional recipes improved with little twists. Popular items on the menu are the scampi fries with shrimp, spinach ravioli with mushroom rose sauce, and the sausage gorgonzola with fresh spinach and cremini mushrooms.
Address: 810 University City Blvd #22, Blacksburg, VA 24060, Phone: 540-953-2000
The Blacksburg Tavern
The Blacksburg Tavern is a bar and restaurant that is housed in one of the oldest houses on the town’s Main Street. When the structure was initially built, Main Street was a dirt road for horse carriages. The owner bought it, converted it to its former glory, and introduced a regional farmer’s menu that pays tribute to the area’s past. You’ll be able to feast on exquisitely-prepared meats, vegetables, appetizers, and desserts, along with your choice of local and international; wines and beers from their full bar. The atmosphere is very casual and laid back; you’ll see the works of local artists on the walls and can find musicians from the community performing there sometimes. A popular item from their menu definitely worth trying is the Hungry Hokie which is a bowl of meatloaf topped with mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, mac and cheese, and a biscuit.
Address: 103 S Main St, Blacksburg, VA 24060, Phone: 540-552-8876
Moss Arts Center
The Moss Arts Center is located at the intersection of Virginia Tech and Downtown Blacksburg where it forms the heart of a thriving arts community. The center was established thanks to the generous donation of artist/philanthropist Patricia Buckley Moss and provides the Blacksburg community with a fantastic exhibition and performance stage. There is always something inspiring happening at the center – you can enjoy a wide variety of entertainment including classical music recitals, dance troupes, country and blue grass music and much more. The exhibition space hosts regular art exhibitions and thought-provoking installations. The center also hosts regular artist talks and guided tours can be arranged.
190 Alumni Mall, Blacksburg, VA 24061, 540 231 5300
Huckleberry Trail
The Huckleberry Trail is a fine place to spend a few hours out in the fresh air. The trail currently runs from the Blacksburg Library to the New River Mall, providing a well-maintained 5.7 mile trail. The trail is paved all the way and is suitable for walking, trail-running and cycling. There are benches along the way if you need a break or would just like to sit for awhile and admire the nature all around you. The trail crosses sections of rural farm-land but large sections of it are wooded and shady most of the way. There is parking available at both ends of the trail.
201 Clay Street, Blacksburg, VA 24060, 540 443 1100
Coal Mining Heritage Park and Loop Trail
Located at Mile 5 along the Huckleberry Trail, the Coal Mining Heritage Park and Loop Trail was once home to the Merrimac Mining Company. The 28-acre tract of land to the east of Price Mountain once housed the mine workers and provided a general store and a hotel. If you would like an entertaining addition to your exploration of the Huckleberry Trail you can follow the 1.5 mile Loop Trail which leads to the mine head where you can see the mine entrance, some of the foundations and various mining artifacts. A quarter mile section of the loop trail is accessible to wheelchairs and buggies.
751 Merrimac Rd, Blacksburg, VA 24060, 540 382 6975
