13 May Travel to the Moonshine Capital – Franklin County Virginia

If you’re looking to explore an area of Southwest Virginia that is immersed in beauty, history, and moonshine, Franklin County has to be on your list. Franklin County is home to two beautiful lakes, breweries, distilleries, and plenty of quaint downtown areas. Franklin County also acts as a gateway to the Blue Ridge Parkway, ‘Round the Mountain Artisan Trails, and is of course the Moonshine Capital.

Downtown Rocky Mount

Rocky Mount serves as the county seat to Franklin County. This delightful small town boasts several shopping options, award-winning dining, music, and luxurious accommodations.

Begin your trip on the main strip and make sure you treat yourself to some classic finds in Old’s School vintage store. Here you will find toys, records, and other memorabilia from the 70s, 80s, and beyond.

If you’re looking for home decor options, consider taking a stroll down the street to Blooming Deals for your esthetically pleasing gifts. Here you will find a lot of options for yourself or for a friend.

Our last stop is just a 5-minute drive from downtown to Carter’s Jewelers and Fine Gifts. Carter’s is a member of ‘Round the Mountain Artisans and also features location artisans work in the shop.

After you take time to treat yourself and build up an appetite, it’s time to enjoy award-winning dining from one of many area eateries.

Our first stop on the list is The Whole Bean Coffee House right in downtown Rocky Mount. Since 2016, Whole Bean has been serving both locals and visitors fine coffee options and mouth-watering cafe-style food such as wraps, sandwiches, and desserts. After you’ve tried your coffee, don’t forget to grab a bag to take home to enjoy.

If gourmet breakfast sounds more like your taste, consider trying the pop-up breakfast options from Center Stage Catering. We absolutely loved the fat grilled burrito with sausage, cheese, and eggs. We enjoyed our meal on the picnic tables out front on a beautiful morning with a cool breeze.

No trip can be complete without trying the award-winning BBQ from Buddy’s BBQ. Be sure you come hungry because each and every meal will stuff you to the brim.

Buddy’s BBQ began as a hobby and has since grown into a full-time business. Outgrowing their original location, Buddy’s is currently renovating a larger space with plans to open in June of 2021.

You might even need another notch in your belt by the time you’re done. A favorite location by the famous television personalities from the show Moonshiners always frequent this location.

Our final option is for all the burger lovers out there.

Located just across from the Harvester Performance Center is Rocky Mount Burger Company. Utilizing a repurposed Coca-cola botting location, this establishment makes a wide variety of great burger options.

Be sure to give the cajun seasoned fries a try, you won’t be disappointed.

Vegetarians will be pleased with the delicious black bean burger.

Breweries & Distilleries

A trip to Franklin County cannot be complete without visiting one of the two breweries or distilleries.

Our first location on the list is located in Rocky Mount is Twin Creeks Distillery. Using age-old distilling techniques and locally sourced ingredients, owner Chris Prillaman and the team do not disappoint. Twin Creeks has legally been distributing moonshine since 2015. Located just near the Harvester, Early Inn, and Rocky Mount Burger Company, Twin Creeks is a must-visit stop on your trip.

To learn more about Twin Creeks and their moonshine heritage, be sure to listen to their podcast episode with Henry Law of Law’s Choice on the Stories from Southwest Virginia Podcast.

Just up the road in the neighboring town of Boones Mill is home to two breweries and another distillery.

Our first stop took us up to the mountain to Callaway, Virginia to Chaos Mountain Brewery. On a clear day, be prepared to take in breathtaking scenic views of the lovely mountain ranges within Franklin County.

Chaos Mountain is a seven-year-old brewery that began as just a small hobby now turned big business. This brewery boasts a large pet-friendly space, food trucks, live music, and a huge selection of beer choices for every taste.

Be sure to ask about brewery tours to soak in the experience while learning about the beer-making process!

Back in Boones Mill, you will find a small batch brewery by the name of Hammer Forge Brewing. A more intimate setting to socialize with friends and family, Hammer Forge hosts fun events like paint and sips, trivia nights, and live music.

Hammer Forge is also a great location to visit on a cool summer evening to enjoy your brews on the back patio area. This brewery themes itself around the railroad and train station located in Boones Mill, along with a little flair of metal and an iron forge in the window.

Hammer Forge is a great hangout spot to make new friends, share a drink, and have a good time.

The final stop of this trip took us to Franklin County Distillery, just a short distance from Hammer Forge Brewery. This distillery is a great location for not only superb moonshine, but also fine dining.

The decor and theme of Franklin County Distillery are all about the history of moonshine and the process of making it. View stunning historical moonshine steels and pieces all around the establishment.

If you’re looking for some family fun and adventure, Franklin County is a must-see location you have to visit.