Archive

Wise County, located in Southwest Virginia’s coalfields was named after then governor, Henry A. Wise. Early exploration began with Dr. Thomas Walker, Christopher Gist and Daniel Boone. Each made their mark along trails used by the Cherokee, Shawnee and other Indian tribes. Wise County offers a taste of the first “Old West” in a setting of mountain splendor on The Crooked Road, Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail.DAY ONEStop first at one of several fine accommodations in...

Experience the cultural heritage of southwestern Virginia’s coal mining towns on over 300 miles of scenic byways. Driving through seven counties, travelers can see a range attractions such as working mines, museums, outdoor thrills, and mountain music halls.Pocahontas was Virginia's first coal boom town and a great place to start your journey. The locals have converted many buildings, such as the old power house and company store, to celebrate their mining heritage. Consider stopping by...

The Town of Gate City is where mountains and music make memories that will last a lifetime.  Whether you are here to stay or here just for a little while, we want you to know that we are dedicated to providing an enjoyable experience for all of our community members and visitors.In Gate City, VA you will find unique shops, hometown cooking, comfortable places to stay, and lots of friendly faces!  There is a lot...

The Tazewell County Visitors Center is located in downtown Bluefield and is the gateway to the Heart of Appalachia region.  The friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to serve your traveling needs by providing local, regional and state maps, brochures, insider tips and guides.   Currently closed due to COVID-19.  However, staff is still eager to assist you with your traveling needs by calling 276.322.1345.     ...

The Heart of Appalachia Tourism Authority promotes tourism in the seven coalfield counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Tazewell, Wise, and the city of Norton. Comprehensive visitor information available by phone, mail or by visiting in person. The area encompasses over 90,000 acres of forest land, three state parks, the nation's largest national historical park, and an interstate park. Abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Conveniently located in the Heart of the region, Downtown St. Paul, with...

The Former Doc Phipps House, built in 1905 where the Dickenson County Hospital once stood is home to the County Visitor Center, Tourism Department and Dickenson County Chamber of Commerce. The Visitor Center is listed as a Destination Marketing Organization on the Virginia Tourism Corporation website. Racks of brochures on Dickenson County, maps, as well as regional information are displayed at the visitor's center. Helpful staff are onhand to give directions and answer questions a...

Creation Kingdom Zoo's goal is is to serve God through education, conservation, and propogation of the animals we live with. Creation Kingdom Zoo wants to accurately and safely educate the public about where our world began, the animals we share it with, their native habitat and help protect their future by the propogation, breeding, and husbandry of exotic species Many adults and children have little to no contact with living nature, but in contrast, their...

Dickenson County is full of outdoor adventures from hiking, biking, horseback riding to fishing, whitewater rafting, camping plus many others. Plan a day or two in the country enjoying our gorgeous mountain views, bluegrass music, unique museums, good food and plenty of friendly people awaiting your visit to Virginia's youngest county.The Crooked Road, Virginia's Heritage Music Trail begins or ends at the Breaks Interstate Park. There you will enjoy hours of hiking, biking or horseback...

Stop by the Big Stone Gap Visitor Center to say hello and learn a little bit more about the area. Our center is full of information about Big Stone Gap and the surrounding localities! Sit down in the booths where the diner scenes of "Big Stone Gap" the movie were filmed! Check out our displays of memorabilia from the filming of the movie, the Trail of the Lonesome Pine, and the old Powell Valley High...

If you’ve read AdrianaTrigiani’s novel, Big Stone Gap, get away with a few bff’s to experience Ave Maria Mulligan and her bff’s shenanigans. If you haven't, you'll want to after your visit! And you won't want to miss the movie! Start at the quaint Poplar Hill Cottage or Carousel House B&B then head out to enjoy Virginia’s Official Outdoor Drama, Trail of the Lonesome Pine (June-August). Ave Maria once directed the drama of feuding families, a...