Author: Chad Thompson

Today we're taking a look into Floyd County, Virginia, and how it has helped shape and establish the music and heritage of Southwest Virginia. Floyd County is home to the Floyd Country Store, The Handmade Music School, and County Sales. Listen in as Dylan Locke tells us about these three places of interest along The Crooked Road and learn some more about Southwest Virginia musical history and heritage! Music from today's podcast is by The Twin...

We know you're itching to explore Southwest Virginia and have some fun! We have taken some time and crafted an exceptional set of itineraries just for you! No matter what type of explorer you consider yourself, we have just the right things in mind for you! Today we are kicking off our itinerary list with SWVA scenic drives! Please note some locations may be currently closed or limited due to COVID19. Be sure to check with...

We are excited to announce and welcome you to our first podcast episode on "Stories of Southwest Virginia". In this premiere episode we had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. Tyler Huges of Big Stone Gap, Virginia. In this episode we talk with Musician and Educator Tyler Hughes about the music and dance in SWVA. We take a dive into Big Stone Gap, Virginia, and learn about the history, culture, and storytelling aspects of SWVA music. We...

Grayson Highlands State Park in Grayson County, Virginia is one of my favorite parks to visit. Grayson Highlands has everything from hiking trails, scenic views, wild ponies, and seasonal events. Needless to say, there is a lot to do at this park. I want to break my experiences at Grayson Highlands down to a few categories for those of you looking for a new place to visit. Scenic Views Perhaps my favorite part about Grayson Highlands is...

Located in the Jefferson National Forest in Giles Co. Virginia, Cascade Falls is a wonderful destination for friends and family. The hike to the falls is a rather easy hike with two trail options, resting areas along the way, and many breathtaking photo opportunities. Not only is the hike and falls a great scenic adventure, the drive to the location showcases much of what beautiful Southwest, Virginia has to offer. Some options & amenities upon arriving...

Bristol Rhythm and Roots is home to some of the best acts in music and one of our largest music festivals in SWVA / NETN. This musical reunion is an annual event with quests arriving from all over the country. It's a time when we all come together and enjoy music, food, crafts, beer, and friends. BRRR is home to hundreds of musicians each and every year along with some 70,000+ fans. Rather you enjoy a small...

There’s always something fun to do in Southwest Virginia, which is why we have put together this list of 30 SWVA things to do in the fall. Sometimes it can be hard to come up with fun ideas so we took the time to do that for you! Feel free to add your own little twist to each of these ideas to make them even more fun. Be sure to bring a friend along to...

As a Southwest, Virginia Native, I really know and enjoy the area. Possibly one of my favorite pastimes is to take long drives around the area I live in. I just head out with my camera and my car and never quite know where I'll end up. I especially love doing this on pretty Sunday afternoons (much like yesterday). There is usually little traffic and less activities to worry about. It's a great time to relax...

Snow days are some of the best days in Southwest Virginia! Although we have not had the most snow this season, we did have a brief one the other day, which was perfect for a photographic adventure! I went out to Damascus, Virginia to the Creeper trail with my uncle to capture some of the rare beauty. It was a chilling 25 degrees outside, but that wasn't going to stop us from capturing some nice snow...

Abingdon, Virginia is home to many great things to do. Some of these adventures may lead you to the Barter Theatre, a fine dining experience, a walk down the creeper trail, or to a relaxing Spa. The Salt of the Earth Spa in Abingdon has to be one of my favorite destinations. With both quality and comfort you really can't beat the experience. [caption id="attachment_352510" align="alignleft" width="300"] Salt Spa Room at Salt of the Earth in...