Virginia

Montgomery County, Virginia, might be best known as the home of Virginia Tech, but it's also so much more. This area tucked into the Blue Ridge mountains is a great destination for families looking for outdoor adventure, small-town charm and hands-on learning. Blacksburg, where Virginia Tech is located, has an infectious college-town energy with museums, gardens and kid-friendly attractions. Nearby Christiansburg has an even smaller-town feel, but it's where you'll find plenty of playgrounds, shops and local dining. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or looking to stay even longer, Montgomery County makes it easy to combine nature, history and education in one family-friendly trip. Downtown Blacksburg features murals and public art almost everywhere you look. Antiques + Vintage Shops Cambria Station Antiques Cambria Station Antiques is three floors of vintage items, antique treasures, oddities and lots more. You will definitely want to visit Cambria to experience the store's piece de resistance: an archway made entirely from old books that leads to their bookstore. Inside the archway, there are two books that are hollow and hold some special treasures inside (candy). Hint: They are located at a child's eye level! Virginia Vintage With more than 40 vendor booths offering timeless treasures, Virginia Vintage is a great place to find home decor or that perfect thing that you didn't know you need. They have items from nearly every decade, so you're bound to find something you'll love. Antiques on Main A treasure trove for vintage lovers, Antiques on Main is a must-stop in Christiansburg. Offering an eclectic mix of beautifully preserved antiques, the store is known for its extensive collection that includes furniture, dinnerware, and unique household items. History + Museums Montgomery Museum of Art & History Located in an old bank building, The Montgomery Museum of Art & History in Christiansburg was founded to celebrate Montgomery County’s heritage, featuring historical artifacts, photographs, archives and rotating art exhibitions that highlight local Appalachian artists. Visitors can explore displays about everyday life, such as quilts that belonged to locals, or their current Girl Scout exhibit, which features scouting uniforms and memorabilia that was donated by residents. Historic Smithfield Step back in time at Historic Smithfield, a family-friendly site in Blacksburg that invites visitors to experience Virginia’s past. Open from mid-April through mid-December, visitors can explore the Smithfield Garden and grounds, or take a self-led or guided tour through an 18th-century house that now serves as a museum filled with historical objects and exhibits. For history buffs who want to learn more about Virginia's Civil War-era history, this is a significant site. Blacksburg Museum At Blacksburg Museum, families can explore art and culture all under one roof. Housed in the restored Alexander Black House, the museum mixes hands-on learning with community fun through rotating exhibits, kids’ activities, tours and events. Be sure to stop into the Children's Room, a special corner of the museum just for kids. There’s also a children’s gallery and genealogy center for curious young historians. Arts + Crafts Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech The Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech is a great place to enjoy one of the center's multiple exhibitions and performances, featuring art from students in Virginia Tech's School of Visual and Performing Arts, and other local and Appalachian artists. It's a great resource that links the school and the neighboring community of Blacksburg. The Chandlerie The Chandlerie exudes warm and cozy vibes, and is the perfect stop for candle lovers. This candle atelier and home boutique specializes in hand-poured soy candles inspired by traditions, seasons and the comforting feeling of home. Along with candles, you'll find carefully curated décor, gifts, books and kitchen treasures. Candle-pouring workshops are available, and make a great hands-on girlfriend activity. The Great Outdoors Pandapas Pond Families who love the outdoors will want to visit Pandapas Pond, a park in Blacksburg featuring an 8-acre manmade pond. Pandapas has easy walking trails perfect for little legs, mountain biking paths, fishing and picnic areas. Kids will enjoy spotting ducks, geese, box turtles, and other wildlife around the pond, while parents appreciate the peaceful setting and well-maintained trails. Huckleberry Park The 50-acre Huckleberry Park was designed for families of all abilities, and is a great place to play in Christiansburg. One of the park's standout features is the inclusive playground, built so kids of all ages and abilities can play together using accessible ramps, ground-level activities and adaptive equipment. The park also includes splash pads, sports fields, walking trails, picnic shelters, and a dog park, making it easy to spend a full day outside. Hahn Horticulture Garden at Virginia Tech Enjoy a beautiful oasis right on the Virginia Tech campus. The Hahn Horticulture Garden is a 6-acre garden that’s free and open to the public to explore. The garden has paved and gravel paths, themed plant beds, ponds with koi fish, and open spaces where kids can walk safely and explore. It’s also a working teaching garden, so visitors might see students and staff maintaining plants and displays. It’s an easy, no-cost outing for families looking to enjoy some time outdoors. Beliveau Farm & Winery Beliveau Farm & Winery in Blacksburg is a great place for families to relax and feel like they're enjoying the best of the Virginia countryside. Families can enjoy outdoor seating areas, walking paths and open fields that are perfect for kids who need to run around. While the winery produces wine for adults, the property also focuses on welcoming non-drinkers with space to picnic and relax. There is often live music, seasonal events and food options from local vendors. Kids can enjoy the open space while adults sample wines or enjoy the scenery. Eats + Treats in Montgomery County The food scene in Montgomery County is as varied as its nearby Virginia Tech campus population. Cabo Fish Taco (top left + bottom middle): Boasting one of the largest tequila menus in the state of Virginia, Cabo Fish Taco offers a wide variety of specialty tacos, burritos and quesadillas, with a menu that lends a nod to an easygoing SoCal lifestyle. Feather Bone Provisions & Assembly (top middle): Located inside a converted schoolhouse, Feather Bone features a modern take on Southern fare, with items like fried chicken and a pimento cheese board alongside eggplant burrata and a cauliflower sandwich. Lost in Taste (top right): For an out-of-this-world experience, visit Lost in Taste in Christiansburg, a space-themed diner. A must-get is the Canis Comets, three huge hushpuppies served with butter and blackberry jam. Bottom of the Stairs (middle left): A Blackburg institution since 1968, Bottom of the Stairs is a gathering spot for Virginia Tech students and local residents alike. Fans of brisket and pulled pork with find a lot to love about the menu. The Cellar (middle): The Cellar's large and varied menu ensures that there's something for everyone to enjoy, but the star specialities are the grilled pizzas and Greek gyros. Bulls & Bones Brewhaus & Grill (middle right): Barbecue lovers will find a lot to savor at this Blacksburg brewpub, which also has the claim to fame of being the oldest brewery in Southwest Virginia. Twisted Liquid (bottom left): With incredibly inventive cocktail offerings and an upscale dinner menu, Twisted Liquid is a great destination for a parent's night out. Brew Da Bean (bottom right): Offering a taste of New Orleans in Christiansburg, Brew Da Bean is where you'll find fluffy beignets and Cajun coffee, along with a variety of breakfast and lunch items. Stay on Campus at Virginia Tech Located right on the campus of Virginia Tech, the Inn at Virginia Tech is an ideal place to stay in Blacksburg, especially if you plan on exploring the campus. It's also a short 15-minute drive to Christiansburg. The hotel offers on-site dining, with an amazing breakfast buffet offering everything from make-your-own oatmeal bowls and biscuits & gravy to fresh fruit and smoothie shots. The hotel includes amenities such as an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a souvenir shop. The hotel makes it easy to walk to campus events, sporting games and nearby trails.

Virginia

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