Fun Things to See and Do

While you're visiting the Bristol, Abingdon, and Damascus area, you may want to partake of some other activities while you're here. There's lots of things to do near Abingdon and Damascus like live theatre at the Barter Theatre. The Barter Theatre has a respected reputation known for professional live performances in an historic theater. It's easy to come in and ride the Virginia Creeper Trail, then head to the Barter Theatre for an evening show. Have diner before or after at the 7 Trails Grill or one of the many restaurants in the region  and stay at one of the local Cabins or Cottages your weekend is complete! Many fine dining opportunities and world class shopping and antiquing exist in both Damascus and Abingdon, so if you don't want to ride the Virginia Creeper Trail you'll still be able to find an activity to occupy your time.

For instance you can take a self-guided walking tour in the Abingdon historic district or browse the first-class William King Arts Center. Or just take a leisurely stroll in Damascus and enjoy the feeling of a small American town the way they used to be and fortunately still are.

Bristol, Virginia/Tennessee (the main street is divided by the state line) is just down the road about 25 miles and is home to the famous Bristol Motor Speedway NASCAR racetrack described as "the worlds fastest half-mile" as well as the "Birthplace of Country Music."  The Birthplace of Country Music Museum is in downtown Bristol and is a must stop for country music and history buffs.

The A.P. Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia is just about an hours drive from Damascus and well worth it for original country and bluegrass music in a rustic and historic setting. The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area afford ample opportunities for hiking, bouldering, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The Appalachian Trail passes through the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area (MRNRA) as does the Highlands Horse Trail and the Trans-America 76 Bike Route. The technical climbs and descents of the Iron Mountain Trail have gained this trail the recognition as one of the finest single-track bike trails in the east. We have maps and guide books as well as lots of advice on where to head, whatever you mode of transportation may be. In summary, Damascus and the surrounding communities allow your family to come visit for more than one day. Spend a weekend or a week and explore the splendor of the Southwest Virginia (SWVA). You'll recognize the value and quality of a vacation in this place called Damascus, Virginia . It's all natural! Here are some links to various sites that will help you gather more information. Or, feel free to give us a call toll free at 888-595-BIKE (2453)  


barter theatre

The State Theater of Virginia.  Abingdon, VA

SWVA cultural center and marketplace 

Southwest Virginia's Artisan Gateway. 

Backcountry Horse Trail Rides

Located just outside of Damascus.

Do It In Damascus

Pleny of things to do in and near Damascus

creeper trail info

Your guide to the Creeper Trail Region

Holston Mountain Artisans

Proudly represents the spirit and heritage of the mountain communities they cherish. Abingdon, Va.

William King Museum

A partner of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Check the latest exhibits.

Mount Rogers NRA

Information on camping, hiking and other activities in the NRA.

Shenandoa Mountain Touring

Shenandoah Mountain Touring, LLC operates in Virginia's George Washington National Forest under a special use permit with the GW.

Coosa Valley Cycling Association

Premiere cycling in the foothills of Northwest Georgia.
 

Virginia Blue Ridge Travel Association

Travel information for the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. A great resource!

Deerwood Park HOA

Piney Creek, NC 28663

Visit Smyth County VA

Whether you’re riding the Back of the Dragon, fly-fishing in our tumbling streams, or exploring Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, you’ll find it in Smyth County. Come see why Smyth County is your gateway to fun in the mountains.

Visit Abingdon Virginia

Quaint little historic town of Abingdon, just 9 miles north of Damascus 

The Town Where Trails Cross


Known as Trail Town USA, Damascus is at the crossroads to numerous national, regional, and local trails:  the Appalachian Trail, Virginia Creeper Trail, Iron Mountain TrailTrans-Am 76 Bicycle TrailBoone Heritage Trail, the Crooked Road, & Virginia Mountain Bike Trail (other notables: Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail, Round the Mountain Artisan Trail)

CHECK IT OUT
Trail Town Sign Post