Damascus VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Damascus, Virginia.
1. Virginia Creeper Trail
SCENIC RAIL TRAIL EXPERIENCE
The Virginia Creeper Trail is a popular 34-mile rail trail that runs through the heart of Damascus, offering spectacular mountain vistas and serene landscapes. Visitors can rent bikes from local outfitters who provide shuttle services to the trailhead for an easy downhill ride back to town. The trail follows the route of an old railroad line and crosses numerous restored trestles over picturesque streams and rivers.
2. Appalachian Trail
LEGENDARY HIKING PATH
The Appalachian Trail runs directly through Downtown Damascus and along Main Street, earning the town its nickname as 'The Friendliest Town on the Trail.' Hikers from around the world pass through Damascus during their 2,190-mile journey between Georgia and Maine. Damascus celebrates its connection to the trail during the annual Trail Days Festival held each May, which has become one of the largest backpacking events in the country.
3. Damascus Town Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Damascus Town Park serves as a central gathering place where both the Virginia Creeper Trail and Appalachian Trail converge. The park features picnic areas, playground equipment, and access to Laurel Creek for fishing, tubing, and cooling off during summer months. Events such as the Independence Day Celebration in July and the Trail Days Festival in May are hosted at this scenic riverside park.
4. Adventure Damascus Bicycles
TRAIL BIKING HEADQUARTERS
Adventure Damascus Bicycles offers guided bike excursions along the Virginia Creeper Trail with shuttle services to the trailhead. Their expert guides provide historical insights while showcasing the beautiful landscapes, mountain vistas, and waterfalls along the way. They offer a variety of bikes for rent suitable for riders of all ages and experience levels.
5. Damascus History Tour
SELF-GUIDED TOWN EXPLORATION
The Damascus History Tour is a 2.4-mile self-guided walking or biking route that takes visitors to several historical sites throughout the town. Beginning at the Water Tanks and ending at the Damascus Old Mill, the tour features informative signs about the town's founding, early settlers, and industrial development. Highlights include the old railroad trestle, the site of the original electric plant, and the location of the former railroad station.
6. Damascus Brewery
LOCAL CRAFT BEER HAVEN
Damascus Brewery offers visitors a selection of house-brewed craft beers made on the premises by the owner himself. The laid-back taproom provides a perfect post-trail refreshment stop for hikers and cyclists exploring the area. Though the selection isn't extensive, each beer is crafted with care and served by knowledgeable staff who can explain the brewing process.
7. Appalachian Heritage Distillery
LOCAL SPIRIT CRAFTING
Appalachian Heritage Distillery offers visitors a taste of locally-produced spirits in downtown Damascus. The distillery has become a popular stop for Virginia Creeper Trail riders looking for refreshments after their journey. Visitors can sample various spirits while learning about the distilling process and the region's moonshining heritage.
8. Backbone Rock
WORLD'S SHORTEST TUNNEL
Backbone Rock, located just minutes south of Damascus, is famously known as the 'World's Shortest Tunnel.' Originally carved through the rock in 1901 to accommodate a railroad, it now serves as a unique roadway tunnel for vehicles. The surrounding recreation area offers hiking trails, picnic spots, and a refreshing swimming hole in Beaverdam Creek.
9. Damascus Old Mill
HISTORIC WATERSIDE LANDMARK
The Damascus Old Mill stands as a historic landmark at the end of the Damascus History Tour, showcasing the town's industrial heritage. The restored mill building now houses a restaurant and inn along the banks of Laurel Creek. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque setting where the water-powered mill once played an important role in the town's early economy.
10. Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
HIGH-ELEVATION WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area encompasses over 200,000 acres of scenic forest and includes Virginia's highest peak. Visitors can hike to see the wild ponies that roam freely in the high-elevation meadows known as the Grayson Highlands. The area offers extensive trail systems, camping opportunities, and spectacular views of the Appalachian Mountains.
11. Barter Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
The world-famous Barter Theatre in nearby Abingdon is known for its professional live performances in a historic setting. Founded during the Great Depression when patrons could barter food for admission, the theater has grown into a respected cultural institution with year-round productions. Many visitors combine a bike ride on the Virginia Creeper Trail with an evening performance at the Barter Theatre for a perfect day trip from Damascus.
12. Damascus Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Damascus Farmers Market operates from May to October, offering locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and regional specialties. Visitors can browse stalls featuring products from area farmers, artisans, and food vendors while enjoying the small-town atmosphere. The market provides a glimpse into the agricultural heritage and creative spirit of the Damascus community.
13. Iron Mountain Trail
CHALLENGING MOUNTAIN PATH
The Iron Mountain Trail is one of the seven nationally known trails that intersect with Damascus, offering a more challenging alternative to the Virginia Creeper Trail. The trail follows the ridgeline of Iron Mountain and provides stunning overlooks of the surrounding Appalachian landscape. Originally built as a segment of the Appalachian Trail before being relocated, this historic path now offers a more secluded hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
14. William King Arts Center
REGIONAL ART EXHIBITION
The William King Arts Center in nearby Abingdon showcases contemporary art, regional crafts, and cultural exhibitions in a historic school building. The center features rotating galleries, educational programs, and workshops for visitors of all ages. Art enthusiasts can easily add this cultural destination to their itinerary when exploring the Damascus area.
15. Abingdon Historic District
COLONIAL ARCHITECTURE WALK
The Abingdon Historic District offers a self-guided walking tour through streets lined with well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings. Visitors can explore more than 30 historic structures, including the Martha Washington Inn, Sinking Spring Cemetery, and various architectural gems. The charming district, located just a short drive from Damascus, provides shopping, dining, and a glimpse into Southwest Virginia's colonial past.