Glasgow VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Glasgow, Virginia.
1. James River Wilderness Area
NATURAL PARADISE FOR EXPLORERS
The James River Wilderness Area is a 9,000-acre natural paradise situated in Glasgow offering diverse plant and animal life. Visitors can enjoy a well-maintained trail system perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration. This picturesque area provides an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Virginia's countryside.
2. Glasgow Boat Launch
PADDLER'S GATEWAY TO ADVENTURE
The Glasgow Boat Launch is located at the end of Jarvis Trail, serving as a gateway for canoeing and kayaking adventures. This launch point gives water enthusiasts direct access to the scenic waterways that make Glasgow a paddler's paradise. The area's natural beauty and calm waters create ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced boaters.
3. Glasgow Farmers Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
The Glasgow Farmers Market operates from May through October at the intersection of 10th Street and Kanawha Street. Visitors can browse through fresh locally-grown produce, handmade crafts, and specialty food items from area vendors. The market serves as a community gathering place while supporting local agriculture and artisans.
4. Stonewall Paintball
ADRENALINE-PUMPING OUTDOOR RECREATION
Stonewall Paintball offers exciting paintball adventures for thrill-seekers located at 2215 Wert Faulkner Highway in Glasgow. Players can enjoy various themed fields and scenarios in a safe, supervised outdoor environment. This attraction provides equipment rentals and is suitable for groups looking for team-building activities or friends seeking an adrenaline rush.
5. Wilderness Canoe
SCENIC RIVER ADVENTURES
Wilderness Canoe is a highly-rated outdoor adventure company offering guided canoe trips along the scenic waterways near Glasgow. Visitors can experience the tranquil beauty of Virginia's rivers while spotting local wildlife in their natural habitat. This popular attraction provides all necessary equipment for a memorable day on the water.
6. Halcyon Days Cider
CRAFT CIDER TASTING EXPERIENCE
Halcyon Days Cider is a charming craft cidery near Glasgow offering tastings of their locally-produced hard ciders. Visitors can enjoy the rustic tasting room while learning about the cider-making process from knowledgeable staff. The cidery features seasonal varieties made from Virginia apples, providing a refreshing taste of local agriculture.
7. Dinosaur Kingdom II
QUIRKY HISTORICAL FANTASY
Dinosaur Kingdom II is a unique attraction that imagines an alternate history where dinosaurs fought in the Civil War. Visitors walk through an outdoor art installation featuring large dinosaur sculptures in surprising historical scenarios. This quirky roadside attraction combines art, humor, and fantasy for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
8. Natural Bridge State Park
ICONIC LIMESTONE FORMATION
Natural Bridge State Park features a spectacular 200-foot tall natural limestone bridge carved out by Cedar Creek. Visitors can explore the park's lush forests and rolling meadows through various hiking trails and educational programs. The park offers picnic facilities, a visitor center, and special events throughout the year.
9. Natural Bridge Zoo
DIVERSE ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Natural Bridge Zoo is a family-friendly attraction showcasing a variety of exotic animals in a scenic setting near Glasgow. Visitors can observe wildlife up close and even participate in feeding experiences with some of the animals. The zoo provides educational opportunities about conservation and animal habitats throughout its grounds.
10. Virginia Safari Park
DRIVE-THROUGH WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Virginia Safari Park offers an immersive drive-through wildlife experience where animals roam freely around visitors' vehicles. Guests can purchase special feed to hand-feed many of the exotic animals, creating memorable interactions with giraffes, bison, and more. The park also features a walk-through village with additional animal exhibits and encounters.
11. Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area
SERENE MOUNTAIN RETREAT
Cave Mountain Lake Recreation Area is a peaceful retreat in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests just 15 minutes from Glasgow. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the clear mountain lake, hiking on scenic trails, and fishing in stocked waters. The area provides picnic facilities and camping options for those wanting to extend their outdoor experience.
12. Historic Downtown Lexington
CHARMING HISTORIC DISTRICT
Historic Downtown Lexington is a picturesque district approximately 20 minutes from Glasgow featuring well-preserved 19th-century architecture and brick-lined streets. Visitors can explore unique boutiques, antique shops, and a variety of local restaurants offering Southern cuisine and international flavors. The walkable downtown area showcases the region's rich history through museums, historic sites, and guided tours.
13. Upper James Water Trail
SCENIC PADDLING ROUTE
The Upper James Water Trail is a designated paddling route that follows the beautiful James River through the Virginia countryside. Paddlers can enjoy sections of varying difficulty, from calm waters perfect for beginners to more challenging rapids for experienced kayakers. The trail offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and opportunities to observe diverse wildlife along its banks.
14. Blue Ridge Parkway
ICONIC SCENIC HIGHWAY
The Blue Ridge Parkway is an iconic scenic highway located about 30 minutes from Glasgow, offering breathtaking vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visitors can enjoy numerous overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic areas along this carefully designed road that follows the Appalachian mountain range. The Parkway is particularly spectacular during fall when the mountains are ablaze with colorful foliage.
15. Taubman Museum of Art
CONTEMPORARY ART SHOWCASE
The Taubman Museum of Art in nearby Roanoke showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional artwork in a striking architectural building. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions featuring both regional artists and internationally acclaimed works across various artistic mediums. The museum offers educational programs, guided tours, and a gift shop featuring unique art-inspired merchandise.