Monterey VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Monterey, Virginia.
1. Big Fish Cider Co.
AWARD-WINNING LOCAL CIDER
Big Fish Cider Co. is a popular attraction in Monterey offering award-winning local cider and a fantastic evening atmosphere. The establishment is open Friday through Sunday and is conveniently located right off Main Street. Visitors can enjoy authentic Blue Grass experiences through their live music events.
2. Sounding Knob Fire Tower
BREATHTAKING PANORAMIC VIEWS
Sounding Knob Fire Tower offers one of the most stunning aerial views of Monterey and the surrounding ridge-lines. Visitors can take a winding scenic drive 1.3 miles from town and climb the 100 steps to experience this adventurous attraction. The tower, restored in 2017, is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
3. Highland County Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Highland County Farmers Market takes place weekly at the Highland Center's Gazebo in Monterey. The market features a selection of local produce, delectable home-baked goods, and items from local artisans and crafters. It operates on Fridays from 3:30 to 6:00 PM, making it a lovely addition to a summer afternoon.
4. Laurel Fork Sapsuckers
UNIQUE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Laurel Fork Sapsuckers is one of the top attractions to visit in Monterey, Virginia. The establishment offers visitors a unique outdoor experience in the beautiful Highland County setting. It ranks as the second most popular thing to do in Monterey according to traveler recommendations.
5. Back Creek Farms
RURAL FARM EXPERIENCE
Back Creek Farms is a notable attraction in Monterey that showcases the agricultural heritage of Highland County. Visitors can experience rural farm life and learn about local farming practices. The farm is ranked among the top things to do when visiting Monterey.
6. Rexrode's Sugar Orchard
SWEET MAPLE EXPERIENCE
Rexrode's Sugar Orchard is a popular destination in Monterey offering visitors a glimpse into maple syrup production. The orchard provides an authentic Highland County maple experience that showcases local agricultural traditions. It is considered one of the must-visit attractions when exploring Monterey.
7. Heart And Soul Massage & Spa
RELAXATION AND WELLNESS
Heart And Soul Massage & Spa offers a tranquil retreat for visitors looking to relax in Monterey. The spa provides a range of wellness and relaxation services to rejuvenate body and mind. It's recognized as one of the top attractions in Monterey for those seeking self-care during their visit.
8. Maple Museum
HIGHLAND COUNTY'S SWEET HISTORY
The Maple Museum in Monterey allows visitors to spend an afternoon browsing exhibits that showcase the region's maple syrup heritage. The museum documents the historical and cultural significance of maple production in Highland County. Visitors can learn about traditional and modern maple syrup production techniques while experiencing this unique aspect of local culture.
9. Highland County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Highland County Museum preserves and exhibits the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and stories that document the development of Monterey and Highland County through the years. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the past of this unique mountain community.
10. Barn Quilt Trail
COLORFUL RURAL ART TOUR
The Barn Quilt Trail offers a self-guided tour of colorful quilt squares painted on barns throughout Monterey and Highland County. This unique attraction combines art, history, and rural scenery as visitors drive through the countryside discovering these distinctive displays. The trail showcases the artistic talent and cultural traditions of the local community while providing a wonderful way to explore the area's scenic landscapes.
11. Second Saturdays @ 7
MONTHLY CULTURAL PERFORMANCES
Second Saturdays @ 7 is a cultural program hosted by the Highland County Arts Council featuring a wide variety of performances. The events take place on the second Saturday of each month at 7 PM at The Highland Center in Monterey. This recurring attraction brings quality entertainment to the rural mountain community and showcases diverse artistic talents.
12. Monterey Campground
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR ACCOMMODATIONS
The Monterey Campground is a family-oriented camping facility located just a few miles south of Monterey. The campground provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Highland County through overnight outdoor stays. It serves as an ideal base for exploring the region's attractions while enjoying the tranquility of the mountains.
13. Snowshoe Mountain
PREMIER MOUNTAIN RECREATION
Snowshoe Mountain is a popular year-round resort destination located near Monterey offering outdoor recreation opportunities. In winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding, while summer activities include mountain biking, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides. The resort features multiple dining options, shopping venues, and lodging choices for visitors looking to extend their mountain experience.
14. Monongahela National Forest
VAST NATURAL WILDERNESS
Monongahela National Forest encompasses over 900,000 acres of diverse ecosystems in the region near Monterey. The forest offers extensive recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, camping, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains while exploring numerous trails, streams, and viewpoints throughout this federally protected land.
15. Warm Springs Pools
HISTORIC THERMAL SPRINGS
The Warm Springs Pools are historic thermal springs located near Monterey that have attracted visitors for their supposed healing properties since the 1700s. The facilities include the gentlemen's bath house and ladies' bath house, both built in the 19th century and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can experience these natural warm mineral waters in a historical setting that has hosted numerous notable figures throughout American history.