Saltville VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Saltville, Virginia.
1. Museum of the Middle Appalachians
HISTORY OF THE REGION
The Museum of the Middle Appalachians offers a small but thorough explanation of Saltville and the surrounding area's unique history. It is considered a must-see family activity and a great stop for visitors to Saltville. The museum provides insights into the 30,000 years of historical significance of the region.
2. Salt Park
HISTORIC SALT PRODUCTION
Salt Park in Saltville showcases the town's rich heritage in salt production that gave the town its name. Visitors can learn about the historical importance of salt mining to the local economy and development of the region. The park serves as a memorial to the industry that shaped the town's identity.
3. Saltville Golf Club
SCENIC MOUNTAIN GOLFING
Saltville Golf Club provides golfers with a picturesque setting among the Appalachian mountains. The course offers challenging play for various skill levels while showcasing the natural beauty of the region. Golfers can enjoy the serene environment while testing their abilities on this local course.
4. Well Fields Recreation Area
UNIQUE SALT MARSHES
The Well Fields Recreation Area features unique high-altitude salt marshes that gave Saltville its name. This natural wonder is an official site on the Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail due to the distinctive ecology of the area. Visitors can explore several miles of interpretive trails covering 30,000 years of historical significance.
5. Town Commons
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
The Town Commons in Saltville features a covered stage available for outdoor concerts and shows. Located across from the Museum of the Middle Appalachians, it serves as a central gathering place for community events. The venue hosts various performances and activities throughout the year, bringing residents and visitors together.
6. Historic Railroad Display
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE EXHIBIT
The Historic Railroad Display in Saltville features a section of railroad track with a steam engine and two cars. This display serves as a memento of the Norfolk and Western train service that once ran through town, carrying salt and other products to market. The exhibit highlights the important role of rail transportation in Saltville's industrial history.
7. Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
The Clinch Mountain Wildlife Management Area offers expansive natural spaces for outdoor enthusiasts near Saltville. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and hunting in this preserved wilderness area. The management area showcases the biodiversity and natural beauty of the Appalachian region.
8. Virginia Creeper Trail
SCENIC RAIL TRAIL
The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34-mile rail-to-trail path that begins in nearby Abingdon and extends through the beautiful countryside. This popular trail offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding through some of Southwest Virginia's most scenic landscapes. The gentle grade of the former railroad bed makes it accessible for visitors of various fitness levels.
9. Barter Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS
The Barter Theatre in nearby Abingdon is one of the nation's oldest professional theaters, founded during the Great Depression. The theater got its name from the practice of allowing patrons to barter food for admission during hard economic times. Today, it continues to produce high-quality performances year-round in its historic venue.
10. Hungry Mother State Park
LAKESIDE MOUNTAIN RETREAT
Hungry Mother State Park offers a 108-acre lake surrounded by mountains in nearby Marion. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking along with modern cabins and camping facilities. The park is named after a local legend about a mother who starved herself to feed her child while fleeing Native American raiders.
11. Abingdon Vineyards
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Abingdon Vineyards offers wine tastings and scenic views along the South Holston River. Visitors can sample locally produced wines while enjoying the peaceful setting of this riverside winery. The vineyard frequently hosts events including live music, food pairings, and seasonal celebrations.
12. South Holston Lake
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
South Holston Lake is a 7,580-acre reservoir known for its exceptional fishing, particularly for bass and trout. The lake offers numerous recreational opportunities including boating, swimming, and camping along its 168 miles of shoreline. Its clear waters and mountain backdrop make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the region.
13. Grayson Highlands State Park
WILD PONIES AND PEAKS
Grayson Highlands State Park is famous for its wild ponies that roam freely throughout the mountaintop meadows. The park provides access to Virginia's highest peaks and offers spectacular panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains. Hikers can access the Appalachian Trail and enjoy the unique alpine-like environment unusual for this latitude.
14. Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace
REGIONAL ARTS AND CRAFTS
The Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace showcases the artistic heritage and crafts of the region. Visitors can browse and purchase handmade items from local artisans including pottery, woodwork, textiles, and musical instruments. The center also features exhibits on Appalachian culture and hosts demonstrations and performances throughout the year.
15. Lincoln Theatre
HISTORIC ARTS VENUE
The Lincoln Theatre is a beautifully restored 1929 Art Deco theater in nearby Marion. This historic venue hosts a variety of performances including music concerts, plays, and the famous Song of the Mountains PBS television series. The theater is one of only three existing Mayan Revival theaters in America and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.