This quaint town in Montgomery County, Virginia is a charming, genteel place with a variety of things for visitors to do. Whether it’s hiking the Huckleberry Trail or Fall Ridge Preserve, learning about local history at the Montgomery Museum of Art and History, or enjoying a wine tasting at Whitebarrel Winery, interesting activities for all ages abound.
1.Huckleberry Trail
Originally part of the Virginia Anthracite Coal and Rail Company at the turn of the twentieth century, the Huckleberry Trail provided transportation between Christiansburg and Blacksburg and gets its name from the abundance of wild blueberries in the area. After its closing in 1966, one local man transformed the eight-mile trail into a scenic destination for hiking, biking and walking in the New River Valley. Visitors may access the trail, which was recently extended to connect Linwood Lane and Prices Frock, from a few points including entrances near the New River Valley Mall and the Christiansburg Recreation Center. Trailhead (Downtown Blacksburg)
200 Miller Street, Blacksburg, VA 24060
2.Whitebarrel Winery
Oenophiles will enjoy venturing to Whitebarrel Winery, where they’ll enjoy wine tastings, farm-to-table fare, and stunning views. Near the New River and Little River in New River Valley in the historic town of Childress, Whitebarrel is known for its high-quality wines and attentive service. The eco-friendly vineyards produce soil reminiscent of the Chianti region of Italy and the Ribera del Duero region of Spain, perfect for the red and white grapes for hand-crafted wines such as Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay and Baco Noir to name a few. There’s always something to do here from musical performances to comedy, VIP cellar tours and more.
4025 Childress Road, Christiansburg, VA 24073, Phone: 540-382-7619
3.Falls Ridge Preserve
Nature lovers head to the Fall Ridge Preserve to experience the easy hiking trails and take in the beauty. Set in the valley of the North Fork of the Roanoke River in Montgomery County, Virginia, this remarkable ridge section is also home to an amazing 80-foot spring-fed travertine waterfall and gorgeous greenery. The preserve itself spans 655 acres and is part of the Nature Conservancy. Maps are available at the visitor center. The preserve is open from dusk until dawn; dogs are not permitted on site.
Off Route 603 Near North Fork Road, Montgomery County, VA
4.Montgomery Museum of Art and History
Culture enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the Montgomery Museum of Art and History. Housed in the Christiansburg Presbyterian Church Manse which dates back to 1852, this local attraction promotes the work of regional artists and features a collection of photographs, archives books and more. The popular point of interest is a place where visitors can learn more about the local area and its history including the founding of Montgomery County back in 1776 and how it has evolved over the years from an agricultural center to more recent times. Fascinating exhibits over the years have covered everything from clothing to the Civil War and NASCAR.
300 South Pepper Street, Christiansburg, VA 24073, Phone: 540-382-5644
5.Paint N’ Fun
When creativity calls, Paint N’ Fun is the place to go. Aspiring artists can hone their inner Picasso as this studio has over 500 different pottery art pieces ready for personalized painting. All of the tools provided and guests simply select a piece they would like, paint it, wait for glossing and then take their masterpiece home. The activity is great for all ages and there are friendly staffers to help out if necessary. Among the different pieces that can be painted are plates, figurines, piggy banks, to name a few. There are also special event nights throughout the year so it is recommended to check their calendar.
782 New River Road, Christiansburg, VA 24703, Phone: 540-381-1770
6.Virginia Techniques Training Center
Children will have a blast at the Virginia Techniques Training Center. This family-friendly destination offers a jam-packed calendar of fun events whether it’s Tumbling, Ninja Zone, Cartwheeling and more. Other programs at the center include open gym, camp, private lessons, and parties. As for Kids Nite Out, this happens monthly on the first Saturday of the month and features activities, pizza, crafts, movies, and other good stuff. It’s perfect for children ages three to 15 and takes place from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
1550 Roanoke Street, Christiansburg, VA 24073, Phone: 540-381-5151
7.Country Cookin
Based on the idea of being able to “eat your fill of good food at a reasonable price in comfortable surroundings,” Country Cookin restaurant still lives up to its mission today. Since first opening its doors back in 1981, the local establishment has made diners happy with its country-style food all made from scratch including kitchen classics such as Uncle Roger’s Country Fried Steak, Cousin Willie’s Chargrilled Meatloaf and savory sides such as sweet potatoes and onion rings. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and also offers items to go.
2020 Roanoke Street, Christiansburg, VA 24073, Phone: 540-382-4734
7 Best Things to Do in Christiansburg, VA
- Huckleberry Trail, Photo: vladstar/stock.adobe.com
- Whitebarrel Winery, Photo: Whitebarrel Winery
- Falls Ridge Preserve, Photo: holly/stock.adobe.com
- Montgomery Museum of Art and History, Photo: Montgomery Museum of Art and History
- Paint N’ Fun, Photo: kikovic/stock.adobe.com
- Virginia Techniques Training Center, Photo: Virginia Techniques Training Center
- Country Cookin, Photo: Country Cookin
- Cover Photo: Town of Christiansburg, VA
