Looking for riverfront views, Appalachian heritage, and college-town energy? Head to Radford! Nestled in the New River Valley of Southwest Virginia, Radford blends outdoor adventure, rich history, and a friendly small-town vibe. Whether you're kayaking the New River, exploring hiking trails, or visiting Radford University, this scenic mountain town offers a perfect weekend getaway or day trip in the Blue Ridge region.
Radford, VA Highlights:
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Paddle or fish the New River – One of the oldest rivers in the world, great for kayaking, tubing, and smallmouth bass fishing.
- For Nature Lovers: Hike at Wildwood Park – Trails, birdwatching, and peaceful forest walks right in town.
- For History Buffs: Visit Glencoe Mansion, Museum & Gallery – Explore local history in a restored 19th-century Victorian home with art exhibits and Civil War displays.
- For Families: Explore Bisset Park – A large riverfront park with trails, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and views of the New River.
- For College Town Vibes: Tour Radford University – Stroll the scenic campus, check out student art, or attend a Highlanders game.
Best Time to Visit Radford, VA
The best time to visit Radford is from April through October, when the weather is ideal for hiking, river activities, and enjoying campus or town events. Fall brings beautiful foliage and college football excitement, while spring offers blooming wildflowers and festivals.
How to Get to Radford, VA
- By Car: Radford is just off I-81, about 45 minutes from Roanoke and 2.5 hours from Charlotte or Richmond.
- By Air: The closest airport is Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA), about 1 hour away by car.
- By Bus: Megabus and Greyhound serve nearby cities like Christiansburg and Roanoke with short connections to Radford.
Where to Stay in Radford, VA
- Recommended for Families: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Radford – Comfortable, pet-friendly, and close to Radford University and local parks.
- For Budget Travelers: Quality Inn Radford – Affordable, clean, and conveniently located near restaurants and downtown.
- For a Unique Stay: Nesselrod on the New – A charming riverside inn and event venue with beautiful gardens and direct river access.
Best Things to Do in Radford, VA
⮕ For Picnickers: Wildwood Park
Walk wooded trails and enjoy peaceful scenery on an easy spring outing.
Wildwood Park is a city greenway in the heart of Radford, Virginia, designed to provide green space for recreation and nature study. This 50-acre wooded valley in the mountains of southwest Virginia includes a stream known as Connelly's Run, marshy areas, meadows, and rugged limestone cliffs with tufa formations. There is a bikeway that runs through the valley and a network of hiking trails on both sides of the park. The park has a long and interesting history and provides a home to a range of wild animals that thrive in the diverse plant and trees ecosystem. The students of Radford University are using the park to conduct a series of research projects.
Grove Avenue and Main Street, Radford, VA 24141
⮕ For Golfers: Pete Dye River Course
Golf riverside fairways and admire mountain views during a relaxing retirement trip.
The River Course is an exceptional golf course built in 1999 on a cliff overlooking the historic New River. The Virginia Tech Foundation purchased the course in 2002. About 70 feet above the river and with 2.5 miles of the river front, the course was well-designed and further improved with the ‘revamping’ by Pete Dye. The new clubhouse with spectacular views of the golf course and the river was built and the range and maintenance facility were improved. In 2006, Golf Digest declared the course as a Best New Course and in 2007 as one of the Best Newly Remodeled American golf courses. The club house is an exceptional destination for all kinds of celebrations, weddings, conferences and events. Preston's at The River is a full-service restaurant offering lunch and dinner and the Hackin’ Hokies Lounge a great place to gather with friends.
8400 River Course Dr, Radford, VA 24141, Phone: 540-633-6732
⮕ For History Buffs: Glencoe Mansion Museum and Gallery
Tour Victorian halls and explore regional art on an affordable cultural visit.
The Glencoe Mansion Museum is a house museum located in downtown Radford, Virginia. The house was built in 1870 in the Second Empire style as the postbellum home of Confederate Brigadier General Gabriel C. Wharton. A large, two-story brick dwelling originally had extensive grounds with a barn, smoke house, chicken coop and an ice house. The house was kept in the family until 1996 when it was donated, together with the grounds, to the city of Radford by the Kollmorgen Motion Technology Group. The house features several rooms with Victorian period furniture, a number of Native American artifacts and several displays about Radford family history, Mary Draper Ingles, early settlers, local industries, river transportation, railroads, education and local sports. There is also a small art gallery that shows rotating exhibits of the artworks of contemporary Appalachian artists.
600 Unruh Dr, Radford, VA 24141, Phone: 540-731-5031
Attractions for Couples
⮕ For Paranormal Enthusiasts: St. Albans Sanatorium is the Most Haunted Place in the Eastern U.S.
Discover haunted halls and explore eerie legends on an unusual fall adventure.
According to paranormal investigators, abandoned St. Albans asylum in Radford, Virginia, is the most haunted place in the eastern U.S. The once-imposing building was originally a Lutheran boys’ school. The hostile learning environment caused a number of the students to commit suicide. After the school was closed, St. Albans reopened in 1916 as a psychiatric sanatorium. The patients were subjected to unspeakably cruel experimental treatments by their doctors such as lobotomies, insulin-induced comas, shocked via electroconvulsive therapy and similar ‘therapies.” The sanatorium finally closed in the 1990s, but it seems not all patients have left the building. People report seeing apparitions, levitating objects and shadowy figures hear spooky voices. What a place to visit for Halloween!
6248 University Park Dr, Radford, VA 24141-8631
⮕ For Heritage Travelers: Mary Draper Ingles Statue
Learn pioneer history and reflect on courage during a quick educational stop.
Mary Draper Ingles was an American pioneer and early western Virginia settler who was captured in the summer of 1755 with her two young sons by Shawnee during the French and Indian War. She escaped after two and a half months and returned home after trekking almost 600 miles across the Appalachian Mountains. To honor Mary and many other women who survived capture and returned to their Virginia log cabin homes, in 1909 an obelisk was constructed of the chimney stones from her original cabin. It was placed in Radford's West End Cemetery. In addition, an elegant bronze statue of Mary Draper Ingles was created by artist Matt Langford and placed in the park overlooking the New River. Park also includes other contemporary sculptures and interpretative signage.
601 Unruh Dr, Radford, VA 24141, Phone: 540-267-3153
Where to Eat in Radford, VA
- Recommended for Casual Dining: Sal's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria – Hearty pasta dishes, pizza, and friendly service popular with locals and students alike.
- For Brunch or Coffee: River City Grill – Cozy spot for burgers, wraps, and weekend breakfast favorites.
- For a Night Out: BT’s Restaurant – Great for wings, live music, and a lively sports bar atmosphere near campus.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Families: Highlanders Festival (October) – Celebrate Scottish heritage with pipe bands, highland games, and craft vendors on the RU campus.
- For Music Lovers: Glencoe Summer Concert Series – Enjoy outdoor live music on the museum lawn during summer months.
- For Holiday Fun: Radford Christmas Parade (December) – A cheerful community event with floats, music, and Santa sightings.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–60 Minutes of Radford, VA:
- For Outdoor Adventure: New River Trail State Park (30 min) – 57 miles of biking, hiking, and horseback riding along a scenic rail trail.
- For Scenic Drives: Blue Ridge Parkway (45 min) – Access stunning mountain views and hiking trails from nearby Roanoke or Floyd.
- For Culture & Shopping: Downtown Blacksburg (25 min) – Home to Virginia Tech, with restaurants, galleries, and lively student energy.
- For Wine & Views: Beliveau Farm Winery (30 min) – Sip Virginia wines with mountain views and lavender fields nearby.
- For Caves & Curiosities: Dixie Caverns (40 min) – Tour a cool cave system and browse vintage finds at the attached antique mall.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Radford located?
- Radford is a medium-sized university city in Virginia that developed in the mid-19th century from a small village near the New River.
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What led to Radford’s growth?
- The town experienced significant growth when a railway depot was constructed in what was then called Lovely Mount.
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When was the city named Radford?
- The town’s name was changed to Radford in 1891.
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Are there historic homes in Radford?
- Many beautiful homes built during Radford’s early development still stand in today’s historic downtown.
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What notable golf course is located in Radford?
- Radford is home to the famous Pete Dye River Course, a well-known golf course and popular wedding destination.
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What historical museum can visitors explore?
- The former home of General Gabriel C. Wharton is now the Glencoe House Museum, preserving Radford’s history.
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What parks and outdoor activities are available in Radford?
- Radford has several beautiful parks, including Wildwood Park, which offers hiking and biking trails and is home to plenty of wildlife.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Radford – A comfortable stay near Radford University.
Hike at Claytor Lake State Park – Enjoy scenic views, fishing, and picnicking.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for water activities.
Best Western Radford Inn – A convenient stay with easy access to local attractions.
Go kayaking on the New River – Experience calm waters and beautiful surroundings.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, fall foliage, and outdoor adventures.
Nesselrod Bed & Breakfast – A charming historic inn with a cozy atmosphere.
Visit Wildwood Park – Take a peaceful walk through nature trails with vibrant fall colors.
Winter (December-February) – Cool temperatures with occasional snow.
Comfort Inn & Suites Radford – A warm and welcoming stay in the heart of the city.
Tour Glencoe Mansion, Museum & Gallery – Learn about Radford’s rich history and art scene.
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