Heart of Appalachia itineraries create lasting memories for groups.  Our region is home to three major venues on The Crooked Road – Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail and numerous local jam sessions and pickin’ porches.  Museums are abundant throughout the region, highlighting the rich history of southwest Virginia from the pioneer spirit of Daniel Boone explorers to the eclectic cultures that settled the coal mining towns.  More adventurous types can hike or bike one of our many trails or ride the chairlift down to view the “eighth wonder of the world” at one of our state parks, or visit a vineyard to taste local wines. The Heart of Appalachia Tourism Authority can offer additional activity suggestions depending on your groups requests and budget.

Experience all that we have to offer with a heart-felt welcome from the people who have a passion for food, music, history and so much more.

For planning assistance, please contact our group sales manager at 276-762-0011

Sample Itineraries

Family Ties That Bind and O Brother and Beyond….

Hit the western loop of the Crooked Road and travel to Hiltons and see The First Family of Country Music at The Carter Fold.  Live music is played here every Saturday night, acoustic only, in the tradition of the original Carter Family and the mountain music they made famous.   Travel to Norton and shake a leg with the locals at the Country Cabin. See a piece of Hollywood at the Ralph Stanley Museum in Clintwood, honoring Grammy winner and legendary Dr. Ralph Stanley.   

Small Town, Big Story…..

Visit the town made famous in author Adriana Trigiani’s novel, Big Stone Gap.  This quaint Victorian era town and its charming hometown people welcome you to explore a wealth of museums that chronicle the exploration and settlement of this region.  From the pioneer explorers, to New York opera divas, you’ll find it all.  Make sure to plan time to take in the Trail of the Lonesome Pine Outdoor Drama, Virginia’s Official Outdoor drama, the third longest running outdoor drama in the nation.

Daniel Boone and the Indians ……

Learn all about Daniel Boone, Indians and the westward movement of our ancestors at one of our pioneer farms in the area or visit the Pinnacle Overlook at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.  See how the first settlers lived at Martin Station at Wilderness Road State Park or plan to ride the chairlift down to see the “Eighth Wonder of the World” at Natural Tunnel State Park.