THINGS TO DO

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Big Stone Gap might be a small town but it definitely has a big story to tell.

The gorgeous mountains of Southwest Virginia serve as a picturesque backdrop for Big Stone Gap, which is filled with history, culture, and nature. You can visit the Southwest Virginia Historical State Park, an education facility that tells the story of Southwest Virginia’s rich heritage, and enjoy the Trail of the Lonesome Pine Outdoor Drama, the longest continually running outdoor drama in Virginia.

You can learn about the history of coal mining at the Meador Coal Museum, visit the historic home of John Fox Jr., the June Tolliver House, the 101 Historic Traincar, and the Lonesome Pine School and Heritage Museum. And if you love to be outdoors, the Greenbelt Trail, which surrounds the town and follows the Powell River, offers walking, biking and bird watching.

We’ve also got some great locally-owned restaurants you’ll want to check out, including Four Seasons, Curklin’s, The General Store, Dari Delite, Little Mexico, Red Fox Grill, Country Kitchen, and Red Flower Chinese Restaurant.

PARKS & TRAILS

If you love being outdoors, Big Stone Gap has plenty to offer as it features a number of parks, including Big Cherry Reservoir, which covers 2,200 acres and features a 250-acre lake and plenty of great fishing and hunting.

Other parks you’ll enjoy visiting include Frog Level Park, Carnes Park, Bullitt Park, A.J. Fraley Park, and Miners Park.

WHERE TO STAY

From hotels to a charming bed and breakfast, the town of Big Stone Gap offers several choices to enjoy during your stay. Poplar Hill Cottage, a quaint, garden-themed cottage is always a popular choice as it features reproduction pieces and has three bedrooms, two full baths, a fully-stocked kitchen, and a large living area.

WHERE TO EAT

When it comes to great food, Big Stone Gap has plenty of incredible eateries you’ll want to try. Among the locally-owned favorites are Four Seasons, Curklin’s, The General Store, Dari Delite, Little Mexico, Red Fox Grill, Country Kitchen, and Red Flower Chinese Restaurant.

There’s also an array of fast-food restaurants including KFC, Huddle House, McDonald’s, and more.

WHERE TO SHOP

If you’re shopping for clothing, jewelry, artwork, gifts, and more, you’ll have no problem finding it in Big Stone Gap. The downtown area features quite a number of charming and unique shopping opportunities for visitors to enjoy, including The Blossom Box, Sisterly Chic Boutique, Litton’s Uptown, Gilley’s Jewelers, and Big Bore Outfitters, just a few of our popular locally-owned businesses.

OUTDOOR RECREATION

If you’re looking to get outside and have some fun, Big Stone Gap is a virtual outdoor playground. From mountain biking and jeep trails to fishing and hunting, you will definitely be able to find some activities that are just what you are looking for.