Radford Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Radford, Virginia with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore museums and historical places, natural attractions, hiking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, nearby destinations, and more.


Introduction to Radford

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Radford is a charming city located in Southwest Virginia. Known for its beautiful natural scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, Radford is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of rural America.

List of Places to Visit in Radford

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Glencoe Museum and Gallery: This historic home-turned-museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Radford and New River Valley region. With exhibits featuring local art, photography, and artifacts from the area’s past, Glencoe Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the rich history of Radford.
  • Radford University Planetarium: Located on the campus of Radford University, the planetarium offers a unique experience for visitors to learn about astronomy and space in a fun and interactive way.
  • Selu Conservancy: Explore the rich history and culture of the Appalachian region at Selu Conservancy, which boasts a restored 19th-century plantation, formal gardens, and hiking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the area.

Natural Attractions of Radford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bisset Park: This 57-acre park on the banks of the New River offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as numerous recreational opportunities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking paths.
  • Claytor Lake State Park: Just a short drive from Radford, Claytor Lake State Park is a popular destination for fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. With over 4,500 acres of forests, fields, and waterways, the park offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area.
  • New River Valley Trail: This 57-mile trail follows the path of the New River, offering hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts a chance to explore the area’s beautiful natural scenery and wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Radford

  • Stiles Falls Trail: This 1.2-mile trail follows the Little River through beautiful forests, leading visitors to the stunning Stiles Falls.
  • Huckleberry Trail: This 5.5-mile trail connects Blacksburg and Christiansburg, offering visitors stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
  • Highland Park Trail: This 1.1-mile trail offers visitors a glimpse of Radford’s stunning natural beauty, as well as the opportunity to explore the area’s rich cultural history.

Best Things to Do in Radford: Activities and Tours

  • Radford Art Walk: Explore the vibrant art scene of Radford with the Radford Art Walk, which features exhibits and installations from local artists throughout the city’s downtown area.
  • Radford Music Festival: Held annually in the fall, the Radford Music Festival showcases some of the best music from the Appalachian region, as well as national and international acts.
  • Radford Ghost Tour: Take a spooky tour of the city’s most haunted locations with the Radford Ghost Tour, which is sure to thrill and chill visitors of all ages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Radford

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the historic Glencoe Museum and Gallery, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Radford and the New River Valley region.
Day 2 Hike the Stiles Falls Trail and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Day 3 Visit the Selu Conservancy, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the Appalachian region while exploring formal gardens and hiking trails.
Day 4 Take a relaxing stroll through Bisset Park and enjoy a picnic by the river.
Day 5 Explore the local art scene with the Radford Art Walk.
Day 6 Take a drive to nearby Claytor Lake State Park and spend the day fishing, boating, or hiking.
Day 7 Experience the best of local music at the annual Radford Music Festival.

Food and Drink Scene of Radford

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork Barbecue: Juicy, slow-smoked pulled pork is a Southern classic, and you’ll find some of the best in Radford.
  • Fried Catfish: Fresh-caught catfish, breaded and fried to crispy perfection, is a staple of Southern cuisine, and a must-try dish in Radford.
  • Pimento Cheese: This creamy, tangy spread made from cheddar cheese, pimentos, and mayonnaise is a beloved Southern favorite, and can be found on sandwiches, crackers, or served as a dip in many local restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Radford has a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries offering a range of unique and flavorful beers.
  • Moonshine: The town’s proximity to the Virginia moonshine trail means that visitors can experience the best of this Southern classic.
  • Sweet Tea: Sweet tea is a staple of Southern cuisine, and can be found on nearly every menu in Radford.

Where to Stay in Radford: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are a variety of accommodation options in Radford, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some recommended options include:

  • The River House Inn: This charming bed and breakfast is located on the banks of the New River, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Radford: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms and a variety of amenities, including free breakfast and an outdoor pool.
  • Treetop Retreat: This unique accommodation option offers visitors a chance to stay in a beautiful treehouse in the heart of Radford’s scenic natural beauty.

What to Buy in Radford: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts: Radford is located in the heart of the Appalachian region, known for its rich history of traditional crafts such as woodworking, pottery, and quilting. Visitors can find handmade crafts by local artisans at a variety of shops throughout the city.
  • Local Produce: Fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as locally-made jams, jellies, and other food products, can be found at the Radford Farmers Market and other local markets.
  • Moonshine: Virginia moonshine is a staple of Southern culture, and visitors can find a variety of flavors and varieties at local distilleries and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Radford

Radford is located in the heart of the Appalachian region, which is known for its rich history and culture. Visitors to the area can expect to encounter friendly locals, authentic Southern cuisine, and a strong sense of community and tradition.

Best Time to Visit Radford

The best time to visit Radford depends on your interests and preferences. Spring and fall are popular times to visit, as the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most beautiful. Summer is also a great time to visit, as visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and events, including the Radford Music Festival. Winter can be a beautiful time to visit, but visitors should be prepared for colder temperatures and the possibility of snow and ice.

Do’s and Don’ts of Radford

Do:

  • Do explore the area’s natural beauty by hiking, biking, or taking scenic drives.
  • Do try the local cuisine, including Southern classics like barbecue, fried catfish, and sweet tea.
  • Do be respectful of the area’s history and culture, and take time to learn about the area’s rich heritage.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural beauty of the area.
  • Don’t be rude or disrespectful to locals or other visitors.
  • Don’t ignore safety rules and regulations when engaging in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Radford

Radford is generally a safe destination for visitors, but visitors should take basic precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking car doors and keeping valuables out of sight. Visitors engaging in outdoor activities should also be aware of potential hazards, such as uneven terrain and wildlife.

Health in Radford

Visitors to Radford should take basic health precautions, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding contact with sick individuals. Visitors engaging in outdoor activities should also be prepared for potential hazards, such as sunburn and insect bites.

Getting to Radford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Radford

The closest airport to Radford is the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport, located approximately 40 minutes away by car. Other nearby airports include the Lynchburg Regional Airport and the Greensboro Piedmont Triad International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Radford

Greyhound Bus Lines operates a station in nearby Blacksburg, which is approximately 20 minutes away by car.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Radford, which is located just off Interstate 81, or take a train to the nearby Lynchburg Amtrak station.

How to Get Around in Radford

Visitors to Radford can get around by car, bike, or foot. The city also operates a public transit system, Radford Transit, which offers bus service throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Radford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Blacksburg: Located just 20 minutes from Radford, Blacksburg is home to Virginia Tech University, as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
  • New River Valley: The New River Valley region offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic drives, as well as charming small towns and cultural attractions.
  • Roanoke: Just 45 minutes from Radford, Roanoke is a vibrant city with a thriving arts and culture scene, as well as a variety of outdoor activities and natural attractions.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of the area, learn about the history and culture of Southwest Virginia, or just relax and enjoy some Southern hospitality, Radford is the perfect destination. Plan your trip today and discover the hidden gems and natural beauty of this charming Southwest Virginia city.