About
Did you know that when you booked your Blue Ridge Parkway vacation rental, you'd be in the heart of Appalachian music culture, known as The Crooked Road?
This 333-mile-long stretch weaves through Southwest Virginia, tracing the footsteps of legendary musicians. The journey along The Crooked Roads connects 10 major venues that promote acoustic bluegrass and Appalachian folk music. This historic corridor spans ten counties, connecting over sixty heritage music sites showcasing the vibrant legacy of old-time string bands, bluegrass, gospel, and more.
The Crooked Road was designated Virginia's Heritage Music Trail by the General Assembly in 2004 to help promote tourism while preserving Virginia's musical roots.
The beauty of The Crooked Road lies in its ability to transport visitors to a time when music was a part of daily life. Each town and venue on the trail tells a unique story handed down through generations. These tales are told through song, whether it be in impromptu street jam sessions or live performances. You'll hear the soulful history that has shaped Appalachia.
The good news about The Crooked Road is that several key venues and towns are a short drive from Hillsville.
The Crooked Road: Fun Facts & Cool Features
A fun fact is that because it is part of Virginia's Heritage Music Trail, The Crooked Road promotes and preserves this cherished art form. The trail hosts numerous music festivals and events yearly that attract Bluegrass fans nationwide. Moreover, one of the key wow factors for your Blue Ridge Parkway getaway is that The Crooked Road meanders through towns close to Hillsville.
Floyd, Virginia, a short drive east of Hillsville, is home to some of The Crooked Road's premiere venues and museums. One such attraction is the Floyd Country Store, which has been around since the 1900s. Be sure to get tickets for the Friday Nite Jamboree, featuring regional bluegrass bands and solo artists. The store also sells country kitchen essentials and serves healthy sandwiches and salads in the cafe. So, plan to arrive early for dinner and stay for the show!
Galax is west of Hillsville and has several venues and events to check out. The Blue Ridge Music Center, managed by the National Park Service, showcases local and regional concerts along with a museum. A cool feature is that exploring the 2,300-square-foot Roots of American Music Museum is free. With hands-on exhibits, vintage recordings, and musical instruments on display, the museum is a treasure trove of history.
While the Blue Ridge Music Center has free daytime concerts, the top pick is the Summer Concert Series. Picture a stage at the base of a mountain where bluegrass musicians perform to a hillside of music fans. It's the perfect combo of organic music with nature as the backdrop.
Also in Galax is the Rex Theater, a renovated 1940s venue that features local and regional bluegrass and Americana artists. In addition to stellar performances, you'll admire the Art Deco and neon marquee signs that harken back to another era.
Lastly, all these locations are close to top attractions like 5 Mile Mountain Distillery, the New River Trips LLC, and top restaurants like Tlaquepaque Mexican Restaurant.
Exploring The Crooked Road is not to be missed on your Blue Ridge Parkway vacation. You'll be able to connect with the region's history and leave with a newfound appreciation for America's musical roots.
Getting There
For specific directions to any of the venues mentioned above, open the link and find "Getting There" for step-by-step driving instructions.
Cost
Costs and times vary at each venue; check their website for insights and updates.
Local Tips
- The Friday Nite Jamboree offers general admission and reserved seating.
- Plan other area visits around a concert in Floyd or Galax.
- Hiking trails are at the Blue Ridge Music Center.
- Concerts, museums, and venues are family-friendly.