Visitors are always surprised by the vibrancy of the arts and culture in Virginia’s Western Highlands.

Locality:
450 W Main St
Covington, VA 24426

Fall, winter, spring performing arts series; features notable touring performers; music, drama, comedy, dance; vocal; student series during school year. Annual series also included performances by the Alleghany Highlands Choral and the Alleghany Highlands Orchestra.

Telephone:
540-962-6220

Locality:
439 E. Ridgeway Street
P.O. Box 273
Clifton Forge, VA 24422

The Center is a not-for-profit volunteer organization which encourages creative experience and appreciation of the visual arts. The gallery's changing exhibits feature works produced by Highlands and other artists, and the shop sells juried handmade items marketed by the craftsmen. Included are pottery, wooden ware, jewelry, stained glass, as well as needlework, quilts, and other fiber arts. Watercolor, oil, and graphic arts, framed and unframed, are also available.

Telephone:
540-862-4447

Website:
http://www.highlandsartsandcraft.org/

Locality:
99 Court House Hill Road
Warm Springs, VA 24484

Take a break from shopping and visit the Bath County Historical Society, which is both a museum of local history and a center for genealogy and research.  The building (which was originally the law offices of John Wilson Stephenson) was moved from its original location more than a mile away at the site of the current Warm Springs Inn.  The museum features keepsakes and mementos that date back to even before Bath County was founded in 1790, all tastefully arranged in a series of rooms as they might have appeared in a stately Victorian-era home.  Featured are furniture, clothing, china, crystal, even a little silver.  The walls are decorated with old family portraits, and original artwork.  Other museum rooms feature tools, war and railroad memorabilia, and, of course, los of artifacts relating to the springs and the hotels around them.  Open seasonally from April-October, the Bath County Historical Society provides a vivid look into the past of this charming and historic county.

Telephone:
540-839-2543

Website:
http://www.bathcountyhistory.org

Locality:
705 Main Street
Clifton Forge, VA 24422

The C&O Heritage Center offers a multi-dimensional railroad heritage experience that tells the story of the C&O Railway from its beginning in 1836 to today's CSX.  Come spend and afternoon watching trains from the signal tower, tour the museum and equipment, ride the Little C&O, blow the whistle, or sit down beside the pot belly stove in the replica passenger station and play a game of checkers.

Telephone:
540-862-2210

Website:
http://www.candoheritage.org

Locality:
705 Main Street
Clifton Forge, VA 24422

The Chesapeake and Ohio Historical Society is proud to offer The C&O Railway Heritage Center  in Clifton Forge. This Center is a railway heritage museum, interpretive, educational, and visitor's center that tells the story of the C&O Railway: the people, the places, and the technology. The story is the essential American tale of how our nation grew, how we lived and worked, and how we were all connected together by twin rails of steel. The purpose of this center is also to honor the memory and contribution of all the railroaders who built the railroads that allowed our nation to prosper, and all those railroaders who continue to keep America moving by rail.Features: - 1896 Freight Depot Visitor's Center - Replica Signal Tower for Train Watching - 1922 Gadsby's Tavern Dining Car - Restored C&O Cabooses - 7 1/2 Inch Gauge Ride-On Train - Large Scale Locomotive Models - 96 Foot O-Gauge Layout - C&O China and Chessie Displays

Telephone:
540-862-8653

Website:
http://www.candoheritage.org

Locality:
513 Church Street
Clifton Forge, VA 24422

The Masonic Amphitheatre and Park is a state-of-the-art outdoor facility and park that opened in June 2012.  The Amphitheatre was designed and built by third-year architect students from the design/buildLab at Virginia Tech.  The Smith Creek Pedestrian Bridge which links historic Clifton Forge to the Masonic Amphitheatre was designed and built by the design/buildLAB students (a different class) one year later.The Theatre’s stage was repurposed from a concrete slab that was part of a wholesale tire company owned by Bill Cook.  Bill donated the land for the Amphitheatre to the Masonic Theatre Preservation Foundation and the Amphitheatre became part of a complex that includes the Historic Masonic Theatre on 510 Main Street and the Masonic Amphitheatre on 513 Church Street in Clifton Forge, VA.  The two structures are adjacent to one another.The Amphitheatre’s season presents a diverse program of musical entertainment, plays, and festivals, runs from April to early October with over 40 events scheduled during the season.  The Amphitheatre seats 500 people with bench seating and the Amphitheatre lawn which invites lawn chairs and blankets for individuals and families to enjoy every event.  In the past four seasons, the majority of the programs offered are free of charge or donation only and many showcase local Alleghany Highlands’ talent.The Amphitheatre is available to rent by organizations, businesses and non-profits. 

Telephone:
540-862-5655

Website:
http://www.historicmasonictheatre.com

Locality:
518 Church St
Clifton Forge, VA 24422

The Clifton Forge School of the Arts is the community art school of the Alleghany Highlands.  The School opened in January 2011 and has served over 6,000 children and adults through classes and an additional 10,000+ in community programs.The School is comprised of historic buildings and a specimen garden which border Smith Creek. We offer classes for children and adults in Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters.  Classes and workshops are offered in drawing, painting, hand quilting, Oshi-e, blacksmithing, woodworking, knitting, crocheting, stained glass, pottery (wheel and hand building), sculpture (glass, stone and wire), photography, yoga, and music instruction in piano, violin and cello.  We welcome students of all ages and offer customized art education and experiences to families, schools, Scout troops, and other organizations.  Partial scholarships available.  Rotating exhibits in our Gallery are a 'must see' on any trip to Clifton Forge.  The School has several venues available for event rental.Bluegrass Jam Session held on the third Friday of every month.The School is open Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., and additional hours when classes are in session. The School is a non-profit organization seeking to offer education and opportunity through the arts.  Stop by! 

Telephone:
540-862-7275

Website:
http://cfsota.org

Locality:
403 Garth Newel Lane
Hot Springs, VA 24445

There is no better place to hear live music than Garth Newel Music Center. Our picturesque concert hall with superb acoustics allow us to perform chamber music as it was intended – in an intimate and informal setting for small friendly audiences. Where else can you enjoy a gourmet, five-course meal with musicians who just performed for you? Sip a glass of wine during a concert? Stroll to your room in an historic manor house after an enchanting evening? Garth Newel is located in scenic Allegheny Mountains of western Virginia, an an exciting escape from the rush of every day life. With over 50 concerts each year, we are one of the most active chamber music organizations in the country. Call or visit our website to learn more about our summer festival and weekend holiday packages.

Telephone:
540-839-5018

Website:
http://www.garthnewel.org

Locality:
61 Highland Center Drive
Monterey, VA 24465

The Highland Arts Council seeks to make Highland County an arts destination by:* Sponsoring high quality monthly musical performances at The Highland Center on the Second Saturday at 7 pm. The 2019 - 2020 season will begin on September 7.* Coordinating summer workshops in the arts through the Arts Academy. The 2019 workshops will be held July 29 - August 2 and will include talented instruction in basketry, barn quilt painting, pottery, and stained glass.* Holding a "plein air" Artist Weekend the last weekend in June each year. This will be held June 28 & 29 in 2019 with a wet paint show open to the public on Sunday, June 30.* Promoting the scenic, tranquil environment of Highland County as inspiration for artists to enjoy their craft throughout the year.

Telephone:
540-468-1922

Website:
http://highlandcountyartscouncil.org

Locality:
3901 Blue Spring Run Rd
Covington, VA 24426

Every family has a story and we want to welcome you to ours. Each letter is made of something special to us that tells part of our story. Visit the farm to learn more and become part of our family.Visitors are encouraged to take photos with the LOVEworks and share with loved ones on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/VirginiaisforLovers or on Twitter with the special hashtag #LOVEVA. A complete list of the LOVEwork locations is at www.Virginia.org/LOVE.

Telephone:
540-747-2055

Website:
http://www.bluespringrun.com

Locality:
Interstate 64E
One Welcome Center Drive
Covington, VA 24426

The Virginia state tourism office is adding a lot more love to family vacations with oversized LOVEwork at Virginia State Welcome Centers. The LOVEwork is approximately 16 feet wide and 8 feet tall and ties into Virginia's message that "Love is at the heart of every Virginia vacation".Virginia is celebrating 50 Years of Love with a specially wrapped V!Visitors are encouraged to take photos with the LOVEwork and share with loved ones on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/VirginiaisforLovers or on Twitter with the special hashtag #LOVEVA. A complete list of the LOVEwork locations is at www.Virginia.org/LOVE.

Telephone:
540-559-3010

Website:
https://www.virginia.org/Listings/VisitorInformationCenters/VirginiaWelcomeCenteratCovington/

Locality:
Midland Trail
Covington, VA 24426

LOVEwork at Humpback Bridge. The "L" was created with historic bricks from the area. The "O" is a gear from one of the old paper machines at MWV, representing the history of manufacturing in the area. The "V" is the natural feature created by a tree in the creek bank. The "E" was created with railroad ties representing the history of the railroad in our community. We encourage our local community and guests to visit and enjoy the beauty of our National Historic Landmark, Humpback Bridge, and the Alleghany Highlands.Visitors are encouraged to take photos with the LOVEwork and share with loved ones on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/VirginiaisforLovers on on Twitter with the special hashtag #LOVEVA. A complete list of the LOVEwork locations is at www.Virginia.org/LOVE

Telephone:
540-962-2178

Website:
http://www.visitalleghanyhighlands.com

Locality:
11176 Peaceful Valley Road
New Castle, VA 24127

Wilderness Adventure is all about having fun outside. Our LOVEwork features outdoor gear, including a canoe paddle, bike rim and climbing gear.

Locality:
535 Church St
Clifton Forge, VA 24422

The Clifton Forge LOVEworks is located on the lawn at the Masonic Amphitheatre in downtown Clifton Forge. The tranquil parklike atmosphere allows for picnicking and relaxing and is a great spot for your next photo op! Clifton Forge’s LOVE Sculpture promotes the history and beauty of the area with each letter representing the uniqueness of the Town. L represents our thriving arts community. O represents our railroad heritage. V represents our educational opportunities. And E represents our unparalleled vistas and outdoor activities.

Locality:
328 W. Main Street
Covington, VA 24426

“L”- for our Laborers:Who have enriched the area with their talents and is the foundation Covington is built on. Without them, we would not be the great city we are today.“O”- for Outfield:Where we have fallen in love with sports! It’s where we gather as a community to support those around us through different games, and sports as well as come together as family. It represents the heart of the city, being in the middle of what all that Covington has to offer.“V”- for Village:We unite as one community. We live here, we work here, and we plan our future here. We gather together and take care of each other here. We strive to prepare a better future for those who follow in our footsteps. We join together in times of hardship, destruction, and celebration.“E”- for Engine:Our history is rich with railroad deep within our veins. We have been lucky enough to have many different opportunities arise from the CSX railroad and more. We remember the times where the train brought many different items to Covington. Arrivals ranged from people to cherished goods, which all enriched this little town that is called home.

Telephone:
540-965-6360

Website:
http://www.covington.va.us

Locality:
210 Salem Ave
New Castle, VA 24127

The Craig County LOVEwork, located at Town Park, shows a panoramic landscape scene featuring the forests, mountains, fields and waterfalls of the county.The scene was created from layers of aluminum paneling, connected by support framing to achieve a three-dimensional effect. The LOVE letters are cut into the elements of the landscape. The sculpture measures approximately 12' long by 6' high. Jennifer Lovejoy and Martha Dillard are the Craig County artists who designed and painted the LOVEwork.Visitors are encouraged to take photos with the LOVEworks and share with loved ones on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/VirginiaisforLovers or on Twitter with the special hashtag #LOVEVA. A complete list of the LOVEwork locations is at www.Virginia.org/LOVE. 

Telephone:
540-864-5913

Website:
http://visitcraigcountyva.com/about/

Locality:
Highland Park Drive
Monterey, VA 24465

The LOVE letters in Highland County celebrate the rural landscape and heritage of this scenic community. In recognition of the many barn quilts located throughout the county, the LOVE letters used traditional quilt block patterns to highlight the many special features in Highland. L uses Maple Block to celebrate our maple products and popular festival in March, O uses the Double Wedding Ring to recognize our family heritage and sense of community, V is painted in Flying Geese to show our love of our wildlife and farm animals, and the E uses the Log Cabin block to represent our country style and love of home. #HighlandCountyVA and #VASweetSpotVisitors are encouraged to take photos with the LOVEwork and share with loved ones on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/VirginiaisforLovers or on Twitter with the special hashtag #LOVEVA. A complete list of the LOVEwork locations is at www.Virginia.org/LOVE. 

Telephone:
540-468-2550

Website:
http://www.HighlandCounty.org

Locality:
509 E Ridgeway St
Clifton Forge, VA 24422

The Museum of Antique Coffee Mills and Coffee Bar is the only museum of its kind in America. Enjoy the experience of a specialty coffee among the art, antiques and plants that complete the shop. The coffee bar serves award-winning specialty coffee and expresso-based drinks, premium teas, many varieties of biscotti and scones, including gluten-free. Selections from the private collection of the owners, Judith and Stephen Sivonda, numbering over 300 from 17th to  the 20th century examples, are on display. The Sivonda's are longtime members of the Association of Coffee Mill Enthusiasts. Judith is co-author of the book Antique Coffee Grinders: American, English and European, Schiffer Pub., available at the museum  We are located in historic downtown Clifton Forge, within walking distance of the Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center, the Historic Masonic Theatre, the C&O Railway Heritage Center, the Clifton Forge School of the Arts and four restaurants. 

Telephone:
(540) 968-3639

Website:
http://www.caffemuseova.com

Locality:
141 Court Street
New Castle, VA 24127

Come visit the Old Brick Hotel where past boarders include lawyers and judges, hot springs visitors, and maybe Jesse James. The three-story brick building was built in three stages beginning in 1840. Located across the street from the Craig County Courthouse, it was the center of town through the boom times of the early 1900's. Restoration was begun in 1984 by the Craig County Historical Society. It now showcases local antiques, a ground-floor Genealogy Library added in 2012, and a lot of history. Three restored log cabins are nearby, furnished and ready for visitors. Current restoration project is the former Clifton's Cash Store building next door at 258 Main Street. The Old Brick Hotel is the proud focal point of the Craig County Fall Festival second Saturday of each October. The Genealogy Library is open every Friday afternoon April through November, or please call for an appointment.

Telephone:
(540) 864-7023
(540) 580-3745

Email:
craig.historicalsociety1981@gmail.com

Website:
http://www.visitcraigcountyva.com

Locality:
139 North Maple Avenue
Covington, VA 24426

Three Cinema venue with snack bar and clean restrooms!

Telephone:
540-962-8888

Website:
http://rctheatres.com/loc_covington

Locality:
870 W. Edgemont Drive
Covington, VA 24426

The Jackson River Recreation/Sport Complex is located at 870 W. Edgemont Drive directly across from Applied Extrusion Technologies, Inc. Complex amenities include five lighted softball fields, basketball courts, lighted tennis courts, soccer fields, playground equipment, walking areas, picnic areas, restroom facilities, press box, concessions and a newly constructed amphitheater. See the link below for more information and a recent schedule.

Telephone:
540-965-6300

Website:
http://www.covington.va.us/riverrockamphitheater.shtml

Locality:
410 Friels Drive
Covington, VA 24426

The Brewhouse restaurant at Cliff View is a pub-style restaurant that is open to the public and offers a laid-back and unique dining experience with a family friendly atmosphere and incredible views. We offer indoor and outdoor seating and live music every weekend with no cover charge. Visit our website for our full menu and event calendar. 

Telephone:
(540) 962-2200

Email:
cliffviewgolfandinn@gmail.com

Website:
http://visitcliffview.com

Locality:
61 Highland Center Drive
Monterey, VA 24465

The Highland Center, a non-profit community and business incubator, is housed in a 1922 school building that is listed on both the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places. Inside the building you will find the Highland County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center as well as working artist studios, art displays, concert space, theatrical performances and more.  During summer months you can catch the Highland Farmers Market at The Highland Center Pavilion, Fridays from 3:30 to 6 pm.  Maple syrup and other Highland-made products are available year-round.  The Highland Center is also available to rent for meetings, weddings, retreats and more.  Book your next special event at this historic landmark in Virginia's Little Switzerland!

Telephone:
540-468-1922

Website:
http://www.thehighlandcenter.org

Locality:
61 Highland Center Drive
Monterey, VA 24465

The Highland County Barn Quilt Trail takes visitors on a self-guided tour this mountain community.  Highland County’s Barn Quilt Trail was the first in Virginia, beginning in 2011 with just 13 barn quilts in the brochure. The updated brochure has over 50 barn quilts for travelers to explore.Barn quilts are colorful painted wooden squares and diamonds that hang on barns, outbuildings and homes. These unique works of art are the merger of traditional roles on the farm, blending the customs of quilting bees together with outdoor barn work into a beautiful combination.There is often a story behind the name that corresponds with the design on the quilt. The barn quilt may represent the love of plants, animals or other natural wonders, showcase a business, or memorialize a special friend or moment. Whether viewing the county’s LOVEwork letters in Monterey, striking designs at a former mill in McDowell or an old maple syrup-producing barn with multiple barn quilts on it in Blue Grass, everyone can enjoy the beauty of the towns, hills, hollows, fields and forests of Highland County while experiencing the barn quilt trail. Can you spot them all?Learn more and get coloring templates for children at www.highlandcounty.org/barn-quilt-trail.  

Telephone:
540-468-2550

Website:
http://www.highlandcounty.org

Locality:
510 Main St
Clifton Forge, VA 24422

Circa 1905, originally an opera house and Masonic Lodge in the downtown historic district of Clifton Forge, VA, the Historic Masonic Theatre is Virginia's oldest continuously operating Theatre. On July 1, 2016, the Historic Masonic Theatre opened its doors to the public once again after a 6.5 million dollar renovation.  A  movie theatre and a performing arts venue, the four story building has a state of the art auditorium, an underground cafe and lounge area, a balcony with seating and conference room and an upper level ballroom suitable for wedding receptions and gatherings. The Theatre's history includes performances bythe world famous Count Basie Orchestra, appearances by Tex Ritter, Lash LaRue, and Cowboy Bob Steele and political speaker William Jennings Bryan.

Telephone:
540-862-5655

Email:
elizabeth.putnam@historicmasonictheatre.com

Website:
http://www.historicmasonictheatre.com

Locality:
110 Mall Road
Covington, VA 24426

This four-county region is a land of contrasts. It’s home to unspoiled vistas that have barely changed in centuries as well as a world-class resort frequented by celebrities and presidents. Old-fashioned Americana lives on in charming small towns that offer a sophisticated artistic and cultural scene enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Take your time and wander the many back roads and scenic byways. Discover a favorite picnic spot or a secluded fishing hole. The more you explore, the more you’ll fall in love with Virginia’s Western Highlands.

Telephone:
(540) 962-2178

Website:
https://vawesternhighlands.com

Locality:
686 Mill Creek Road
Millboro, VA 24460

Oftentimes, an Artisan has worked in other fields before finding their heart in the passionate pursuit of their craft.  Such is the story of Mary Barnes.  Mary is a Weaver. Her Weaving Arts Studio is located in the tiny village of Millboro in the eastern most portion of the county.  Mary was a school teacher.  When she retired early she set out to find yet another "professional" job. While studying at the Pendle Hill Quaker Center in Wallingford, Pennsylvania, she found herself embracing her artistic side.  She had been an accomplished seamstress and dabbled in embroidery, knitting, needlepoint, quilting, upholstering, making slip covers and caning chairs - and now her heart told her to weave. And weave she does, working with unique fibers to create a variety of clothing items like ruanas, shawls, vests, kimonos, mobiuses, cocoons and more - no two creations are exactly alike.

Telephone:
540-997-9179

Website:
http://www.weavingarts.us