GO Virginia Region 2

Blacksburg the #4 Best Affordable College Town for Recent Grads – And Everyone Else

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BLACKSBURG, VA – The Town of Blacksburg was ranked the #4 Best Affordable College Town for Recent Grads (And Everyone Else) by Realtor.com. Their data team looked at 700 markets with at least 1 four-year university and 10,000 undergraduates in the area. The rankings were done considering percentage of students, unemployment rates, home appreciation, and median income.

Looking down main street in downtown Blacksburg in Montgomery County, VA

“After receiving their diplomas, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) graduates often head to cities such as Washington, DC, or Charlotte, NC.”

But those who prefer the great outdoors over big-city life are choosing to stick around. For starters, the Appalachian Trail is just a short drive out of town.

“Claytor Lake State Park is the go-to for fishing and boating, and New River Trail State Park is a fantastic place for horseback riding.”

Read more from Realtor.com.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

VA Best of Blue Ridge

A Whopping 16 NRV Favorites Named “Best of the Mountains”

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Virginia’s New River Valley was not mentioned once or twice, but rather 16 times in Blue Ridge Country Magazine’s “Best of the Mountains.” From hiking trails to wineries, the NRV has some great places to visit… and readers agree. Check out how the NRV ranked:

#1 Favorite Waterfall: The Cascades

NRV Best of the Mountains, Favorite Waterfall, The Cascades

This 70 ft. waterfall attracts almost 150,000 visitors each year. This easier hike has a beautiful payoff and visitors agree.

#1 Best Hiking Trail (Non-AT): New River Trail

#1 Best Biking Trail: New River Trail

NRV Best of the Mountains, New River Trail Bridge

This rail to trail system runs over 57 miles in Virginia’s New River Valley and is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

#1 Best Farm to Visit: Sinkland Farms

#1 Best Place to Hear Mountain Music: FloydFest

#1 Best Music Festival: FloydFest

NRV Best of the Mountains, FloydFest

For great music and free hugs, FloydFest is the place to be. It is consistently named a top music festival and won 3 “Best of the Mountains” awards.

#1 Best Mountain Winery: Chateau Morrisette

#2 Best Fishing Lake or River: New River

#2 Best Rail to Trail System: New River Valley Trail

#2 Best Country Store: Floyd Country Store

#2 Best Quirky Festival: FloydFest

#3 Town on My Bucket List: Floyd, VA

#3 Best Fishing Lake or River: Claytor Lake

#4 Favorite State Park: Claytor Lake State Park

A Top Favorite Historic Theater: Lyric Theater

NRV Best of the Mountains, The Lyric, Blacksburg

The Lyric Theater is a restored hot spot for not only blockbuster and indie movies, but also live speakers and performers.

Person Making a Difference in the Mountains: Woody Crenshaw

NRV Best of the Mountains, Woody Crenshaw

Crenshaw has done a lot for Floyd County including renovating the Floyd Country Store, and spearheading the Floyd Town Revitalization Project.

Check out more of the rankings from Blue Ridge Country.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

JBR Vineyards & Winery Opens New Tasting Room

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~ JBR Tasting Room Now Open! ~

FROM GILES COUNTY, VA – Tucked in the mountains of Giles County, JBR Vineyards & Winery has been developing their grape vines since 2006. The first bottle of Giles County wine was sold on May 28, 2015. Two varieties of classic wine grapes (vitis vinifera) are exclusively grown: Pinot Noir for red wine and Riesling for white wine. Jessee Ring was born and raised in Narrows, Virginia He graduated from Narrows High School in 1965 and then attended the University of Virginia where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering with Distinction in 1969. He received a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1971 from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. His work in the computer and software field took him to Pennsylvania where he lived for ten years, Salt Lake City, Utah, and finally to California where he lived for twenty years. He fulfilled various technical and management roles and ultimately became Vice President of a small software company in Silicon Valley. In 2005, he and his wife decided that all the conditions were right to fulfill a life-long dream of moving back east. Since moving back to Virginia in 2005, Jessee has changed careers. He left the high tech world and started a vineyard that is now in full production and is licensed as a Virginia Farm Winery (JBR Vineyards & Winery).

In December 2017 Governor McAuliffe announced that JBR with the support of the Giles County Industrial Development Authority, would receive an Agricultural and Forestry Industries Development Fund award to expand the winery to 14 tons of grapes and build a tasting room onsite of their Staffordsville winery.

“We are excited that VDACS and the Governor’s Office continue to promote and support new business opportunities like JBR Vineyards,” said Chris McKlarney, Giles County Administrator. “Giles County is pleased to join with our Commonwealth of Virginia partners in the effort to expand our economy and create new jobs for our citizens. Agriculture is important to Giles County and the addition of a vineyard and winery will provide additional tourism opportunities for visitors to Virginia’s Mountain Playground.”

That work has been completed and the ribbon is ready to be cut at the Grand Opening on Wednesday, May 30th at 2pm. Congressman Morgan Griffith is scheduled to attend and make comments along with VDACS representatives and Giles County Administration speakers. The short ceremony will be followed by a toast and ribbon cutting. Live music will also be on hand to enjoy the afternoon in Giles County. Directions to the vineyard are as follows 1360 Springdale Rd — Route 100, Eggleston turn off, right on Bear Spring Rd, Right on Springdale Rd, go 3 miles. There will be signs directing traffic from Route 100. Please be advised this location is not GPSable.

Other upcoming events at the winery include a Mountains of Music Homecoming Cultural Experience on June 9th. More details on JBR can be found on their Facebook page. Other releases on JBR can be found on our Giles County website.

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Giles County, Virginia is located in Southwest Virginia approximately 40 minutes south of Roanoke and just west of Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. With easy access to the New River, world class dining and lodging properties, and historical attractions for the entire family, Giles offers adventure in Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. Come find your playground at our Visitors Center located at 203 N Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134 or find us online at gilescounty.org or by calling 540-921-2079. For interviews or onsite visits, please contact Cora Gnegy, Tourism Marketing Director. We can arrange and assist with any media needs. For more information about planning your visit to Giles County or about activities and events, please visit www.gilescounty.org or contact us at tourism@gilescounty.org.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

10 Things to Do in the NRV This Summer

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Note:
July 8, 2021: This blog post, which was originally published in May 2018, was updated to reflect current information about the summer activities on this list.

New River Valley, VA – Whether you’re a student, a long-term resident, or anything in between, Virginia’s New River Valley has no shortage of summer activities. Explore every part of the region and check out these 10 things to do in the NRV this summer.

1. Adventure at Mountain Lake Lodge

Mountain Lake Lodge - Things to do in the NRV

Check out the Adventure Center at Mountain Lake Lodge in Giles County for endless summer fun. Zip through the Appalachian mountains on a Treetop Adventure, test your survival skills with an Escape Room challenge, or play Archery Tag with your closest family and friends. (photo by Alissa Moody)

2. Chateau Morrisette

Chateau Morrisette - Things to do in the NRV

Enjoy the grounds of this third-generation winery with friends, family, and even your pup (dogs are welcome!). Order a flight to explore new wines or sip a favorite blend while enjoying the outdoor seating and beautiful views of Floyd County.

3. Claytor Lake

Claytor Lake – Things to do in the NRV

Swim, boat, or fish at Claytor Lake State Park in Pulaski County this summer. Enjoy the beach and seasonal snack bar, the full-service marina, picnic spots, hiking trails, and more.

4. Float the New River from Bissett Park

Bisset Park - Things to do in the NRV

You can float, boat, paddle, or fish the New River from many spots in the NRV, but Bisset Park in the City of Radford is a good place to start. Bring your own equipment or rent from a local outfitter when you arrive. Float awhile and they’ll pick you up to start again.

5. Floyd Country Store Friday Night Jamboree

Floyd Country Store - Things to do in the NRV

The Floyd Country Store is a nationally renowned country store and music venue in Floyd. It “has become a traditional gathering place for musicians, dancers, and visitors from all over the world.” The Jamboree happens every Friday night at 6:30 pm with different featured musicians.

6. Hahn Horticulture Garden

Hahn Horticulture Garden - Things to do in the NRV

The Hahn Horticulture Garden is almost six acres of beautiful gardens on the Virginia Tech campus in Montgomery County. Experience tranquil water gardens, shade gardens, and plants galore! You can even check out special events and exhibits like Art in the Garden.

7. Hike the Cascades

The Cascades - Things to do in the NRV

A classic hike in Virginia’s New River Valley, Cascade Falls is a moderate hike with amazing views. The 69-foot falls are flanked by even taller cliff walls. This Giles County treasure was recently listed among the top five scenic family hikes in Virginia.

8. Moss Arts Center

Moss Arts Center - things to do in the NRV

The Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech welcomes performances that range from classical music to dance to stand-up comedy. The art galleries are open Wednesday – Saturday and feature various art exhibitions to explore. Click here to see the calendar of upcoming events.

9. Pulaski River Turtles Game at Calfee Park

Pulaski Yankees - things to do in the NRV

Head over to historic Calfee Park in Pulaski for a family-friendly River Turtles baseball game. Newly renamed in 2021, the River Turtles are part of the Appalachian League. This is an action-packed NRV experience you don’t want to miss.

10. Radford University Planetarium

RU Planetarium - Things to do in the NRV

Beat the heat and still experience nature! School is out, but the Radford University Planetarium is still up and running. Please note that as of Summer 2021, the Planetarium is in a “wait-and-see mode” due to COVID-19 case numbers and vaccination rates. Refer to the upcoming show times list here to see when the planetarium will be open.

Find more things to do each day on our Community Calendar powered by Next3Days.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

New NRV Community Pages Now Live

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NEW RIVER VALLEY, VA – Onward NRV has officially published new NRV community pages that showcase each county and city in the region. Each page can be accessed by hovering over the “Our Region” tab or visiting the “Our Region” page.

“The new and improved community pages on our regional website do a great job communicating the uniqueness of each community in our region,” said Onward NRV Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack. “We’re excited to release another resource full of information about what makes Virginia’s New River Valley an inspiring place to live, work, and do business.”

Onward NRV staff worked closely with local government, chamber, and tourism staff to ensure that each community was accurately represented.

The five pages are linked below:

  • Floyd County
  • Giles County
  • Montgomery County
  • Pulaski County
  • City of Radford

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    NRV Top Posts of 2018

    Blacksburg a Top 100 Best Place to Live

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    BLACKSBURG, VA – The Town of Blacksburg is a Top 100 Best Place to Live according to Livability.com. Blacksburg came in at number 63 out of almost 2,300 cities.

    The small and mid-sized towns and cities were ranked using 40 data points that analyzed economics, education, housing, and more.

    “The college town atmosphere in Blacksburg has helped foster affordable housing options along with a robust downtown district, fantastic restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment venues…”

    Read more from Livability.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    Roanoke Times: Floyd County Embraces Artisan Flair in New Push to Boost Local Economy

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    FLOYD COUNTY VA (excerpt from Roanoke Times) – Floyd County’s tourism and economic development officials have been working for over a year on an initiative designed to boost that local craftsmanship economy, with a focus on agriculture, food and forestry related ventures.

    They’re calling the campaign “Floyd Grown.”

    “It has been the backbone to our economy. Our arts, our music, our handcrafts, our woodcrafts have all been integral to Floyd County as well as agriculture,” Floyd County Board of Supervisors member Linda DeVito Kuchenbuch said. “All of this will be accentuated in a way that hasn’t ever been done before.”

    Lydeana Martin, the county’s community and economic development director, said around 17 percent of the county’s workforce is self-employed. Around 90 percent work for companies with fewer than 20 employees.

    She said this isn’t the place employers go to build massive factories with 50 tractor trailers rolling through each day. But it is where companies go if they’re looking for a couple of dozen highly skilled welders for more specialized, artistic work.

    She said “Floyd Grown” is…

    Read more from Jacob Demmit at The Roanoke Times.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    NRV Top Posts of 2018

    RU Highlander Ranked #1 Mascot by USA Today

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    RADFORD, VA – USA Today named the Radford University Highlander mascot the no. 1 mascot. Out of the 68 teams in the NCAA Tournament, the Highlanders came out on top.

    “AMAZING” said the article author Charles Curtis. “Between the beard, the costume, the muscles, the headband and all the ‘THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE!!!’ jokes, this deserves the No. 1 spot.”

    Radford University is a huge asset to our communities. It doesn’t hurt that Highlander sports teams keep winning. Radford Men’s Soccer clinched the 2016 Big South Tournament Championship. Golf, Cross Country, Tennis, and more are consistent winners, and Men’s Baseball is unstoppable. Learn more at www.radford.edu.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    Floyd Country Store in Floyd most underrated city in VA

    Floyd Named Most Underrated City in Virginia

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    FLOYD, VA – Thrillist named Floyd the most underrated city in Virginia. Due to its outdoor recreation opportunities and creative culture, Floyd made the list of underrated cities in all 50 states.

    Matthew Meltzer writes:

    This hippie town set atop the Blue Ridge Plateau is the state’s best outdoor recreation destination outside Shenandoah, with hiking, biking, and camping in the nearby Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve. It houses 40 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, which during the fall boasts a whole lotta eye-pleasing foliage but few tourists. This happens to be Virginia wine country, so hit either the Villa Appalaccia and Chateau Morrisette for fantastic food paired with the state’s best vino. Music lovers should swing though the Floyd Country Store for weekly performances and jam sessions; Floyd is also a stop on Virginia’s Crooked Road music trail, and home of the Blue Ridge Music Festival.

    Floyd Country Store in Floyd most underrated city in VA

    The town of Floyd has also been ranked a Best Small Town, one of the Happiest Towns in the Blue Ridge, and a Great Small Town Near D.C.

    Floyd County is one of the many inspiring small towns in Virginia’s New River Valley. Our eclectic communities and world-class universities make for an excellent place to live. Learn more about what Floyd and the NRV has to offer here.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    Virginia Tech versus North Carolina basketball, ACC sports, Cassell Coliseum

    Virginia Tech and Radford University Men’s Basketball Make it to the NCAA Tournament

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    NEW RIVER VALLEY, VA – The men’s basketball teams in the NRV are headed to the NCAA Tournament.

    nrv teams ncaa tournament

    The Virginia Tech Hokies (no. 8 seed in the East Region) received an at-large bid and will face Alabama (no. 9 seed) this Thursday, March 15.

    After winning the Big South Championship last week, the Radford Highlanders will be play in the “First Four games today. They’re opponents are LIU-Brooklyn and the winner will be the no. 16 seed against no. 1 seed Villanova on Thursday.

    Read more from Mark Berman at The Roanoke Times.

    UPDATE (March 16)

    The Radford University Highlanders beat LIU-Brooklyn to make it to the first round. Radford was then defeated by Villanova. Virginia Tech also lost by 3 points to Alabama in the first round.

    While the Hokies and the Highlanders didn’t make it past Round 1 this year, there was a lot of love for these NRV teams. Radford alumnus and ESPN commentator Marty Smith showed his support, even letting Reggie Miller know he’d help him get to town for a game.

    RU Coach Mike Jones was glad Virginia’s New River Valley had the opportunity to be seen:

    The NRV is such a special place. Not just because of our universities, but because of the people who attend them and populate the rest of the region. Whether you’re an alumnus, a long-time resident, or a new professional, it doesn’t take long to see Virginia’s New River Valley is A Natural Fit.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.