SWVA.tv

The hills of southwest Virginia may not be the first place that you think of when you're looking for great art and entertainment, but Abingdon Virginia is in fact such a place. One of the longest-running professional regional theatres in the nation - the Barter Theatre - is located at the heart of main street. It is also considered the "State Theatre of Virginia. Exceptional artists create and display their handy work in the Arts Depot, an 1870 restored railroad station. The William King Regional Arts Center features museum-standard galleries showcasing art of the region and of the world. From the region's most compelling contemporary works to its historical decorative arts to art from around the globe. There is even a museum dedicated to celebrating Hollywood celebrities and their memorabilia - The Star Museum. Who knew that country living and fine culture could actually complement each other so well.

Abingdon has a rich architectural history. The Martha Washington Inn was built in 1832 as a private residence by a Virginia General. Located conveniently across the street from the Barter, this charming historic hotel offers fifty-one rooms and eleven suites, each one a little different in decor and furnishings but all feature amenties and services expected in a fine luxury property. Another "long-standing tradition" is The Tavern Restaurant. Established in 1779, the Tavern is the oldest of Abingdon's buildings. The first post office on the western slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains was located in the east wing & the original mail slot is still in place today. Whites Mill has provided meal and flour for the farm and the kitchen since the 1800's. Additionally, its iconic water-wheel once provided the only stable mechanized energy in the area. The Cave House is an 1858 Victorian home built by Adam Hickman as a wedding present for his daughter, Anna Liza Campbell. Tradition holds that in 1760 Daniel Boone camped at the base of the hill. During the night, wolves ascended from the cave and attacked Boone's dogs, thereby creating the first name for Abingdon: Wolf Hills.

One of the biggest attractions is in the region, The Virginia Creeper Trail, stretches 35 miles from Abingdon to the North Carolina state line. It is open to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. 

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