Smith Mountain Lake puts you within easy reach of unforgettable day trips, from charming small towns and cultural hotspots to scenic overlooks and mountain adventures. Explore vibrant downtowns, historic sites, wineries, trails and more—all just a short drive away.
Bedford
You’ll find stunning beauty and unforgettable experiences in nearby Bedford and its surrounding countryside. Don’t miss the National D-Day Memorial and the eclectic downtown for shopping, art galleries and restaurants. Make stops at the rustic Peaks of Otter Lodge and enjoy hiking at nearby trails (pictured above), along with the variety of scenic wineries and craft breweries in the surrounding area. DestinationBedford.com
Rocky Mount
In nearby Rocky Mount, you can wander through the quaint downtown, filled with charming shops, diverse bars and restaurants, and a bountiful farmers market. Immerse yourself in the town’s vibrant music scene at the Harvester Performance Center, a focal point for live performances, or explore the beauty and outdoor amenities at one of the area’s many parks. DiscoverRockyMountVA.com
Roanoke
Just a short drive northwest of SML is Roanoke, which has made a national name for itself as a premier destination for outdoor recreation. You’ll also enjoy top notch museums and art galleries, a bustling downtown, Mill Mountain Zoo and the famed Roanoke Star, along with fine restaurants and shops. VisitRoanokeVa.com
Blue Ridge Parkway
Known as America’s Favorite Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a picturesque trip that reveals long-range vistas and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands. Access the Parkway at either milepost 121.4 near Roanoke or milepost 86 near the Peaks of Otter in Bedford. https://www.blueridgeparkway.org/BlueRidgeParkway.org
Lynchburg
Lynchburg is a vibrant and charming city with outstanding historic sites, recreational and cultural opportunities, shopping and dining. Kids will enjoy four-season mountain fun at the Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre and Amazement Square, an award-winning hands-on museum in the thriving downtown area. LynchburgVirginia.org
Salem
Known as Virginia’s Championship City, Salem hosts a variety of college sporting events each year and is home to the Salem RidgeYaks, Boston’s Class A affiliate team. It’s also a city with exceptional music, food, shopping and annual events, including the Salem Fair, Blue Ridge Music Festival and Olde Salem Days. VisitSalemVa.com
Lexington
Explore the quaint town of Lexington, home to both Washington & Lee University and Virginia Military Institute. Enjoy the Shenandoah Beerwerks trail, a variety of wineries and cideries and nearby Natural Bridge State Park, a 215-foot tall natural treasure once owned by Thomas Jefferson. LexingtonVirginia.com
Floyd
Floyd is as much a state of mind as it is a destination. The tiny town is renowned for its vibrant culture of music, arts, food, beer, wine and outdoor recreation. A key stop on the Crooked Road, Floyd hosts bluegrass and old-time music concerts year-round and is well known for its Friday Night Jamboree at the historic Floyd Country Store. VisitFloydVA.com
Abingdon
Discover Abingdon’s charm with the elegant and historic Martha Washington Inn as its centerpiece. Explore the Virginia Creeper Trail, enjoy live performances at Barter Theatre and immerse yourself in local arts at the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace. VisitAbingdonVirginia.com
