The Crooked Road: Southwest Virginia's Heritage Music Trail

A place of beauty – a place of song. This is The Crooked Road.

Experience first-hand how music is woven into the rich tapestry of tradition in Southwest Virginia. The variety is amazing - old-time string bands, a cappella gospel, blues, 300 year old ballads, bluegrass, and more.

Abingdon is home to The Crooked Road's headquarters, inside The Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace. There you'll find interactive exhibits, information on traveling the Crooked Road, and an official gift shop. Heritage music is highlighted on the first Thursday of every month.

Visit more than 92 attractions, 244 outdoor recreation sites and enjoy tons of music alongside the Crooked Road. Virginia's Heritage Music Trail follows the region's music history along Route 58 in Southwest Virginia. Other highlights of the Crooked Road include Appalachian crafts and coal mining heritage. Early ethnic groups that settled in these regions included the Cherokee Indians, the Melungeons (Portugese, Native American and African-American), the Germans and Scots-Irish.

SWVA Cultural Center interior Crooked Road concert music credit Jason Barnette

Abingdon, Virginia, is an ideal base for exploring The Crooked Road, a 300-mile trail that winds through the mountains and valleys of Southwest Virginia, showcasing the region's rich music heritage. Here's why staying in Abingdon is the choice for your Crooked Road adventure:

  1. Convenient Location: Abingdon is situated on The Crooked Road, providing easy access to the trail's many attractions. From here, you can easily explore the region's music, history, and culture.
  2. Music History: Abingdon is known for its rich music heritage, home to the renowned Barter Theatre, which has launched the careers of many famous musicians and actors. The town also hosts the Virginia Highlands Festival every summer, celebrating the region's music, arts, and crafts.
  3. Downtown Charm: Abingdon's historic downtown is a must-visit destination. Its unique shops, restaurants, and galleries are housed in beautifully preserved historic buildings, providing a charming atmosphere perfect for a stroll.
  4. Outdoor Adventures: Abingdon is surrounded by natural beauty, offering ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. The Virginia Creeper Trail is a popular 34-mile rail trail from Abingdon to Whitetop Station, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The town is also close to several state parks and the Appalachian Trail.

For the perfect Abingdon itinerary, we recommend the following:

Day 1: Start your day with a visit to the Barter Theatre, then head to Abingdon's historic downtown for lunch and shopping. In the afternoon, explore The Crooked Road and its many music attractions, such as the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.

Day 2: Spend the day on the Virginia Creeper Trail, which can be accessed directly from Abingdon. Hike, bike, or ride horseback along the trail's scenic path, taking in the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains along the way.

Day 3: Visit nearby state parks such as Grayson Highlands State Park or Hungry Mother State Park, offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks. End the day with a sunset hike on the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the region.

Abingdon is a fantastic destination for anyone exploring The Crooked Road and experiencing the natural beauty and musical heritage of Southwest Virginia. Book your trip today and start planning your Abingdon itinerary!