THINGS TO DO
Things to do in and around Clifton Forge
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C & O Railway Heritage Center - Climb aboard some old railway cars and Engines and visit the center where you can see and learn about the history and importance of the railways in America. $8 per adult.
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The Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center - A gallery on Main Street that represents all types of local artists from Virginia and West Virginia. It is a great place to find some beautiful artwork, jewelry, and handcrafted gifts. It is open from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. It also offers art classes.
https://highlandsartsandcraft.org/
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Clifton Forge School of the Arts - This offers rotating gallery exhibits, a great place to shop, as well as classes and workshops in fine art and fine craft media for the general public. It includes sculpting, painting, woodworking, blacksmithing, basket weaving, pottery, and more. It is open from 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday from May- December.
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Oluv Oil - Specialty store carrying a wide selection of gourmet olive oils and balsamic vinegars right in the middle of downtown. Also carries an assortment of accessories and pantry items.
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The Historic Masonic Theatre - Opened in 1906, The Historic Masonic Theatre is a three-story Beaux-Arts brick building, with an additional underground level, a pilastered facade, cove ceiling lobby and original performance hall with stage, enriched proscenium, and balcony, the historic theatre has been transformed into a performing art, entertainment, education, and community facility.
The theatre and adjoining outdoor amphitheater routinely host musical acts and other touring groups, as well as free family movie nights. Check out their website for a full list of events or contact them about getting a free tour.
https://historicmasonictheatre.com/
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Alleghany Outdoors / Kayak, Tube, or Bike along the Jackson River (20 minutes away) -
Kayak : Starting at $44 per person depending on the length of the trip.
Bike: Starting at $24 for 3 hours. The trail runs
alongside the Jackson River and is 14.4 miles long.
Tubing: $22 for 2.5 hours
They also offer a kayak/tube tour or a bike/tube tour.
https://alleghanyoutdoors.com/
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Douthat State Park - (10 minutes away)
A great local treasure with many different hiking trails, fishing, a public beach with swimming, and boating.
https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/douthat
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Humpback Bridge - (20 minutes away) This is the oldest covered bridge of
its kind in the United States. It was constructed in 1857 and is now on a
5-acre wayside park along crystal clear Dunlap Creek, a beautiful
spot for a picnic and photos.
It is on the National Register of Historic Places and
an easy start for a drive to Hot Springs.
https://www.virginiadot.org/info/faq-covbridge5.asp
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Falling Springs Falls - (20 minutes away) This scenic waterfall showcases
a breathtaking 80’ waterfall is one of the most visited and photographed
spots in the Alleghany Highlands.
The falls was part of a land grant from England’s King George III.
Thomas Jefferson, who was then Governor of Virginia, described
Falling Spring Falls as “a remarkable cascade".
Five miles north of Covington, this is on the route to Hot Springs or if
driving to Lewisburg you could add this to your trip out or back
with the Humpback Bridge. It has parking and an easy walking overlook.
https://www.virginia.org/listing/falling-spring/79
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Roaring Run Trail - (20 minutes away) Located near Eagle Rock, Virginia that is a great hike for all skill levels. This is a 1.7 mi. Loop. So much of this trail runs alongside cascading waterfalls and an active stream. If you love the sound of rushing water you will quickly recognize why it is named Roaring Run. It is one of Lisa’s favorite places. This trail never disappoints.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/roaring-run-hoop-hole-trail
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Island Ford Cave – In between Low Moor and Covington and right next to I-64, this FREE cave adventure often gets overlooked. Take exit 21 to Winterberry Ave, then to Valley Ridge. You will park right along the road and then walk into the cave. Maintained by the West Virginia Cave Conservancy, this is a great and FREE adventure even for novice cavers.
​https://wvcc.net/island-ford-cave/
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Let’s Ride Horses in Bath County - This is a fantastic place to go horseback riding and our favorite family outing! Kenton and Kim are terrific hosts and lead a tremendous ride for all skill levels. You can ride up into the mountains, along the Jackson River, or through Douthat State Park. Ride for 1, 2, 3, or 4 hours – your choice for what your butt will allow.
https://www.appalachianhorseadventures.org/
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Restaurants in Clifton Forge
Jack Mason’s Tavern - This is our favorite place and a favorite among locals. With great service and great food, it is a place to relax and unwind. People come from neighboring towns and counties for the atmosphere, food, and live music on selected nights. They also have their own brewery with award-winning beers.
Owners Ann and Michael are the best!!
Open 7 days a week.
https://www.jackmasonstavern.com/
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42 Deli - They have a variety of sandwiches and salads. This could be a good stop before heading out for a hike so that you could pack a picnic. Ask Sean and Lisa for a basket or cooler to take out with you. They are open from
8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday- Friday and 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. on Saturdays.
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Michael’s New York Style Pizza - This is a casual stop for pizza, pasta, and an enjoyable time. They are open from 11:00 a.m. - 9 p.m. Tuesday- Saturday.
https://michaels-new-york-style-pizza-clifton.business.site/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=referral
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Family TreeTs - Great local place right on the edge of town. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner 7 days a week. Pretty extensive menu with good food, plus they have live music on selected days.
https://www.facebook.com/familytreetsrestaurant
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Hawt Stuff/Wicked Weiner - In the heart of downtown, this place has great fresh donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and specialty coffee in the morning, and gourmet hotdogs, teas, and drinks later in the day.
Open 7 days a week from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
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Lyrik’s Café - Also in the heart of downtown, Lyrik’s has a great selection of specialty coffees and a small selection of desserts/sweets. Open Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Closed Sunday.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577693270239
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C&O Ice Cream Depot - Great spot to grab ice cream after lunch or dinner….or you can grab some simple food there as well. Kind of a throwback diner atmosphere with lots of memorabilia from the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. Open 1 p.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560254047790
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Dominos Pizza - Just what you think it is. In town, so delivery is pretty quick.
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Restaurants in neighboring Low Moor/Covington
​Penny’s Diner (Low Moor) – 50’s-style diner that is open 24hrs. Right off exit 21, it’s next to the Travelodge. Get breakfast anytime or go for a burger. They have really good shakes.
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Cucci’s Pizzeria (Covington) – Don’t let the name fool you. This family-run restaurant has so much more than pizza. Lots of great traditional Italian dishes, this has been a Covington favorite for over 40 years. Closed Sunday and Monday.
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Casa De Leones Mexican Grill (Covington) – This is our favorite Mexican restaurant in the area. The food is authentic with good portions. Located on Main Street in the heart of Covington, a good place to catch lunch or dinner and stroll the shops nearby. Open 7 days a week.
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Kanawha Cafe (Covington) - European-style cafe featuring bagels, muffins and pastries along with breakfast options. On Main Street in Covington, they are open every day except Sunday until 3 p.m.
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Tropical Spice (Covington) – This a take-out only place. Casual eatery known for Jamaican comfort food like jerk chicken and curry goat along with steaks, ribs and salmon options. They have an extremely popular Sunday brunch menu, expect a wait for the food.
https://www.facebook.com/p/Tropical-Spice-LLC-100076812079362/
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Things to do in Lewisburg, West Virginia (40 minutes west of Clifton Forge on I-64)
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This was rated “America’s Coolest Small Town.” It is full of unique shops, antique stores, galleries/wine bars, and so much more. They also have a playhouse and is home to one of only four Carnegie Halls in America. In addition, Lewisburg hosts a number of dining opportunities. Some of our favorites are listed here.
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Tattered and Worn Antique - Primitives - This is one of our favorite antique stores. A variety of vendors and pieces to enjoy. Every time we go we discover some new treasure. We hope you stop in and have fun too.
http://www.tatteredandwornantiques.com/
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Lost World Caverns - This has a total of 350 steps and the tour lasts 45 minutes to an hour.
$12 (per person) general admission
The temperature is 52 degrees so they recommend a jacket or sweatshirt.
They also have a Wild Cave Tour which lasts 4-6 hours. Check current prices.
In this tour, you crawl, climb, and get muddy (emerge covered in mud)
They provide hot lunches and showers.
You will need:
jeans + 2 layers of long sleeve shirts and a sweatshirt, close-toed shoes
Bring a complete change of clothes, a towel for the shower, and a garbage bag for muddy clothes.
Open 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
http://www.lostworldcaverns.com/
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The Greenbrier River Trail - This is a 78-mile hike and bike trail that weaves through “small towns, crosses 35 bridges, goes through 2 tunnels, and cuts through some of West Virginia’s most remote areas. It is one of 50 Millennium Legacy Trails in the United States and has been rated one of the top 10 hiking trails in the country by Backpacker Magazine.
http://greenbrierrivertrail.com/
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The Greenbrier Resort Bunker Tours - Was named one of the Top 100 Military Destinations in America in 2018. It is a throwback to the era of the Cold War between the U.S. and Russia where the U.S. built a secret underground bunker in 1961 that could shelter every member of Congress and other high-ranking U.S. officials. It was a complete mini-city underground. The tour lasts about 90 minutes and reservations are required. To make reservations or ask questions call (855)-453-4858
https://www.greenbrier.com/Activities-Events/Bunker-Tours-(20).aspx
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The Greenbrier Valley Theatre - A professional community theatre that has been staging productions for nearly 60 years in the heart of Lewisburg. The company offers a lineup of locally-produced shows from May through December.
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Restaurants in Lewisburg
The Humble Tomato - It has gorgeous outdoor seating in the garden. It is a favorite with a variety of types of food. Salads are not large enough to be a meal (just an FYI). With an appetizer or something, it would be good. They are closed on Tuesdays.
https://www.thehumbletomato.net/
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Thunderbird Taco - Offers eclectic tacos -vegan, vegetarian, and local meats-- finished with fresh margaritas, limeades, and good beer. It is definitely one of our favorites. They are open 11 a.m.- 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
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The Wild Bean - They share space with Thunderbird Tacos. They have fantastic teas, coffee, smoothies, and veggie cuisine. It is a terrific relaxing place to pause for a beverage and relaxation.
Hill and Holler - Has a relaxed atmosphere with brick-oven pizza, house-smoked wings, homemade ice cream, and craft beer. They are open Tuesday- Sunday from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
https://www.hillandhollerpizza.com/#hill-and-holler-pizza
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​Gustard’s Bistro (White Sulphur Springs) - Great little bistro on Main Street in White Sulphur Springs with tremendous food. Worth the stop if you’re over that way, or a special trip just because.
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Things to do in and around Lexington (30 minutes east of Clifton Forge on I-64)
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Lexington is home to VMI and Washington and Lee University. Right across the road from each other, they are amazing landmarks of history, dating back to pre-Revolutionary War era for W&L. There is also a historic Lexington Walking Tour Map that you can get at the Visitor Center. There are several breweries, restaurants, antique shops, and specialty stores, all walkable in downtown. It is easy to spend a day meandering through the shops and finding delectable things to eat. Here are a few activities we'd like to highlight.
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Natural Bridge - This is one of our favorite places not far outside of Lexington.
The hiking in and around Natural Bridge is gorgeous. Go up top or take
the path down to underneath. The 215-foot tall Natural Bridge is a limestone
gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. 7 miles of hiking trails, including Cedar
Creek Trail that leads from the park’s Visitor Center under the bridge to
the Monacan Indian Village and Lace Falls with its 30-foot cascade.
There is a charge to take the trail down under the bridge.
(Be sure to look for George Washington's initials)
The park is open daily from 8 a.m.-dusk, weather permitting. The main
floor of the Visitor Center is open daily, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Trail Store is open
daily 8 a.m.-dusk.
https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/natural-bridge
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The Virginia Horse Center - This is a great spot for any horse lover, but it’s not just horses. This 600 acres facility holds 19 show rings, a 4,000 seat Coliseum, 8 barns, cross country and combined carriage driving courses, a tractor pull, campgrounds, special event spaces, and full café services. They host equestrian competitions year-round, plus bring in rodeos and even concerts. We’re just 25 minutes from their gates.
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Duke’s Antique Center - Off I-64 and on Route 11 just outside of Lexington, Dukes is a place where you can find just about anything. 20,000 square feet inside packed with all kinds of antiques and collectibles. Outside is a collection of the unique, odd, and eccentric. You can spend quite a while wandering among the items.
Open 7 days a week, 9-6pm.
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Restaurants in Lexington
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Sushi Matsumoto – This is one of our favs when we’re in Lexington. Often prepared by the owner, the variety of sushi, sashimi, and specialty rolls is simply the best. It’s a small and casual restaurant on Main Street, making it walkable to other shops in the area. Closed Sunday and Monday.
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The Palms Restaurant - This is terrific casual dining in a pub-like atmosphere. Here they serve classic American Fare. There are a variety of menu choices and one of our favorites is the Wafflewich. You will leave satisfied and happy. They are closed on Monday. Tuesday 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Wed. & Thurs. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
and Sun. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
https://www.thepalmslexington.com/
Macado’s - There is no shortage of food here. This well-known stomping ground gets its roots in Roanoke and has expanded across and beyond the state. With overstuffed sandwiches, gourmet burgers and dogs, wraps, tacos, quesadillas, and salads too. There is little they do not offer. It is fun and delicious fare.
They are open daily from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Devil’s Backbone Outpost, Tap Room, and Kitchen - They have the best outdoor patio and a neat facility. “We take our time making lagers in the heartland of Virginia--a place away from the hustle and bustle of life.” You can try a flight, kick back and enjoy the views and relax with some dinner. The lagers are all very popular here and if you like beer you will likely find a new favorite. Open 7 days a week, till only 8 p.m. most days.
https://www.dbbrewingcompany.com/location/outpost/
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Salerno Wood-Fired Pizza and Taphouse – Just past the campus of Washington & Lee, they have good wood-fired pizzas and a very robust beer selection. An outdoor patio is pet-friendly. Open Wednesday-Saturday only, 12 p.m.-9 p.m.
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Sweet Things Ice Cream – Ok, so this isn’t a restaurant but we rarely make a trip to Lexington without stopping here. Some of the best ice cream around with a good selection of flavors. Closed Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. NOTE: They only take cash.
https://www.facebook.com/SweetThingsIceCreamShop/
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Things to do in Hot Springs/Warm Springs (approx 30 minutes on other side of mountain on Rt 220)
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Garth Newel Music Center - Founded in 1973, Garth Newel Music Center is a year-round chamber music venue situated in the heart of Virginia’s Allegheny Mountains, presenting over 50 concerts throughout the year performed by the Garth Newel Piano Quartet and other renowned guest musicians. They also offer music retreats for musicians and the Emerging Artist Fellowship Program each summer, an intensive 4-week workshop for college-age students.
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The Omni Homestead Resort - With a history extending more than two and a half centuries, the resort has been designated a National Historic Landmark. You may not be able to afford to stay here but you can certainly wander around this grand resort. Just to see the historic structure and the beautiful grounds, nestled into the mountain, it’s worth the drive over.
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The Warm Springs Pools – Formerly known as The Jefferson Pools,
these natural spring pools have a long history. The original was built
in 1761, making it the first spa structure in America. The second pool
was added in the 1870s. A great way to unwind after a day of outdoor
activity. They have family soak time, co-ed soak time, and then
gender-specific soak time. Best to make a reservation.
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Restaurants and Breweries in Hot Springs
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Bacova Brewery - This is a small, family-operated brewery. According to their site, they use equipment of the highest quality and excellent skills to create a symphony of flavor that you enjoy. Moreover, it is a meet destination for locals and tourists to enjoy a fresh pint.
The Inn at Warm Springs Tavern - This is housed in the original Bath County Courthouse dating back to 1863. Today the area has been remodeled to include handcrafted furnishings, walnut tables, artwork, and antiques. The menu is both hearty and eclectic with standard American options as well as European favorites like Chicken Schnitzel, Beef Goulash, Bouillabaisse, and Pork Shank. They also provide mouth-watering vegetarian options like Grilled Branzino and Fettuccine.
https://theinnatwarmsprings.com/
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Lindsay’s Roost Bar and Grill - This is a favorite mom-and-pop stop for us. He is a veteran and will enjoy sharing stories with you as well as a delicious meal. He also has an Elvis collection that shows another of his loves. Lindsay is a gem and you will be so glad that you stopped in. They are open till 9 p.m. most nights.
15 Sunset Hill Rd, Hot Springs, VA 24445
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Things to do in Staunton (approx 50 minutes on I-81 east)
Pronounced stan-ton, Staunton has a lot of great shops and dining to take up the day. It’s an easy drive from Clifton Forge up the lower half of the Shenandoah Valley. A compact downtown area means you can park the car and walk pretty much everywhere.
Sunspots Studios Glassblowing – Not only is this a cool shop to find one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted art glass, you can watch them actually blow the glass! We love coming here every time we’re in Staunton. We have purchased many a wedding gift here, plus watching these artisans create these pieces is amazing. And it’s FREE!
Open Wednesday thru Sunday, glassblowing demo till 4 p.m. each day.
The Camera Heritage Museum – An amazing display of over 7,000 cameras, most of them antique. This is a great place for anyone passionate about photography…or just thinks it’s cool. Open Monday thru Saturday.
https://www.cameraheritagemuseum.org/
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The Frontier Culture Museum – Tells the story of the thousands of people who migrated to colonial America, willingly and unwillingly, and of the life they created here for themselves and their descendants. Open 7 days a week but the hours vary.
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American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse – Open year-round, this repertory playhouse offers a continual rotation of Shakespeare’s works in the world’s only recreation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre.
https://americanshakespearecenter.com/
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Staunton Antiques Center – Right on the main drag in Staunton, this store is a 13,000 sq ft antique shopper’s paradise. Lots of great finds here, from furniture to artwork to keepsakes.
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Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum – One of those presidents you know very little about, this museum lets you take a self-guided tour to learn about our 28th president. You’ll tour the house where Wilson was born as well as learn about his leading the U.S. through WWI. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
https://www.woodrowwilson.org/
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Restaurants in Staunton
There are literally too many to list them all. Lots of cafes, ice cream shops, and restaurants right in the heart of town. We have tried several, but you should explore what strikes a chord with your taste buds. Some of our favorites:
​Mill Street Grill - Some of the best barbeque ribs and chicken in the area, plus lots of other selections. All portions are good size, and some nice desserts. Open 7 days a week.
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The Split Banana – Downtown ice cream shop with a walk-up window as well as inside seating. Some great flavors. Closed Monday.
https://www.thesplitbanana.com
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Golf Courses
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Cliftondale Country Club – Don’t let the name fool you. The public is welcome at this 9-hole course in Clifton Forge. With a course rating of 33.4, this course can give you the time outside you want without taking the whole day. They have cart and club rentals.
https://www.cliftondalecountryclub.com/home
The Golf Courses at The Greenbrier - Part of the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, four courses dot the West Virginia Landscape. Only a 35-minute drive from Ridgely, golfers can try their skill on courses that have played host to The Ryder Cup and a who's who of professionals.
https://www.greenbrier.com/Golf/Golf-Courses-at-The-Greenbrier.aspx
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The Cascades & Old Course at The Omni Homestead - Just a short drive over to Hot Springs, the Omni boasts two of the oldest courses in Virginia. What else would you expect from the hometown of Sam Snead? The Cascades was featured in Golfweeks’ 5 Best 2021 Resort Golf Courses and is one of the finest mountain courses in the country. ThisVirginia mountain course is ranked among “America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses” by Golf Digest. The address is even on Sam Snead Highway. Call well ahead to reserve tee times.
https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/homestead-virginia/golf
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Cliff View Golf Club - If you're looking for a fun day out on the course, try neighboring Covington and the Cliff View Golf Club. A 20-minute drive down I-64, this course is laid out along the curves of the Jackson River.
http://www.cliffviewgolfandflyfishinn.com/golf/index.html
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Ashley Plantation - Just down Route 220 towards Roanoke is one of the regional favorite courses. At 18 holes, Ashley Plantation is considered one of the best and most affordable public-access courses. Throw in the Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop, and you've got a memorable day trip.
https://www.ashleyplantation.com/
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​​Wineries
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Here are some local wineries that are within a 30 - 45 minute drive from Clifton Forge.
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Blue Ridge Vineyard (34 minutes away)
This is in Eagle Rock. The setting is wonderful with the seating area overlooking the mountains. Rustic feel, it has some great spaces. It's a drive into the countryside.
https://www.blueridgevineyard.com/
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Virginia Mountain Vineyards (33 minutes away)
This vineyard is in Fincastle. You can make an afternoon of it by touring the old downtown of Fincastle with its historic sites, then go to the winery after. The drive is very easy and beautiful through the valley on route 220.
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Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery (45 minutes away)
Family-owned, this winery sits in the Shenandoah Valley and has lots of great outdoor spaces to enjoy a glass or two. Live music on selected dates.
https://rockbridgevineyard.com/
Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery (45 minutes away)
This winery has a great outdoor seating area with spectacular views. Perfect spot after a day exploring Natural Bridge. They often have food trucks and live music.
http://greatvalleyfarmbrewery.com/
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