Fun things to do in Radford, VA

Make the most of your stay in Radford, Virginia, where unforgettable experiences await. Your connection to the best things to do, landmarks to see, and places to eat and shop while you’re here starts at our concierge desk. We’ve got a line on it all.

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Highlander Art Walk


45 works from Radford University Art Museum’s Permanent Collection are on view now in celebration of the opening of the new Highlander Hotel Radford! This premier lodging features rooftop dining, art & chic design throughout 6 floors of luxurious suites and conference spaces. Highlights from the permanent collection can be seen throughout the hotel. Art in the main lobby includes famed Warhol and Picasso singed original screen-printing and lithography, as well as an original John Cage, Dorothy Gillespie, Frank Stella and many more. There is no reservation needed to enjoy the fine art! Many thanks to Samantha Sullivan from Blur Workshop and the installation team from Professional Art Handling LLC.

 

45 works from Radford University Art Museum’s Permanent Collection are on view now in celebration of the opening of the new Highlander Hotel Radford! This premier lodging features rooftop dining, art & chic design throughout 6 floors of luxurious suites and conference spaces. Highlights from the permanent collection can be seen throughout the hotel. Art in the main lobby includes famed Warhol and Picasso singed original screen-printing and lithography, as well as an original John Cage, Dorothy Gillespie, Frank Stella and many more. There is no reservation needed to enjoy the fine art! Many thanks to Samantha Sullivan from Blur Workshop and the installation team from Professional Art Handling LLC.

 
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Glencoe Mansion, Museum & Gallery


Step back in time to learn about early life in America at this historic residence. Here you’ll find a restored 19th Century home that houses not only artifacts of the period but also research on the American Civil War and exhibits that explore early Native American history, the pioneer settlers and the role the railroad played in Radford’s development. An ever-changing art gallery and a well-stocked gift shop round out the visitor’s experience. Adjacent to the museum is the Mary Draper Ingles Cultural Heritage Park that honors the heroine of “Follow the River” fame and features the New River Train Observatory. Special events are held throughout the year

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Blue Ridge Parkway


Known as “America's Favorite Drive," this roadway meanders through 469 miles of mountain meadows and scenic landscape dotted with split-rail fences, old farms, and historic landmarks. All along the way, you’ll find visitor centers, campgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails that are definitely worth a stop.

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Radford University


Be sure to visit beautiful Radford University, right next door to our hotel! The campus hosts a diverse, year-round schedule of events and cultural activities open to the public. You can even show up just to snap photos of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain views.  

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Dedmon Center at Radford University


Opened in 1981 and made the home of the Radford University men's & women's basketball and volleyball teams, the Dedmon Center is a versatile athletic complex on the campus of Radford University. The facility recently underwent a multi-million dollar facelift, which makes it one of the premiere collegiate athletic facilities in the Big South Conference and Mid-Atlantic region. Carilion Clinic and Radford Athletics entered a five-year partnership in 2020, which included the addition of the Radford University Carilion logos to the playing surface and the naming of the court.

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Radford University Planetarium


Reach for the stars at this world-class planetarium exploring all things astronomical, from the ancient legends about the stars to current knowledge to the future exploration of space. Be sure to check out their website for special show times, show descriptions, and much more. 

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Virginia Tech


Visit the Blacksburg campus of Virginia Tech. In addition to open houses and tours for prospective students, this esteemed university hosts sporting events, cultural exhibits, and performances throughout the year. 

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Cassell Coliseum at Virginia Tech


Originally constructed in 1961, Cassell Coliseum is home to Virginia Tech sports and events including basketball, wrestling, and volleyball. The arena was originally named Virginia Tech Coliseum but was dedicated in 1977 in honor of the late Stuart K. Cassell, who spearheaded the project. Cassell Coliseum is considered one of the best home settings in all of college sports to this day. 

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Lane Stadium at Virginia Tech


The Virginia Tech Hokies home football stadium has been voted one of the toughest places for a visiting team to play in college sports. Holding 65,632 fans, it’s also one of the best places to watch football, and features the Virginia Tech Hall of Fame, which highlights Hokie athletic heroes throughout the years.

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Pete Dye River Golf Course of Virginia Tech


This championship course was selected by Golf Magazine as one of the best new public access courses in the United States, and it’s easy to see why. Winding along the majestic New River for 2.5 miles, the course features stunning views with every shot.

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Appalachian Trail


This 2,175-mile-long footpath stretches through 14 eastern states from Maine to Georgia. It is home to thousands of species of plants and animals and landscapes ranging from the wild and scenic to wooded, pastoral, and culturally significant. The trail can be accessed 30 miles (about a 40-minute drive) from Radford in Pearisburg, Virginia.  

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Pulaski County Motorsports Park


This world-class speedway hosts NASCAR-affiliated Late Model Stock Car, Limited Sportsman, Street Stock, and Mod4 racing. It also features the non-NASCAR-sanctioned division U-Car and Mini-Cup races. Weekly races take place Saturday nights April through October, and pit passes are also available for interested gearheads. 

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Bisset Park Trail


Bisset Park connects to 3.5 miles of paved trails that follow New River and Connelly's Run. It's the perfect place to enjoy the river and the local wildlife.

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Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech


Located near The Highlander (only 6.1 miles). In addition, the Radford University Men’s and Women’s golf teams use this outstanding course as their practice facility

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Christiansburg Aquatic Center


This state-of-the-art 64,000-square-foot aquatic center features three pools, cardio fitness rooms, multi-purpose rooms, a warming kitchen, locker rooms, wet classrooms, family changing rooms, and a sun deck.  

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Harkrader Sports Complex


Located behind the Christiansburg Middle School, Harkrader Sports Complex is one of the premier baseball facilities in Virginia, with three lighted, multipurpose fields, two of which have 300-foot dimensions and are used for tournament play. Additional features include a walking path, tennis and basketball courts, picnic tables, and two playgrounds. 

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Roanoke Blacksburg Airport


The hotel is located about 45 minutes from the airport. Contact the hotel if you would like assistance with arranging transportation. 

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Claytor Lake State Park


Located just 11 miles away, Claytor Lake State Park is ideal for swimming, camping, hiking, sport fishing and boating. The park has a full-service marina with docking slips, supplies, fuel, boat rentals and refreshments.

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Radford Farmers Market


Located only 2.8 miles from the hotel, The Farmer's Market is a staple in downtown Radford every Saturday during the months of May through October from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. rain or shine. The Farmer's Market offers an ever-changing supply of homemade goodies, crafts, plants, meats, produce, and more.
Located at 600 Unruh Dr

 

 
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The New River Vineyard & Winery


Located just a short 10 minute drive from our hotel, The New River Vineyard & Winery is a family-owned and operated boutique farm winery and vineyard. As the first craft winery in Virginia, The New River Vineyard offers a variety of handcrafted single vineyard wines all grown onsite. You're sure to fine something to enjoy! 

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Pro Fishing Expeditions


Plan a guided fishing trip or a group fishing excursion with Pro Fishing Expeditions. Enjoy some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in the nation during your fishing expedition on the New River with expert guides. Custom trips for your group and last-minute bookings available. 

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Long Way Brewing


2.5 miles away. Attracts visitors from around the country.

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