Are you looking for a fun day trip or weekend getaway from North Carolina? I’ve got just the spot for you!
I was invited to Galax, Virginia by the Visit Galax Visitors Center and SHRPA—and I honestly didn’t expect to be swept off my feet.
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But here’s the thing: this town is sneaky-charming.
It doesn’t shout, it fiddles a tune.
And somewhere between
the art galleries 🖼
handmade soap 🧼
Hillbilly Festival 👨🌾
over-the-top BBQ 👨🍳
and trivia night with a shrimp taco in one hand and a beer flight in the other 🍻
—I was fully sold.
Whether you’re road-tripping up from North Carolina for the day or tacking on a weekend to your Blue Ridge Parkway getaway, Galax offers a sweet blend of small-town soul, Appalachian flavor, and a whole lot of creative heart.
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Where Is Galax, VA?
Galax sits in southwestern Virginia, right near the North Carolina border and the entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s easily accessible from several NC cities:
- Mount Airy: 20 minutes
- Winston-Salem: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Charlotte: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Asheville: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Raleigh: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Wilmington: 5 hours
- Closest entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway (milepost 215 near the Blue Ridge Music Center): about 20 minutes
From Raleigh, I found the drive surprisingly relaxing once I was out of the city—rolling hills, open skies, and the kind of roads that beg you to roll the windows down.
Who Is This Itinerary Good For?
This itinerary is ideal for:
- Solo travelers and creative spirits looking for a peaceful, artsy day
- Couples in need of a low-key, walkable escape
- Friends’ getaways full of food, fun, and finds
- Anyone who enjoys small-town shopping, historic charm, and local flavors
- Trail walkers and bikers
- Country music lovers (especially fiddlers)
It’s not a jam-packed thrill ride, but that’s exactly the point. It’s a day to savor—slow, flavorful, and full of surprises.
Breakfast
Your breakfast depends on what kind of traveler you are: hearty or light?
If you’re ready to eat like a local, head to Briar Patch Marketplace & Café. This place looks like it was plucked right out of an old-timey postcard, with Coca-Cola signs and rustic decor that makes you feel like you’re in a general store from the 1950s.
I ordered the breakfast casserole—and couldn’t decide between gravy or ketchup, so I asked for both.
No regrets.
It was the kind of homey, savory breakfast that gives you permission to slow down and enjoy your morning.
Bonus: the attached marketplace is a treasure trove of antiques and handmade crafts.
If you want something lighter, Start Bien Coffee is a great option just down the street. It has a clean, artsy feel and a calm energy that’s perfect for easing into your day.
I had the avocado toast and a mango frappé—both were fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly filling. The frappé, in particular, was generous in size (and let’s be real, I needed it after all the walking I did!)
Morning Activity: Walk or Ride the New River Trail
After breakfast, it’s time to hit the trail—literally.
New River Trail State Park is just minutes from downtown Galax, and one of its access points is close enough to walk or bike from where I stayed.
I lucked out with a VRBO that had a bike available for guests to borrow, and although I hadn’t been on a bike in over ten years, I decided to give it a try.
If you’re like me, this trail is exactly the kind of place to rediscover your bike legs. It’s mostly flat, well-maintained, and peacefully scenic.
But if you want more of a challenge, don’t worry.
The entire trail is 57 miles long.
I’m sure you can find your challenge somewhere in there.
I rode about two miles out to the Cliff View area and back—passing shady trees, rocky ledges that reminded me of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and quiet stretches of Chestnut Creek.
There are benches along the way to stop, sip some water, and just enjoy the moment. The Cliff View spot has a picnic table and a grassy area, perfect if you packed a lunch or snack.
I recommend bringing cash for parking just in case—while there’s an option to pay online, the system didn’t work for me, and you can be fined if you don’t pay.
There are bathrooms at both the Galax trailhead and the Cliff View area.
Pro Tips: Bring cash or check for parking (in case the online card machine is down), sunscreen, bug spray, good walking or biking shoes, plenty of water, snacks or a picnic, and a blanket if you want to relax by the water.
Lunch: Galax Smokehouse
After getting cleaned up from your ride or hike, it’s time for a serious meal. And nothing hits the spot quite like Galax Smokehouse.
I’m a self-proclaimed BBQ snob, (not kidding. I used to own a BBQ place) so I ordered the sampler platter to try it all—pulled pork, ribs, and chopped brisket—with classic sides like corn nuggets, mashed potatoes, and hush puppies.
The meats were juicy and well-seasoned, and I appreciated that the sauces came on the side. I tried all four: tangy vinegar, sweet ketchup-based, molasses-rich, and a spicy one that added just the right kick.
Oh, and do not skip the banana pudding. It was creamy, nostalgic, and the perfect cool-down after a hot day on the trail.
Afternoon Activity: Arts, Antiques & Appalachian Creativity
Now that you’re well-fed and refreshed, it’s time to explore the heart of Downtown Galax.
Start at Chestnut Creek School of the Arts, a working art school and gallery inside a former bank. The old dynamite-proof vault is still there, now displaying local pottery and artwork.
It’s a cool mix of history and modern-day creativity. Check their event calendar ahead of time—you might even be able to join a class like painting or fiber arts.
Then head to Mule Hell Trading for handmade soaps, lip balms, and body oils—all crafted right in the store. The scents are heavenly, and I left with enough goodies to make my bathroom feel like a spa.
Chapters Bookshop is another gem. It’s part bookstore, part local goods shop, and part wine boutique. I always ask the staff what local wine they’re currently obsessed with—they haven’t steered me wrong yet.
But that’s not all. They also have all kinds of other boutiques and shops that specialize in things like quilting, antiques, music, museums and crafts!
Pro Tip: Always check hours of operation. Many downtown shops and restaurants are closed on Sundays and holidays.
Dinner & Evening: Creek Bottom Brewing
By the time evening rolls around, you’ll want a relaxed, easy place to wind down—and Creek Bottom Brewing is it.
This casual brewery and eatery has a welcoming patio (dog-friendly!) and frequently hosts live music and trivia nights.
I had the shrimp tacos and a flight of their house brews, which made for the perfect pairing. The vibe here is lively but laid-back, with a local crowd that makes out-of-towners feel like regulars.
If you’re visiting midweek, check the Rex Theater schedule—they offer free movie nights on Wednesdays. You can usually find updates on the Galax Visitors Center Facebook page.
Pro Tip: Bring a lawn chair for live music nights, and check the brewery’s event schedule if you want to catch something fun like trivia or a concert.
Where to Stay
If you decide to turn your day trip into a weekend (honestly, not a bad idea), here are a few options:
- Visitors Inn –a motel in the heart of downtown. Galax.
- Hampton Inn Galax – Modern and comfy, with easy access to downtown and the trail.
- Knights Inn – Within walking distance to downtown Galax
- New River Trail Cabins – Located directly on the New River Trail!
- VRBOs – Look for rentals with trail access or porch views.
My VRBO was within walking distance of downtown and came with a bike to borrow, which turned out to be a great bonus.
📅 Annual Festivals & Events in Galax
If you’re looking for extra fun things to do while you’re in town, you may want to consider visiting during some of their popular festivals and events.
Some of those include:
- Smoke on the Mountain BBQ Competition
This summertime barbeque showdown in late July brings local pitmasters together downtown for smoky goodness, competitive bites, and festival fun - Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention
A legendary week-long celebration held the second week of August at Felts Park. It’s the big one—drawing 60,000+ bluegrass and old-time music fans worldwide - Hillbilly Dayz
Held the third weekend in June, this free, family-friendly festival takes over downtown Galax with a parade, live music, beer garden, BBQ, quirky hillbilly games, beauty pageant, classic cars, and artisan vendors
- Wine Tastings at Chapters Bookshop
Every Friday and Saturday, pop in for curated regional wine samples in a bookstore setting—perfect for a relaxed evening - Fourth of July Parade & Fireworks
Celebrate Independence Day with a patriotic parade down Main Street, followed by fireworks in the evening visitgalax.com. - Championship Rodeo at Felts Park
In mid-July, this rugged rodeo brings cowboy competitions, rodeo thrills, and down-home excitement to town - Live Music at Rex and Creek Bottom Brewing
Throughout the spring, summer, and fall, you’ll find concerts—including bluegrass showcases at Rex Theater and live sets at Creek Bottom Brewing.
- Free Movie Night at Rex Theater
Every Wednesday from June through September, enjoy free family films starting around 6:30 PM. Details are posted on the Galax Visitors Center Facebook page
Why These Events Are Irresistible
- Festivals like the Old Fiddlers’ Convention and Hillbilly Dayz capture the heart of Galax—music, mouthwatering food, heritage, and community—all rolled into one unforgettable weekend.
- Weekly happenings, like movies and wine tastings, bring charm and variety to any visit—even mid-week.
- No matter when you go, there’s almost always something happening: from live music and rodeos to BBQ competitions and arts events.
Pro tip:
Check the Galax Visitors Center website or Facebook page for the most up-to-date event schedules before you go!
Galax 1 Day Itinerary Sheet
I’ve created an easy to follow 1 Day Itinerary for Galax, just for you with interactive links in Canva for easy reference.
Travel Planning Resources
- Galax Visitors Center (follow them on Facebook for events)
- New River Trail State Park (check trail maps and parking info)
- Local event calendars for Chestnut Creek School of the Arts and Rex Theater
- Chapters Bookshop (stock up on local snacks and wine before heading home)
Final Thoughts
Galax isn’t flashy. It’s not trying to be.
It’s thoughtful, creative, and real.
It’s where Appalachian heritage and artistic soul meet over coffee, banjo tunes, and barbecue sauce. And it’s absolutely worth the drive.
So if you’ve been craving a day that feels different—slower, fuller, and deeply local—Galax is calling.
