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Martinsville, Virginia: Where Fun and Adventure Collide – Discover the Best Things to Do and Places to Visit!

Nothing around here asks much of you. The parking is free right across the town and most of the attractions cost little or nothing. Piedmont Arts costs you nothing to walk into and it sits in the Arts and Cultural District. The Smith River Trail System grades its 20 miles from easy right up through to difficult. Pick the easy end and just stay there.

Are you planning a trip to Martinsville, Virginia? This charming city carries a version for you, thrilling speedway races through to cultural experiences and delicious food. Travelling with family, friends, or solo, you are sure to find plenty of fun things to do and places to visit in Martinsville.

If you are a fan of high-speed racing, you will not want to miss the Martinsville Speedway. This iconic track has been hosting NASCAR races for over 70 years and belongs on the list for any racing enthusiast. But Martinsville carries much more than racing. Art lovers can work through the Piedmont Arts center, which showcases a variety of local and regional artworks, while history buffs can take a journey through the city’s long past.

Martinsville is also home to a range of unusual museums, outdoor adventures and gastronomic delights. After family-friendly activities, nightlife and entertainment, or a shopping spree, you will find it all in Martinsville. So pack your bags and get ready for a trip to this quiet find in Virginia that stays with you.

Key Takeaways

• Martinsville offers something for everyone, from high-speed racing to cultural experiences and delicious food.
• Don’t miss the iconic Martinsville Speedway, but also explore the city’s art galleries, museums, and outdoor adventures.
• Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, Martinsville is a great destination for a fun and memorable trip.

Martinsville Speedway: A Thrill for Speed Lovers

Are you a fan of racing? Do you love the smell of burning rubber and the sound of roaring engines? If so, Martinsville Speedway is the place for you. Sitting in Ridgeway, Virginia, this iconic track has been hosting NASCAR races since 1949.

Martinsville Speedway is known for its tight turns and short straightaways, making it a challenging track for even the most experienced drivers. The track is just over half a mile long, but don’t let its size fool you – it’s packed with excitement and adrenaline.

If you are a racing fan, you will not want to miss the ValleyStar Credit Union 300, NASCAR’s biggest Late Model Stock Race, which returns to Martinsville Speedway in 2023. And if you are a die-hard NASCAR fan, you will definitely want to be there for the Fall NASCAR Weekend, which is the last race before the Championship race in Phoenix.

But even if you are not a racing fan, there is still plenty to see and do at Martinsville Speedway. Take a track tour and see the behind-the-scenes areas of the track, the garage area and Victory Lane included. You can even take a hot lap in the pace car.

Martinsville Speedway is also a strong venue for events. With a variety of meeting spaces and suites available, it suits hosting a corporate event, wedding, or other special occasion.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your earplugs and head to Martinsville Speedway for a day of high-speed thrills and excitement.

Piedmont Arts: A Haven for Art Enthusiasts

Are you an art enthusiast after a place to work through modern artwork? Piedmont Arts in Martinsville, Virginia is your answer. This award-winning art museum sits in the heart of Martinsville’s Arts and Cultural District and belongs on the list for anyone who appreciates art.

Piedmont Arts is known for curating thought-provoking exhibitions by international, national and regional artists. You can expect to see a diverse range of artwork, paintings and sculptures through to multimedia installations and more. The museum’s exhibitions change regularly, so there is always something new and exciting to see.

But Piedmont Arts is about more than looking at art. The museum also runs a variety of art classes for all ages, so you can let your inner artist loose. Beginner or experienced artist, there is a class for you. Painting and drawing through to knitting and more, you are sure to find a class that piques your interest.

If you are after a fun and unusual night out, check out Piedmont Arts’ performing arts events. Concerts and plays through to children’s performances, there is always something happening at the museum. And with no charge to get in, you can settle into everything Piedmont Arts carries without breaking the bank.

In summary, Piedmont Arts is a haven for art enthusiasts. With its diverse range of artwork, art classes and performing arts events, there is a version for you. So if you are in Martinsville, be sure to add Piedmont Arts to your list of destinations.

Historical Journey Through Martinsville

You are in for a treat if you are a history buff. Martinsville, Virginia, has a long and lively history that dates back to the Civil War. The city is home to numerous historic sites that run a glimpse into its past.

Start your journey at the Historic Henry County Courthouse, which now houses the Martinsville-Henry County Heritage Center and Museum. This courthouse played a significant role in the Civil War, and the museum has exhibits that showcase the city’s history. You will pick up the city’s early settlers, the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement.

If you are interested in slave history, head to Oakwood Cemetery. This cemetery is the final resting place of many slaves who lived and worked in Martinsville. The cemetery also has graves of Civil War soldiers and notable residents of the city.

For a taste of the high life, visit the Mulberry Hill Plantation. This Classical Revival mansion was built in the 1790s and is now open to the public. The mansion is a well-used stop on the Historic Garden Week tour and runs a glimpse into the lifestyle of the wealthy plantation owners.

The Bassett Historical Center is another attraction that belongs on the list. The center has an extensive collection of genealogical and historical records and is a strong resource for anyone interested in researching their family tree.

Martinsville is a city that takes pride in its history, and you will find that many of its residents are passionate about preserving its heritage. So, take a step back in time and work through the city’s long history.

Martinsville’s Unique Museums

If you are a fan of museums, you are in luck because Martinsville has some unusual ones that you will not find anywhere else.

First up, we have the Virginia Museum of Natural History. This museum is the state’s museum of natural history and serves the entire Commonwealth and beyond. You’ll find award-winning exhibits, groundbreaking scientific research, and innovative educational programs for all ages. And let’s not forget about the dinosaurs! Yes, you heard that right. You can see real dinosaur fossils and skeletons up close and personal. Who knew you could travel back in time without a time machine?

Next, we have the Bassett Historical Center. If you’re a history buff, this is the place for you. You’ll find a wealth of information about the history of Bassett and Henry County. From genealogy to local history, you’ll find it all here. And if you’re lucky, you might even get a chance to see some rare artifacts that are not on display to the public.

Last but not least, we have the Martinsville-Henry County Heritage Center and Museum. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Martinsville and Henry County. You’ll find exhibits on everything from the Civil War to the textile industry. And if you’re interested in educational programs, they have those too! You can learn about everything from quilting to beekeeping.

Overall, Martinsville’s unusual museums carry a version for you. Interested in dinosaurs, local history, or educational programs, you will find it all here. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and work through it.

Outdoor Adventures in Martinsville

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you are in luck because Martinsville carries plenty of options for you to work through. Hiking through to fishing, camping to kayaking, there is a version for you.

One of the better-known outdoor activities in Martinsville is hiking. The Smith River Trail System runs over 20 miles of trails that wind through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trails range from easy to difficult, so there is a version for hikers of all skill levels. Do not forget to bring your camera, as the views run long.

If you are after a more relaxing outdoor adventure, you can go fishing at Philpott Lake. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, bass, catfish and crappie included. You can fish from the shore or rent a boat and work through the lake. Either way, you are sure to have a strong time.

For those who want a bit more excitement, kayaking on the Smith River belongs on the list. Smith River Sports Complex runs kayak rentals, and you can paddle down the river and settle into the scenery. The rapids are mild, so it suits beginners.

If you are a camping enthusiast, you will love the Mountain Laurel Trails. The trails run primitive camping sites, so you can pitch a tent and spend the night under the stars. The trails also suit mountain biking, so bring your bike and hit the trails.

Overall, Martinsville is a strong destination for outdoor recreation. Hiker, fisherman, kayaker, or camper, there is a version for you. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an adventure you will not forget.

Gastronomic Delights in Martinsville

You might not expect to find serious eating country in Martinsville, but you would be wrong. This small town packs a big punch when it comes to gastronomic delights. In the mood for a quick bite or a fancy dinner, there is a version for you.

If you are after a classic American diner experience, head over to Simply Suzanne’s Café. This cozy spot serves up all your favorite comfort foods, pancakes through to burgers. The portions are generous, so bring your appetite. And do not forget to try their famous milkshakes, because they are worth the calories.

If you are more of a wine connoisseur, you are in luck. Martinsville has several wineries that run tastings and tours. Check out Hamlet Vineyards for a relaxing afternoon of sipping wine and settling into the scenery. Or head to Stanburn Winery for a more upscale experience, because their tasting room sits in a historic mansion.

Of course, no trip to Martinsville would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine. There are plenty of restaurants that serve up Southern classics like fried chicken and collard greens. But if you are after something a little more unusual, check out The Harvest Table. This farm-to-table restaurant sources all their ingredients locally, so you know you are getting the freshest food possible.

And if you are in the mood for a drink, Martinsville has you covered there too. Check out Wild Magnolia for craft cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients. Or head to The Ritz for a more traditional bar experience, because they have got a strong selection of beers poured fresh and plenty of TVs for watching the game.

No matter what your taste buds are craving, you are sure to find something to satisfy them in Martinsville. So come hungry and get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious eats and drinks.

Infinity Acres handles all of the small ones. The petting ranch has the goats, the pigs, the chickens and a llama, plus a corn maze in season. Uptown Pinball runs over 20 machines indoors and it does the pizza in that same room. Sportlanes has its 16 lanes and an arcade, which covers a wet afternoon off completely. None of it needs any booking ahead.

Family Fun in Martinsville

Martinsville is a strong place to visit with your family. After indoor or outdoor activities, there is a version for you.

If you are after some indoor fun, head over to Uptown Pinball. This retro arcade has over 20 pinball machines and classic arcade games to keep you and your family entertained for hours. You can even grab a slice of pizza while you play.

For more indoor fun, check out Sportlanes. This bowling alley has 16 lanes and runs cosmic bowling on Friday and Saturday nights. They also have an arcade and a snack bar, so you can make a whole evening of it.

If you are after some outdoor fun, head over to Infinity Acres. This petting ranch is home to all sorts of animals, goats, pigs, chickens and even a llama included. Your kids will love feeding and petting the animals, and you will love the peaceful countryside setting.

While you are at Infinity Acres, be sure to check out their corn maze. This annual attraction is a fun challenge for the whole family. You will have to navigate through the twists and turns to find your way out.

No matter what you choose to do, your family is sure to have a strong time in Martinsville. So pack up the car and head on over.

Nightlife and Entertainment in Martinsville

You might think that nightlife in a small town like Martinsville is non-existent, but you would be wrong. There are plenty of options to keep you entertained after the sun goes down.

If you are a music lover, you are in luck. Martinsville has a thriving music scene, with live music performances happening all year round. Country through to rock to blues, you are sure to find a band or artist that suits your taste. Check out local bars and venues like Sportlanes 4 Bowling Sports Bars and Martinsville & Henry County Sportsman’s Club Lounges for some strong tunes.

If you are after something a little more unusual, try attending the Rooster Walk Music & Arts Festival in May. This festival brings together some of the sharper musicians and artists from around the country for a weekend of music, camping and fun.

But music is not the only form of entertainment in Martinsville. There are also plenty of other activities to keep you busy. In the spring, check out the Martinsville Speedway for some high-speed racing action. And in August, the Henry County Fair belongs on the list for carnival rides, fair food and fun games.

No matter what time of year you visit Martinsville, there is always something to do after dark. So put on your dancing shoes, grab a drink, and get ready for a night of fun and entertainment.

Shopping Spree in Martinsville

You have come to Martinsville for a good time, and that includes some serious shopping. Luckily, this charming town carries plenty of options to satisfy your retail therapy needs.

First up, let us talk about antique shops. If you are a fan of vintage finds, you are in luck. Martinsville is home to several antique shops, the well-used Antiques at the Planters included. This place is packed to the brim with finds from yesteryear, so be prepared to spend some time browsing. You never know what kind of quiet find you might uncover.

But maybe antiques are not your thing. Maybe you are more of a mall rat. No judgment here. Head to the Liberty Fair Mall for all your favorite chain stores. You will find everything from clothing to electronics to home goods. And if you need a break from all that shopping, grab a snack at the food court. We will not tell anyone if you indulge in a little Auntie Anne’s pretzel action.

If you are after something a little more unusual, check out the specialty shops in downtown Martinsville. You will find everything from handmade jewelry to artisanal cheeses. Seriously, who does not love a good cheese shop? And if you are in the market for a one-of-a-kind gift, you are sure to find something special at one of these independent retailers.

So go ahead, treat yourself to a shopping spree in Martinsville. Into antiques, chain stores, or specialty shops, this town carries a version for you. And who knows, you might just find the right souvenir to remember your trip by.

Sports Activities in Martinsville

Martinsville is a hub for sports enthusiasts. Golf fanatic or baseball buff, there is a version for you in this town. Here are some of the stronger sports activities you can settle into in Martinsville.

Golf

If you are a golf lover, then you are in luck. Martinsville has a pair of strong golf courses that are sure to impress. First up is the Lynwood Golf Club, which runs a challenging 18-hole course that will put your skills to the test. If you are after something a little more relaxed, then head over to the Chatmoss Country Club, which runs a 9-hole course that suits beginners.

Baseball

Martinsville is home to the Martinsville Mustangs, a collegiate summer baseball team that competes in the Coastal Plain League. If you are a fan of America’s favorite pastime, then you will not want to miss a game at Hooker Field. With its cozy atmosphere and passionate fans, watching the Mustangs play is an experience like no other.

Other Sports

If golf and baseball are not your thing, do not worry. There are plenty of other sports activities to settle into in Martinsville. You can head over to the Smith River Sports Complex, which is home to a variety of sports fields and courts, soccer fields, baseball diamonds and basketball courts included. The complex also hosts a number of tournaments and events throughout the year, so be sure to check their schedule.

No matter what your favorite sport is, Martinsville carries something for you. So grab your gear, get out there, and have some fun.

Cultural Experiences in Martinsville

If you are after a cultural fix in Martinsville, you will not be disappointed. Art gardens through to historic plantations, there is plenty to see and do.

Start your cultural tour at the Gravely-Lester Art Garden. This quiet find is tucked away in the heart of Martinsville and features striking sculptures and careful landscaping. It suits relaxing and taking in some art.

If stained glass is more your thing, head over to the Beaver Creek Plantation. Here you will find a striking collection of stained glass windows from the 19th century. The plantation itself is also worth a visit, with its architecture and long history.

For those who prefer a good brew, the Mountain Valley Brewing Company belongs on the list. This family-owned brewery runs a range of craft beers and ciders, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, which makes it the spot to settle in with a cold one.

If you are more of a spirits person, check out Smith River Spirits. This local distillery produces a range of spirits, vodka, gin and whiskey included. Take a tour of the distillery and pick up the distilling process, or stop by the tasting room to sample some of their award-winning spirits.

Last but not least, do not miss the Scuffle Hill Brewing Company. This microbrewery sits in a historic building in downtown Martinsville and runs a range of unusual and flavorful beers. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, which makes it the spot to spend an evening with friends.

No matter what your cultural interests are, Martinsville carries a version for you. So grab your friends and family and start working through it.

Planning Your Visit to Martinsville

So, you have decided to visit Martinsville? Strong choice. This charming town in Virginia carries plenty, outdoor adventures through to cultural experiences. Here are a few tips to help you plan your trip:

Where to Park

Parking in Martinsville is a breeze, so you will not have to worry about circling the block for hours. There are plenty of free parking spots available throughout town, so you can focus on having fun instead of stressing about where to leave your car.

Visitor Centers

If you are after information about Martinsville, your first stop should be the Martinsville-Henry County Visitor Center. The friendly staff there can help you plan your itinerary, recommend local restaurants, and run you maps and brochures. Plus, they are always happy to answer any questions you may have.

Reviews

Want to know what other travelers think of Martinsville? Check out online reviews before you go. You will find plenty of helpful feedback on sites like TripAdvisor and Yelp. Just remember to take everything with a grain of salt, because everyone’s experience is different.

Tours

After a guided tour of Martinsville? You are in luck. There are several companies that run tours of the town and surrounding areas. Interested in history, food, or outdoor adventures, there is a tour for you.

Photos

Do not forget your camera. Martinsville is full of picturesque spots, the historic downtown area through to the scenic Smith River. You will want to capture the whole trip.

Price

Martinsville is an affordable destination, so you will not have to break the bank to have a good time. Many of the town’s attractions are free or low-cost, so you can settle in without worrying about your budget.

Activity Guide

If you are not sure what to do in Martinsville, pick up an activity guide. You can find them at the visitor center or online. These guides will run you a rundown of all the stronger things to do in town, hiking through to shopping to attending festivals.

Stay

There are plenty of lodging options in Martinsville, cozy bed and breakfasts through to modern hotels. No matter what your budget or preferences, you are sure to find a place to stay that suits your needs.

Dine

Martinsville is home to a variety of restaurants, serving everything from classic Southern cuisine to international fare. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, like Virginia ham and Brunswick stew. And do not forget to save room for dessert, because the town’s bakeries and ice cream shops are not to be missed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Beaver Creek Plantation in Martinsville, VA?

Well, let us just say that if you are a fan of the great outdoors, you will not want to miss this place. With over 1,200 acres of land, Beaver Creek Plantation runs the setting for hunting, fishing, hiking and more. Plus, with its long views and peaceful atmosphere, it suits escaping the noise and the crowds of city life.

Are there any secret spots for fishing or hiking around Martinsville?

You betcha. If you are after a little adventure, check out the Smith River. It is a strong spot for fishing, kayaking and even tubing. And if you are up for a hike, head over to the Fairy Stone State Park. With its long trails and wide scenery, it suits getting your nature fix.

Is the Virginia Museum of Natural History a good place to take a date?

Absolutely. With its fascinating exhibits and interactive displays, the Virginia Museum of Natural History suits impressing your date with your knowledge of all things science. Plus, with its convenient location in downtown Martinsville, it suits starting or ending your night out on the town.

What are the top events to attend in Martinsville, VA?

Martinsville is known for its lively events scene, and there is always something going on. The annual Martinsville Half Marathon through to the Virginia Wine Festival, there is a version for you. And if you are a fan of NASCAR, you will not want to miss the STP 500 at Martinsville Speedway.

Can you recommend any quirky attractions near Martinsville?

You bet we can. If you are after something well away from the crowds, check out the World’s Largest Fork. Yes, you read that right. This giant fork sits just a short drive from Martinsville in the town of Crewe, and it is definitely worth a visit.

Is it true that Martinsville, VA is the moonshine capital of the world?

Well, we would not go that far, but it is no secret that moonshine has a long history in the area. If you are interested in picking up more about the local moonshine culture, check out the Moonshine Heritage Car Museum. And if you are feeling brave, you can even try a sample of the local moonshine (just be sure to drink responsibly).

Frequently asked questions about Martinsville, Virginia

Which museum in Martinsville is the one that you should be starting at?

The Virginia Museum of Natural History. It is the state museum and those real dinosaur fossils are the reason that people drive the whole way in. The Heritage Center and Museum covers the Civil War and the whole of the textile industry instead of that. The Bassett Historical Center is the genealogy one of them, if what you are chasing is a family tree. Natural History first, then the rest.

Which trail near Martinsville is the one that suits an easy morning?

The Smith River Trail System. It runs over 20 miles right through the Blue Ridge and the easy end of it is genuinely easy going. The Mountain Laurel Trails are the camping and the mountain biking version of that very same thing. Fairy Stone State Park is the drive-out option of it if what you want is a fuller day. Smith River, and go early.

Which brewery in Martinsville is the one that you should end at?

Scuffle Hill Brewing Company. It works out of a historic building right in the middle of the downtown and the room in there is cozy. Mountain Valley Brewing is the family-owned one of them, with all the ciders alongside the beer. Smith River Spirits runs the distillery tour and the tasting room instead if what you want is spirits. Scuffle Hill last, then.

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