Things to do in Radford, Virginia
- Radford is one of the few independent cities in Virginia, meaning it is not part of any county.
- The city was originally formed in 1892 from the merger of the communities of Central Depot and Lovely Mount.
- Its location on the New River makes it one of the few places in the eastern United States located on a river that flows north.
- The city's proximity to the Appalachian Trail and New River Trail State Park makes it a hub for outdoor recreation in the Blue Ridge region.
About Radford, Virginia
Radford is an independent city situated along the New River in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwest Virginia. It serves as the home to Radford University, which shapes much of the local culture and civic landscape. Visitors can explore local heritage at the Glencoe Mansion: Museum & Gallery or engage with contemporary exhibits at the Radford University Art Museum Downtown. The city is also marked by significant landmarks like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bridge and the historic grounds of West View Cemetery. Sports enthusiasts frequently gather at the Cupp Memorial Stadium to participate in regional athletic events.
Highlights of Radford, Virginia
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Museums
Explore the historic 19th-century home of Gabriel Wharton, which now houses extensive collections on local regional history.
Places of interest
Walk through this historical burial ground to observe local funerary architecture and pay respects to early settlers.
Venues
Experience local athletic competition at this multi-purpose venue situated on the university campus.
Historical places
View this structural landmark that provides a critical transit connection across the New River.
Museums
View curated contemporary exhibitions and student works in this dedicated space located in the heart of the city.
Top things to do in Radford, Virginia
The 25 highest-rated places in Radford, Virginia, ranked by travellers.
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Parks
Claytor Lake State Park is situated on a 4,500-acre reservoir created by the damming of the New River. The park features...
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Parks
New River Trail State Park is a 57.7-mile linear park occupying a converted former Norfolk and Western Railway corridor....
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Parks
Bisset Park is a 57-acre municipal recreational area situated directly along the banks of the New River in Radford, Virg...
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Zoos
Fort Chiswell Animal Park is a 45-acre drive-through safari park located in the Appalachian mountains of southwestern Vi...
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Venues
Calfee Park is a historic baseball stadium in Pulaski, Virginia, originally constructed in 1935 as a Works Progress Admi...
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Venues
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Radford, Virginia on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Radford, Virginia
Late spring and early autumn provide the most temperate weather for exploring outdoor river trails and university campus architecture.
1-2 days, which provides sufficient time to tour the university art facilities, local museums, and the riverfront area.
A personal vehicle is the most practical method for local travel, as public transit options are limited outside of the university shuttle system.
Staying near the Radford University campus or along the main corridor of Tyler Avenue offers the best access to local dining and primary attractions.
Radford is generally an affordable, mid-budget destination given its status as a smaller university town.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 25 curated attractions in and around Radford, Virginia, ranked by traveller ratings.
Claytor Lake State Park is the highest-rated place to visit in Radford, Virginia right now.
The largest category is museums, with 6 places to explore.
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