A well preserved piece of history that was not restored on purpose. It is not the most known place in Charleston but for my daughter it was a place she needed to see. She is majoring in historical preservation and this place is a perfect example of a piece of history that is preserved but not restored. The grounds were beautiful and the place is still being researched and preserved to this day. The tour was very well presented.

Every inch of Drayton Hall is absolutely gorgeous! I had the opportunity to take my children yesterday to visit Drayton Hall and view the current archeological excavation. It was fantastic!! Drayton Hall is absolutely beautiful and the guides are so knowledgeable. It was not only a fun experience but highly educational. It was amazing to see the artifacts they are recovering and the beautiful restoration of the house. They have a Phillip Simmons gate there as well. I highly recommend visiting. Their gift shop is amazing too, beautiful pieces from local artists and fantastic books. We had an amazing experience and will be bringing our family back in a few weeks when they come to visit.

This is a beautiful place and the history of the home and families that lived in the home is quite interesting. The story was told very well on our tour. Wear your walking shoes.

Great historical look at an I preserved plantation. It gives you a sense of what life was like and connects you to history in a way that books, documentaries can’t. Unique in its unrestored state.

House tour was okay, tour guide was informative but not very interesting. Loved the house architecture and the grounds were nice to walk around.

Loved the experience. It was great to get the tour, and then be able to also do a self-guided tour as well.

I loved this tour and museum. Our tour guide Cody did a wonderful job, and was very knowledgeable. We had a small group, and it was a quiet day, so he took extra time with us, and went into more detail. You're able to wander the grounds on your own. Id highly recommend walking down to the Ashley River to appreciate the stunning view.

I was very hesitant to visit a plantation, however, this one had great reviews about the gardens and other activities on the property. They should probably add in the "know before you go" section on their website. It is extremely buggy. Do not forget to wear bug spray. My family has never been so bit up after leaving a place. The Cafe was just okay. We took the nature tour and did the slavery to freedom tour. Again, the nature tour was just okay. We saw some cool things but did not think the trip was worth over $100 for a family of four. The gardens really are beautiful and I am sure it is a great place for photos, but I wished they would have highlighted more of the tragedy of slavery rather than a potential wedding venue. I'm glad I experienced one plantation, however I wouldn't go back.

A Deeply Moving and Enriching Experience** Visiting this former plantation was both emotional and educational. The tours through the plantation house and the slave quarters were thoughtfully designed and offered a powerful insight into the lives of enslaved people. The beauty of the grounds—with centuries-old trees and a well-kept garden landscape—adds a peaceful atmosphere to the experience. What truly stood out was the exceptional staff: incredibly kind, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing history. Both the lady in the main house and the one in the slave quarters were outstanding in their presentation and expertise. I truly appreciated the time spent here and left with a deeper understanding and valuable perspective. Thank you for this unforgettable experience!

Loved our day at Magnolia Plantation & Garden! Beautiful and serene surroundings and fascinating history. Enjoyed the water tour and all the pretty birds and saw my first gators in the wild!!! The home tour was interesting and I’m so grateful that we were able to see and learn so much by touring the home. Highly recommend a visit!

Beautiful place to take long walks and tours of the Plantation house,gardens,and rice fields. It is an adventure filled with history and nature. The boat tour was fun and interesting. My family had an enjoyable day.

I was very leery of the venue due to its history, and although it would not ever be my personal choice for an event, it was absolutely gorgeous. It was extremely well tended to and immaculately landscaped. The venue areas were gorgeous, clean and had the perfect amount of space for a large gathering.

Before you read any further... BUG SPRAY!! The grounds are stunning and well kept. We did the boat tour and our guide was very knowledgeable. It is great to see wildlife being taken care of. Saw some baby gators too! Trails are covered however there are lots of mosquitoes. The history at this location is unbelievable.

Gardens are English style, with proper expectations they are stunning. Great journey through checkered history of the land. Family owned and it shows. The generations of caretakers here shows in the beauty. It’s clear that the people here take great pride in preserving this part of history. The restrooms are clean and well maintained. Snack bar isn’t great and very expensive for what you get. The guides were very knowledgeable and each added a personal touch. John stood out in the Slavery to Freedom tour. If you’re able to spend time with him, consider yourself blessed. He spoke with such reverence and compassion for the heartbreaking circumstances the slaves endured, it brought my wife and I to tears. He makes the experience personal with details about families (both the plantation owners and generations of slaves) that I’ve not experienced before. When we were researching Magnolia, we saw a bad (and quite frankly, racist) review dismissing the Slavery to Freedom tour given by “a white Irishman”. Don’t let that kind of closed mindedness deter you. John may be white, and he may be Irish, but his heartfelt conviction about sharing history and moving beyond the horrors of slavery is second to none!

I highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance. It made the entrance easy and was able to plan ahead to think about what guided tours we wanted to do in advance. The grounds at Middleton are gorgeous! We learned about the Middleton family, some of the people who worked on the plantation through the years and the historical significance of plantation in shaping history. I wished the docent were more explicit about why the black slaves did not runaway or when they did the harsh repercussions. There was vert discussion about the psychological scarring of slavery and the fear instilled upon all.

It’s like taking a step back in time when entering this rice plantation. The gardens are kept in a way that you can feel the history and age. The knowledge from the staff and the few tours we did was impressive. We spent about 4hrs doing two small tours and enjoying the grounds.

I’m really glad I had the opportunity to visit this plantation. Its story is at the heart of America’s colonial beginnings. Several tours are included with the price of admission and I appreciated their Garden Tour as well as their Beyond Slavery Tour. Whether your walking the grounds, coming for lunch, or learning it’s deep history, one could easily spend the day here.

My daughters and I visited yesterday. We took the Beyond the Fields tour, about the Enslaved People's experience, with Linda. We all found it to be very informative and even emotional. The property is well preserved and tended and the docents are quite knowledgeable. The Middleton Oak is magnificent. Being mid-August, the weather was hot and humid which, combined with an approaching thunderstorm, cut our visit short. We agreed that our visit was a highlight of the trip.

This place is absolutely beautiful and the guides are great! Put on your walking shoes and prepare to see alligators. I would like to see access to the house included in admission price as it is not cheap. Also please have sandwiches/wraps in snack bar that is at entrance.

We were in town from Michigan to attend a Sunday wedding. The wind was very strong and the temperature really dropped. The wedding was held outside by the large trees. It was very scenic but quite a walk from the parking lot to spot wearing high heels. The parlor where the reception was held was a bit overwhelmed by the number of guests. There were no cocktail tables to place snacks and cocktails prior to the reception starting. The food was great and the bartenders were very attentive. It was a romantic spot for a wedding but from a logistics perspective, very challenging to get transportation to and from our hotel. Guests had to take the shuttle to and from the venue. The reception ended by 10:30 PM to account for the return shuttles to the hotel. Family and friends made it a wonderful event.

I could have spent days here instead of just a few hours. The vast grounds offer dazzling landscapes. There are tours and stories about the generations of families who lived here, both the enslaved and the plantation owners. It is a trip back in time.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Williams-Brice Stadium: A Disco Circus of College Football Fun! My trip to Williams-Brice Stadium, home of the South Carolina Gamecocks, was absolutely unforgettable! For anyone with a short attention span—this place is ADHD heaven. There’s always something happening—music pumping, lights flashing, fireworks bursting, and the crowd bringing wild, contagious energy from start to finish. It’s like stepping into a disco circus where, oh yeah, a football game just happens to break out in the middle of it all! The atmosphere is electric, the fans are passionate, and the whole experience is pure entertainment. I’ll definitely be back—it’s one of those stadiums that makes you feel alive just being there. Still, I’ll give Neyland Stadium the top spot in my heart…but Williams-Brice is a very close second! 🏈🔥💃

This is, by far, thr best college football venue in the US. There is just something about Sandstorm that gives you chills and makes tou want to root for the Gamecocks, even if youre not a fan. It is exciting, electric, overwhelming, yet welcoming. And if you get the cha ce to experience the light show, you'll be mesmerized. Dont miss a chance for a concert and especially an SEC game here!

Surprisingly good. Almost all of the locals made me feel welcome, even in my sooners shirt. This place is almost as fun as a home game in Norman, OK. Almost. 😉 Good luck in the rest of the season and thanks for being cool.

Great place to watch a game! The fans were great - The Sooners just happened to prevail this day. I'm sure you'll be back whuppin' tail soon. All the best - Spurs up?!?!

Great help for first timmers! Fun staff, first time to a Gamecocks Game. Just went to see the football team play. Very interactive atmosphere. Definitely high energy. Would definitely recommend for out of state people to visit.

Great stadium setup, operation and services. However, the excessive artificial noise continuously pumped out of the the PA system at an absurd volume is an embarrassingly mindless attempt to stoke a crowd from before kickoff until the clock hits zero. Would go again but so glad I brought earplugs given all the warnings I initially heard before going.

Handsome stadium for South Carolina football and surrounded by fans welcoming this Sooner fan this last Saturday. Appreciated the hospitality and the visit.

Lotta places to get a drink. A scotch is $11 at most places so it's comparable to just about anywhere but still has that city proximity to more nuanced establishments. 8/10 location

It’s time to fire Beamer. Instead of wasting millions on stadium upgrades, USC should invest that money in getting a better coach and recruiting better players. The program is going backward, and no amount of fancy facilities can make up for poor leadership on the field.

Quiet and good place to focus on your school away from other busy cities. There are great teachers who are willing to help you if you ask. A lot services are provided by the school to help students with their school and social work. It get boring sometimes because it is a small city but overall there are a lot of activities to do

Nice campus, friendlystudents and staff. Lots of food options to pick from. The only negative is parking

Great campus, visited for daughter's orientation. Really well done program.

Fantastic campus setting. First time visit and was impressed with the architecture and upkeep of the entire area. It will be a great 1st year experience for my son.

Traffic, "both foot and automobile" are somewhat out of sync around the university and there is a true attitude problem with the students and fac ulty believing that they own the roads. Little attention is paid to the traffic signals for pedestrians and it is a fairly unsafe place to be in general. There needs to be a stronger yet friendly police presence there.

The Battle of Camden took place during the American Revolution. It was a bad loss for us but this allowed for Nathaniel Greene to step in and lead our southern troops as general. Greene was a great leader and would become a hero of the South! There is plenty to see at Camden, old historic structures & homes from the time period. You can also see the house that Cornwallis (British) stayed at! The actual battlefield is 8 miles away and you can park and find the flags where our soldiers fell. One large granite stone was placed there to remember a Scottish soldier that died right there. Scotlands Royal Guard flew out from Scotland to pay tribute to their fallen soldier. Many of these soldiers were quickly buried just 6 inches under the soil during the Revolution. However, in the last 2 yrs, Camden has reburied all 13 soldiers found with full honors and new granite military headstones! I came for the celebration and was really moving to tears. There are several staff members on site to answer any questions. As we all celebrate 250 yrs of America, this is a place to visit and find our early history!

I doubt that many Americans really understand the Revolutionary War. Everyone has heard of Washington and maybe the crossing of the Delaware River, but his many know of the battle of Camden, Cowpens, Kings Mountain? The Camden Revolutionary Park is a wonderful piece of history. We took the tour and learned about the original village, the coming of the Kershaw family and the growth of Camden into the largest, and most important backwater town in all of the southern USA. As this place grows it will turn into even a better representation. The Visitor Center is really great and walks you through the entire southern campaign of the British invasion and how the Patriots turned the tide, mainly because of what happened in battles all around this part of SC. For a history buff it was very well done.

Neat little site with replica fortifications and some Colonial era buildings. The self guided tour was $10 for adults and took us about an hour to go through everything. Easy walking trails and beautiful grounds: a nice place to spend this bright and sunny Saturday afternoon.

Lots to see here in this reconstructed historic site. They've put lots of effort into the buildings they moved there, etc. The stockade was fun for my kids and so was the well.

A great place to learn about the history of our town and the Revolutionary War. There are lots of events/activities that go on here every month. They have house tours, lantern tours, tea parties, craft classes, and demonstrations happening all the time. We come and walk the grounds and the nature trail alot. The trail is short and flat, but if it has rained it will be muddy in places. It runs along the Pine Tree Creek.

Lots of reconstructed buildings, helpful staff. Take note that this is not the actual battle site; it’s about 15 minutes up the road.

There's a Goth festival here every year with speakers on a wide range of subjects both Historical and speculative,plus vendors selling material historically and subjectively related to the festival and history. The museums and locations on the site were beautifully period, educational and we specifically enjoyed the surprisingly delightful stories each unique to the local and regional areas. One could easily make a fun filled day, evening or several hours visiting during a special event, or set aside an hour or two during normal hours to enjoy the museums,& buildings built & preserved with interactive American revolutionary war period pieces and stories.

Had an awesome day! Even with the July heat, the shaded lines, fans, and free water kept us going from open to close! I highly recommend the premium dining plan. By the time you buy 2 meals and a drink you’ve basically paid for the plan. Then, you get to eat every 90 minutes and drink every 15 minutes. Going on a weekday will give you the ability to ride basically all of the rides multiple times! The staff was awesome, kind, and helpful answering any questions we had. Looking for a fun activity for the family that is outdoors and away from screens? This is a great option! We brought a big group our church and had a blast as well! Overall, I’d highly recommend this amusement park if you’re into thrilling rides, good food, and a great time with friends and family!

What a GORGEOUS and well kept park! There are so many rides I don't think it's possible to do them all in one day! A perfect blend of theme park thrill and carnival charm! The pathways are all very wide and accessible for wheelchairs/strollers. This is very much a thrill park that doesn't offer much entertainment other than the rides themselves, but still nice to go strolling around and shopping/eating. So if you're not a ride person this park may not have too much to offer you, but a beautiful visit nonetheless ✨️

The park is spotless, with well-organized entry controls, and the variety of roller coasters is fantastic — each one feels like a completely different experience. I managed to ride almost all of them! They have great promotions, plenty of food spots, drink stations, and souvenir shops spread throughout the park. The staff is super friendly, and the park itself is huge, full of history, and perfect for a full day of fun.

Wow wow wow …I never thought I would be able to take these thunderstorm rides haha. We really enjoyed them and we found all we needed in the park:fun, food, smiles and most importantly collected memories 💪🏻🫂🥰

The fury was amazing. Lines were not unreasonably long, drinks were overpriced, bathrooms were kinda gross in some places in the park, Octoberfest was disappointing but the beer was delicious. Staff was super friendly especially Hailey at the t shirt airbrush booth!!!!! Season pass holders should definitely get fast passes for a discounted price!!!! $55 for one season pass holders is stupid!

It's a smaller park, but it's packed full of good times. This was our first trip to the park, and it was spectacular! The rides were great, the food was great. The only thing that wasn't so great was spending so much money on souvenirs. We were able to get on pretty much every coaster. The longest waits were on Fury 325, (definitely worth it), and Carolina Goldrusher (not worth it). We missed out on Vortex and the Flying Cobras. Our first ride was Thunder Striker, and it was a great introduction to the park. That forest drop was nothing to scoff at, and the rest of the ride was a rowdy good time. It was on to Kiddy Hawk, and I'm sad to say it was a little rough. The over the shoulder restraints were cumbersome, and the ride was rather rough. From there, we took a short walk over to After Burn, the inverted looper. It was surprisingly quick, with lots of good inversions. It was probably my third favorite ride. The next coaster we went to was Copperhead Strike, a launch coaster. This one was my second favorite of the day, with an inversion right out of the station, leading to the first launch into what is best described as controlled chaos. You do need to rent a locker for your belongings, or leave them with other members of your party. (The same applies for Fury 325.) We took a break from coasters, and hopped on Zephyr, a little swing ride. After walking for a bit, we got in line for Carolina Goldrusher. This one was a little on the rough side, it is definitely showing it's age. Afterwards it was time for a little break. They offer an all-day wristband for drinks, which you can get every 15 minutes. We also got some food, they also offer an all-day wristband for food every 90 minutes. The food was surprisingly good for a theme park, and things were decently priced. We then hopped on Rock and Roller, your typical roundabout flat ride. We then continued our adventure through the park and found ourselves on Ricochet, which is best described as what it must be like to be a pinball. It's a traditional Wild Mouse coaster, with plenty of tight turns and steep dips and drops. Leaving Ricochet, we jumped to Carolina Cyclone. This Arrow Looper is the precursor to Magic Mountain's Viper, and it offers a little bit of a smoother ride experience than its (much bigger) cousin. Having finished with the corkscrew coaster, we wanted to try out the Woodie, Hurler. Unfortunately, it was down, so we decided to go on Fury 325 instead. We were only in line for about 30 minutes, and honestly, I could have waited longer. This was easily my standout favorite of the day: great big drops, massive overbanked turns, and plenty of zero-g moments. It's pretty obvious why this has been named Best Steel Coaster for nearly 10 years running. By the time we were done with Fury, we were hungry again, and stopped for refreshments. We ended the night with Hurler, and it was definitely a wooden coaster: angry and unapologetical, it doesn't give in. There are better Woodies out there, but there are also some worse ones as well. All-in-all, it was a great experience, we will definitely be coming back for more.

Very nice park , clean and everything seems to be well maintained. All the employees I encountered were very nice and seemed to do their jobs well. All the food we tried while there was very good from brisket to pulled pork and chicken tenders. I was impressed with Fury 325 and Copperhead Strike . Both are great rides . We came on a Sunday, a very hot day and the park overall was not very busy or at least imo it wasn't, though I'm used to Cedar Point type busy 😅😅. Overall great experience at this park.

Amazing place!!!! I love Billy Graham and I am so glad I got the opportunity to visit his library. You can sense the presence of God there, all the staff are SO WARM and FRIENDLY. The tour and experience is well organized and laid out. I would gladly come back again and again. Glory to God for blessing us with such a man and his ministry. And to all who put this together to honour his legacy which points us all to Jesus. And it’s totally free!

This is a must see! The Billy Graham Library is truly a special place. The Journey of Faith museum experience is so well done it beautifully captures the history of Billy Graham’s life and ministry. Walking through, you can see how God used his obedience and faith to impact millions around the world. Every exhibit is meaningful, and the storytelling is powerful and personal. I visited years ago and wow, that have really done a pronominal job. Be sure and check out his childhood home, which has been carefully preserved, as well as the quiet, peaceful gravesite it’s a moving reminder of a life well lived. A great tip: take a little time to sit on the back porch with a good book and just soak in the atmosphere. The setting itself is peaceful and welcoming, making the entire visit feel uplifting. Also spend some time in the gift shop as well as the cafe. The food on the cafe is really good and reasonably priced. I left encouraged, inspired, and grateful for the reminder of how God can use one life surrendered to Him and reach so many,

What a neat place! I think they moved Billy Graham’s home four miles to this location, which is pretty amazing, Rick. The people there are super friendly. I don’t know if I would call it just a library or more of an experience. It begins with a visit to the main library, where friendly staff introduce you to the site and give a short tour via videos about Millard and his evangelistic movement. At the end, of course, you get a call from Billy encouraging you to give your life to the Lord, which is a nice touch. However, some people might find it odd if they just happen across the place. The house is well maintained, although you can’t go upstairs. There are a couple of pieces of furniture that were actually in the Graham household, while everything else is period-appropriate.

Beautiful experience! I would visit again and would love to take my kids. This is a great reminder of our purpose as followers of Christ, to spread the gospel. Each exhibit is amazing and great way to share his life and all his accomplishments.

We visited the museum several weekends in a row because we really enjoyed the tours and the walking areas. We gained a lot of positive emotions and inspiration from the life story of Billy Graham. His home is a work of art in itself, and we enjoyed every corner of it.

Had an Amazing time. Such a fun, peaceful place. Billy's story is unmatched. Staff are all friendly and even offer to pray for you. Prices aren't terrible and there is food on site(and ice cream)

Visiting the Billy Graham Library was one of the most moving experiences of my life. The atmosphere is filled with peace, love, and God’s presence. A truly beautiful place that touches the heart and soul.

I just spent 3hrs in there and it was GREAT! I could have spent even longer, so if you want to see & do everything the NASCAR Hall of Fame has to offer, plan for the whole day. If you’re already a fan, you’ll learn stuff you didn’t know & for those new to NASCAR, you’ll come out of there knowledgeable in our sport. How it first began, along with Junior Johnson’s moonshine days, interactive experiences, to getting to feel the pavement from numerous different tracks. Depending on what ticket you buy, you get a lanyard with your own hard card, unlimited times in the simulator, and more! Don’t worry about lunch, The Pit Stop Cafe has an awesome BBQ sandwich I’d recommend. Upon leaving, you’ll go through The Gear Shop, where you’ll find a variety of options for a fantastic souvenir. An amazing set-up from floor to floor, clean restrooms, and friendly staff. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and sorry no drinks allowed inside. Enjoy!

Visited North Carolina for the first time from California for Hendrick training and decided to stop by the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Definitely worth it. The museum has 4 levels packed with history, information, and legendary cars. The layout makes it easy to explore at your own pace and really soak in the sport’s heritage. The simulator experience was the highlight — super fun and surprisingly realistic. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in Charlotte. A great mix of history and hands-on fun. 🏁🚗💨

We had a wonderful time at our company sponsored event! The simulator was very cool and the place was nice with plenty of things to see. John was awesome, checking in and making conversation with us regularly. He was so fun to talk to and so genuine! Highly recommend! Only struggle we had was finding the entrance since we originally entered Buffalo Wild Wings but that’s a super small blip. Great experience overall.

We traveled all the way from Hungary, and visiting the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte was absolutely worth it! The exhibits, the atmosphere, and the passion for racing are beyond amazing. You can truly feel the heart and history of NASCAR in every detail. A dream come true for any fan unforgettable experience!

An awesome museum with the actual cars and other memorabilia. Handling a stationery simulator was an experience. Great fun. Nicely laid out. They have a combo with lunch and that was great too. Parking was next door. Reasonable rates. Go see it!

Great exhibits, lots to keep everyone entertained. Videos, memorabilia, and hands on exhibits. We happened to be there on a race day and got to join the fun of the watch party with enthusiasts. Great fun.

We had a blast! I upgraded to the combo package with the souvenir lanyard and photo, as well as the driving simulator. There is a ton of history here and is well worth the experience for those who are fans and who aren’t fans alike! There is a replica car hauler that you can walk through as well as a place to try your hand at what the pit crews do! A must see in Charlotte! They also have a parking garage there on site at the HOF connected to the convention center.

Bank of America Stadium is an amazing place to experience a game or event! The atmosphere is electric, the staff is friendly, and the entire stadium is clean and well-maintained. The seating gives a great view no matter where you are, and the energy from the fans makes it unforgettable. Concessions and facilities are easy to access, and everything is organized smoothly. Whether it’s for the Panthers, concerts, or other events, this stadium always delivers an outstanding experience. Highly recommend visiting!

Flew in for the Dolphins game. Miami blew a 17-0 lead. Stadium is ok compared to others I’ve been to. The area is cool. Lots of restaurants and bars. The stadium itself needs to be upgraded in my opinion. The fans were cool. Not disrespectful to us visiting fans. Good time despite the loss.

Go Panthers! Finally attended a Carolina Panther game and it was amazing! Plenty of parking around the stadium and not too much walking to get there. The staff were friendly but either didn't care for the Panthers or were almost clueless about the team, some said it frankly that they weren't fans. Best part is the access to endless bathrooms. The only things I found were Team Stores everywhere and the same stadium food concession stands throughout. Every once in a while there would be a small area that displays team gear or mementos from past years. The Panthers and the soccer team are displayed throughout which is a nice touch. The seats... I'm not the biggest guy but I was crunched in those seats and when the seats started to fill up I was downright cramped luckily it was an action packed game so we had a reason to stand up a lot. Even being in the 300s had a great view and I was able to get close to the field for some extra pictures thanks to some nice staff. Loved the experience and will be back to see my Panthers a lot more just hope we can get some improvements soon Tepper. Keep Pounding!

Always fun at the football games even when your team is playing badly I also posted a video of the defensive line players. We were able to go into the tunnel which was amazing if you get the chance. The stadium is nicely laid out with plenty of food and restrooms.

Not a bad seat in the house! Loved watching the game in person. Seeing Josh Allen up close was awesome. When he's in the HOF one day I can describe our day and what it was like to be there. Electric!!

Love this stadium. I’m gonna separate the venue from the football team here. Always a great hospitality experience for any event at the stadium. From luxury accommodations, suite accommodations, standard bowl seating. Any event is put on here safely and with fans in mind. Hoping it stays up to date for years to come.

Awesome stadium, awesome game even though Miami didn't win. Fairly priced food compared to other stadiums. Clean stadium and bathroom. I will definitely be back to see another game. Purchase tickets and parking in advance.

What an incredibly clean track, easy to get in and out. I'm not a big NASCAR fan but went with some friends and had a phenomenal time. Also loved the aluminum table available to every seat in the stands! We paid for premium parking and it was worth it, but also don't think any parking was particularly bad.

Saw the Roval 400 from the club level. Also had an infield pass. It was a great time and built some core memories. Even signed the start finish line before the race. A great venue and a wholesome family atmosphere.

I took my son and grandson here for our first racing experience. It was fantastic. Easy parking and entry, staff was helpful. We were able to bring a small cooler with drinks and food. Facilities inside were also very convenient.

Class A facility. We came for the Roval and this is a fun layout of a track. We camped in the turn 1 camping. Definitely not as rowdy of a crowd for this race than others we have been too.

Actually it was the Ford Performance Racing School Mustang Unleashed Experience. That's a mouthful! It was AWESOME! Drive a Mustang in ways that aren't legal or safe on public roads safely! I learned a lot.

5/5 - Thrilling experience at Charlotte Motor Speedway's Roval! The unique road-oval hybrid layout delivers heart-pounding action, with tight turns and high-speed straights that keep you on the edge of your seat. Electric atmosphere during races, top-notch facilities, and perfect for NASCAR fans—highly recommend catching an event here!

Saw the rovel today. Really nice race venue. I'm from Iowa, so I have been to the Newton track several times, this one is great.

I took my family here for my daughters birthday party an everyone had such a great time. The aquarium was very beautiful all the fish and different things to see was really nice an the walk through piece is just breath taking truly. Definitely recommend everyone to go here 100%.

The aquarium was amazing. Myself and family enjoyed it. The price was a little steep $25 per person. I thought the establishment would have been a little bigger, but overall we still had a great time. Would recommend.

Absolutely loved this place — and it’s not just for kids! 🐠 The walk through the aquarium takes about an hour, but no one rushes you, so you can take your time and enjoy every moment. So many impressions, vibrant colors, and magical underwater scenes. Highly recommend — my little princess was thrilled and couldn’t stop talking about it!

Nice aquarium! Kids and adults will enjoy this pleasant surprise while visiting the mall. There were lots of material to read on the sea life that lives here. We took our time and loved it. Totally worth a visit if you're in the area!

Sealife: that part of the world that we, human beings, don’t really consider in their everyday actions! I took my son to show him that life is more than just go to work, take a shower, visit friends or going to the beach. Life is taking accountability for every species in this beautiful planet 🌍

We visited this aquarium on a Monday morning and found out to be a little busy but not packed, though certain spaces could feel cramped and loud if a large group was in them. Entry was located inside the mall. We purchased tickets ahead of time, which provided a small discount, but our total was still more than $40 for 2 adults. This provided us unlimited re-entry for the whole day, which could be good if it was busy during your time slot, and you had availability to come back later. The aquarium itself only had a few exhibits, and you could easily breeze through in 5 minutes if you wanted to. The thing that is most lacking is educational information, especially in the form of staff interaction within the exhibits. That said, the design is pretty cool, and there are some really fun areas to look at, like the deep sea tunnel you can walk through. While I do feel this is an overpriced experience, I did enjoy it a lot and would recommend visiting, though this is definitely a one-time thing for me.

Thought this place was small but nice Definitely nice if you have small children. There is alot of fish, star fish touching, and exploring kids can do. Great for a hot or rainy day for something to do if ur local. I wouldn't make a long trip for just this.

Best Lake in America! Love this place. Ramsey Creek and Jetton Park are flat out gorgeous sights and beautiful walks. Many easy access food spots on or just off the lake. The vibe is wonderful always

The Lake is absolutely beautiful with crystal clear water, but, the lake has a problem with blue algae blooms. There is currently a no contract order for affected areas. It is not recommended to fish or boat at this time.

Beautiful lake .. water sports .. fun overall

Awesome lake over 52 mi.² and 515 linear miles of shoreline. Clear water, sandy beach, islands, lovely scenery and beautiful houses.

It truly is our own Inland Sea. Grew up on the shores of LKN and now spend just about every weekend March through September on the lake. Absolutely the best sunsets around.

Place is absolutely beautiful. Great place to hang out. Been here a lot, so it’s definitely worth it. Other than the water getting dirty at times, it’s a great destination to hang out. Weather sometimes gets on your nerves, but that with everything that goes on. Definitely coming back here for my next visit.

Great family place. Kayaking, biking, hiking, or swimming, or camping you name it. You can do it all at Lake Norman. You can visit the educational center to learn all about the Lake and how far it extends throughout the state. Walk through the trails, and dip your feet in the water.

The museum has some interesting and fun exhibits, but the place is very run down. My toddler enjoyed the preschool play area the most, which was well kept. The videos for some of the exhibits were easily 20-30 years old. I wish I could’ve let my child play in the ice/snow themed room longer because the ice skating floor and fake snowballs were fun, but the room smelled like mold. Honestly it’s the first time I’ve been to a museum in such rough condition. I hope they’re able to upgrade it soon because the staff and exhibit themes are wonderful.

I took my 8 year old over spring break. We had a good time and stayed for a few hours. It was a little dated in some ways. We watched the star show in the planetarium and although we enjoyed it the stars were so dim it was hard to see in the complete darkness! The shows operator said they were in need of an equipment change and definitely needed some new bulbs for the projector. They will be closing this location soon to join with their sister site downtown in a new building! We will definitely check that out and are looking forward to it!

Large kids museum that has a number of great exhibits. We were very impressed with the animals especially. The staff here is very helpful and considerate. The museum also features an outdoor nature walk, garden, and outdoor learning exhibits. Highly recommend for family visits.

I used to come as a kid, when I was 5. 11 years later, I brought my 5 year old sister. I went today, and still was not disappointed, I do miss the animals they used to have and the ride-on handle cart things which they’ve replaced with the icey area. Love this place for entertainment regardless.

What a great place to visit. Lots to see inside and there is a trail outside as well. The laser show was outdated and kinda of well..90s but the kids liked it. Highly recommend coming for a visit. You'll learn some cool things too. Plan to spend 2-3 to three hours to see everything.

Excellent place to take children. Lots to do! They have an assortment of animals, like snakes, spiders, birds, and some really cool and interactive science exhibits!

I am revising my post on the Kaleideum North impart due to the feedback I had from my last post it would appear the reason why things are not getting repaired or it may look kind of unkept as far as building appearance is due to the fact that they plan on moving out of this location and it makes sense not to sink a ton of money into something that's not going to be around for them it makes me wonder if the new location is going to be more interactive and not have any animals or have a few animals needless to say as it stands this location still provides Interactive exhibits for the children to Play and Learn it is nice to see a few animals left can't wait to see what the future holds for the Kaleideum

The restaurant boasts gorgeous views and the staff is super friendly. We ordered two different sets of flights. The waitress was great explaining the difference in flavors. My favorite wine was the basil strawberry! They also had vendors on hand and a food truck. We walked through the vineyard and took beautiful photos. I highly recommend visiting!!!

A Truly Beautiful Experience at Raffaldini Vineyard & Winery Raffaldini Vineyard and Winery is an absolute gem! The surrounding scenery is breathtaking, stunning backdrop for a relaxing day. The service was warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. The views are truly amazing—perfect for taking in the natural beauty while enjoying some of the wines. We particularly enjoyed the wine flights and prosecco, which were surprisingly good and expertly crafted. Our day was delightful, and sharing this experience with my husband and best friends made it even more special. Happy to say Raffaldini is a beautiful place to visit, relax, and indulge in great wine and company. It’s definitely worth the trip, and we look forward to returning soon!

Worth each & every penny you spend… Wedding photographer here! I can’t rave enough about this venue. They without a doubt deserve any bit of attention they get. The grounds are well kept, every direction you look, you will have your breath taken. I was so amazed at how clean, beautiful, & detailed everything was. I honestly didn’t want to leave. Driving up felt like entering a dream! If you were looking for the extra push to check this place out, here it goes… Anddddd if you are hoping to have a photographer to take along for the ride that has super unbelievable rates, it wouldn’t hurt to contact me too 😂 - Mo’elle Photography & Video

If you like dry wine this is the place to go!!! They have a good selection of wines. The views are beautiful and let's not forget about the staff. They are so nice and explains to you through all the wines they have.

My friends and I visited the winery for the 20th annual Fiesta Italiana. The grounds are beautifully kept and the wine was wonderful. We enjoyed the event and the vendors/Food trucks and will more than likely be attending next year!

Five Stars!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My girlfriends and I celebrated my birthday on a glorious Saturday at the Winery. Everyone is so nice and accommodating! The wine is delish and we brought our own charcuterie board this time around. We will be back for sure!

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Yadkin Valley, Raffaldini Vineyards delivers one of the most unexpected wine experiences on the East Coast. Driving up the winding mountain road, the view shifts from Carolina pines to what feels like a slice of Tuscany transplanted into North Carolina soil. The estate, modeled after a Tuscan villa, greets visitors with terracotta tones, arched windows, and sweeping terraces that overlook the Blue Ridge Mountains. What sets Raffaldini apart, beyond its breathtaking setting, is the authenticity in the glass. The family has imported rootstock directly from Montepulciano, Italy, ensuring that the wines grown here carry not only the flavor of the land but also the DNA of the Old World. It’s a surprising twist that elevates Raffaldini from a charming Southern vineyard to a true bridge between continents. The Montepulciano-based reds are bold yet graceful, showing dark cherry, plum, and a whisper of spice—a nod to their Italian ancestry, but shaped by the cooler nights and mineral-rich soil of the Carolina mountains. White wines like Vermentino bring a crisp, Mediterranean brightness that feels almost surreal when sipped against a backdrop of Appalachian ridgelines. The tasting room staff lean into this dual identity, walking guests through flights that feel both familiar and adventurous. One moment you’re savoring the rustic earthiness of an Italian-style red, and the next you’re gazing out over the Carolina landscape, reminded that you’re very much in North Carolina. In short, Raffaldini is not just a winery—it’s an immersion. A Tuscan dream reborn in the Blue Ridge, proof that with vision, roots, and respect for tradition, the flavors of Montepulciano can thrive thousands of miles from their birthplace. For lovers of wine, travel, and surprising discoveries, Raffaldini is a must.

This is my go to place to hike because it is literally in my backyard. Trails are maintained and marked very well. There are several trails with different levels of difficulty ranging from easy too hard, so there is something for all skill levels. I love seeing people out there with their pets and young ones. It does my heart good to see young people getting away from TVs and video games.

We made a fall trip with bunch of friends to this gem of a place. Views and rock formations were amazing. We did a few short trails. The one called Pilot knob trail is a must, it is 0.8 mile and takes just a little to go around the top. Drive from Charlotte was easy. We didn’t have to use shuttle as there were many parking spots on top of mountain but they do have shuttles from the bottom parking lot if top one is full. State park folks has maintained this park to the top notch. Some parts were closed for rock climbers while in other part we saw many climbers.

We hiked the Grindstone and the Pilot Knob Trails. Both trails are well maintained and marked. While Grindstone is rated strenuous, I would rate it moderately strenuous. Overall it's mostly moderate due to the trail surface itself being well maintained and use of switchbacks to ease the climb. One section above the 1.5 mile marker is more difficult as it's not switchbacked with a steeper pitch up the mountain and a bit rocky. The views from Little Pinnacle Overlook and Pilot Knob Trail are outstanding. The top is a bit like Mount Mitchell since you can also drive to the top. Pick your time to do the hike carefully to avoid the crowds at the top!

I have always loved Pilot Mountain State Park! When I was little, my family would go camping here every year. I'm glad it is still thriving and loved that they have added a shuttle for more people to be able to enjoy the Knob. It was certainly busy but there are many different trails to choose from. If you bring a dog, they are not allowed on the shuttle. We took the Grindstone trail from the visitors center up to the knob (3.5 miles one way). There were definitely some strenuous sections but also some flattish sections that provided a bit of a break. Bathrooms at the top were clean and there were working water fountains outside the bathroom!

Arrived early for a star party with the Forsyth astronomy club at the summit parking lot. It became cloudy at night but I did get some sunset pictures. Great visibility. On a clear day, with binoculars, you can see the condos on top of Sugar Mountain, which is 79 miles away. Winston Salem and Greensboro skylines are easy. You can see the Charlotte skyline (80 miles away) also. If you hike the Little Pinnacle trail, you will see Hanging Rock/Moore's Wall and Sauratown mountains. The visitor center is tremendous and very informative. Learn about the history of the Saura Indians, animals, flora, fauna and geology of this region.

What a very cool park. We were looking to hike up but found a road all the way to the top and do a nice hike around a few locations. What a great view.

Majestic views. Better than I expected. The drive up to the top was beautiful with the fall leaves all around us. Then at the top there are several lookouts to enjoy the top of Pilot Mountain, trees and valley from above.

Before heading back home we had decided to make a stop here after a night of camping. We came here on Sunday and it was pretty busy. We decided to checkout the waterfalls since they’re not long hikes. The cascade waterfall is the easiest. The other two are not hard to get too, but you will have many stairs and rocks to walk back up and it’s uphill the entire way back. But the falls were beautiful and the overlook was gorgeous as well. This is a dog friendly hike too. There is a large campground there, a visitor center and lots of places to sit and have a picnic.

Great Hike, Be Ready for the Incline (Budget Extra Time!) The logistical side of this hike is excellent. The parking situation is super great for the trailhead, and the path itself is very well maintained and clearly marked. The trail to Hanging Rock has some great, steady incline, so be prepared for a solid workout. Fortunately, there are plenty of natural spots and benches to stop and rest as needed. A note on timing: The path is 1.8 miles one way. We were really "huffing it" and managed the round trip in 1 hour and 20 minutes, but for most hikers, you should easily budget at least two hours just for the ascent and descent, not including the time you spend enjoying the views at the top. Bring water and take your time!

Definitely worth it. The drive is beautiful up there already. There are a couple of waterfalls with a very short hike (window and hidden falls). The hanging rock trail itself is a bit steep at some points but definitely doable and worth it! You can’t go wrong going mid to late October. The colors are already popping.

First off, know that they go on an hour long lunch break around 1pm and have no one at the visitor center or any signs placed on the door stating this. 🤦🏼‍♀️ There were multiple people standing around confused because of this. Secondly, if you are staying in a cabin, BE AWARE that the doors lock on their own when they are shut. 🙄 For whatever reason they did not relay that to us nor were there any signs to let us know on the cabin. We were very lucky we made it to the office 5 minutes before they closed to have an officer come let us back in. It felt that we were an annoyance due to this, even though we had no way of knowing. It’s upsetting because we were there since noonish and I asked if there would be anyway we could do an early check in to the cabin even if at 3 or 330 instead of 4 and was told possibly so we checked back a couple times and they just seemed flabbergasted for some reason?? I don’t understand why they could not simply reach out to the person who cleans the cabins and request #6 which was ours to not be cleaned last.. being that there was only 4 at the most to clean as two of my neighbors had been staying there another night and stayed the night before. I talked to them and asked if they were told about the doors locking on their own and they said no and that they had the same problem?!? It’s just totally unnecessary and exhausting when they could simply print signs out. The positives of this place is that it’s absolutely amazing. It feels like a slice of heaven and I was impressed at the cabin price 200$ for two nights and it had heat, was cute inside and clean, a fridge , oven , microwave. They only have a teeny shower that clogs very easily but overall I was impressed with the cabin. Unfortunately dealing with several of the people running the place was unpleasant and the bed was more like a mat and we only got about an hour or two of sleep so we only stayed one night. I will definitely be back at some point to hike again but the less you have to deal with the workers the better. Also, don’t forget you need to bring your own blankets , sheets and towels etc to the cabin if you’re staying in one

I try to make it to Hanging Rock at least once a year. This is one of my favorite places and it has something for everyone. Great for a challenging hike with some amazing views or a casual stroll with some lovely waterfalls. I especially like going in autumn when temps are a little cooler and the fall colors are starting to pop.

Great place to spend the day. We hiked 2 separate trails and found 4 different waterfalls. Still so much left to explore, definitely coming back a other weekend to do more hiking and find more adventures

It was amazing the view was beautiful and so amazing. The two trails we did was great one I want to say was may be a little harder then what's posted. But over all we had a blast

I can't share enough good things about our recent experience at Harvest Grill & beautiful Shelton Vineyards. Although, we have enjoyed eating there before, this time our daughter was getting engaged. Benson White & the staff all went above & beyond to make it extra special for the happy couple & our immediate family!! The table was lovely & we had the most amazing food. Everyone loved the charcuterie board!! It was beautiful & so delicious! I'm very happy we went with this location. It could not have been a more perfect evening for our family.

Shelton is gorgeous first off! We had reservations at the Harvest Grill and it was a fantastic meal! We didn’t let the drunk people beside of us ruin it - they had definitely had too much to drink when you’re stumbling through the restaurant and can’t find your friends and having to hold onto chairs- so aside from that- the ambiance of the restaurant was 10/10 and the food was delicious. My favorite wine was the dry rosé! After the meal we went over to the tasting room and enjoyed a flight of 5 wines. They had cute items for sale as well as chocolates. We really enjoyed our visit and would come back again.

Made reservations for our Anniversary. Great atmosphere, relaxed, comfortable and great service. Ashley was a great server, took great care of us and Benson the manager helped make our evening very special. Definitely would recommend as a great place to eat. We will be back.

Our server Kim was excellent. The Halibut dinner was over the top. Have dined at the Harvest Grill many times and it is always 5 star. Amanda was responsible for our fine dining experience.

Wonderful dinner at Harvest Grill . The Pork Ribeye was so tender and the special chicken parm Alfredo was amazing . Large portion. Best Alfredo sauce I have ever had . Thank you to Benson and Cortney for making our date night extra special .

We went for my birthday. The food was great as well as the service. Our server Adrianne B was wonderful. This was our 1st time, and there was a little issue with a part of our food, but it was taken care of promptly. Being a vegetarian, it was nice to have several options. We will be back in a few months for our anniversary.

We had a late lunch reservation. Our server took forever to take our orders. Then we waited an extremely long time for our food to come to the table. They were not very busy so not sure what took so long. Four orders were for hamburgers ranging from medium rare to medium for the meat. All four were well done and dry. One order was for a chicken salad and the chicken was dry and overcooked. We visit Shelton a few times a year for their wine. This is the second year in a row we ate at the restaurant and were disappointed both times. We will be eating elsewhere for now on.

We were staying nearby so of course we had to visit! We just love his show and enjoyed seeing all the memorable at the museum. We even managed to snap our pics with the statue out front. Worth a visit if you are fans of the show.

My kids took me here for my birthday and it was great! We did the trolley tour so we could all be together and our guide was AMAZING!! The museum was great, we also walked along the town and it was fun. It was really just a super fun day!

A fun stop. Spent about an hour. Learned a lot I didn't know about the legend that is Andy Griffith. Ticket price was a little steep considering the size of the attraction. Wouldn't return, but glad we went on our way through Mt. Airy.

The museum was full of artifacts from the Andy Griffith show and many of the movies he was in. We thoroughly enjoyed the museum and the town. I highly recommend visiting for at least a day. The people of Mt Airy were very friendly and welcoming.

4 stars really. Has some cool Andy stuff not just from the show either, movies and all. I purposely didn't take pictures of some of the neatest things. Of course that's my opinion. Kinda small but entry is only $10 & crammed full of stuff. Loved the clothes etc .

Wow! What an interesting place. As of this review I don't know much about Andy or his show. But after this I hope to see some episodes.

This is a great museum packed full of memorabilia and displays regarding the life surrounding Andy Griffith and cast members of the Andy Griffith show. It is very enlightening and entertaining.

Fun time! Takes you back to Mayberry days. Time is slower. Stories are told. Original equipment. You can get your hair cut too!

My husband and I were at Mount Airy over the weekend and this little town is the cutest we adored it so much. We stepped in Floyds barber shop. The owner was so nice and we loved all the pictures they had up. And the old equipment as well :)

Awesome, Bill is such a wonderful southern Gentleman. Easy going and has a lot of stories especially about his dad Floyd.

I want to thank Floyd’s City Barbershop for their many decades of service to Mount Airy and for being such a special part of Mayberry history. A big thank you also to Bill Hiatt for carrying on his father Russell Hiatt’s legacy and keeping the doors open all those years so fans from around the world could experience the magic of Floyd’s. While the original Floyd’s is now closed and a re-creation of the show Floyd’s is reopening in its place, the original barber chairs that Andy Griffith sat in, along with other memorabilia, are now located at my shop—Justin’s Barbershop in Smiths Station, Alabama. I count it a blessing to safeguard these historic pieces and share them with the community so that the Mayberry legacy Russell created in his shop continues to live on. Floyd’s ( Russell Hiatt’s and Bill Hiatt’s legacy) will always be remembered as a landmark of smiles, memories, and tradition, and I am grateful for the many years the relics of the original Floyd’s and atmosphere that was created brought joy to those around the world.

When we were on Main Street in Mt Airy (Mayberry) I had the opportunity to get my hair cut at Floyd’s Barber Shop and in the same chair Andy used to sit in. As someone that grew up watching Andy Griffith this is one of those bucket list things I can check off. What an awesome experience. If you’re ever in the area at least stop by and enjoy the nostalgia of it all.

You should definitely step in if on Main Street in Mt. AIRY. there are so many pictures, including historic photos of men that played the part of Floyd the barber. It is set up just like the barber shop from the Andy Griffith show. You can even get a haircut. Tourists are welcome!

My husband and I took our son to Floyd’s for his very first hair cut yesterday and while it was a very bitter sweet moment for me, Jeff took his time and did an amazing job with our little guy! Thank you guys so much for giving us an amazing memory!

Stone Mountain State Park is a true standout in NC’s state park system. It rewards hikers who are willing to work for views and variety. Yes, the loop is difficult in parts, but those who tackle it come away with a sense of accomplishment—and some of the best scenic moments the region has to offer. There are also many waterfalls to see as well. Overall gorgeous park to visit.

Stone Mountain Park – Perfect Day Hike from Charlotte! If you’re looking for a solid hiking spot about 1 hour 40 minutes from Charlotte, Stone Mountain Park is a fantastic choice! We took the Stone Mountain Summit Trail (orange path), which is about 3.2 miles round trip from the parking lot to the top and back. It took us approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, with a moderate to tough difficulty level — especially the final stretch with some steep inclines. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a few snacks — the summit has breathtaking views that are perfect for a relaxing break. The trail is well-marked, the scenery is beautiful, and the reward at the top is totally worth the effort. Highly recommended for anyone up for a bit of a challenge and wanting to explore nature near Charlotte!

I used to live 20 minutes away and would hike this mountain all the time. When you live in the mountains, you stop appreciating all the beauty of it. It’s been almost 15 year since I’ve lived there or hiked this mountain. The Rangers do a great job with keeping everything preserved. I can tell the hurricane did some damage last year but it’s still so beautiful. It takes about four hours to do the whole hike - if you’d like to stop by the waterfall, chill on top of the mountain, or just taking your time to take in the beauty of the mountain. 10/10 🌟

Very big state park with lots to do. State Rangers are very helpful and informative. Roads and hiking paths are kept up and clear. I am disabled and the rangers told us of the disabled access points, parking etc which was extremely helpful. I was able to see the Homestead because of the disabled access and parking. There is no cellular Wi-Fi unless you connect to the parks so be aware that cell service too is sketchy. We were only there for a day and really needed so much more time. It’s a beautiful park with lots to do. The history alone was worth the trip for me. The Blue Ridge area nearby is worth a week’s trip. There is plenty of wildlife too, a baby deer was found by hikers near the homestead when we were there. If you are into camping it would be an amazing place to stay. Definitely check into it if you are considering going to the area.

Beautiful place for hiking, connecting with nature and the pass. Every step is worth it. The views are breathtaking. It can take more than 4 hours to do the whole 4.8 miles, but it was all worth it.

Great moderate hike with waterfalls and scenic views. About 5 mile loop with tons of stops along the way for beautiful views, creeks and waterfalls. Decent amount of people on the trails on a Sunday afternoon. Highly recommend!

We enjoy the hike to the Mt. But they also have handicap entrance and parking so you can go directly to the base of the Mt and enjoy the view and the original homestead. Very nice and well maintained.

This is a great place for a quick visit and live viewing of Frescoe style painting. There is a audio recording that is very educational and lasts about 10 mins. Total visit here can be done in 15-20 mins. There are 3 Frescoes at the church: * Mary Great with Child * John the Baptist * Mystery of Faith The visit is free, although donations are highly encouraged.

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church or “Church of the Frescoes” in West Jefferson NC offers an audio narration of the Church’s history and art work by a local artist. Wonderfully preserved in a pastoral setting, it provided my party an uplifting message and a break after a day of touring shops in town.

I visited St. Marys after Holy Trinity, and I feel like that is a good order. The recording here is maybe 15 minutes? It has a delay, so be patient. Parking wasn't clear, but I think you should go around and park in the back lot and walk up unless you find the stairs difficult. There is only a community room downstairs, so no need to explore downstairs. When I was there the barrier to the main fresco was open, but an alarm did sound, so don't cross into that area.

Very humbling and beautiful. A little white church with lovely stain glass windows. The frescos were lovely. The depiction of God looking down on his son was a different interpretation of the crucifixion which felt comforting

Beautifully maintained and historically preserved Episcopal church featuring the fresco artistry of Ben Long. Well done automated audio presentation.

Beautiful frescoes and stained glass. We sat and took in each work of art as the audio history described each in detail. Free to visit, donation box available.

If you have thought about going do it, if you have the time and are in the area go. I didn't think I would like it but learned quite a bit.

What a wonderful stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway! We spent a few hours here and loved every moment. We brought a picnic and made use of the picnic tables for lunch—a perfect way to enjoy the peaceful mountain scenery before heading inside. The museum on site is small but so well done, telling the story of Appalachian music with videos, exhibits, and interactive displays. Afterward, we enjoyed the live music in the breezeway—local musicians playing bluegrass and old‑time tunes, which gave the place such an authentic and welcoming atmosphere. The staff was friendly, the grounds are beautiful, and it’s a great mix of music, culture, and nature. If you’re driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, definitely make time to stop here.

This was a beautiful place to visit. The music was great and my 3 year old daughter had a blast. She danced her heart away. Was a very clean place. Inside has a great display and history of bluegrass music. The people inside were very nice. If you are in the area, I suggest you stop by.

Very nice Music center in the Blue Ridge mountains! It's free to enjoy the museum and a variety of activities, including libe music on certain days. Staff is very friendly. You really can get submerged into the history of Bluegrass and other music that originated in the area. Very educational and a nice spot to stop while exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains!

Nice little visitors center with mini museum off the beaten path of the blue ridge parkway. Nice gift shop, clean bathrooms. Friendly rangers and access to some walking trails as well. Sometimes has live music events. There’s an amphitheater a short walk from the man visitors center.

My family stumbled upon this gem while driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway. They play music from 12:00-3:00...we arrived just in time to hear two songs just before they were done. Beautiful mountain music! 💞They also have a small museum and gift shop with magnets, mugs, shirts and sweatshirts.

Really nice people! They have jam sessions and vistors are encouraged to join

How beautiful, peaceful and charming! Great, helpful staff & enjoyed our time! Thank you!

Accessing the trail close to the river,(to more quickly reach the trestle bridge)is a bit tricky, but doable if you poke around to find a parking spot 😉Since I was only passing through on I-81, getting to hike on THAT SECTION (JUST outside of Draper) was my goal! But whether you do more of the trail or, like me, just a section, A stunning prize awaits you for your efforts: an incredible view! Solo traveler and enjoyed EVERY STEP🙌🏻THANK THE LORD FOR THE BEAUTY he generously gives us!

Gorgeous Trail, pretty much flat and beautiful views of the river and countryside. The railroad thru truss and trestle bridges are exciting to cross. Bring $7 for parking and at least $20 if you need to rent a bike which by the way they have more than enough. The trail is very long so unless you are a seasoned biker you'll have to do it in chunks. So far I've got everything North of Foster Falls done, looking forward to the southern end before it gets too cold.

Parked at foster falls. Me and my girlfriend and I had a great time riding around on our e bikes. We rode 10 or so miles out in one direction and 10 back so about 20 or so miles. Also went off on a few side quests to explore other parts. It's worth the fee to park for sure. It's a pretty smooth path for bikes not too hilly. You could basically ride any kind of bike on it. Was worried because my gf has an e bike with no suspension, but she was fine with it.

Nice park. $7 park fee. They converted an old railroad into a 57 mile trail. Its not paved but its flat. It runs along the river. You can rent bikes and kayaks.

Very scenic and peaceful. We bicycled a few miles starting in Galax. The trail is very well maintained. There is a $7 fee to use the trail.

Amazing experience. Great for hiking, biking and horse back riding. Lots of smal rest stations. Wonderful scenery.

Popped in here on our road trip. We didn't walk to the next places but stayed in yhe main part. Some interesting bits to look at from history of the place. $7 to park/enter. Lovely veiws of the river with some Canadian geese. Had we had more time om sure we would of enjoyed some of the 42 mile walk

I was there for only a few hours at my husband's company picnic. It seems like a very nice park. Trails for hiking. Water toys to rent - canoes, kayaks (single, double or fishing) paddle boards, pedal boats, hydro bikes. Great spots to have a family picnic, some very large shelters with picnic tables, grills available. Rest rooms, building with kitchen area to rent for functions. I noted signs for geocaching. I'm sure I'm forgetting some things. I will be back to play and explore some more! 😊

Hungry Mother State Park is a beautiful and well-maintained destination for a relaxing getaway. My family and I camped here for a long weekend and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The fall foliage was stunning, creating a picturesque backdrop throughout the park. The facilities and campsites were clean, and the atmosphere was peaceful and quiet—perfect for a family retreat. Highly recommend for anyone looking to enjoy nature and unwind.

Is Royal Oak campground new? It was the cleanest state park we've been to this year. The bathrooms were spotless, clean, and well shocked. The tent platforms were massive! We walked the lake loop trail and included the CCC Trail hike, which was beautiful and well maintained. Lake was pristine, and we went swimming with our dogs. Had we had more time, we would have rented kayaks and did a lake day. Saw lots of people out, paddling and fishing. The rangers at the Information/Discovery center were informative, knowledgeable, and great to talk to. You can buy wood there also for $7 a bundle, which was cheaper than other places around. The center sells awesome stickers, some snacks, and t-shirts. The CCC exhibit was excellent, with tons of pictures and relics. Really enjoyed our stay. Can't wait to visit again.

This is a unique state park in Virginia. The park has a beautiful Lake that offers recreational opportunities for electric boaters, paddleboarders, and kayakers. They also have a swimming area for families with very soft beach sand for kids to make sand castles or wherever their imagination takes them! Fishing opportunities are great. Park also offers hiking trails and several campgrounds for tent camping or RV camping with bathrooms, showers, and electric hookups. Camp sites have picnic tables and fire rings.

we stayed at the tent only platforms in royal oak campground. very cute and unique stay. make sure your tent and fly don’t need to be staked in order to stay up! you get a free day of swimming at the beach for each day you camp. the swimming area is a short drive or walk away from the royal oak campground. the swimming area was quite small and they do not allow swimming outside of the marked off area which is really disappointing. when we went swimming a day camp of maybe 60-70 children showed up and took up pretty much the whole swimming area so it would have been nice to not all be corralled in a small area together, especially for my group of competent adult swimmers who just wanted to float in our floaties! bathrooms and shower areas at the royal oak campground were standard— no complaints. you must check in at the park office on the road before you pull into the swim area/campground area before you can actually check into your site—the ranger station closer to the beach and campgrounds are not where you check in. all the rangers and camp hosts we interacted with were nothing but pleasant!

Great location and plenty to do there with great hiking trails and a beautiful lake. I’ve taken my scout troop there three times now. You’re in close proximity to the Virginia creeper trail as well.

A great park if you enjoy MTN biking or hiking. Lots of great trails and scenery. We stayed at the campground near the lake and it was nice as well.

Very cool scenic lookout. To climb the tower, go into the country store and pay the $8 per person to climb up. I thought the price was reasonable. The views were breathtaking. We were visiting the area on a motorcycle trip and stopped in right as they opened at 10 am on a weekday. We were the only people there at the time, but there were some others arriving as we left. For those on motorcycles, just know the parking lot is mainly loose gravel so be careful as you pull in/out. The woman inside the store was pleasant and told us a little bit about the area. She did mention that they have bands come in and play live music on some afternoons and it can get pretty busy during those times. There are some souvenirs you can purchase, and I saw they sold fudge and some other food items. Overall, a wonderful view and I would do it again!

Keith was working when we entered the gift shop to purchase tickets. He was very helpful. We had to wait 15 minutes to go up the tower because of a lightning strike. Keith told us we'd be able to see 4 different states from the top of the observation tower. The tower is 10 stories high, incredibly rickety, & absolutely terrified my daughter & myself. Lol. We sat on the floor of the observation level rather than stand because we could see that the wire was in need of repair & didn't want to get too close to the edge. It swayed quiet a bit, but it needs to for safety. Even though it scared me, it is definitely worth walking all the way up to see! Once we made our way back down, Keith sat outside on the porch & talked with us for a while. He said they close at 6pm, but if there are still people there, they don't kick them out. He was so kind & knowledgeable. This is a must see if you're near Big Walker Mountain! We loved it.

Wonderful spot to come and take in the view. Reason price to walk up the tower and across the bridge. The store is very nice with a lot of cute stuff. Staff is friendly and very helpful. Location is about 20 min off of rt 81. If you are passing by take a little detour and check it out.

Staff was so friendly sounds silly but my hot dog was amazing LOL the view is beyond breathtaking I did not climb the tower it's just not my thing but everything about this place is just awesome including the gift shop and merchandise! Also if you've never done the trail of the Dragon this is a great place to stop along your way!

Well worth the detour off the interstate to visit. 201 steps to the top, good height and was not too difficult for me. Tower did sway a bit, which added to the excitement. Tasty ice cream and country store on site.

I try and take ppl who are not from here to this place! It is a beautiful drive and the lookout is beautiful. They have some really cute handmade items in the store and the ice cream(milkshakes) are awesome!! Homemade fudge is good too!! Often they have live music and story tellers!!

Gorgeous views, great place to stretch your legs on a long journey (like we were doing). There’s a nice gift shop with ice cream, too. On a clear day you’ll be able to see 5 states from the top of the lookout tower, which has 200 steps to get to the top.

We did the Half day Lower river trip and had the BEST time. Great trip for a beginner like me, perfect mix of fun and challenging. Plus the incredible views the entire time. The entire staff was amazing! Super knowledgeable & safety oriented, but also so down to earth and fun to be around which made the day even better! Big shout out to our guide Laney B. she was awesome!!

We did the zip line course with our 2 sons ages 11 and 12 and we ALL loved it! It was fun, challenging and perfect for our thrill seeking adventure spirits! Our guides Ryan and Stevie kept us safe and explained everything in detail on each platform. We can’t wait to come back in the summer and swim in the lake and take boys white water rafting. Thank you again for everything Ace team, we will be back!

Amazing Rafting & Camping Experience at New River Gorge with ACE Adventures We stayed at New River Gorge and chose ACE Adventures for both camping and rafting — and it was an unforgettable experience! 🛶 Rafting with ACE Adventures We had so much fun on the river! The guides were professional, knowledgeable, and made sure everyone felt safe and confident. Before each trip, they clearly explained safety procedures and rescue techniques for every raft. Lunch was a pleasant surprise — not just basic hot dogs! We enjoyed grilled pork and chicken, fresh fruit, sandwiches, and salad. After the trip, they even offered cold water, Coke, and beer, which was the perfect way to wind down. Honestly, the entire rafting experience was flawless. We have nothing bad to say — it was absolutely the best! ⛺ Campsite Experience The campsite was spacious and well-maintained. Restrooms were cleaned twice daily and had both hot and cold running water, which we really appreciated. However, there were a few issues: • In the mornings, there was often a wait to use the restrooms. • Some restroom facilities weren’t working properly and could use repairs. • The campsites themselves didn’t have water or electricity hookups, so be prepared for a more rustic stay. Despite these small issues, we had a great time and would definitely come back. ACE Adventures delivers a fun, safe, and memorable outdoor experience in one of the most beautiful places around!

Simply put one of the best adventures of my life and some of the most fun I've ever had! I was part of a 14 person bachelor party group for the Upper Gauley with various rafting experience and we all had the best time! My boat was a 4 person 12ft raft led by Ace guide Chris Davis. 3 out of the 4 people in our raft had done the lower Gauley a few years back and told Chris we were looking to do as much as we could for the upper Gauley, boy did he deliver! Chris made it a priority to show us every thrilling feature of the river while making sure we still stayed safe. I would recommend Ace and Chris to anyone looking to conquer the Upper Gauley. We'll be back for sure!

A friend and I celebrate our birthdays every year by doing something new and exciting. This year in addition to hiking we did the Zip Line tour. Amazing. Ross was a fabulous guide and put me at ease immediately. Haylie was equally as fabulous. They were knowledgeable and funny. I would recommend this to anyone looking for some fun and adventure.

We did a zip line tour with guides Stevi, Davey, and Ryan. I cannot say enough wonderful things about them and the experience as a whole! WV is so beautiful and it’s thrilling to see it this way. Our guides were funny, kind, and very knowledgeable of the area. They also made the experience feel super safe. We could all enjoy the adventure with peace of mind. Highly recommend!

I was here for a half marathon. Camped night before race and after. Great site. Race was amazing and well run. Trail was outstanding. Had dinner there also. Very good!!!! Carol by my table were huge. The waiter gave me a slice of bread to feed them.

Wonderful ride through the gorge. Well worth the 45 minutes that I cludes a few stops to grap pictures. Scan the QR code to listen to the audio file of history as you take the ride through beauty and history. The rangers at the welcome center was awesome!

We came for bridge day and it was spectacular! They close the bridge and catapult adventurous spirits straight into the New River below. Over 300 base jumpers from all over the world put on their packs and parachute down. It’s a sight to see! Lots of great vendors, food and events at during that weekend. We attended the taste of bridge day the evening before at the adventures on the gorge and it was awesome!

One of the most iconic views in West Virginia. Seeing the bridge in person is completely different from photos, it stretches across the gorge like it’s floating, and the scale doesn’t fully hit you until you’re standing at the overlook looking out across miles of mountains. The bridge itself is one of the longest single-arch steel bridges in the world and also one of the highest in the U.S. It sits almost 900 feet above the river. The engineering alone is impressive, but the landscape around it is what really makes it special. The mountains roll in layers, and in the fall the colors are stunning reds, oranges, golds, and deep greens all stacked into the valley. There are several great viewing spots, but the Canyon Rim Visitor Center overlook and Long Point Overlook give the best angles. Long Point especially feels unreal, you’re right across from the bridge, eye-level with it. If you visit in October during Bridge Day, people BASE jump and rappel directly off the bridge, it turns into a full festival. Whether you’re hiking, just passing through, or stopping for photos, the New River Gorge Bridge is a must-see. Beautiful, massive, peaceful, and unforgettable.

Amazing place to visit. If you love history and nature at the same time, one of the best place to see in USA 🇺🇸❤️. 🏞️📍SUMMER 2024 The completion of the New River Gorge Bridge on October 22, 1977 solved a travel challenge. The bridge turned a 40-minute drive into less than a minute. It removed the need to navigate down narrow mountain roads across an ancient river. When it comes to road construction, mountains do pose a challenge. At New River Gorge, the challenge transformed into a work of structural art. The New River Gorge Bridge is the longest steel span in the western hemisphere. It is also the third highest bridge in the United States. The New River Gorge Bridge is one of the most photographed places in West Virginia. In 2006, the U.S. Mint chose the bridge to represent West Virginia on the state commemorative quarter. In 2013, the National Park Service listed the New River Gorge Bridge in the National Register of Historic Places. This listing signifies the importance of the bridge as a historic resource.

Beautiful fall colors and bridge view was outstanding! We were there on a Thursday before Bridge day on Saturday. Board walk was easy accessible from Visitors Center. Steps are 175 if you decide to walk all the way to the bottom. We only went about half way and did fine with an amazing view anyway. You can also drive around to the bottom

Went mid October 2025. This was a nice stop, a full service welcome center with bathrooms. It was very clean. However, it was also very crowded at this location, even after the welcome center closed. The bathrooms are locked inside the welcome center, making it impossible to go after 5pm. It is a short walk to the view of the bridge then some steps down to see a better view. Maybe a 5-10 minute stop total. This place is partly dog friendly. You can bring your dog to see the bridge. But for bridge day dogs are not welcome. Which is wild and quite frankly very sad considering it is quite literally an outdoor event. That made us disappointed and we did not go to bride day because of that. I would go back to see the view if I was in the area. No hiking or anything else exciting around there. But stunning views it was my second time here.

An iconic piece of architecture and featured on the West Virginia version of the state series quarters, this is the third tallest bridge in the US. While you can't really appreciate its height from the 4-lane highway that crosses it due to the high concrete barriers, seeing it from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center or from down below it is pretty impressive. Worth your time to visit, as the area is beautiful, especially during Fall like it was when we were there over the last week.

Exactly what we expected. We are a retired couple who needed an inexpensive place to stay while enjoying the local sights. The cabin was clean and the mattress was okay for what it was. We liked the little end tables attached to the wall. The public bathrooms were extremely clean. The food from the restaurant that was open was great. They have a fantastic place set up to watch the sunset. It was my favorite thing about the resort.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An Unforgettable Experience at Adventures on the Gorge! We had an incredible time doing the Gravity Zip Line—what a rush! The course itself is thrilling, with breathtaking views and heart-pounding fun, but what really made the experience exceptional were the people. Our guides, Bri, Madison, and Mark, were beyond outstanding—funny, knowledgeable, and totally on top of safety while still making it a blast from start to finish. Perry, our driver, was also fantastic and kept the energy high the whole way. The facilities were super clean, well-maintained, and added to the overall experience. It’s clear this place is run with pride and passion. We would highly recommend Adventures on the Gorge to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure—and we’ll definitely be back!

I have only been here for the taste of bridge day but this place is beautiful! The event was ran so well, plenty of vendors, places to sit, friendly people and the food was awesome! Thank you for a wonderful evening!

A truly wonderful experience. Adventures on the Gorge have great facilities. We stayed in the Loft Style Cabin, with bath and shower. Very clean and comfortable. Resort staff is friendly, helpful, and accommodating. Restaurant choices are great. The pool area is modern and relaxing. Our rafting trip was awesome with our guides Robbie and Marcus. They are both professional and very knowledgeable. Robbie was in our raft and made our experience very memorable and he made sure we had a thrilling experience.

Logan and Ryan were amazing! They helped our newbie zip liners who had some fear of heights have such a great time! Thanks for making the experience fun for them!

Absolutely no one else I would ever want to be my guide. Mike truly made this trip. The river itself is obviously gorgeous and a ton of fun. But Mike’s knowledge of the river, the local history, and everything there is to do nearby made it all next level. Plus he’s just a ton of fun to be around. Being from Michigan doesn’t hurt either (except, sorry Mike, Go Green!!) Thank you for everything!!

I'd only ever used ACE Adventures for Whitewater Rafting until last weekend. My husband and I had a blast with Adventures on the Gorge. Our guide knew his stuff 💯%. Customer service was awesome. Everything went smoothly. Our lunch was tasty. I have zero complaints.