Had a wonderful time here, delightful from the first step in the door. The volunteer was super friendly, I feel badly I don’t remember his name. He explained how the exhibits were displayed and learned the museum is affiliated with the Smithsonian. There is a lot of information to absorb, so much I didn’t know. Really fascinating information for someone like me that isn’t even a big music fan. History should be respected and remembered and they do a great job of that here. Recommend this for everyone, although kids probably would not enjoy this too much but they do have interactive things to listen to that could help pass time. Expected to stay about an hour or so.

We loved this place, So much History! The birthplace of country music. Just to go threw and learn all about the Bristol Recordings. Me and my wife loved going though listing and learning all about the very first recordings of country music. If you are in town are even near the town, it is worth very much worth the ride to see it and learn all about where a big part of music started! There is also a lot of other things to do close by, So you can make a day of it, or even a whole week! We loved it and plan to come back and visit it again soon with friends and family.

This museum is a wonderful place to visit, especially if you are curious about the culture and music of Appalachia. The exhibits crystallize around the Bristol Sessions of 1927, in which country music was first recorded, hence the name of the museum. However, in conjunction with that, the museum contains exhibits on the evolution of recording, the roots and traditions of country music, pioneer artists in the recording industry, and the gospel traditions inherent in country sound. It has several hands-on exhibits, including listening stations, recording and playback areas, a live radio station broadcast from the museum, and excellent timelines to keep you well-informed about country music of yesteryear all the way up to today. Whether you are a fan of country music or if you are interested simply in the history of recording, this is a definite must to visit. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, especially the museum director René, and the museum hosts several trainings for teachers as well as student activities. Tickets are a reasonable $11, and he will come away from your visit feeling intensely connected to the voices and people of Appalachia ,

Absolutely soul stirring! I could feel the heartbeat and soul of country music. Not this Satanistic crap on the radio today where it's commercialism and alcohol distributors rule. When George Strait sang "God and Country Music" he was referring to this museum. Come and be reborn!

We were so glad that we visited the museum. There are interactive hands-on exhibits, short films that are very informative. Exhibits of instruments and historical information. Overall a fantastic experience. Would recommend.

This is one not to miss for any true country music fan!! It is a Smithsonian affiliate and the care for the property, grounds and everything on display shows! There is plenty of video to watch, music to listen to, some hands on informational things to peruse, lots of key displays of information and memorabilia from instruments to records and recordings!! This is a great spot to take your time and enjoy the history of this music that really sprung most forms of music after it! Anyone who enjoys the older school country and/or where the modern music came from will enjoy this museum. Prices are very reasonable, a great gift shop and super friendly and helpful staff!!

This museum was a very moving experience. There was so much great film/video of the musicians I love, the temporary exhibit about custom cowboy boots was fascinating, and the shop was really charming. I particularly enjoyed talking to the manager June Marshall, who was obviously passionate about her city and her work. So glad I had the chance to go!

This is a beautiful park. There are really nice views from up on top of the dam. The disc golf course is also very nice. It's well maintained and has some of the longest holes in the area. There are several athletics fields and a playground. As well as a good variety of mountain biking trails. Overall, it is a very nice park.

BEWARE!! be extremely careful walking your dog in the back section of this park In the area for the family picnics and where the creek is at- I’ve been coming for years and I’ve noticed over the past six months almost every day there is large loose dogs with no leash running around I have been approached and have had to spray multiple aggressive dogs when mine is on a leash and the owner thinks it’s cool to just let their dogs Park with leash laws. There is absolutely nothing any staff at the park will do about this . The park is well maintained, and there is a vast amount to explore everything from a dam to the wetlands to the forest If your here wothout an animal, it’s a great place If you plan on bringing A dog prepare for it to be attacked

On our drive south, we found this amazing park. There were many places to park for various activities, including a disc golf course. There are camping allowances inside, or closer to the back. You can opt to go in, for $1 (one dollar) to picnic. I highly recommend it. It’s well maintained, with a spring/river to cool your feet on. My little one walked right across. There are benches by the play structure, as well as picnic tables and a BBQ grill. The bathrooms were also just across the way. The park also has some wetlands with snappy turtles, which is closer to the disc golf course than where we were. The space looks ideal for camping, which costs about $20 ( I think). Lots of trails for walking. And lots of trash cans!

80 acres of adventure! We love the trails, the sports fields, dog park, picnic area, it's amazing

We stopped in briefly for a picnic and enjoyed the lovely forested grounds. Lots of picnic tables up for grabs and various picnic shelters you can reserve as well down by the creek or up the hill.

I love this park. The walk through the woods is really cool.

DOG ATTACKS ARE COMMON !!! This IS a leash law state yet when you go to the family picnic are and the creek area, you are almost guaranteed to see/be charged at by someone’s dog! Once you get to the wetlands STAFF no longer care even after having to pepper spray an attacking dog off me and my leashed dog . I have made complaints and shown multiple photos of this occurrence. I LOVED this park all my life but the last year has been unbearable - I know drove an extra 20min each way to avoid this place and go to the lake - ENFORCE THE LEASH LAWS OR STOP ALLOWING PETS ALL TOGETHER IM TIRED OF ALWAYS BEING ON EDGE AT THIS PARK WONDERING WHEN THE NEXT LOOSE DOG WILL ATTACK — Remeber folks it’s the law and also not everyone wants to ran up to by a dog especially a child

Benjamin Walls is an amazing photographer, and his galleries in Bristol and Asheville put his astounding talent on display. My wife has desperately wanted one of his pieces for years, and we finally purchased one. We can't wait to see it hanging in our home.

An incredible experience from start to finish the gallery is beautiful, and Benjamin‘s photography speaks for itself-absolutely breathtaking what really stood out, though, was the staff, friendly acknowledge and clearly passionate about the work. They made the visit even more enjoyable..

Lovely, inspiring gallery with photos that will reset your inner clock to “alive and well”! Absolutely breathtaking photos of both nature and of wildlife… I had to stand still, hold my chest, and gawk… Also, this artist has incredibly made opportunities to travel and see wherein he has garnered his inspirations across the globe 🌍 Who does that?! Wow!!😮

World class photo gallery showcasing Ben's work from around the world. The pieces are breathtaking and the presentation flawless. Shots from Appalachia, Africa, and other locations are displayed in sizes ranging from 11x14 inches to 9 foot across. Most of the work is for sale and the metal prints and framing are done in house. There is a leather-bound photo book of some pieces that is worth the money. Ben's work has been displayed at the Smithsonian and is worth the time to take in. Best photo gallery I have seen in a long time. HIGHLY recommended

The Bristol Gallery is a hidden gem every piece draws you in and the space itself is so thoughtfully curated. Benjamin‘s work is stunning, powerful, peaceful, and deeply moving. I must-visit if you’re anywhere near the area.

Went to Walls Fine Art Gallery in Bristol, VA. Well worth the trip. Great talent on display!!! Here’s an idea for everyone… Get lunch or dinner at the Burger Bar next door to the gallery. Walk it off by viewing the spectacular photography of Ben Walls and cap it all off with a visit to Blackbird Bakery for coffee and dessert.

Benjamin is am amazing photographer. We’ve got a number of his pieces. The first we bought was called “Keepers Path”. I got it because the very first time we ever stopped in I stood in front of the image and broke into tears. My uncle who passed years ago loved lighthouses. I had to have it. Since then we’ve added more amazing pieces from his collection. On top of being an amazing artist Benjamin is just a great guy. We’ve met up with him for drinks, anytime we see him he spends loads of time catching up and showing us around.

Excellent tasting beers and selection and a large, open patio. My current favorite is the raspberry pomegranate. It's one of the most chill places I've been to, so definitely coming back here again.

The vanilla Porter is one of my favorite beers, however it's the only good beer they have. All the others are lacking flavor.

Take the time to venture off of State Street to visit this excellent brewery. The beer is amazing and there is a style for every beer drinker. The owner/brewer is passionate about his craft and it shines through in every brew. The stouts are amazing and the light beers also hit the spot. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy a couple of pints or take flight and try them all.

We were down visiting from Ohio and I have to say this was by far the best place we visited Ken (the owner)was amazing along with the DJ “singo” and the customer Brooke and the other bar tenders (sorry no names) made it all the better!!

Wonderful brewery with great selection of tasty beer. The staff is top notch. The outdoor area is wonderful on almost any night. Cozy up by the fire pit on a chilly night. The indoor is just a enjoyable with comfy couches and tables to gather around.

Unique brewery a block off State St. The building reminds me of an old bus station (a Greyhound map is on the wall). They had a dozen beers on tap and prices were either $5 or 6 a pint. Very surprised they still had a pumpkin ale available, so I grabbed one. Pumpkin sugar around the rim of the glass fit the mellow taste. Topped it off with a Barefoot Blonde, a Belgian wit. Both were tasty!

Extremely tasty beers (not overpriced) made by a very cool brewmeister. The inside is comfy with a couple of TVs and plenty of space to chill. The outside is one of the nicest place to hang out during Rhythm and Roots Reunion. Exceptional business. Oh, and free popcorn!

Very rarely do I review a rest stop, but the ladies at the welcome center were just too nice and helpful not to review! They were quick to provide legitimate suggestions and then play some local musical instruments. Worth a stop when you need a break from driving.

We always stop and let our furbaby have a drink and a pee. Along with ourselves of course. It's always clean and well kept with easy access on and off the highway.

Great restaurant and a great welcome to Virginia. Has cool display inside with helpful folks giving info about the state to go along with the tons of pamphlets and maps. The love sign is a great photo op because VA is for lovers!

The welcome to Virginia rest area is small but fits the needs. The bathroom was clean . They have a travel info building

This rest area was clean. I felt safe. There is ample amount of parking. There is a dog walk area. The sunrise was beautiful!

Stopped here on the way to Virginia Beach, Virginia. I'll be my first time seeing the ocean there. The reststop had all kinds of pamphlets of activities to do in the state of VIRGINIA. Vending machines for drinks & snacks. Super clean restrooms. There is concrete picnic tables to set out and eat. Beautiful landscaping. No 18 wheeler trucks. Just regular vehicles. All in all a safe place to stop in for a break to get out and stretch your legs a while after driving for hours. I haven't been to a cleaner nicer reststop.

Easy access. Makes for a quick stop. There is a cute photo opportunity and lots of pic nic tables. The bathrooms are in good condition. There is a nice area for walking around and stretching. This rest stop is the Virginia Welcome Center.