Things To Do
in Blacksburg
Blacksburg is a vibrant college town located in the state of Virginia, known for being home to Virginia Tech, a prominent research university. The town has a charming downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Blacksburg is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, offering opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
The community in Blacksburg is friendly and welcoming, with a strong emphasis on education and innovation.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️ ♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike on the Cascades Trail. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the sound of the water cascading down the rocks.
Grab lunch at Gillie's, then visit the historic Smithfield Plantation to learn about local history. Stroll through the gardens and admire the beautiful landscaping.
Head to the Blacksburg Farmers Market to pick up fresh produce and artisanal goods. Wind down your day with a relaxing picnic at the nearby Henderson Lawn.
Visit the Moss Arts Center for art exhibits and performances that showcase local talent. Spend some time exploring the various cultural offerings.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby cafe and then head to the Virginia Tech campus. Take a self-guided tour to appreciate the architecture and vibrant student life.
Watch a performance at the Center in the Square or find a local theater showing a film. Savor dinner at a cozy restaurant downtown.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong educational institutions like Virginia Tech.
- Beautiful natural scenery and access to outdoor recreational activities.
- A relatively low cost of living compared to other college towns.
- A friendly and welcoming community atmosphere.
- Rich cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
- Limited job opportunities outside of education and technology sectors.
- Possible challenges with public transportation options.
- A quieter lifestyle that may not appeal to those seeking a more urban experience.
- Seasonal weather can bring harsh winters.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Blacksburg
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic hiking trails around a picturesque pond with beautiful natural surroundings.
Explore a well-maintained biking trail that offers a pleasant ride through lush greenery and countryside.
Experience the thrill of kayaking and enjoy the serene waters of the New River, perfect for water sports enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Blacksburg with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Blacksburg
Visit one of these nice places.
A large, grassy field surrounded by iconic buildings, offering beautiful views of the campus and the surrounding mountains.
A botanical garden with a variety of plants and scenic spots that offer excellent photo opportunities, especially during spring and fall.
A pedestrian bridge that provides stunning views of the Duck Pond and the surrounding landscape, particularly during sunrise or sunset.
Food in Blacksburg
Blacksburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew made with a variety of meats and vegetables, often prepared during community gatherings and available at local festivals such as the Steppin' Out street fair.
Must-Try!
A beloved local delicacy, this spread made with cheese, pimentos, and spices is served as a dip or in sandwiches at numerous eateries including Gillie's and The Farmhouse Restaurant.
Indulge in this Southern classic featuring fluffy biscuits smothered in savory sausage gravy, frequently found at eateries like Homeplace Restaurant and Prestons Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Blacksburg better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market showcases fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats from local vendors, making it an ideal spot to sample homemade delights and engage with the community.
Keep an eye out for periodic Food Truck Frenzy events where a delightful array of mobile vendors gather to offer an assortment of cuisines, from gourmet tacos to decadent desserts, creating a vibrant street food scene in Blacksburg.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Blacksburg, it is important to respect the personal space of others and maintain a comfortable distance when engaging in conversations or interactions.
Punctuality is valued in Blacksburg, so it is important to be on time for social engagements, meetings, and appointments.
Blacksburg is a diverse community, so it is important to respect and value the different cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and traditions of others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Blacksburg with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Blacksburg
Ensure a smooth experience
In Blacksburg, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, bars, and for services such as taxis and hairdressers. The standard tipping rate for good service is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Blacksburg is commonly done using credit or debit cards, with cash also being widely accepted. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also becoming increasingly popular in various establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Blacksburg, with blooming flowers, pleasant temperatures, and outdoor events. Expect mild temperatures and occasional rain.
Summer in Blacksburg is warm and often humid, with plenty of outdoor activities and events. Expect hot temperatures and occasional thunderstorms.
Fall is beautiful in Blacksburg, with colorful foliage and pleasant temperatures. Expect cool and crisp weather, perfect for outdoor activities and hiking.
Winter in Blacksburg can be cold, with occasional snowfall and ice. Expect cold temperatures and the chance to enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding in nearby mountains.
Blacksburg at Night
Hiking in Blacksburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and an iconic rock formation.
One of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail, offering breathtaking views of the Catawba Valley.
A relatively easy and scenic trail that is great for families, featuring a mix of wooded areas and open fields.
A popular spot for hiking and picnicking, with trails around the pond and additional access to the Jefferson National Forest.
Offers a more strenuous hike with rewarding views; good spot for experienced hikers looking for a challenge.
Aiports
How to reach Blacksburg by plane.
The closest major airport, located approximately 30 miles from Blacksburg, providing both domestic and limited international flights.
Located about 120 miles from Blacksburg, CLT is a major hub offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Approximately 240 miles from Blacksburg, Dulles serves as a major international gateway with extensive flight options.
Located around 90 miles from Blacksburg, GBO offers a variety of domestic flights and some international connections.
About 700 miles from Blacksburg, TPA is one of the larger international airports in Florida, with extensive flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Blacksburg, typically encompassing individuals of European descent.
Includes individuals with Asian ancestry, such as those from East Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
Represents individuals of African descent and includes both African Americans and individuals from African nations.
Covers individuals who identify as Hispanic or Latino, including those from various Latin American countries.
Individuals who identify as having two or more racial backgrounds.
Consists of individuals with Native American or Alaska Native ancestry.
Includes individuals with ancestry from the Pacific Islands or Hawaii.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is immensely popular in Blacksburg, largely due to the local college team, the Virginia Tech Hokies, which competes in the NCAA Division I.
Basketball is another popular sport in Blacksburg, with the Virginia Tech Hokies also having a competitive NCAA Division I basketball program.
Soccer has a growing following in Blacksburg, with both men's and women's collegiate teams and local leagues supported by the community.
Track and field events are popular at the high school and collegiate levels, with Virginia Tech having a strong program that attracts talent and fans.
Baseball has a community presence in Blacksburg, with youth leagues and support for local team activities contributing to its popularity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Blacksburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Blacksburg, such as Gillie's and The Cellar, offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, with an emphasis on fresh and innovative plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can savor a variety of gluten-free offerings at establishments like Green's and Zoe's Kitchen, where a wide range of dishes are thoughtfully crafted to accommodate such dietary needs.