Planning your next adventure? Discover what makes Patrick County one of the best destinations in the Blue Ridge! Enjoy live music, fun festivals, and great attractions when you visit Patrick County.
Best of the Blue Ridge
Patrick County is home to many amazing events and attractions. Don’t just take our word for it! Below are the winners of Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine’s annual Best of the Blue Ridge competition. Readers from all over the region nominated their favorite businesses, festivals, and attractions.
Winner
- Front Porch Fest – WINNER Best Family Friendly Festival in the Blue Ridge: Front Porch Fest features an awesome music lineup and plenty of fun activities for kids to enjoy. Held on Labor Day weekend, this festival is the best way to end the summer.
- DeHart Disc Golf Park – WINNER Best Disc Golf Course in the Blue Ridge: This brand-new course was created in partnership with Stuart’s Rotary Club, Patrick County Parks & Rec, Dehart Park, the Town of Stuart, and Patrick County Tourism. This short, beginner-friendly course is perfect for kids and adults.
- Spa at Primland – WINNER Best Wellness Center in the Blue Ridge: Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind spa day at Primland Resort. Hidden among the peaks of the Pinnacles of Dan, Primland offers
- Pickle & Ash – WINNER Best Restaurant in the Blue Ridge: Pickle & Ash offers seasonally inspired, farm-to-table dining just outside of Stuart. Stop by for lunch or dinner Thursday-Saturday.
Runner Up & Nominee
- Primland Resort – RUNNER UP Best Resort in the Blue Ridge: Experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the luxury of a 5-star resort. Primland offers unbeatable views, luxury accommodations, outdoor adventure, and more.
- Edd Martin and Associates – RUNNER UP Best Realty Company in the Blue Ridge: Looking to relocate? Check out Edd Martin and Associates for all your real estate needs.
- Daring Wine & Cidery Co – RUNNER UP Best Cidery in the Blue Ridge: Enjoy small batch wine and cider made in Patrick County!
- Kibler Valley River Run – RUNNER UP Best Water Race or Event: Held in July, the Kibler Valley River Run attracts kayakers and canoers together for a fun day of racing in Kibler Valley.
- Rock Castle Loop – READER NOMINEE Best Hiking Trail in the Blue Ridge: Offering miles of challenging trail and stunning views, the Rock Castle Loop is perfect for experienced hikers looking for a challenge in Patrick County.
What’s New
Discover the newest additions to Patrick County! Discover new restaurants, trail enhancements, and more when you explore Patrick County in 2026.
NaanStop – This brand new addition to Stuart’s Main Street features classic Indian dishes and fun fusions like Indian-style pizza.
Clay & Twig – Located in Critz, you’ll find Clay & Twig under the awning of an old tobacco barn. This charming farmstand offers a wide array of plants, baked goods, and other items.
Mayo River Rail Trail Upgrades – The Mayo River Rail Trail received trail enhancements as a part of the Appalachian Gateway Communities Initiative. Community members added a pollinator garden, mural, and solar lanterns along the trail.
Fairy Stone State Park Campground Reopening – The campground at Fairy Stone State Park is reopening in March! The campground received some much needed reovations and updates. Book your stay at one of Virginia’s best hidden gems.
Get in the Groove
If you love live music, then you’ll love these great venues! Tap your toes to bluegrass or enjoy a high energy preformance at the Star Theatre.
Star Theatre – Spend the evening listening to great music at Stuart’s Historic Star Theatre! Hosting a great mix of local and regional artists, you’ll hear everything from bluegrass & blues to jam bands & funk.
Patrick County Music Association – This group of music lovers hosts free monthly bluegrass shows, fall-spring. This is a must for bluegrass lovers!
The Coffee Break – Owned by Patrick County Music Association founder, Denny Alley, the Coffee Break is an iconic piece of Stuart’s North Main Street. This charming diner is packed every Tuesday morning for the weekly Breakfast & Bluegrass Jam.
Willis Gap Community Center – A must stop for bluegrass lovers, this piece of the Crooked Road Music Trail attracts musicians from all over. The Willis Gap Community Center’s Friday Night Open Jam is an iconic piece of Patrick County’s music heritage.