Richmond, Va., 2013-03-06 — /travelprnews.com/ — Virginia is for lovers of music. Nowhere is that more true than along The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail. The Crooked Road connects some of the most famous and authentic bluegrass and old-time country music venues in the world together on a self-guided trail experience. Legends such as Dr. Ralph Stanley, the Carter Family and more are from this region and their music is still celebrated and venues in beautiful Appalachian towns of Southwest Virginia.
Here are some of the highlights as featured in For the LOVE of Travel, with more to discover on www.Virginia.org
The Carter Family Fold – First Family of Country Music
At the Carter Family Fold site, music lovers can visit not one but three distinct destinations. The first is the Carter Family Museum which is in the site of A.P. Carter’s original country store. There visitors can view iconic pieces of music memorabilia including Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash’s clothes, original recordings and family heirlooms. The cabin in which A.P. Carter was born, dating back to the late 1800’s is open for tours. The music shows at the Fold building itself is what really brings people in. Each Saturday night since the early 1970’s toe-tapping old-time and bluegrass music has filled the space. It is a family-friendly atmosphere with live music, homemade snacks and lots of dancing.
Bristol – The Birthplace of Country Music
Downtown Bristol is all about music and splits the Virginia/Tennessee state line. Its status of the Birthplace of Country music comes from the original Carter Family recordings which took place there in 1927. Now Bristol is attracting music fans of all ages and from all over, including Mumford & Sons, who played a big show in the heart of downtown. The annual Rhythm & Roots festival each September is a must for anyone who loves diverse and exciting music and up-and-coming bands.
Ralph Stanley Museum – Tribute to a Living Legend
The small, mountain town of Clintwood is home to the Ralph Stanley Museum, housed in a gorgeous Victorian mansion and with exciting interactive exhibits. Musicians of every genre site Dr. Stanley as a legend who has a broad impact on music. Museum visitors are greeted with music and enjoy two levels of exhibits that showcase O Brother Where Art Thou memorabilia, Grammy awards, stage clothes and a beautiful banjo.
Heartwood – Alive with Appalachian Culture
Heartwood, in Abingdon, is one of the newest venues of The Crooked Road. Heartwood showcases not only the region’s amazing music but also the crafts and culture. Visitors to Heartwood can shop for handmade crafts, enjoy a concert and have a superb meal featuring local foods, wine and craft beer. Regular music performances include amazing musicians such as Wayne Henderson and Amethyst Kiah. Admission to Heartwood is free as are the stunning views of the neighboring mountain side.
Visit www.Virginia.org to learn about all the venues and sites of The Crooked Road or call 1-800-VISITVA to request a free, Virginia is for Lovers travel guide and start planning a trip to Virginia. Love is at the heart of every Virginia vacation.
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Note to media: Click here for more information on For the LOVE of Travel. Access past Webisodes here.
Images of the Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail are available at www.VaTravelStories.com, the official pressroom for Virginia is for Lovers.