These mountain towns make great side trips off the parkway.
VIRGINIA
Bedford. Exit at State 43 near milepost 86 or U.S. 221/460 at milepost 105.8. The National D-Day Memorial offers a haunting account of the World War II event.
Roanoke. Three exits between mileposts 105 and 125 route you through the city. Downtown boasts museums, restaurants, shops, and a farmers market.
Galax. Take State 89 at milepost 215.85. Things heat up August 8-13 during the Old Fiddler's Convention. Don't miss the St. Louis-style spareribs ($9.99 for a half slab) at The Galax Smokehouse on Main Street.
NORTH CAROLINA
Blowing Rock. Get off the parkway at U.S. 321. A charming, easily walkable Main Street boasts lots of shops and a public park. Enjoy the Cafe Burger ($7.05) at Blowing Rock Cafe.
Brevard. Exit at U.S. 276 south of Mount Pisgah. Essence of Thyme Coffee Cafe, Gallery on Main, and O.P. Taylor's toy store make this downtown a must-see.
Dillsboro. Take the U.S. 23/74 exit. Craft shops cuddle together around the railroad tracks. Savor the fried chicken luncheon plate at The Jarrett House ($9.95).
ROAD REPAIRS
One section of the parkway between mileposts 317 and 325, south of Linville Falls, is closed for repairs after Hurricanes Frances and Ivan blew through the area. Park officials expect this part of the road to reopen by fall or in early 2006. For updates call the park information line at (828) 298-0398, or visit www.nps.gov/blri.
This article is from the August 2005 issue of Southern Living. Because prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change, please check all information to make sure it's still current before making your travel plans.
ARTICLE BY Mark G. Stith, Cassandra M. Vanhooser / Photography Meg McKinney
