They say Virginia is for Lovers, and Smyth County, Virginia offers plenty of romance. Instead of grocery store flowers, or an impersonal Hallmark card, why not whisk your sweetie away to these romantic spots in Smyth County? From whiskey-sipping to climbing mountains, we’ve compiled a list of date ideas for you and your significant other:
Say I Do
Looking for the perfect spot to get engaged (or married)!? Sweep your #1 off their feet on the wooden bridge at Hungry Mother State Park. A graceful, gently arched wooden bridge leads you across the waters of Hungry Mother Lake. Plan to take in a sunset and breathe in the sweet mountain air on this serene lake surrounded by woodlands. Cross the bridge to find an intimate wedding venue located on a small island in the lake.
Travel Back in Time
Couples can enjoy the historic ambiance of General Francis Marion Hotel in Marion, a full restored 1920s hotel. Enjoy a nightcap in the cozy second floor lounge, and look for the black roosters sipping champagne in the mosaic flooring – a Prohibition-era symbol that drinks were served here.
Get Spirited Together
Savor the spirits of Appalachia at Smyth County’s best watering holes. Experience SWVA’s local heritage at Highlands Distillery with their hand-crafted, small-batch moonshine, gin, whiskey and bourbon. Hop lovers, rejoice! Get cozy together with a tasting flight of 36°Fifty’s craft beer and enjoy the hometown brewery vibes in Marion. For a more traditional evening of romance, plan a stop at Davis Valley Vineyard to taste their award-winning Virginia wines.
A Private Getaway
Want to escape the world and devote all of your attention to each other in a retreat-like setting? Hungry Mother Island Cabin is the perfect getaway for couples. This private cabin rental is located on its own tiny island, surrounded by Hungry Mother Creek, complete with firepit and fairy lights. Book this one well in advance, it’s a popular destination! Explore all of Smyth County’s vacation rentals to plan the perfect romantic getaway
Retro Romance
Get nostalgic with a drive-in date night! Park Place Drive-In in Marion is a genuine drive-in movie theatre, with first run films and an ice cream bar. Drive-In tip: pack a blanket big enough to snuggle in.
Visit the Home of First Kisses
Take in a show at the elegant Lincoln Theatre, formerly a 1927 “movie palace,” now fully restored and converted into a performing arts venue. From world-famous Song of the Mountains bluegrass shows, to comedy, film festivals and live music, this gorgeous theatre will make your date night something special.
Get High Together
We mean high, as in altitude, on the second highest peak in Virginia! What’s more romantic than watching a sunset from the top of a mountain? While many summits require an arduous hike, Whitetop Mountain is accessible by car. Pack a picnic and a bottle of bubbly, and enjoy a mountain sunset that will take your breath away. Sunset tip: check the local sunset time, and arrive an hour early to watch the colors change as the sun dips below the ridge line.
