Pulaski County: River, History and Culture

The Pulaski County Courthouse has an unusual architectural history: it draws on the Romanesque style of architect H. H. Richardson, was completed in 1896, burned down in 1989, and was restored and reopened three years later. Here, architecture and chronology go hand in hand; the building offers a way to trace design and change.

Outdoor Scenery and Activities

Part of Southwest Virginia, Pulaski County lies among mountains, lakes, rivers and hiking trails. Rolling landscapes and green pastures shape the natural backdrop. You can go tubing or kayaking on the New River in the county; the river offers a different way to spend time outdoors than the trails on land.

The New River Trail State Park is a 57-mile linear park along a disused railroad corridor. Its gentle grade makes it suitable for hiking, cycling and horseback riding. Within the park, the Hoover Mountain Bike Complex has four miles of scenic mountain biking trails. This means visitors can choose between a long former railroad corridor with several listed activities and a dedicated mountain bike complex with a specified trail length.

Claytor Lake State Park also has a clear focus: it is known for sport fishing. At the historic Howe House, interactive exhibits explore the ecology of the lake and surrounding areas. This combines an activity on the water with insights into the region’s natural history. At Randolph Park, the Evelyn Alexander Waterpark offers a swimming pool and water features.

Discover Places and Stories

The Elks Theatre in downtown Pulaski was built in 1911. Its history includes vaudeville performances, touring theater companies and early silent films. Another historic building is the Pulaski Train Depot, built in 1888. Calfee Park is a historic stadium dating from 1935. Together, these places represent different chapters in local architectural and entertainment history, from a train station to a theater and stadium.

The Raymond F. Ratcliffe Transportation Museum preserves and displays artifacts relating to the history of Pulaski and the surrounding region. At the Wilderness Road Regional Museum, volunteers offer guided tours with historical context. The permanent exhibition “Into the Wilderness” explains the role of the Wilderness Road in the settlement of America. History enthusiasts will find several ways to explore the past here: material artifacts, a guided overview and an exhibition about a historic route.

Food, Drink and Events

Wine tasting is available every weekend at Iron Heart Winery. Regular opening hours are Saturdays from 12 to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m.; check current hours before your visit. The experience at Salty Stash Distillery lasts two to three hours: participants make their own product, choosing from options ranging from neutral vodka to flavored gin. Availability may change, so confirm it before booking.

The Pulaski County Flea Market is held twice a year, in June and September, at the New River Valley Fairgrounds. Check the event dates before you travel, as the annual schedule may change. Depending on your interests, you can combine your trip with architecture and regional history, outdoor activities, or a visit focused on wine, spirits and the market.

Discover more destinations: Pulaski, Lynchburg, Prince George, Carroll County, Fauquier County, Roanoke, Galax, Washington County.

For the main travel overview: Virginia.