Brinegar Cabin Open House (Doughton Park - Milepost 238.5)

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see what......More

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see whats growing! Rangers and volunteers are on site to share stories of the Brinegar Family. 

Brinegar Cabin is located at milepost 238.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park in the parking and follow the paved walkway to the cabin.

Counting Butterflies as They Flutter by (Doughton Park - Milepost 238.5)

 Become a citizen scientist and help spot, count, and record butterflies for the Carolina Butterfly Monitoring Program. You are guaranteed to learn to recognize several butterfly species by the end of this program. Meet by the Brinegar Cabin Garden located at Milepost 2......More

 Become a citizen scientist and help spot, count, and record butterflies for the Carolina Butterfly Monitoring Program. You are guaranteed to learn to recognize several butterfly species by the end of this program. Meet by the Brinegar Cabin Garden located at Milepost 238.5 at 10 AM for a slow 1.4-mile stroll to the A Loop of Doughton Park Campground. Bring water, a snack, and binoculars if you have them.90 minutes plus return walk back to the Brinegar Cabin parking area. 

Doughton Park located at milepost 238.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park in the parking lot next to Brinegar Cabin and follow the paved path to the garden.

Johnson Farm Guided Exploration (Peaks of Otter - Milepost 86)

Step back in time to the 1920s and 1930s when you visit the Johnson Farm at milepost 86 in the Peaks of Otter area. You can join an optional tour of farmhouse with park staff upon your arrival to the farm. The farm grounds are open for self-guiding no matter when you vi......More

Step back in time to the 1920s and 1930s when you visit the Johnson Farm at milepost 86 in the Peaks of Otter area. You can join an optional tour of farmhouse with park staff upon your arrival to the farm. The farm grounds are open for self-guiding no matter when you visit.The Johnson Farm represents three generations starting in 1852. The farmhouse was refurbished in the 1970s to its appearance in the 20s and 30s. The farm represents the community in Peaks of Otter before the Blue Ridge Parkway Road.The farm is only accessible by hiking a little over 1 mile from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center at milepost 85.6. Comfortable hiking shoes, water and sunscreen is strongly recommended. The Johnson Farm buildings are subject to close due to weather.

Park at the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center (85919 Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, VA 24523) at milepost 86. Take the loop trail, approximately two miles long, which follows a section of the Harkening Hill loop trail. Beginning at the north end of the vis

Historic Mill Open House (Mabry Mill - Milepost 176.2)

  Take a stroll back in time at the historic Mabry Mill, a beloved Blue Ridge icon. Built by Ed Mabry with help from the local community in the early 1900s, this humble mill once bustled with the sounds of a working mountain hub. A sawmill, gristmill, and woodworking sh......More

  Take a stroll back in time at the historic Mabry Mill, a beloved Blue Ridge icon. Built by Ed Mabry with help from the local community in the early 1900s, this humble mill once bustled with the sounds of a working mountain hub. A sawmill, gristmill, and woodworking shop powered daily life here, serving neighbors scattered across the rugged landscape.Today, the tradition of craftsmanship and community continues. Park employees will have the mill doors open for you, ready to welcome visitors inside to explore the machinery, hear the stories, and experience the lives shaped by this remarkable place.  

Blue Ridge Parkway - Mabry Mill - Milepost 176.2

Fire, Iron, and Tradition: Mabry Mill Blacksmith Demonstration (Mabry Mill Blacksmith Shop - Milepost 176.2)

 Experience the heat, rhythm, and skill of traditional Appalachian blacksmithing. Watch as Park staff shape iron into tools and art while sharing the stories of the people who relied on this essential craft. Discover how blacksmiths supported daily life in mountain comm......More

 Experience the heat, rhythm, and skill of traditional Appalachian blacksmithing. Watch as Park staff shape iron into tools and art while sharing the stories of the people who relied on this essential craft. Discover how blacksmiths supported daily life in mountain communities and see history come alive at the forge. The Mabry Mill Blacksmith will be operating from 10:30am to 2:00pm.

Blue Ridge Parkway - Mabry Mill Blacksmith Shop - Milepost 176.2

Midday Mountain Music (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each d......More

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each day when the Music Center is open. Join us for a few minutes or for the whole afternoon! No tickets are needed. 

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located on Music Center Road, Galax, VA 24333 or milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Guided Tour of Flat Top Manor (Moses H Cone Memorial Park - Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 294)

The Gilded Age “Denim King”, Moses H. Cone, turned his hand from textile manufacturing to becoming a “gentleman farmer” in the late 1890s. And what better way to emphasize “gentleman” than to build a 23-room mansion in the Blue Ridge mountains? Join a ranger to ascend t......More

The Gilded Age “Denim King”, Moses H. Cone, turned his hand from textile manufacturing to becoming a “gentleman farmer” in the late 1890s. And what better way to emphasize “gentleman” than to build a 23-room mansion in the Blue Ridge mountains? Join a ranger to ascend the grand staircase of the Cone manor house, and peek into the past while touring the living spaces of this local industrialist. Learn about the legacy of the Cone family from Moses’ beginnings as a grocery salesman to the family’s patronage of the fine arts in Baltimore. Then join the ranks of the manor staff as you descend the steep and narrow servant’s stairs to visit the butler’s pantry and kitchen. Learn about the lives of the inside servants, the outdoor estate workers, and the ordinary folk who kept the 3,600 acre country estate in impeccable working order.IMPORTANT: All participants MUST be able to climb and descend two flights of stairs, as this historic building does not have an elevator. Guided tours are limited to 18 people.Reservations can be made up to 5 days in advance by calling the Moses H. Cone Manor House. We cannot take reservations more than 5 days in advance. (828) 295-3782

The Moses H. Cone Manor House is located at Milepost 294 of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The two closest towns are Boone and Blowing Rock.

Milepost Music (Mabry Mill - Milepost 176)

Free traditional music concerts featuring local & regional mountain musicians. Bring your chairs or a blanket to spread out and enjoy the wodnerful traditional mountain music. The concerts are cancelled if there is thunder and lightning.

266 Mabry Mill Road SEMeadows of Dan, VA 24120

Milepost Music (Doughton Park - Milepost 238)

Free traditional music concerts featuring local & regional mountain musicians. Bring your chairs or a blanket to spread out and enjoy the wodnerful traditional mountain music. The concerts are cancelled if there is thunder and lightning.

49800 Blue Ridge ParkwayLaurel Springs, NC 28644

Milepost Music (Mabry Mill - Milepost 176)

Free traditional music concerts featuring local & regional mountain musicians. Bring your chairs or a blanket to spread out and enjoy the wodnerful traditional mountain music. The concerts are cancelled if there is thunder and lightning.

266 Mabry Mill Road SEMeadows of Dan, VA 24120

Milepost Music (Peaks of Otter - Milepost 85.6)

Free traditional music concerts featuring local & regional mountain musicians. Bring your chairs or a blanket to spread out and enjoy the wodnerful traditional mountain music. The concerts are cancelled if there is thunder and lightning.

85554 Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, VA 24523Concert takes place behind the lodge buildings. You can get to the concert area by walking the Abbott Lake Trail

Johnson Farm Guided Exploration (Peaks of Otter - Milepost 86)

Step back in time to the 1920s and 1930s when you visit the Johnson Farm at milepost 86 in the Peaks of Otter area. You can join an optional tour of farmhouse with park staff upon your arrival to the farm. The farm grounds are open for self-guiding no matter when you vi......More

Step back in time to the 1920s and 1930s when you visit the Johnson Farm at milepost 86 in the Peaks of Otter area. You can join an optional tour of farmhouse with park staff upon your arrival to the farm. The farm grounds are open for self-guiding no matter when you visit.The Johnson Farm represents three generations starting in 1852. The farmhouse was refurbished in the 1970s to its appearance in the 20s and 30s. The farm represents the community in Peaks of Otter before the Blue Ridge Parkway Road.The farm is only accessible by hiking a little over 1 mile from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center at milepost 85.6. Comfortable hiking shoes, water and sunscreen is strongly recommended. The Johnson Farm buildings are subject to close due to weather.

Park at the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center (85919 Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, VA 24523) at milepost 86. Take the loop trail, approximately two miles long, which follows a section of the Harkening Hill loop trail. Beginning at the north end of the vis

Midday Mountain Music (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each d......More

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each day when the Music Center is open. Join us for a few minutes or for the whole afternoon! No tickets are needed. 

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located on Music Center Road, Galax, VA 24333 or milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Brinegar Cabin Open House (Doughton Park - Milepost 238.5)

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see what......More

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see whats growing! Rangers and volunteers are on site to share stories of the Brinegar Family. 

Brinegar Cabin is located at milepost 238.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park in the parking and follow the paved walkway to the cabin.

Midday Mountain Music (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each d......More

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each day when the Music Center is open. Join us for a few minutes or for the whole afternoon! No tickets are needed. 

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located on Music Center Road, Galax, VA 24333 or milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Midday Mountain Music (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each d......More

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each day when the Music Center is open. Join us for a few minutes or for the whole afternoon! No tickets are needed. 

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located on Music Center Road, Galax, VA 24333 or milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Johnson Farm Guided Exploration (Peaks of Otter - Milepost 86)

Step back in time to the 1920s and 1930s when you visit the Johnson Farm at milepost 86 in the Peaks of Otter area. You can join an optional tour of farmhouse with park staff upon your arrival to the farm. The farm grounds are open for self-guiding no matter when you vi......More

Step back in time to the 1920s and 1930s when you visit the Johnson Farm at milepost 86 in the Peaks of Otter area. You can join an optional tour of farmhouse with park staff upon your arrival to the farm. The farm grounds are open for self-guiding no matter when you visit.The Johnson Farm represents three generations starting in 1852. The farmhouse was refurbished in the 1970s to its appearance in the 20s and 30s. The farm represents the community in Peaks of Otter before the Blue Ridge Parkway Road.The farm is only accessible by hiking a little over 1 mile from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center at milepost 85.6. Comfortable hiking shoes, water and sunscreen is strongly recommended. The Johnson Farm buildings are subject to close due to weather.

Park at the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center (85919 Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, VA 24523) at milepost 86. Take the loop trail, approximately two miles long, which follows a section of the Harkening Hill loop trail. Beginning at the north end of the vis

Midday Mountain Music (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each d......More

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each day when the Music Center is open. Join us for a few minutes or for the whole afternoon! No tickets are needed. 

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located on Music Center Road, Galax, VA 24333 or milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Brinegar Cabin Open House (Doughton Park - Milepost 238.5)

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see what......More

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see whats growing! Rangers and volunteers are on site to share stories of the Brinegar Family. 

Brinegar Cabin is located at milepost 238.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park in the parking and follow the paved walkway to the cabin.

Brinegar Cabin Open House (Doughton Park - Milepost 238.5)

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see what......More

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see whats growing! Rangers and volunteers are on site to share stories of the Brinegar Family. 

Brinegar Cabin is located at milepost 238.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park in the parking and follow the paved walkway to the cabin.

Johnson Farm Guided Exploration (Peaks of Otter - Milepost 86)

Step back in time to the 1920s and 1930s when you visit the Johnson Farm at milepost 86 in the Peaks of Otter area. You can join an optional tour of farmhouse with park staff upon your arrival to the farm. The farm grounds are open for self-guiding no matter when you vi......More

Step back in time to the 1920s and 1930s when you visit the Johnson Farm at milepost 86 in the Peaks of Otter area. You can join an optional tour of farmhouse with park staff upon your arrival to the farm. The farm grounds are open for self-guiding no matter when you visit.The Johnson Farm represents three generations starting in 1852. The farmhouse was refurbished in the 1970s to its appearance in the 20s and 30s. The farm represents the community in Peaks of Otter before the Blue Ridge Parkway Road.The farm is only accessible by hiking a little over 1 mile from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center at milepost 85.6. Comfortable hiking shoes, water and sunscreen is strongly recommended. The Johnson Farm buildings are subject to close due to weather.

Park at the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center (85919 Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, VA 24523) at milepost 86. Take the loop trail, approximately two miles long, which follows a section of the Harkening Hill loop trail. Beginning at the north end of the vis

Go Fish Fridays! (Peaks of Otter - Milepost 86)

Join a ranger on Fridays to learn about fishing and how to be a responsible angler. Learn knot tying, basic fish identification, and how to follow rules and regulations of fishing. You can then practice everything you learned and go fish!Fishing supplies will be provide......More

Join a ranger on Fridays to learn about fishing and how to be a responsible angler. Learn knot tying, basic fish identification, and how to follow rules and regulations of fishing. You can then practice everything you learned and go fish!Fishing supplies will be provided. You must have a valid NC or VA fishing license if you are 16 years old or older. Bring water, bug spray, and be prepared to spend some time in the outdoors.Programs subject to cancelation due to weather and other unforsee circumstances. 

Program will be along Abbott Lake behind the Peaks of Otter Lodge (85554 Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, VA 24523).

Midday Mountain Music (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each d......More

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each day when the Music Center is open. Join us for a few minutes or for the whole afternoon! No tickets are needed. 

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located on Music Center Road, Galax, VA 24333 or milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Basketweaving Demonstrations & Ramsey Cabin Open House (Humpback Rocks Visitor Center - Milepost 6)

See traditional basket weaving in action! White oak splits turn from simple reeds into sturdy baskets that will last for years. Learn how these baskets once filled the same everyday roles as today’s paper, plastic, and cloth bags.The historic cabin will also be open for......More

See traditional basket weaving in action! White oak splits turn from simple reeds into sturdy baskets that will last for years. Learn how these baskets once filled the same everyday roles as today’s paper, plastic, and cloth bags.The historic cabin will also be open for exploration! Step inside and learn about life on the farm in the 1890s.

Humpback Rocks Mountain Farm located at milepost 5.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Follow the sidewalk from the Visitor Center down to the farm.

Brinegar Cabin Open House (Doughton Park - Milepost 238.5)

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see what......More

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see whats growing! Rangers and volunteers are on site to share stories of the Brinegar Family. 

Brinegar Cabin is located at milepost 238.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park in the parking and follow the paved walkway to the cabin.

Guided Tour of Flat Top Manor (Moses H Cone Memorial Park - Parkway milepost 294)

The Gilded Age “Denim King”, Moses H. Cone, turned his hand from textile manufacturing to becoming a “gentleman farmer” in the late 1890s. And what better way to emphasize “gentleman” than to build a 23-room mansion in the Blue Ridge mountains? Join a ranger to ascend t......More

The Gilded Age “Denim King”, Moses H. Cone, turned his hand from textile manufacturing to becoming a “gentleman farmer” in the late 1890s. And what better way to emphasize “gentleman” than to build a 23-room mansion in the Blue Ridge mountains? Join a ranger to ascend the grand staircase of the Cone manor house, and peek into the past while touring the living spaces of this local industrialist. Learn about the legacy of the Cone family from Moses’ beginnings as a grocery salesman to the family’s patronage of the fine arts in Baltimore. Then join the ranks of the manor staff as you descend the steep and narrow servant’s stairs to visit the butler’s pantry and kitchen. Learn about the lives of the inside servants, the outdoor estate workers, and the ordinary folk who kept the 3,600 acre country estate in impeccable working order.IMPORTANT: All participants MUST be able to climb and descend two flights of stairs, as this historic building does not have an elevator. Guided tours are limited to 18 people and advance reservations are STRONGLY recommended. Reservations can be made up to 5 days in advance by calling the Moses H. Cone Manor House. We cannot take reservations more than 5 days in advance. (828) 295-3782

The Moses H. Cone Manor House is located at Milepost 294 of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The two closest towns are Boone and Blowing Rock.

Historic Mill Open House (Mabry Mill - Milepost 176.2)

  Take a stroll back in time at the historic Mabry Mill, a beloved Blue Ridge icon. Built by Ed Mabry with help from the local community in the early 1900s, this humble mill once bustled with the sounds of a working mountain hub. A sawmill, gristmill, and woodworking sh......More

  Take a stroll back in time at the historic Mabry Mill, a beloved Blue Ridge icon. Built by Ed Mabry with help from the local community in the early 1900s, this humble mill once bustled with the sounds of a working mountain hub. A sawmill, gristmill, and woodworking shop powered daily life here, serving neighbors scattered across the rugged landscape.Today, the tradition of craftsmanship and community continues. Park employees will have the mill doors open for you, ready to welcome visitors inside to explore the machinery, hear the stories, and experience the lives shaped by this remarkable place.  

Blue Ridge Parkway - Mabry Mill - Milepost 176.2

Fire, Iron, and Tradition: Mabry Mill Blacksmith Demonstration (Mabry Mill Blacksmith Shop - Milepost 176.2)

 Experience the heat, rhythm, and skill of traditional Appalachian blacksmithing. Watch as Park staff shape iron into tools and art while sharing the stories of the people who relied on this essential craft. Discover how blacksmiths supported daily life in mountain comm......More

 Experience the heat, rhythm, and skill of traditional Appalachian blacksmithing. Watch as Park staff shape iron into tools and art while sharing the stories of the people who relied on this essential craft. Discover how blacksmiths supported daily life in mountain communities and see history come alive at the forge. The Mabry Mill Blacksmith will be operating from 10:30am to 2:00pm.

Blue Ridge Parkway - Mabry Mill Blacksmith Shop - Milepost 176.2

Midday Mountain Music (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each d......More

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each day when the Music Center is open. Join us for a few minutes or for the whole afternoon! No tickets are needed. 

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located on Music Center Road, Galax, VA 24333 or milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Polly Wood's Ordinary Open House (Peaks of Otter - Milepost 86)

Step into history with a ranger as we unveil the fascinating story of the Wood Family, their Ordinary, and tourism at Peaks of Otter! Stop in and chat with the ranger, learn about the family, and play with some old-timey toys and games.A ranger will be at Polly Wood's O......More

Step into history with a ranger as we unveil the fascinating story of the Wood Family, their Ordinary, and tourism at Peaks of Otter! Stop in and chat with the ranger, learn about the family, and play with some old-timey toys and games.A ranger will be at Polly Wood's Ordinary from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. All NPS Blue Ridge Parkway programs are free and open to anyone. All ages welcome.

Polly Wood's Ordinary can be accessed from the Peaks of Otter Picnic Area or the Abbott Lake Trail located behind the Peaks of Otter Lodge.

Guided Tour of Flat Top Manor (Moses H Cone Memorial Park - Parkway milepost 294)

The Gilded Age “Denim King”, Moses H. Cone, turned his hand from textile manufacturing to becoming a “gentleman farmer” in the late 1890s. And what better way to emphasize “gentleman” than to build a 23-room mansion in the Blue Ridge mountains? Join a ranger to ascend t......More

The Gilded Age “Denim King”, Moses H. Cone, turned his hand from textile manufacturing to becoming a “gentleman farmer” in the late 1890s. And what better way to emphasize “gentleman” than to build a 23-room mansion in the Blue Ridge mountains? Join a ranger to ascend the grand staircase of the Cone manor house, and peek into the past while touring the living spaces of this local industrialist. Learn about the legacy of the Cone family from Moses’ beginnings as a grocery salesman to the family’s patronage of the fine arts in Baltimore. Then join the ranks of the manor staff as you descend the steep and narrow servant’s stairs to visit the butler’s pantry and kitchen. Learn about the lives of the inside servants, the outdoor estate workers, and the ordinary folk who kept the 3,600 acre country estate in impeccable working order.IMPORTANT: All participants MUST be able to climb and descend two flights of stairs, as this historic building does not have an elevator. Guided tours are limited to 18 people and advance reservations are STRONGLY recommended. 

The Moses H. Cone Manor House is located at Milepost 294 of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The two closest towns are Boone and Blowing Rock.

From China to Appalachia - Deep Roots, Many Voices: Summer Outdoor Concert Series (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

From China to AppalachiaFrom China to Appalachia was borne of a friendship and mutual love of musical exploration speaking to the power of music to connect cultures. American Roots artists Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer join with Chinese classical hammered dulcimer player Ch......More

From China to AppalachiaFrom China to Appalachia was borne of a friendship and mutual love of musical exploration speaking to the power of music to connect cultures. American Roots artists Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer join with Chinese classical hammered dulcimer player Chao Tian in a show that combines music from China to Appalachia and beyond. Instrumentation includes yangqin (Chinese hammered dulcimer) gourd banjo five-string banjo ukulele guitars dumbek cello-banjo and mandolin.The group’s repertoire includes traditional Chinese and Appalachian music as well as contemporary and traditional music from around the world. Unusual combinations explore new arrangements to old music such as “Dark Eyes.” Ukulele yangqin and guitar create a new pallet for this Russian folk song turned jazz manouche tune. Cathy and Marcy join Chao in singing a Chinese lullaby “Nani Wan” and Chao easily adds her love of American Old-Time music to fiddle tunes and songs.More information: From China to AppalachiaADDITIONAL CONCERT DETAILS•  Ticket purchases are nonrefundable•  Concerts take place rain or shine•  Admission gates open at 5:45 p.m. concert begins at 7 p.m.•  This concert takes place in our uncovered outdoor amphitheater. Guests should bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating in the grass.•  Here in the mountains the weather forecast can change quickly. We recommend bringing layers and a rain jacket or umbrella in the event of a passing rain shower.•  Guests are welcome to bring a picnic or purchase from our on-site food vendor. No alcohol is allowed per National Park/Blue Ridge Parkway policies.•  Food vendor selection is not guaranteed – we recommended bringing water and snacks in case food vendor lines are long or they run out of food•  Alcohol drones pop-up tents and tables are not allowed in the amphitheater•  Dogs are permitted at most shows with the following rules: dogs must always be on leash guests with dogs are only permitted to sit on the hillside above the rock walls and not in the main seating area below the rock walls guests must clean up after their dogs if a dog’s behavior is interfering with other patrons’ enjoyment of the show the guest and dog may be asked to leave the amphitheater and no refund will be given. The Bluffs Restaurant will offer food and beverages for purchase during the concert. Visitors may bring their own food and beverages into the amphitheater. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted. Assistive listening devices are available for use during concerts. Guests wishing to borrow a free device should email [email protected] in advance of their visit.For more information view Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation concert FAQs

Blue Ridge Music Center at Milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway Music Center Rd, Galax, VA 24333

Brinegar Cabin Open House (Doughton Park - Milepost 238.5)

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see what......More

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see whats growing! Rangers and volunteers are on site to share stories of the Brinegar Family. 

Brinegar Cabin is located at milepost 238.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park in the parking and follow the paved walkway to the cabin.

Counting Butterflies as They Flutter by (Doughton Park - Milepost 238.5)

 Become a citizen scientist and help spot, count, and record butterflies for the Carolina Butterfly Monitoring Program. You are guaranteed to learn to recognize several butterfly species by the end of this program. Meet by the Brinegar Cabin Garden located at Milepost 2......More

 Become a citizen scientist and help spot, count, and record butterflies for the Carolina Butterfly Monitoring Program. You are guaranteed to learn to recognize several butterfly species by the end of this program. Meet by the Brinegar Cabin Garden located at Milepost 238.5 at 10 AM for a slow 1.4-mile stroll to the A Loop of Doughton Park Campground. Bring water, a snack, and binoculars if you have them.90 minutes plus return walk back to the Brinegar Cabin parking area. 

Doughton Park located at milepost 238.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park in the parking lot next to Brinegar Cabin and follow the paved path to the garden.

Historic Mill Open House (Mabry Mill - Milepost 176.2)

  Take a stroll back in time at the historic Mabry Mill, a beloved Blue Ridge icon. Built by Ed Mabry with help from the local community in the early 1900s, this humble mill once bustled with the sounds of a working mountain hub. A sawmill, gristmill, and woodworking sh......More

  Take a stroll back in time at the historic Mabry Mill, a beloved Blue Ridge icon. Built by Ed Mabry with help from the local community in the early 1900s, this humble mill once bustled with the sounds of a working mountain hub. A sawmill, gristmill, and woodworking shop powered daily life here, serving neighbors scattered across the rugged landscape.Today, the tradition of craftsmanship and community continues. Park employees will have the mill doors open for you, ready to welcome visitors inside to explore the machinery, hear the stories, and experience the lives shaped by this remarkable place.  

Blue Ridge Parkway - Mabry Mill - Milepost 176.2

Fire, Iron, and Tradition: Mabry Mill Blacksmith Demonstration (Mabry Mill Blacksmith Shop - Milepost 176.2)

 Experience the heat, rhythm, and skill of traditional Appalachian blacksmithing. Watch as Park staff shape iron into tools and art while sharing the stories of the people who relied on this essential craft. Discover how blacksmiths supported daily life in mountain comm......More

 Experience the heat, rhythm, and skill of traditional Appalachian blacksmithing. Watch as Park staff shape iron into tools and art while sharing the stories of the people who relied on this essential craft. Discover how blacksmiths supported daily life in mountain communities and see history come alive at the forge. The Mabry Mill Blacksmith will be operating from 10:30am to 2:00pm.

Blue Ridge Parkway - Mabry Mill Blacksmith Shop - Milepost 176.2

Midday Mountain Music (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each d......More

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each day when the Music Center is open. Join us for a few minutes or for the whole afternoon! No tickets are needed. 

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located on Music Center Road, Galax, VA 24333 or milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Guided Tour of Flat Top Manor (Moses H Cone Memorial Park - Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 294)

The Gilded Age “Denim King”, Moses H. Cone, turned his hand from textile manufacturing to becoming a “gentleman farmer” in the late 1890s. And what better way to emphasize “gentleman” than to build a 23-room mansion in the Blue Ridge mountains? Join a ranger to ascend t......More

The Gilded Age “Denim King”, Moses H. Cone, turned his hand from textile manufacturing to becoming a “gentleman farmer” in the late 1890s. And what better way to emphasize “gentleman” than to build a 23-room mansion in the Blue Ridge mountains? Join a ranger to ascend the grand staircase of the Cone manor house, and peek into the past while touring the living spaces of this local industrialist. Learn about the legacy of the Cone family from Moses’ beginnings as a grocery salesman to the family’s patronage of the fine arts in Baltimore. Then join the ranks of the manor staff as you descend the steep and narrow servant’s stairs to visit the butler’s pantry and kitchen. Learn about the lives of the inside servants, the outdoor estate workers, and the ordinary folk who kept the 3,600 acre country estate in impeccable working order.IMPORTANT: All participants MUST be able to climb and descend two flights of stairs, as this historic building does not have an elevator. Guided tours are limited to 18 people.Reservations can be made up to 5 days in advance by calling the Moses H. Cone Manor House. We cannot take reservations more than 5 days in advance. (828) 295-3782

The Moses H. Cone Manor House is located at Milepost 294 of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The two closest towns are Boone and Blowing Rock.

Milepost Music (Mabry Mill - Milepost 176)

Free traditional music concerts featuring local & regional mountain musicians. Bring your chairs or a blanket to spread out and enjoy the wodnerful traditional mountain music. The concerts are cancelled if there is thunder and lightning.

266 Mabry Mill Road SEMeadows of Dan, VA 24120

Milepost Music (Doughton Park - Milepost 238)

Free traditional music concerts featuring local & regional mountain musicians. Bring your chairs or a blanket to spread out and enjoy the wodnerful traditional mountain music. The concerts are cancelled if there is thunder and lightning.

49800 Blue Ridge ParkwayLaurel Springs, NC 28644

Milepost Music (Mabry Mill - Milepost 176)

Free traditional music concerts featuring local & regional mountain musicians. Bring your chairs or a blanket to spread out and enjoy the wodnerful traditional mountain music. The concerts are cancelled if there is thunder and lightning.

266 Mabry Mill Road SEMeadows of Dan, VA 24120

Milepost Music (Peaks of Otter - Milepost 85.6)

Free traditional music concerts featuring local & regional mountain musicians. Bring your chairs or a blanket to spread out and enjoy the wodnerful traditional mountain music. The concerts are cancelled if there is thunder and lightning.

85554 Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, VA 24523Concert takes place behind the lodge buildings. You can get to the concert area by walking the Abbott Lake Trail

Midday Mountain Music (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each d......More

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each day when the Music Center is open. Join us for a few minutes or for the whole afternoon! No tickets are needed. 

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located on Music Center Road, Galax, VA 24333 or milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Brinegar Cabin Open House (Doughton Park - Milepost 238.5)

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see what......More

 Step back into the late 1800s at one of Doughton Park’s most cherished historic sites. Completed in 1889, the Brinegar family home offers visitors a window into mountain life shaped by resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Also, walk through the garden and see whats growing! Rangers and volunteers are on site to share stories of the Brinegar Family. 

Brinegar Cabin is located at milepost 238.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park in the parking and follow the paved walkway to the cabin.

Midday Mountain Music (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each d......More

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each day when the Music Center is open. Join us for a few minutes or for the whole afternoon! No tickets are needed. 

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located on Music Center Road, Galax, VA 24333 or milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Midday Mountain Music (Blue Ridge Music Center - Milepost 213)

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each d......More

Midday Mountain Music is a free, informal music presentation featuring local and regional musicians held in the Blue Ridge Music Center's covered breezeway, milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax, Virginia. Midday Mountain Music takes place from 12-3pm each day when the Music Center is open. Join us for a few minutes or for the whole afternoon! No tickets are needed. 

The Blue Ridge Music Center is located on Music Center Road, Galax, VA 24333 or milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway