Southern Virginia Region

Once the heart of Virginia's rich tobacco growing region, the rhythms of life rose and fell here with tobacco fortunes.

As you travel through, you'll pass through eight counties dotted with lively American Main Street communities, rich in Revolutionary, Civil War and Civil Rights heritage. Stunning scenic byways and classic country roads will lead you through beautiful State Parks and attractions. When you’re are ready for a little speed, Southern Virginia's raceways and motor sports will keep your heart racing - and returning - for the charm, beauty and truly genuine experience Southern Virginia offers.

There's no wonder southern Virginia is called Virginia's Racing Region. Home to six speedways and raceways, there's plenty of NASCAR, motor sport, track racing and racing heritage. Come for a day, a weekend, a week or a season!

Southern Virginia's place in Revolutionary, Civil War, and Civil Rights history and heritage are prominent. Many counties and communities house the sites and museums of pivotal Presidents, people and places.

The outdoors and waterways of Southern Virginia are vast - hiking, biking, boating, hunting and fishing and more. With miles of shoreline to enjoy and miles of scenic byways and lush countryside to meander through, opportunities for outdoor recreation and water sports abound.

The “Jewel in the Crown” is Lake Gaston. Lake Gaston is on the Virginia/North Carolina border and is bordered by five counties: Mecklenburg and Brunswick in Virginia and Warren, Halifax and Northampton in North Carolina. In addition, Greensville County (in Virginia) and Vance County (in North Carolina) are nearby.

Whether you want to picnic or water ski, Lake Gaston has it for you. Check out the horseback riding opportunities or bowl a few lanes, or how about a couple rounds of golf or fishing from a boat or the shore.

The once bustling, bright leaf tobacco markets transformed these communities, many National Historic Districts, into quaint, fascinating American Main Streets. Stroll historic communities and enjoy shopping, antiques, and both home-style and eclectic dining.