Buena Vista Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the Virginia region, Buena Vista is a charming city that offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and historical significance. Surrounded by the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, this hidden gem is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

For nature lovers, Buena Vista boasts an abundance of scenic hiking trails that showcase the area's stunning landscapes. The Maury River, which runs through the city, provides the perfect setting for a peaceful day of fishing or kayaking. With its crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings, it's easy to see why the Maury River is a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike.

History comes alive in Buena Vista, where the city's rich heritage is preserved in its well-preserved historic buildings and landmarks. The Buena Vista Historic District is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, with its collection of beautifully restored 19th-century homes and buildings. Take a leisurely stroll along Magnolia Avenue, lined with charming shops and eateries, and immerse yourself in the city's fascinating past.

No visit to Buena Vista would be complete without exploring the nearby Natural Bridge, one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the United States. This awe-inspiring limestone bridge stands 215 feet tall and spans 90 feet across Cedar Creek. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the bridge's geological formation and its significance in American history.

For those seeking a taste of adventure, Buena Vista offers a range of outdoor activities that will get your adrenaline pumping. The nearby Blue Ridge Parkway provides breathtaking scenic drives, while the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests offer miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Whether you're an experienced thrill-seeker or a novice adventurer, Buena Vista has something for everyone.

In addition to its natural beauty and historical attractions, Buena Vista also hosts a variety of annual events and festivals that showcase the city's vibrant culture. From the Buena Vista Labor Day Parade to the Rockbridge Regional Fair and Expo, there's always something exciting happening in this vibrant city.

Alternative names: Population: 6.6 thous.Area: 6.79 mi²Elevation: 833 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 37°44'6"N, 79°21'17"W

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VirginiaUnited States

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Buena Vista Top Attractions

Buena Vista Attractions - What to See and Explore

Buena Vista offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Glen Maury, Southern Seminary Main Building, Old Courthouse, W.N. Seay House. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Park
Glen Maury
Glen Maury, also known as the Paxton Place and Elisha Paxton's house, is a historic home located in Rockbridge County, Virginia, near the independent city of Buena Vista. It was built between 1829 and 1832, and is a 2 1/2-story, brick dwelling.
37°44'24"N • 79°21'2"W
Southern Seminary Main Building
Southern Seminary Main Building, originally known as the Hotel Buena Vista and now Main Hall of Southern Virginia University, is a historic hotel building located at Buena Vista, Virginia.
37°44'4"N • 79°21'15"W
Old Courthouse
The Old Courthouse, also known as the Buena Vista Land Company building, is a historic courthouse building located at Buena Vista, Virginia. It was built in 1890, and is a 2 1/2-story, brick building with a mansard roof in the Second Empire style.

37°44'36"N • 79°21'12"W
W.N. Seay House
W.N. Seay House is a historic home located at Buena Vista, Virginia. It was built in 1889, and is a two-story, weatherboarded balloon-frame Late Victorian style dwelling.
Museum
Buena Vista Colored School
Buena Vista Colored School is a historic school building for African American children located at Buena Vista, Virginia. It was built in 1914, and expanded in 1926. It is a one-story, brick structure with a hipped, sheet metal roof. Also on the property is a contributing brick outbuilding once used to store wood and coal.
Universities and schools
Southern Virginia University
Southern Virginia University is a private liberal arts college in Buena Vista, Virginia. The school, though not officially affiliated with a particular faith, embraces the values of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Day trips

Buena Vista – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Buena Vista, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Berglund Center (Roanoke), Crabtree Falls (Mount Pleasant National Scenic Area), Taubman Museum of Art (Roanoke).

45 milesSW
Sport venue, Civic center, Sport
Berglund Center, Roanoke
The Berglund Center, formerly known as the Roanoke Civic Center, is a beacon of entertainment and community events in Roanoke, Virginia. This versatile arena, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a plethora of events ranging from concerts...
17 milesNE
Natural attraction, Waterfall, Park
Crabtree Falls, Mount Pleasant National Scenic Area
Crabtree Falls is one of the tallest sets of waterfalls in the United States east of the Mississippi River. It is located in the George Washington National Forest in Nelson County, Virginia, off of Virginia State Route 56.
45 milesSW
Museum, Art museum, Postmodern architecture
Taubman Museum of Art, Roanoke
The Taubman Museum of Art, formerly the Art Museum of Western Virginia, is an art museum in downtown Roanoke, Virginia, United States. It was designed by architect Randall Stout.
46 milesNE
Natural attraction, Park, Cave
Grand Caverns, Grottoes
Grand Caverns, formerly known as Weyer's Cave, is located in the central Shenandoah Valley in the town of Grottoes, Virginia, United States. A limestone cavern, it claims the distinction of being America's oldest show cave, in operation since 1806.
30 milesS
Monuments and statues, Historical place, Memorial
National D-Day Memorial, Bedford
The National D-Day Memorial is a war memorial located in Bedford, Virginia. It serves as the national memorial for American D-Day veterans.