Ashlynn & Hans
Things To Do
Douthat State Park
We love hiking here! There are easy and challenging trails through out the park. Some trails wrap around a lake while others weave through streams up to water falls. The lake has a beach with canoe and kayak rentals available. Parking for hiking is $7 per car. Our favorite trail is Stoney Run. It gives a little challenge and winds across a stream with a waterfall at the end. The waterfall is currently hidden behind fallen trees, but at the base is a pretty pool shaded by large rhododendron.
C&O Railway Heritage Center
Humpback Bridge
Humpback Bridge is the only covered, humpback bridge remaining in the United States. It's also a cherished landmark, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, where residents and visitors alike gather for picnics, photos or simply to admire her beauty and craftsmanship. The bridge was constructed in 1857, and the design of the bridge, to be covered and arched, was to increase its longevity and keep the midpoint above flood waters. This nearly 110 foot structure was built with a broad axe and put together with hand hewed locust pins. The bridge was used for vehicular traffic on Route 60 (Midland Trail) until 1929. In 1953, The Covington Business and Professional Woman's Club, the Virginia Department of Transportation, and the area residents restored the bridge. Three eras of transportation history can be seen at this site: the old road crossing Humpback Bridge, the new state highway bridge on Route 60 (Midland Trail) and the CSX railroad bridge.
Nowhere Brewing
Our favorite bar, just 5 minutes from our house. The owner Eric and his family are very kind easy going people. We love coming to chat with them and other locals or to just play a game or Farkle and have a drink. For those who don't like beer they offer a Rattler. Its half cream ale and half Fresca soda. Erica has recently made a blackberry malt and plans on making more variations. Nowhere does not have a kitchen, so they can not serve food. However you are more than welcome to bring your own food or have some delivered to the bar.
Jack Mason's Tavern and Brewery
One of our favorite places to eat! There food is always good and every day they have a different special. They also brew their own beer. Love the fired pickle spears.
Cucci's Pizzeria
Excellent pizza! Just as good as pizza joints in the area we grew up in New York. Cucci's has been in Covington for a long time and is always busy, but they still always have a table free. Hans highly recommends pineapple, bacon and jalapeno toppings for pizza. They have a salad bar, for any meal that comes with a side salad. Surprisingly they somehow get Grolsch beer. Apparently the owner loved it.
San-Juan
The food is good and filling. Service is very fast. Their mixed drinks are the best in town.
The Rail Bar & Grille
The Rail has standard bar food. Excellent burgers, chicken wings and tenders. And fried pickle chips! They have a rotational beer selection as well as staple beers (Bud, Coors, and Michelob Ultra) that are well priced.
Alleghany Highlands Arts and Crafts Center
Every time we come in there is new art to look at. If you are in Clifton Forge this is a great stop even if its just to kill some time. Everything is made by local artists and is for sale. Prices vary widely. We have a beautiful cutting board from here.
Clifton Forge School of the Arts
They offer all sorts of art classes. You can learn to paint or even to blow glass. There is a beautiful garden in back, which they sometimes hold classes in, but it might be open to the public.
Historic Masonic Theatre and Masonic Amphitheatre
This place is cool to see even for just a tour. It has been restored to it's original glory to hosts performances and events.
Penny's Diner
One of the few places to get breakfast that isn't Hardee's. Best fries in the local area. They serve food 24/7. Penny's is also the check-in desk for the Travelodge by Wyndham Low Moor hotel.
Family Tree T's Cafe
The building was originally a mercantile! Homemade food in a light relaxing atmosphere that still holds the character of it's history. Service is friendly and prompt. Food is delicious.
Roaring Run Loop Trail
Lexington
Lexington is 45 minutes east of Covington. It has too many restaurants and attractions to list here making it perfect for fun day or weekend trips. Lexington is home to an outpost for Devils Backbone brewing company.
Roanoke
Approximately an hour and 15 minutes south of Covington, Roanoke has too many restaurants and attractions to list including museums, a zoo, hiking trails and more. When we travel to Roanoke we like to make it a day trip, go shopping and eat out at one of the many restaurants or visit a friend.