50 Free or Low-Cost Things To Do in MHC

1. Virginia Museum of Natural History - This Smithsonian-affiliated museum features award-winning exhibits, ground-breaking scientific research and collections, and innovative educational programs for all ages. 21 Starling Ave, Martinsville (276) 634-4141

2. Martinsville Speedway - NASCAR’s oldest and shortest track is home to five NASCAR sanctioned races per year. Stop by on weekdays to walk the Half Mile of Mayhem! 340 Speedway Rd., Ridgeway (276) 956-7200

3. Philpott Lake & Marina - Philpot Lake is a 3,000 acre reservoir which offers boating, swimming, camping, picnicking, biking, hunting, fishing and wildlife observation. There is also a marina which offers slips, fuel and a convenience store. Lake: 1058 Philpott Dam Rd., Bassett (276) 629-2703 Marina: 300 Boat Dock Rd., Bassett (276) 340-0485

4. Martinsville Mustangs - Catch a few Martinsville Mustangs games at Hooker Field! The collegiate baseball team will keep you entertained throughout the summer. Home games feature theme nights, fun on-field activities, and multiple fi rework shows. Check the VisitMartinsville.com calendar for game listings. 450 Commonwealth Blvd. E., Martinsville (276) 403-5250

5. Piedmont Arts - Located in the heart of Martinsville’s Arts & Cultural District, Piedmont Arts is an award-winning art museum offering thought-provoking exhibitions, performing arts, and a full schedule of art classes for all ages. 215 Starling Ave., Martinsville (276) 632-3221

6. Smith River Sports Complex - Not just for sporting events, the Smith River Sports Complex boasts an EVOS playground, walking trails, a Smith River access point, a driving range and more! 1000 Irisburg Rd., Axton (276) 638-5200

7. Bassett Historical Center - For those conducting family history or historical research, the Bassett Historical Center is a gem. Over 25,429 books/items are available to the public, as are family and local history fi les. 3964 Fairystone Hwy., Bassett (276) 629-9191

8. Public Art - Explore the many area murals and public works of art located throughout MHC, including a public art garden. A variety of topics and mediums are featured including murals, sculptures and more. Discover the full list at VisitMartinsville.com (276) 632-8006

9. MHC Heritage Center & Museum - This museum, located in the historic Henry County Courthouse, offers exhibits on local and regional history which change regularly so there is always something new for everyone to enjoy. 1 East Main St., Martinsville (276) 403-5361

10. Uptown Pinball - This arcade is home to 4 of the top 10 ranked pinball machines in the world (as ranked by pinside.com’s top 100)! Day passes available. 35 E. Church St., Martinsville (276) 224-7139

11. Hamlet Vineyards - Family owned and operated, Butch & Virginia Hamlet began Hamlet Vineyards in 2010. The property features 3,500 grapevines among rolling hills and a Tasting Terrace. Stop by for tastings on Sundays from 1-5 PM. 405 Riverside Dr., Bassett (276) 629-2121

12. Mountain Valley Brewing - This brewery uses fresh hops from their on-site farm and locally sourced ingredients like honey, fruit, grain and barley to make their fresh brews. Stop by to enjoy their seasonal varieties or fill up a growler to take with you. 4220 Mountain Valley Rd., Axton (276) 833-2171

13. Smith River Fest - Run, paddle, cast and bike your way to fun at Smith River Fest! Held annually at the Smith River Sports Complex in Henry County, Virginia, this event is truly a celebration of all things associated with the Smith River and our great outdoors. Ride the river, learn to fly-fish, browse vendors, challenge yourself in the Helgramite Hustle 5K Mud Run, and more! Find more information at SmithRiverFest.com (276) 632-8006

14. Rooster Walk - This 4-day festival celebrates music, art and the great outdoors at the idyllic Pop’s Farm venue, just outside of Martinsville, VA. With roughly 50 bands performing on 5 different stages, an eclectic roster of great music guides the Rooster Walk experience. Pop’s Farm 675 Hobson Rd., Axton (276) 455-1110

15. Cocoa Trails Chocolates - This store is a chocolate lover’s paradise that manufactures and sells gourmet chocolates and fudges in a friendly environment. It even has a viewing window into the production area for onlookers to watch as their favorite treats come to life. 3368 Virginia Ave., Collinsville (276) 647-1980

16. Dippers Ice Cream - This locally owned establishment specializes in homemade ice cream made daily with fresh sweetened cream and the fi nest ingredients. Many varieties include special indulgences like hand stirred fudge, homemade pies, cakes, cookies and more! There’s something for everyone’s sweet tooth! 4970 Greensboro Rd., Ridgeway (276) 956-6600

17. Spencer-Penn Centre - This historic facility offers monthly music nights, a children’s library, camps & classes and rental spaces for special events. You can also see the Stanley Bowles 1927 classroom and school memorabilia on display throughout the building. Don’t miss the annual Pig Cookin’ every April featuring vendors, kids’ activities, music, a charity ride, and of course, delicious BBQ! 475 Spencer Penn Rd., Spencer (276) 957-5757

18. Blue Ridge Regional Library System - Our local libraries offer so much more than books! Did you know that you can borrow a fishing pole and gear for FREE at the libraries? This is just one of many little known surprises to be discovered at Blue Ridge Regional Libraries. 310 E. Church St., Martinsville (276) 403-5430

19. Smith River Trail System - Experience the Smith River Trail System. The trail system is a network of more than 20 miles of trail offering opportunities for running, hiking and bicycling. Both paved and natural surfaced trails are offered. VisitMartinsville.com (276) 632-8006

20. Mountain Laurel Trails - Situated on 100 acres, this biking complex provides 10 miles of award-winning trails offering varying levels of difficulty for beginners as well as seasoned bikers. 361 Mountain Laurel Trl., Ridgeway (276) 340-9144

21. Simply Suzanne’s & the Blue Ridge Airport - Treat yourself and others to lunch at Simply Suzanne’s at the Blue Ridge Airport and you may be lucky enough to see a plane or helicopter land on the runway. 525 Airport Rd., Martinsville (276) 957-1142

22. Beaver Creek Reservoir - Pack up the family, bring the boat, fishing rods and a picnic lunch and you’re all set for a day on the water. Beaver Creek Canoe Rentals offer all the rental equipment you need to use on the reservoir for a very low cost. 600 Redskin Dr., Martinsville (276) 656-5179

23. Studio 107 - Guests of this shared artisan space can watch local artists at work and browse the studio shop for original creations and gifts. Many artists also offer classes for adults and children. 105 E. Church St., Martinsville (276) 638-2107

24. Lake Sugar Tree Motorsports Park - This stadium-style supercross track, the first motorcross facility east of the Mississippi, hosts a number of events throughout the year that appeal to riders and fans of all ages. 400 Movie Movers East, Axton (276) 650-1158

25. The Sustainable Homestead Institute - This non-profit organization is committed to sustainable development, ecological land design, and nature reliance education. Since their inception, the facility has offered a variety of classes to give students firsthand knowledge of what it takes to create self-enriching abundant agricultural systems through environmental connection and ancestral skill immersion. 190 Eastridge Rd., Ridgeway (276) 226-9104

26. FAHI - The Fayette Area Historical Initiative African American Museum and Cultural Center was created to collect, preserve and interpret African American experiences and community life in Martinsville-Henry County. Exhibits highlight the history and culture of more than 100 years of African American history on Fayette Street. 211 West Fayette St., Martinsville (276) 732-3496

27. Infinity Acres - If you love animals, call Infinity Acres Petting Ranch and schedule a guided tour. Camps and workshops are offered throughout the year. You can go alpaca trekking, hold a sugar glider, see giant tortoises and much more. 136 Joppa Rd., Ridgeway (276) 358-2378

28. Stonehaus Farms - This unique establishment offers farm tours so that visitors can get an up close and personal look at a variety of fascinating animals including Nigerian dwarf milking goats, llamas, donkeys and more. They also offer classes in skills such as cheese making and sell products made on site. By appointment. 59 Forsythia Dr., Martinsville (276) 957-4656

29. Disc Golf - Wilson Park offers an 18 Hole 60 Par Disc Golf Course for your enjoyment. Visit Martinsville Parks & Recreation online for course review and downloadable scorecard. Discs may be rented from Martinsville City Parks & Recreation. 502 E. Church St. Ext., Martinsville (276) 403-5000

30. Smith River Artisan Trail - This association is comprised of artisan studios, craft related venues, agri-artisan farms, and other venues supporting the arts and locally grown or locally made products. Get a trail guide at the MHC Visitor Center and enjoy the many offerings along the trail. Artisantrailnetwork.org (276) 632-8006

31. Sportlanes - Sportlanes is a retro bowling center from 1962 offering friendly fun for everyone. Spend an afternoon enjoying a few games of bowling on the 18 traditional wood lanes, featuring wood approaches. Love bowling? Join one of the leagues! Sportlanes is also a fun option for your next birthday party. 10 Koehler Rd., Martinsville (276) 632-6060

32. Live Theatre - Martinsville-Henry County is home to not one but two local theatre groups offering high quality theatrical performances throughout the year. TheatreWorks Community Players Black Box Theatre 44 Franklin St., Martinsville (276) 632-2800 PHCC Patriot Players Patrick Henry Community College (Walker Fine Arts) 645 Patriot Ave., Martinsville (276) 656-0244

33. Geocaching - Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants travel to a specific set of coordinates and then attempt to find the item that’s hidden at that location. There are more than 780 treasures to find in the area! Geocaching.com (276) 632-8006

34. Customize jewelry at The Jeweler’s Edge - The Jeweler’s Edge is a local business of Martinsville, VA with more than 30 years of experience combined in jewelry repair and sales. Specializing in stone remounts, pearl/bead restringing, and basic jewelry repairs such as ring sizing, chain repairs and stone setting. The Jeweler’s Edge is also Diamond Council of America certified in Diamonds and Gemstones. 2440 B Greensboro Rd., Martinsville (276) 790-3621

35. Run a Race (Miles in Martinsville) - Miles in Martinsville is a challenge series created to support outreach programs of the Martinsville-Henry County Family YMCA. Do you have what it takes to complete a local 5K, 9 miler, or even the Martinsville Half Marathon? MilesInMartinsville.com (276) 632-1772

36. Smith River Small Towns - The towns of Bassett, Fieldale, Stanleytown, and Koehler have deep roots in textile and furniture manufacturing along 15 miles of the Smith River. These 15 Magical Miles feature annual events, recreation, historical buildings/sites, and dining/shopping and lodging. SmithRiverSmallTowns.org (276) 632-3229

37. TGIF concerts - This annual concert series held in Uptown Martinsville occurs each year during the months of June, July, and August. These concerts are a summer night of fun with live music, food, a beer garden, and children’s activities. 65 Main St. W., Martinsville (276) 632-6427

38. Farmers’ Markets - The Martinsville Uptown Farmers’ Market (seasonal), Greater Bassett Community Market (seasonal) and Ridgeway Farm Market (year round) all offer a wide variety of produce, locally made goods and more. VisitMartinsville.com (276) 632-8006

39. Small Town Eateries - Martinsville-Henry County hosts an abundant amount of “mom and pop” spots to satisfy that comfort food craving. Local favorites include Fieldale Café, D&A Café, Fridays, Red & Mae’s, and many other grills at local country stores. VisitMartinsville.com (276) 632-8006

40. Bike Barn - The Martinsville-Henry County YMCA Bike Barn is a FREE bike loan program that gives everyone the opportunity to ride the Dick & Willie Passage in Martinsville-Henry County. Whether you’re a guest or resident of the area, if you want to experience the trails and don’t have a bicycle, stop by the Doyle Street Trail Head to borrow a bike and helmet. Open seasonally. 220 Doyle St., Martinsville (276) 632-6427

41. Cruise-Ins - The Bassett Highway 57 Cruise-In is the premier cruise-in for the area, taking place on 6 different weekends from May to October. The cruise-in features hundreds of cars of all makes and models from all over the Commonwealth as well as several neighboring states. The events are free to the public with many food truck options as well as music. It’s great fun for the whole family! BassettCruiseIn.com facebook.com/BassettCruiseIn

42. The Windmill Off Track Betting and Sports Grill - Located inside the Quality-Dutch Inn in Martinsville-Henry County, VA. Newly renovated in 2018, this venue offers 47 televisions, off track betting and a grill with full bar. The 47 televisions show a combination of live sporting events and horse races from tracks around the country. 2360 Virginia Avenue, Collinsville (276) 647-3721

43. International Cuisine - Martinsville-Henry County offers cuisines from around the world that will satisfy any palette ranging from Italian, Asian, Mexican and more. VisitMartinsville.com (276) 632-8006

44. Rives on the Road - Rives on the Road offers high-quality musical, educational and artistic programming. This volunteer-run organization, which operates under the umbrella of Rooster Walk Inc., has taken the show on the road! Patrons can continue to enjoy the performances of high-caliber entertainers the Rives Theatre was known for, just at different locations in Martinsville-Henry County. Show and performance information can be found at rivestheatre.org. 215 E. Church St., Martinsville (276) 403-0872

45. Golf - Enjoy a round of golf at one of our area’s public golf courses. With gently rolling courses nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, play a few rounds and you’ll want to come back for more. Take a swing at Beaver Hills Golf Course, Forest Park Country Club, Mini Par & Driving Range, and the Driving Range at Smith River Sports Complex. VisitMartinsville.com (276) 632-8006

46. The Little Post Office - Built in 1893 as a postal distribution center for the Star Route. At just 275 square feet, the Little Post Office is the last free standing Star Route Delivery Post Office. Today, the facility and grounds may be rented for weddings, parties and other special events through Piedmont Arts and hosts art exhibits throughout the year. 207 Starling Ave., Martinsville (276) 632-3221

47. Antique Shopping - For those who love the thrill of finding the perfect piece that’s missing from their collection, a perfect memento from their childhood or exactly what they need to complete their next project, they will LOVE antiquing and pickin’ in MHC. VisitMartinsville.com (276) 632-8006

48. Massage Therapy - Take time for yourself and enjoy a pampering visit to one of our area salons and spas. You’ll thank yourself later! Local providers include Just Breathe Yoga & Bodyworks, Reflections Day Spa, Village Spa and many more. VisitMartinsville.com (276) 632-8006

49. Camping - Park your RV or pitch a tent and enjoy the serenity of nature in Martinsville-Henry County at one of our many local campgrounds including Fairy Stone State Park, Indian Heritage RV Park, Philpott Lake Campgrounds (Five separate campgrounds, including one on an island!), and Philpott Marina Group Campground. VisitMartinsville.com (276) 632-8006

50. Fairy Stones - Hunt for fairy stones, a naturally occurring crystal called staurolite that is formed in the shape of a cross. Learn about the legend of these stones and find some to take home. Multiple locations available. (276) 632-8006