Winter Fun

Just because winter is here doesn’t mean that the fun is slowing down in Martinsville-Henry County! Beat your winter woes while (re)discovering some of the hidden gems of our community. From exploring award-winning museums and experiencing live theatre to participating in themed footraces and sipping local concoctions at our winery and breweries, you can find a variety of reasons to return to MHC all season long.

The colder weather of the winter months offers a wonderful opportunity to discover one (or all seven) of Martinsville-Henry County’s museums. You can uncover history and discover a new passion at the Virginia Museum of Natural History, Piedmont Arts, the MHC Heritage Center & Museum, FAHI African American Museum & Cultural Center, the Bassett Historical Center, the exhibits and memorabilia in the Stanley Bowles Classroom at the  Spencer-Penn Centre, and at the Philpott Lake Heritage Exhibit. Dive into the history of our natural world at the Smithsonian-affiliated Virginia Museum of Natural History (VMNH). VMNH offers award-winning exhibits, ground-breaking scientific research and collections and transformational educational programs for all ages! You could also immerse yourself in the fantastic world of fine art at Piedmont Arts. Affiliated with the Virginia Museum of Fine Art, this exhibit space is an award-winning art museum that curates thought-provoking exhibitions by international, national and regional artists. They also bring a full schedule of arts events to take part in such as gallery receptions, painting classes for all ages, concerts and performances. These are just a couple of examples of the fabulous museums available to explore throughout Martinsville-Henry County.   

Uptown Pinball, the area’s only arcade, is a family-friendly hotspot that is ideal to visit during the upcoming cold season. Home to 5 of the 10 top ranked pinball machines in the world (as ranked by pinside.com's top 100) and other favorites such as Skee Ball and Air Hockey, the arcade offers limitless fun. An all-day pass allows you to play however much you want, when you want. There are over 200 games to play and a 9-hole, glow-in-the-dark mini golf course. Uptown Pinball isn’t just for kids - adults love the games too!

You can also escape the hum drum winter blues by delving into captivating stories during live theatre performances. Martinsville-Henry County is home to two theatre companies presenting the talents of local and regional citizens: Theatre Works Community Players and the Patrick & Henry Community College Patriot Players. Fulfill your desire for music, drama and suspense this winter with scheduled performances that include Driving Miss Daisy (February 23 - 25 and March 2 – 5) by TWCP. 

Wine and craft beer connoisseurs should make plans to visit Hamlet Vineyards for a delicious wine tasting and lunch on Sundays or stop by Mountain Valley Brewing or Scuffle Hill Brewing on a weekend for a refreshing pint of seasonal craft beer to warm the soul and forget about the cold. Mountain Valley and Scuffle Hill also hosts musical events most evenings (Thursday-Saturday) as well as other events such as paint parties, stargazing and more. There are also wine and beer events held at local venues such as Wine Tasting Wednesdays at Daily Grind Café in Martinsville Uptown. And for brandy lovers, we suggest a visit to Smith River Spirits where you can enjoy a complimentary tour and tasting. 

For those looking for opportunities to stay active during the season, the Miles in Martinsville will offer multiple themed footraces to enjoy. Run the Park is the next racing event and is new for the 2023 season.

If you’re not looking to run, but still want to be outdoors, you can still have a good time throughout the colder months in MHC through biking, hiking, paddling and more. Just remember to stay warm and safe!

For more information on planning a winter trip to Martinsville-Henry County, visit our website at www.VisitMartinsville.com or call toll free 888.722.3498.