Check out these top 8 activities in Draper, Virginia:
Chill Out in Charming Draper, Virginia
Just a stone's throw from Interstate 81, the laid-back hamlet of Draper is a hidden gem worth checking out. With a population just shy of 700, this former rail town is brimming with unexpected delights, including a posh tea room, a vineyard with breathtaking views, and easy access to the New River Trail, Virginia’s longest rail-trail.
If you've had your fill of motorway munchies, hop off exit 92 for a taste of something a tad more quaint. Grab a bite to eat and stretch those legs on the New River Trail. After fueling up, get ready for an invigorating adventure in this quaint little village that buzzes with a tea room, restaurant, healing arts center, coffee shop, and eclectic gift shops.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Embrace the New River Trail
Stretching 57 miles from Pulaski southwestward to Fries and Galax, the breathtaking New River Trail weaves through Draper. A former rail line, this trail was once home to steam engines chugging along the Norfolk & Western Railway until 1985. Today, remnants of its past prevail, with charming train stops preserved as wooden shelters equipped with picnic tables, prompting hikers, bikers, and horse riders to pause and soak up a bit of railroad history.
This must-see trail, boasting 32 wooden trestle bridges and two tunnels, is the heart of New River Trail State Park in Southwest Virginia. Bench your own bike or rent one at The Junction on Greenbriar Road, the main drag in Draper. A bike fleet awaits adventurers who can't resist a spin on the wide multi-use trail.
Indulge in Local Flavors
Take a Detour to “The Merc"
After the New River Trail, it's just a hop, skip, and a jump to Draper Mercantile, the pulse of this town that's also home to a tea room, eatery, healing arts center, coffee shop, and quirky shops. Originally a post office, "The Merc" proudly maintains its heritage, with antique post office boxes and atmosphere to spare.
Sip Tea in Style
Just a hop away, Draper Blooms Tea Garden offers a fancy tea soiree, replete with scrumptious bites like finger sandwiches, vanilla scones, seasonal jams, and petite desserts, such as brownies and breads. The whimsical tea shop also sells gourmet teas, vivacious live plants, and eye-catching décor, such as antique bird cages, wall art, and vintage tea pots. The Curious Quill shares the spotlight with the tea shop, peddling charmingly curious gifts, like quote-worthy mugs, bourbon soaps, artisan jewelry, and keepsake boxes.
Savor Local Vintages
Take some time to appreciate the regional flavors at Spinning Jenny Vineyard, nestled in the Draper Valley and boasting striking vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The vineyard farms a range of grapes, such as chardonnay, cab franc, and pinot gris, on-site. Craft your personalized tasting flight with over a dozen vinos, including the Route 76 Blush, christened in homage to the TransAmerica Bike Trail, an iconic coastal route that spirals through the vineyard.
Savor the Local Grub
Breakfast Time!
When mealtime beckons, Begin at Draper Mercantile. Serving delicious breakfast and lunch dishes, like Draper's French Hen, a fun and tasty twist on chicken and waffles, this is the place to go to get your day started right.
Lunch Around Town
Craving a meal? Check out made-to-order salads, sandwiches, burgers, and signature entrees, like the honey ginger citrus salmon. There's also a coffee shop at Draper Mercantile, offering imaginative coffee selections each month, like a s'mores mocha and a vanilla matcha latte.
For more dining options, historic Pulaski is just a 10-minute drive from Draper. Recommended restaurants include Main Street Grill and Al’s on First, which serves dinner amidst the elegance of Pulaski’s Jackson Park Inn.
Looking for Mexican-inspired cuisine? Compadres, tucked away in a strip mall, is a standout spot for tacos, tortilla chips, fajitas, and beyond. Some say it’s the best dining spot in town.
Relax in Comfort
Book a Cozy Retreat
Want to spend the night in this peaceful hamlet? Reserve a room at the Jackson Park Inn in Pulaski, a 32-room boutique hotel that was once a 1920s grocery warehouse. Opened in 2015, the hotel preserved the original charm, featuring aging brick, wide-plank wood floors, and rustic beam timbers. Exterior walls exhibiting industrial-style accents, such as steel awnings and soft-glow LED lighting, showcase a fusion of the past and the present.
Retreat to a Cabin or Cottage
For a tranquil getaway, check out New River Retreat, which rents cozy cabin and cottage accommodations throughout the New River Valley. Osprey's Landing and Ayita, both under 15 minutes from Draper, impress with captivating views of the gentle New River, one of the world's oldest rivers.
Enrichment Data:
Top Spots to Discover in Draper, Virginia
- New River Trail State Park: With its scenic trails and historic railway, this park provides a wonderful outdoor experience in Draper[3].
- Draper Mercantile: A central hub for shopping and culture, this mercantile offers a glimpse into Appalachian heritage[1][5].
- Spinning Jenny Vineyard: Located in nearby Pulaski County, this winery features a peaceful atmosphere and local vintages[5].
Dining Choices in Draper and Pulaski County
While specific restaurants in Draper are not highlighted, the broader area boasts a diverse range of dining options, including traditional Southern dishes and innovative culinary experiences.
- Ice Cream and Blue Ridge Specialties at Conery at Draper Mercantile: If you’ve got a sweet tooth, don’t miss this spot for ice cream and regional treats[1].
- Local Favorites in Pulaski County: Venturing into the surrounding area uncovers an array of beloved eateries serving up Southern comfort cuisine, as well as modern dining options.
For an exceptional dining experience, exploring Pulaski County's food scene may lead you to unique eateries and traditions. Take time to discover hidden culinary gems in and around Pulaski.
Additional Suggestions
- Gatewood Park: Ideal for picnicking and local gatherings, this park offers a chance to connect with the community and immerse yourself in local culture[1].
- Claytor Lake State Park: Just outside of Draper, this park provides an opportunity to dine on the waterfront with panoramic lake views or enjoy an alfresco picnic[1].
Enjoy exploring the outdoors, rich history, and vibrant local culture of Pulaski County. Delve deeper into the region's culinary offerings to complete your immersive and unforgettable getaway.
- The New River Trail, a breathtaking 57-mile trail in Draper, Virginia, weaves through the town and offers hiking, biking, and horse riding opportunities, with remnants of its railroad history preserved at charming train stops equipped with picnic tables.
- Spinning Jenny Vineyard, nestled in the Draper Valley and boasting stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a must-visit spot for wine lovers, with a range of grapes grown on-site and over a dozen vinos available for tasting.
- Draper Blooms Tea Garden, located near Draper Mercantile, offers a fancy tea soiree with scrumptious bites and a shop selling gourmet teas, decorative items, and curiosities.
- For a peaceful night's stay, book a room at the Jackson Park Inn in Pulaski, a boutique hotel that preserves its 1920s charm, or rent a cozy cabin or cottage at New River Retreat in the New River Valley.
