While exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway, RV travelers can enjoy learning about and listening to regional mountain music at the Blue Ridge Music Center in the Southern Highlands of Virginia.

Exhibits in the indoor interpretive center feature the history of recorded American music and the heritage of mountain music, told through a rich collection of artifacts, recordings and photographs. You can even strum a dulcimer on display. Well-versed in the local music and instruments, the staff is happy to answer visitors' questions.

Music Performances
During the summer, the center celebrates Blue Ridge music and musicians with mid-day jam sessions and Saturday concerts. Visitors can pull up one of the rocking chairs and enjoy free music performances Sunday through Friday in the breezeway, from noon to 3 p.m.

Held in the shadow of Fishers Peak, the Summer Concert Series runs from June to mid-September. (Admission prices vary.) The variety of music selections include blues, gospel , country, bluegrass and more. Patrons are welcome to bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnics into the amphitheater.

Nature Hikes

While at the Blue Ridge Music Center, visitors can also explore the natural setting along Chestnut Creek and two hiking trails, rich with wildflowers and birdlife. The High Meadow Trail leads hikers through a hayfield and wetland. Less than 3 miles roundtrip, the trail is rated easy.

The 2 ¼-mile Fisher Peak Loop zigzags up the peak's slope through a variety of vegetation. Those who hike the trail in May get to see a dazzling display of azaleas, mountain laurel and Catawba rhododendron in bloom. At higher elevations, a forest of oak, poplar, maple and sourwood trees shade the trail. Its difficulty rating is moderate.

If you go:
The Visitor Center is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, May through October, and during most evening concerts.
The Blue Ridge Music Center is located at Milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, near Galax, Virginia.

For more information: Visit Blue Ridge Music Center.