January 26th is National Plan Your Vacation Day! Why is it important? 83 percent of Americans want to use their time off to travel. However, more than half say they do not use all their time off, adding up to 768 million unused vacation days annually. Studies show those who plan their vacations are more likely to use all their vacation days. We’d like to get the ball rolling on how you plan to spend your trip to Halifax County, whether you’re here to relax or spend time with family. After all, it’s never too early to plan how you’ll put your hard-earned vacation days to use.
After 2020, we’re sure you’re ready to take a vacation and forget about the difficulties of the past year. With vaccines rolling out across the country, conditions are improving. However, maintaining social distancing, wearing a mask indoors or when social distancing isn’t possible, and frequently sanitizing/washing hands will continue to play an important role throughout 2021. Also, if you feel sick, stay home! We’ll still be here when you recover. Anxious about traveling? Our local restaurants and attractions have adapted to meet guidelines set by the state and the CDC. View the latest COVID-19 updates for the county here.
Relax: With its rolling hills, pastures, forests, and waterways, Halifax County provides a peaceful place to relax. Escape the noise and hustle of the city on one of the county’s trails, such as the Tobacco Heritage Trail or those found at Edmund’s Park, many of which can be enjoyed by hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders alike. Walks can be enjoyed leisurely, and a sharp eye can catch local wildlife. Clear your thoughts with a day on the course at either Green’s Folly Golf Course or Halifax County Country Club. Take in the sights and smells of the Southern Virginia Botanical Garden. Unwind at one of the local resorts, or take a spa day at Berry Hill.
Adventure: For those with a more adventurous streak, Halifax County is home to various pulse-pounding excitements. Experience high-octane thrills while spectating at one of the local racetracks, Virginia International Raceway or South Boston Speedway. Push the pedal to the metal at VIR’s kart-track, where go-karts can reach an excess of 50 mph. VIR also offers formula experiences, where even beginners can spend time behind the wheel on the track. Spend a day exploring the countryside by horseback at Shangrila Guest Ranch. For a slower venture, challenge yourself to a day paddling along one of the county’s rivers, some of which sport up to class three rapids.
Strengthening Bonds with Family: The county offers a wide array of family-friendly activities to strengthen the bonds between family (or friends). Staunton River State Park offers rustic cabins perfect for a family weekend, with easy access to various amenities of the park. Campsites are available for those seeking a more primitive experience, each with its own fire ring allowing guests to share stories while cooking over a campfire. Other local activities families can enjoy include paddling along the Blueways, an afternoon at The World of Sports, or a day at one of the community’s festivals.
Making Memories: Make lasting memories as you discover all the county has to offer. Staunton River State Park is one of only three dark sky locations in Virginia recognized by the International Dark-Sky Association. The park regularly hosts observation sessions, during which attendees can get unspoiled views of celestial bodies through telescopes provided by the Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observational Society.
Learn: Rich in history and culture, Halifax county provides ample opportunities to learn about the past. Visit historic trails such as the Civil Rights in Education Trail, the Halifax County African American Heritage Trail, or the Tobacco Heritage Trail. Staunton River Battlefield State Park and Crossing of the Dan are historical sites involved in the Civil War and Revolutionary War, respectively. The county also has two museums, L.E. Coleman African American Museum and the South Boston-Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts and History which showcase the community’s past. A visit to Berry Hill, Noland Village, or the Brooklyn Tobacco Factory will transport visitors to a bygone era.
Agriculture: With its roots and heritage in farming, Halifax county has a feast of agricultural offerings. Experience the life of a farmer by participating in a farm stay at Hudson Heritage Farms. For a less hands-on approach, visit one of our Famers’ Markets, an Amish settlement, or the Windmill Farm Bake Shop for local produce and homemade goods. Two wineries (Hunting Creek and Bright Meadows) and a distillery (Springfield) are located in Halifax, frequently hosting tastings and events. Cantaloupes- the pride of Halifax- are celebrated at the Cantaloupe Festival held annually in July.
Eat: Halifax County prides itself on its culinary offerings. The award-winning restaurant Molasses Grill attracts foodies from across the region. The culinary scene is supplemented by high-end restaurants at VIR and Berry Hill. With eclectic cafes, specialty eateries, and kitchens specializing in soul food rounding out the county’s offerings, even the pickiest of eaters are bound to find a restaurant to enjoy.
Art and Culture: The centerpiece of the local arts scene is The Prizery, which houses a performing arts center, art galleries, and rotating exhibits of various artforms. Halifax County Little Theatre presents three plays a year showcasing local talent, and the Summer Theater Celebration hosts talent from across the country. Art enthusiasts can also view Bob Cage’s Sculpture Garden which displays over 100 unique sculptures.