In this cold and monotonous season, we find ourselves craving something different, unique and exciting. Throughout the New River Valley, local boutiques, hidden gems and locally-owned shops embody our desire for the perfect eccentric escape. So, lose the winter coat and head inside to shop local at the NRV’s must-shop spots for cool and unique finds. Here are some of our favorites:
In Montgomery County, Charlotte’s Web II Antique Mall is housed in a 3-story historical building that used to serve as a general store. This is the perfect place to spend an afternoon browsing unique antiques and merchandise. All three floors are stocked by more than 50 vendors with products ranging from unique home décor and furniture to classic memorabilia.
The Crab Creek Country Store is a quaint gift shop a stone’s throw from Charlotte’s Web II in historic Cambria. They have everything from doormats and wax melts to home decor cute enough to spruce up any space. Not only is the staff super friendly, but they get new merchandise every week.
John’s Camera’s & Records has been serving the New River Valley since 1976 in downtown Blacksburg and offers a wide range of in-house photo services. John’s includes a selection of used film cameras and thousands of vinyl records to browse. From passport photos to vintage vinyl, John’s got you covered.
Head on over to Giles County for a giftware shopping paradise at Pearis Mercantile. With an eclectic mix of fun finds and handmade items, this store has something cool to discover in downtown Pearisburg. Their seasonal things never disappoint, and they also offer a hiker’s store for outdoor or trail hiking supplies that can be difficult to find. While browsing, the staff is always happy to share the story behind something and provide excellent suggestions.
Also in Giles County, Walker Valley Market at 106 Natures Lane outside Pearisburg offers a country drive which is part of the destination shopping experience. The store, in Big Walker Valley, is operated by families in our local Amish community. From handcrafted quilts and custom furniture to bulk food items and fresh deli sandwiches, Walker Valley Market is a cool find including its hand-dipped ice cream.
Set in the heart of Pembroke on U.S. 460 is Tangent Outdoors & Cascade Café. They offer convenience store necessities like gas and soda pop, along with one-of-a-kind gifts like custom Cascades magnets, apparel and a plethora of local artists’ works inspired by local beauty. Check out the food counter for fresh, made to order specialties.
Nestled in Floyd and established in 1965, County Sales offers the world’s largest selection of old time and bluegrass music recordings. The store’s walls are lined with classic, vintage vinyl records. In fact, County Sales even has its own Radio Hour Podcast. Head on over to the Floyd Country Store afterward for some live music.
View and purchase beautiful glass work made by NRV and Floyd artisans at Blue Ridge Alchemy. Original glasswork is made on site by master glass artists Kenan Tiemeyer and Caleb Storm. Watch and admire the artists at work while you shop and view the gallery, seeing the complete journey of locally-crafted glass work from start to finish.
In Radford, there are several shops designed for young ‘uns and the big kid inside everyone else. Super Game Station at 1109 E. Main St. (or online) buys, sells and trades video games and more. These local video game experts have everything from Atari 2600 to Nintendo Switch and host e-sports tournaments that bring folks from near and far.
Since you’re never too old to collect toy cars, visit Now, Then and Forever Collectibles at 237 W. Main St. You’ll be amazed at the thousands of Matchbox, Hot Wheels and NASCAR cars in stock to complete a collection. For the free spirit within all of us, Lamour’s boutique at 1023 E. Main St. has a complete selection of hippie items and has been in business more than 30 years. Surely here you’ll find something in their shop to make you happy.
In the Town of Dublin in Pulaski County, discover vintage, neon signs, classic vinyl records and more at John’s Stuff. Rooted in a passion for quirkiness, the one-of-a-kind emporium overflows with a diverse inventory including pop culture finds, antique pocket knives and decorative accent pieces. Whether you are seeking a specific item, a blast from the past or a modern twist, feel free to tell John what you are looking for – he just might have it. Oh, and while you are there, say hello to Monkey the cat who loves a good pet and purse sniff if you’re willing.
The New River Valley is packed with cool and unique finds, including Pulaski County’s antique store – Holy Cow. Infused with southern charm and a vintage feel, Holy Cow is home to both new and antique one-of-a-kind pieces. Just a hop, skip and jump away from the river and New River Retreat cabins, Holy Cow is the perfect place for NRV locals and visitors to shop.
Experience something new this winter season and check out any of these cool shops soaked in NRV charm, culture and service.
Text by Shelby Vandergriff, intern
Pulaski County Tourism
