The Southwest Virginia Historical Museum staff run the tours led by specialists in their fields.

These specialist give a running commentary on subject matters varying from colonial-era forts along the Clinch River to the geological wonders of Natural Tunnel, and stories of Civil War bravery. These are the stories that make our area special.

Wandering the Wilderness Bus Tour

Some of our most popular tours feature Dr. Lawrence Fleenor, a retired medical doctor and local history expert and author. Dr. Fleenor has a passion for southwest Virginia’s history and conducts tours on subjects as varied as pre-Revolutionary War fortifications; the history of Saltville, Virginia; and coal mines and the communities that formed around them. Dr. Fleenor’s is an author of many books on southwestern Virginia history which can be found in area shops including the museum gift shop.

The last trip of 2017, October 14, is with professional geologist and author Tony Scales.

He will lead participants around various geologic wonders in the local area. Scales served as a geologist for the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals, and Energy, and wrote “Natural Tunnel: Nature’s Marvel in Stone” and “The Breaks: The Grand Canyon of the South,” both of which are available in the museum’s gift shop.

Tour to Eden Bus Tour

There is a $25 charge for the tours, a real deal for an all-day event.

Participants ride in comfort in the park’s motor coach, and can bring snacks and drinks on board; the park always has cold bottles of water on hand as well. Lunches are extra, either packed by the museum or available at a restaurant along the tour route. Of course, participants are always welcome to pack their own as well.

The whole experience makes for a fun and interesting day out, and many people sign up for every tour year after year.

Not only are areas of historical, geological, cultural importance featured. Breaks Interstate Park as well as several Virginia State Parks in the southwest Virginia region and our bus tours visit many of them, including Fairy Stone, Grayson Highlands, Natural Tunnel and Wilderness Road just to name a few.

These tours are led by museum staff and allow participants time to wander and explore the varied offerings of parks with the help of an experienced ranger. 

Wandering the Wilderness Bus Tour

The Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park expands its reach throughout the region through our monthly “Adventures in History” bus tours. Beginning in April and running through October, the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park bus tours fill up fast, with a maximum occupancy of 14. 

New tours are added each year featuring historically important places in Southwest Virginia.

The 2018 schedule will be available by mid-March here.

If you are interested in getting more information email the park office. If you happen to be in Big Stone Gap, stop by the Museum. While you're here pick up a calendar of events so you won't miss any of the programs we offer.