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Radford

Radford, Virginia, United States

Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Radford offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and rich history. This vibrant city, located along the New River, beckons visitors with its…

#Radford#Virginia#United States#Small town#College town

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Radford.

Top Hotels in Radford

Top Flights to Radford

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Radford.

Tours

Radford University Visit

Tour the beautiful campus of Radford University and enjoy its historic buildings and green spaces.

Glencoe Museum and Gallery

Visit this small museum to learn about local history and see art exhibits.

Shopping

Shopping at New River Valley Mall

A variety of stores and dining options make it a great spot for a shopping day.

Outdoor

Bisset Park Exploration

Enjoy a day in Bisset Park located along the New River with walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

Wildwood Park Adventure

This park offers extensive trails through wooded areas and local flora and fauna observation opportunities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Radford.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

As of the latest estimates, the approximate population of Radford, Virginia is around 17,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Radford

Jan

6°-4°

Feb

8°-3°

Mar

13°1°

Apr

19°6°

May

24°11°

Jun

28°16°

Jul

30°18°

Aug

29°18°

Sep

26°14°

Oct

20°8°

Nov

14°3°

Dec

8°-2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Radford.

What people love

Radford, Virginia, located in the United States, offers a variety of attractions and activities that can make it a great travel destination. Some of the pros of traveling to Radford include:

Outdoor Activities: Radford is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the nearby New River and Jefferson National Forest. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities in these scenic areas.
History and Culture: Radford has a rich history and is home to several historic sites and museums, such as the Glencoe Mansion and Museum. Visitors can explore the town's heritage and learn about its past through these attractions.
Local Dining and Shopping: Radford has a charming downtown area with a variety of local shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can enjoy delicious food, shop for unique souvenirs, and support local businesses while exploring the town.
Radford University: The town is home to Radford University, which brings a youthful energy and vibrant cultural scene to the area. Visitors can attend events, performances, and exhibitions on campus, adding to the overall experience of the trip.
Convenient Location: Radford is located near other popular destinations in Virginia, such as Blacksburg (home to Virginia Tech) and Roanoke. This makes it a convenient base for exploring the region and taking day trips to nearby attractions.

Overall, traveling to Radford, Virginia can offer a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and convenient access to other destinations in the area, making it a great choice for a memorable trip.

What to know

Radford, Virginia is a charming city with a lot to offer visitors, but like any destination, there are some potential drawbacks to traveling there. Here are some cons of traveling to Radford:

Limited public transportation: Radford is a relatively small city, and public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. This could make it more challenging to get around if you don't have access to a car.
Limited nightlife: While Radford has a few bars and restaurants, it may not offer as vibrant a nightlife scene as larger cities. If you're looking for a lively night out, you may find the options in Radford to be limited.
Limited shopping options: Radford is a smaller city, so the shopping options may be more limited compared to larger cities with malls and shopping districts. If you're looking for a variety of shopping experiences, you may need to travel to nearby cities.
Weather extremes: Like much of the East Coast, Virginia experiences all four seasons, including hot summers and cold winters. Depending on when you visit Radford, you may encounter extreme weather conditions that could impact your travel plans.
Limited tourist attractions: While Radford has some interesting landmarks and attractions, it may not offer as many tourist attractions as larger cities or more popular tourist destinations in Virginia. If you're looking for a wide variety of things to see and do, you may find Radford to be a bit lacking in this regard.

Overall, Radford is a lovely city with its own unique charm, but visitors should be aware of these potential drawbacks when planning their trip.

Radford, Virginia, is a city with a rich history that is deeply intertwined with the development of the New River Valley region. Here's a detailed history of Radford:

Early History

Pre-Colonial Era: The area that is now Radford was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee. The New River, one of the oldest rivers in the world, was a significant resource for these early inhabitants.
Settlement: European settlers began moving into the area during the 18th century. The region was initially part of Montgomery County and later became part of Pulaski County.

19th Century

Founding: The city of Radford was officially established in the mid-19th century and was initially known as Central Depot due to its location as a central transportation hub on the New River.
Railroad Influence: The Virginia and Tennessee Railroad, later part of the Norfolk and Western Railway, played a significant role in Radford's growth by connecting it to other parts of Virginia and beyond.
Civil War: During the American Civil War, Radford was a strategic location due to the railroad. It saw activity as both Confederate and Union forces moved through the area.

20th Century

Incorporation: Radford was incorporated as a city in 1892 and took its name from Dr. John B. Radford, a prominent local figure.
Radford University: One of the most significant developments was the establishment of Radford State Normal School for Women in 1910, which later became Radford University. The university has played a significant role in the city’s cultural and economic life.
Industrial Growth: The Radford Army Ammunition Plant, established during World War II, became a major employer and contributed to the city’s growth.

Notable Historical Figures

Dr. John B. Radford: The city’s namesake, Dr. Radford was a prominent figure in the community during the 19th century.
Mary E. K. Caldwell: An influential figure in education, particularly in her role in the early development of Radford University.

Important Landmarks

Radford University: A central landmark in the city, known for its diverse academic programs and contributions to the local economy and culture.
Glencoe Mansion, Museum & Gallery: This historic home, built in the 1870s, now serves as a museum and cultural center, showcasing the history and arts of the region.
St. Albans Sanatorium: Originally built as a Lutheran boys' school in the late 19th century, it later became a mental hospital. It is known for its historical significance and is a site of interest for paranormal investigations.

Modern Developments

Economic Shifts: The city has experienced economic shifts over the years, with Radford University and the Radford Army Ammunition Plant remaining as key employers.
Cultural Events: Radford hosts various cultural and community events, celebrating its history and fostering a sense of community among residents.

Radford, Virginia, continues to be a vibrant city, balancing its historical roots with modern development. Its location along the New River adds to its scenic beauty and appeal as a place to live and visit.