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Story by Jerry Hale Yeah, summer. All seasons can be fun at Smith Mountain Lake, but it does summer best. With May underway, it’s time to look ahead to the many warm-weather activities available to keep vacationers, Lakers and their guests overdosed on enjoyment.
If you’re here for just a week or two, you’ll have to cherry pick the list; if you’re here for the duration, the challenge becomes, “How many fun things can I do before the summer ends?”
To help you get right to it, we’ve again compiled the Smith Mountain Laker’s annual 90 Days of Summer Fun Guide. It includes activities in the SML area as well as Lynchburg, Roanoke and the surrounding region. From historical museums to ideas for the thrill-seekers, you’ll find it here. Enjoy your summer and play safely!
1. Take a vineyard and winery tour – Virginia wines are becoming ever more popular and a trip to the local wineries can make a fun and educational day. Check out Hickory Hill Vineyards (540-296-1393), AmRhein Wine Cellars (540-929-4632), Peaks of Otter Winery & Johnson’s Orchards (540-586-3707), White Rock Vineyards & Winery (540-890-3359), Tomahawk Mill Winery (434-432-1063) or Valhalla Vineyards (540-725-9463).
2. Wake, wake and more wake – SML is fast becoming a hotbed of wake sports for the Mid-Atlantic. Whether you want to compete or just watch, there’s wake fun in store.
3. Visit the SML State Park – Located on Virginia 626 in Bedford County, the park offers boating, swimming, fishing, hunting and camping. Open daily, 8 a.m. to dusk. 540-297-6066
4. Visit the birthplace of Booker T. Washington – Located on Route 122, the Booker T. Washington National Monument features scenic walking trails and a variety of educational events throughout the season. 540-721-2094
5. Take a tour of the Smith Mountain Dam – See how electricity is generated, catch the flick in the mini-theater and try out the hands-on exhibits. Enjoy the picnic area and overlook. Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 540-985-2587
6. Honor our soldiers at the National D-Day Memorial – Visit the memorial in Bedford to recognize the valor, fidelity and sacrifice of the Allied Armed Forces on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. 540-586-3329 or 800-351-DDAY, dday.org.
7. Check out the SML Visitor’s Center – Even if you’ve lived here for years, you’ll discover something new at the center located at Bridgewater Plaza. Pick up literature, inquire about becoming a volunteer or find out more about the latest lake events. 540-721-1203, visitsmithmountainlake.com
8. Hit the links – Mixing challenge and scenic beauty, the golf courses of SML have earned national recognition. Spend a morning or afternoon on rolling greens with the mountains as a backdrop. Public courses include The Westlake Golf & Country Club 540-721-4214, Mariners Landing 540-297-7888 and Sycamore Ridge 540-297-6490.
9. Try parasailing – Catch the breathtaking view from 400 feet above the surface of SML. Parasailing is a safe but exhilarating thrill to enjoy and then tell your friends, “Yep, I’ve done that!”.After a six-year hiatus, it’s back at SML thanks to SML Parasail. Book your flight at 540-297-8481 or smlparasail.net.
10. Take a cruise on the Virginia Dare – Dress up for an elegant evening, have the party of your dreams or just get on board for a night of mystery. The Virginia Dare offers a variety of options for those who want to enjoy a leisurely tour of the lake and a great meal. Charter or join one of the regularly scheduled cruises. 540-297-7100, vadarecruises.com
11. Spend an evening at the Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre – A night of drama, music and comedy also will teach little-known facts about the history of Franklin County. Located in Ferrum. 540-365-4335
12. See a show at Mango’s – Mango’s Bar & Grill at Bridgewater Plaza is the place to be for live weekend entertainment. Hear area bands such as Key West, The Clue and Burning Bridges. Also check the schedule for karaoke nights and special events. 540-721-1632, mangosbarandgrill.com
13. Cool off at Homestead Creamery – A great place to enjoy delicious homemade ice cream. Pick up orange, strawberry or chocolate milk and a variety of other fine foods while you’re there. Route 122 in Burnt Chimney. 540-721-2045
14. Have a lakeside campfire/weenie roast – Invite your neighbors for outdoor food and around-the-fire socializing, but be sure to remember fire safety.
15. Organize a “float in” – Gather friends with their inner tubes, rafts, PFDs and noodles in your cove on a hot summer afternoon. Tether a cooler for beverages and snacks. Play some beach music on a nearby dock stereo and relax — it doesn’t get any better than this!
16. Enjoy the Peaks of Otter – Hike Sharp Top, Flat Top and Harkening Hill, some of the most popular trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Stay for a picnic or dinner at the restaurant and lodge. There is also camping and a gift shop. Parkway mile marker 86. 540-586-4496.
17. Head to Portside Grill & Bar – You’ll feel as if you’re in the Key West section of SML when you visit the Tiki Hut at Virginia Dare Marina. DJs, dancing and sunset views make this a place to gather with friends. Come by boat or car, always with a designated driver. 540-297-7100, vadarecruises.com
18. Go to Outdoor Festival at The Pointe at Mariners Landing – Wednesdays from 6 to 9 p.m., enjoy live music and a delicious menu of varying fare. 540-296-1215, marinerslanding.com
19. Join a club or organization – Meet other Lakers with similar interests. See Page 124 to find just the right group for you — and get involved!.
20. Celebrate the Lake – A weekend of fun events in tribute to the lake on Saturday, June 21, features a big tent party at Parrot Cove Marina — day-long activities with vendors, antique boat show, parade, fishing clinics, dinner and dancing. Sunday, enjoy a special water fair scheduled at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. 540.719.0690, smlassociation.org
21. Perfect your docking skills – Make a point of getting the boat berthed with practiced aplomb. A clinic will be held June 21 at Celebrate the Lake.
22. Go horseback riding – Shadow Ridge Stables (540-721-5120), Fox Creek Saddlery (540-586-6330), Blackwater Equine Farms (540-484-9048) and Smith Mountain Farm & Stables (434- 927-5199) all offer scenic trail rides.
23. Drool over restored boats – Lots of polished mahogany will be on display at Celebrate the Lake, June 21, and again Sept. 20 at the SML Antique and Classic Boat Show at Mariners Landing. Vendor displays and other festival activities are scheduled as well. woodenboats.net
24. Boat to the Fireworks – This Lake tradition is again a “no-wake” event to keep it safe and comfortable for all. See Page 108 for details on the fireworks and other Independence Day celebrations.
25. Take a flight of fancy – Airplane rides are offered by Brant Howell at the Smith Mountain Lake airport. There’s no better way to experience the meandering beauty of Smith Mountain Lake. 540-296-0955
26. Tour the Blue Ridge Institute and Farm Museum – Not only is the facility an educational museum, it also is a working farm. The museum reaches back into the 1800s, discovering forgotten farm tasks, clothing, lifestyle and even toys. Open mid-May through mid-August, it also hosts a variety of festivals, exhibits, and special guests. Route 40 in Ferrum. 540-365-4416
27. Treat your boat to a USCG safety inspection sticker – It’s free and there’s no penalty if something is missing. Call Art at 540-484-1675 to set a date and time.
28. Catch a movie – There are bound to be a few rainy days, so don’t forget about the four air-conditioned theaters at Westlake Cinema. Find show times at westlakecinema.com or call 540-721-6314.
29. Volunteer – While fun trips and exciting adventures make you feel good, giving a day to someone else can make you feel even better. As a family or on your own, donate some time to a local charity.
30. Pack a picnic and boat to an island – Remember to respect the setting and others who come after (i.e. all trash goes home with you).
33. Explore historic Bedford — A great place to shop, dine and take in historic sites. Annual summertime events include the Red, White & Bluegrass Festival in May, Libertyfest and Hunter’s Retreat — The Battle at Liberty in July, and the Bedford Blues & BBQ in August. 540-586-2148 or centertownbedford.com for info.
34. Explore historic Bedford some more — There’s also the City/County Museum, 201 E. Main Street, (540-586-4520) for a glimpse of the Civil War, farm life, World War II. Guided tours through the Historic District are available by calling Lynchburg Historic Tours at 434-846-1868. Include lunch or dinner at Olde Liberty Station, a 100-year-old restored train station listed on the National Historic Registry. 515 Bedford Ave., 540-587-9377, oldelibertystation.com
35. Go on an Osprey hike — Learn about this fascinating “fish hawk,” watch live video and take a stroll to catch a glimpse of these magnificent raptors in person at the SML State Park. Wednesdays from 5-5:45 p.m. and Saturdays from 11:15 a.m. to noon throughout the summer. 540-297-6066
36. Catch an event at the Sedalia Center — Nestled between Bedford and Big Island, the Sedalia Center hosts cultural festivals throughout the year. Enjoy the Bluesfest, Bluegrass, the Country Fair or the Gospel Festival. 434-299-5080, sedaliacenter.org
37. Feed the fish — Stop by Bridgewater Plaza or Smith Mountain Dock and Lodge and watch the resident carp devour popcorn. (Note: It’s illegal to feed water fowl at SML.)
38. Shop for antiques — Find some treasures at the Bedford Antique Mall, Rucker House Mercantile, The Misty Glade, Phyllis’ Primitives, Sarah’s Place Antiques & Collectibles and other area shops.
39. Take a boat trip to dinner — Choose any of SML’s lakeside pubs and restaurants. Be sure there’s a “designated skipper” for the trip back home and don’t forget to check the weather.
40. Catch some stripers for a fish fry — Grill ’em, bake ’em, enjoy ‘em. There’s nothing like a meal of fresh striper to celebrate the delights of SML. The list of guides from the SML Chamber of Commerce will help ensure a catch. 540-721-1203, visitsmithmountainlake.com
41. Organize your dock house — Celebrate the accomplishment with a dock party.
42. Make “detailing the boat” a family project — After you’re done, take everyone for a nice ride to a favorite lake destination.
43. Invite out-of-town friends for the SML Charity Home Tour — This annual event, which gives you a glimpse inside some of the lake’s most interesting homes, will take place Oct. 3-5. smlcharityhometour.com
44. Get out your old lawn games — Frisbee, badminton, croquet, Jarts, etc. You’ve got them collecting dust somewhere! Find and enjoy old-fashioned fun.
45. Take a boat or PWC ride to some part of the lake you haven’t seen in years — Invite friends and marvel at the changes! Check out “Lake Landmarks on P.__ of this issue for ideas.
46. Make boat gas more affordable — Begin keeping your boat gas receipts for a Virginia road tax rebate, then submit them for a 14 cent-per-gallon rebate when the season’s over. A form is available online at tax.virginia.gov.
47. Grease a watermelon for your grandkids — Old-time fun!
48. Get out on the lake on a clear night to stargaze — Lay down and look up. It’s like having a personal planetarium.
49. Get candles and have an elegant dinner on your dock or deck at dusk — Leave the cooking to someone else with prepared entrees from the grocery store.
50. Buy a cute new towable and offer the neighbors a try — It’s giggles for young and old alike.
51. Anchor in a cove, turn on the tunes and read.
52. Take a sunset cocktail cruise — Bring soft drinks for the designated skipper.
53. Go to a part of the lake you’ve never been to before — Introduce yourself to someone new who’s out on their dock.
54. Put hanging baskets or flower pots with colorful summer flowers on your dock.
55. Find a quiet cove and swim off the boat on a hot afternoon — Wear PFDs or throw out a line with one attached, especially if the boat is drifting.
56. Go sunrise fishing — Or just get out with coffee and the paper and enjoy the early morning serenity.
57. Take in an exhibit at the Academy of Fine Arts — Exhibiting an eclectic mixture of theatre, dance, music and visual arts, the Lynchburg Fine Arts Center offers something for everyone. 1815 Thomson Drive, Lynchburg, 434-846-8451, lynchburgarts.org
58. Sight-see on the Blue Ridge Parkway — Considered one of America’s most scenic drives, the Parkway spans 450 miles and offers picnicking, fishing and more. See the Kanawha Canal’s lock at the James River Trail Overlook at mile post 63.6.
59. Explore the Old City Cemetery Museums & Arboretum — A 200-year-old Virginia Historic Landmark with a 26-acre garden cemetery, it has more than 20,000 citizens buried there. The Hearse House features a circa-1900 horse-drawn hearse, antique tools, gravestones and carvers. Included are four small museums and a Confederate section. Open daily from dawn to dusk. 401 Taylor Street, Lynchburg, 434-847-1465
60. Spend a Saturday morning at the Roanoke Farmers Market or the Lynchburg Community Market — Still in use, the open-air markets offer everything from fresh vegetables to unique gifts.
61. Visit Appomattox Court House National Historical Park — This is the site of Robert E. Lee’s surrender to Ulysses S. Grant, ending the Civil War and the place where our nation reunited on April 9, 1865. Open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Route 24, North of Appomattox, 434-352-8987
62. See Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest — Thomas Jefferson’s “retreat” home is his final architectural work — an octagonal house surrounded by an array of flower gardens. 1548 Bateman Bridge Road, Forest, 434-525-1806, poplarforest.org
63. See a play at Mill Mountain Theatre — Enjoy musicals, comedies and dramas live on two stages. 800-317-6455, millmountain.org
64. Take off to the Virginia Museum of Transportation — See vintage cars, trains (the real things as well as an extensive model layout), carriages, exhibits and a gift shop. 303 Norfolk Ave., Downtown Roanoke, 540-342-5670, vmt.com
65. Gaze down at Roanoke from its famed Star — The historic Mill Mountain Star is one of the world’s largest man-made star. It features a gorgeous scenic overlook and a walking area. 540-342-6025
66. Take a child to a museum — Children are encouraged to play, explore, learn solve problems and be artistic at Amazement Square, 27 Ninth Street, Downtown Lynchburg, 434-845-1888. See the science museum, the planetarium, the history museum and more at Center in the Square, One Market Street, Downtown Roanoke, 540-342-5700
67. Attend a baseball game — Catch Lynchburg’s Hillcats (434-528-1144) or the Salem Avalanche (540-389-3333). Tickets range from $4 to $7. Both teams are Class “A” in the Carolina League.
68. Visit historic Chatham — See Virginia’s only two street car diners, the 1853 Greek Revival Courthouse, and take the walking tour of this 1777 town full of Victorian architecture. chatham-va.gov
69. See Natural Bridge — This incredible 215-foot Natural Wonder is located off 1-81 in Natural Bridge. Explore the creek and walk under the bridge. The path leads to a Monacan Indian Village and Lace Falls. The Wax Museum, Haunted Monster Museum, Toy Museum and the Dark Maze are waiting for your enjoyment. 800-533-1410, naturalbridge.com
70. Venture to Virginia’s Safari Park — Virginia’s largest and only drive-through zoo. Feed the elk, ostrich, zebra and 400 other animals. Three miles of roads, a petting zoo, gift shop and picnic area are available. 229 Safari Lane, Natural Bridge, 540-291-3205
71. Make homemade chili — On a rainy day, perfect a chili recipe to enter in the SML Fall Chili Festival in November. More information at 540-721-1203 or visitsmithmountainlake.com.
72. Rent something fun — Rent a houseboat and live on the water for a week, or find a variety of toys for a day of non-stop fun. Local marinas and businesses offer canoes, kayaks, rafts, tubes, wakeboards, jet skis, hydrobikes, paddleboats, pontoon boats, ski boats and fishing boats.
73. Register for Vacation Bible School — Get yourself and/or your kids involved with a local church.
74. Junior Golf Camps — Get ‘em started early. The Westlake Golf & Country Club (540-721-4214) and Mariners Landing (540-297-7888) both are offering camps this summer.
75. Take some lake photos — Enter your best ones in the Four Seasons of SML Photo Contest sponsored by the SML Chamber of Commerce. 540-721-1203, visitsmithmountainlake.com
76. Pick up trash in and around the Lake — Even if you missed Take Pride in SML Clean-Up Day, you can still do your part. Keep a lawn trash bag aboard and stop when you see floating debris.
77. Take a class at the 4-H Center — Junior programs include horseback riding, computers, fishing, wildlife, outdoor skills, sewing, swimming and more. There are classes for adults, too. 540-721-2759
78. Take sailing lessons — Lessons available at several lake locations including the Smith Mountain Lake Sailing School. 540-719-0009
79. Take a child to a program at SML State Park — Among the choices: Junior Rangers, Night Hikes, Campfires, Canoe Trips, Creek Adventures, Woodland Hayrides, Fish Printing and Osprey Hikes. 540-297-6066
80. Enjoy bluegrass and country music at SML State Park — Saturday nights. Check the Laker calendar or call 540-297-6066.
81. Take advantage of Free Fridays — Visit the Art (540-342-5760), History (540-342-5770) and Science (540-342-5710) museums of Western Virginia, downtown Roanoke.
82. Go skinny dipping on a hot summer night — Boat to a secluded cove if neighbors have prying eyes. Swim only with PFDs after dark.
83. Treat yourself to a massage — Time at the lake is about relaxation anyway. Good Looks (540-721-4023), Luv2Rub (540-312-7253), Westlake Massage (540-721-1192) and The Spaaahh…at Mariners Landing (540-297-9462) are all great choices.
84. Get in shape! — Check out Curves (540-721-7032), Jazzercise (540-721-1988), HealthWise (540-871-0224) or the new SML YMCA (540-721-0236).
85. Fish with a guide – The SML Chamber lists 10 fishing guides who can help get you started or provide a special treat for out-of-town guests. 540-721-1203, visitsmithmountainlake.com
86. Go skydiving — Experience the fear, rush, relief and satisfaction of accomplishing this feat. Adrenaline Air Sports at the SML Airport takes you on a ride you will never forget. Jumps and training for all levels of jumpers. 540-296-1100
87. Take a drive to the top of Smith Mountain — Dry days and 4-wheel-drive only! See the July/Aug 2006 issue of the Laker for details at smithmountainlaker.com
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88. Take a swim at the new beach — Franklin County’s Smith Mountain Lake Community Park has added a new swimming beach and attendant facilities to its ample hiking trails and terrific fishing pier. The pier also has comfy benches for pausing to watch happenings on Smith Mountain Lake.
89. Check out area wildlife — The Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail includes parts of Franklin County and is meant to direct visitors to the extensive wildlife and bird habitats across the region. Find out more at dgif.virginia.gov.
90. Get your heart racing at Franklin County Speedway — This 3/8-mile oval asphalt loop for racing late-model stock, Ucar, MOD 4, and street stock is located near Callaway. The facility, open April to September, came under new ownership in 2007 and has since been promoted as a family oriented place for fun and exciting entertainment. franklincospeedway.com
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