WHO WE ARE

The Galax Downtown Association believes in the idea of Merchants, Professionals and Community in Partnership.  Our focus is on promoting the Galax Downtown as a destination for shopping, entertainment and events.  Our goal is to bring visitors to our town and provide them with an experience that will make them want to return.  We strive to be a valued partner making Galax a clean, safe, attractive, successful and fun place to be!

HISTORY OF GALAX

Conceived by the marriage of railway and lumber, Galax has enjoyed a rich heritage over the last century. Once a furniture and textile town, Galax has evolved into an eclectic blend of small businesses offering unique shopping opportunities, enticing dining options, historical museums, and a musical heritage unlike any other. Whether you prefer the charm of a B&B or the solitude of a mountain cabin, Galax offers a variety of accommodations to please every sleepy head.

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Galax is close enough for a leisurely drive from several metropolitan areas, but far enough to escape the toil and turmoil of urban living. Just 7 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, dubbed America’s Most Scenic Drive, the views captivate the imagination and satisfy the soul. The New River Trail starts in Downtown Galax and offers pedestrians, bikers, and equestrians serene splendor for 57 miles along on an old railway path that meanders beside Chestnut Creek, to the New River and beyond.

Downtown Galax is lined with historic buildings, award-winning restaurants, uncommon shops and chic boutiques, inspiring art galleries, and over 43,000 square feet of antique showroom space. The charm of the downtown area resonates every Friday with live performances that showcase our region’s musical legacy at the Historic Rex Theater. Quaint and friendly, Galax is home to Chestnut Creek School of the Arts, where residents and visitors can take a weekend class to explore a new art or hone their craft with a multi week advanced course, learning from accomplished regional and national masters.

This hamlet is a preeminent destination on the Crooked Road , America ’s Musical Heritage Trail, dubbed one of the 10 Best Driving Vacations by USA Today. Highly regarded for the musical style from which most American music sprang, Galax is known as World’s Capital of Old Time Mountain Music. The hallowed musical ground of this region spawned early hit recordings from the Hill Billies, the Stoneman Family, and so many others.