Welcome to Halifax County, Virginia, home of South Boston Speedway and its legendary short-track racing. As you bask in the exciting atmosphere of race weekend, don’t forget to take several pit stops along the way and explore the diverse experiences our community has to offer. Fuel your need for speed on the track at Virginia International Raceway (VIR), where heart-pumping thrills await at every turn. Tap the brakes with a paddling or fishing adventure on the tranquil Southern Virginia Wild Blueway, along miles of Virginia scenic river and undisturbed wilderness. When it’s time to celebrate your victories, enjoy a tasting at the award-winning Springfield Distillery, where fine spirits await. So, gear up, embrace the racing spirit, and discover what makes your heart race on your weekend getaway in Halifax County, Virginia.

1. Celebrate NASCAR’s Origins at Springfield Distillery

Any NASCAR enthusiast can tell you about the relationship between moonshine, fast cars, and evading police. Celebrate the history of the sport with a tour and tasting at the award-winning Springfield Distillery. Enjoy spirits in their tasting room, all displaying a mastery of traditional American distilling and craftsmanship. (We recommend that you follow all the laws though).

2. Get Behind the Wheel at VIRginia International Raceway

Halifax County is also home to Virginia International Raceway (VIR), which offers road-course racing. Known as America’s first motorsports resort, VIR offers a variety of opportunities to get on the track. Fans can race each other on the kart track, which boasts karts that top out at over 50 mph. Thrill seekers can enjoy a ride along with a professional driver on the track itself. And for the most daring, Skip Barber Racing School will teach fans to drive before placing them behind the wheel of a Formula One. Just be sure to check dates and make reservations in advance.

3. See Stars That Glisten Like a Trophy at Staunton River State Park

Roughly 20 minutes away from the lights and excitement of the track is Staunton River State Park, which offers camping, cabins, and all the outdoor recreation opportunities typically found at a state park. What makes this park unique is its designation as an International Dark Sky Park; limited lighting provides unspoiled views of the night sky. Overnight guests can borrow a telescope for free – a truly stellar experience.

4. Slow Down on the Virginia Wild Blueway

Your race weekend doesn’t have to be all high-speed thrills! Take a breather on the Southern Virginia Wild Blueway, comprised of hundreds of miles of navigable water and designated scenic river. Winding through farmland, undisturbed wilderness, and into Virginia’s largest lake, the Blueway is perfect for fishing and viewing wildlife. The best part? You don’t need your own gear! Paddlers can rent from Hazel Branch Outfitters while anglers can book an adventure through Fish Hard Charters.

5. Enjoy a Dining Scene Fit for Victory Lane

Though Halifax County is a relatively small, rural community, our dining options are surprisingly diverse and robust. Diners hoping to enjoy family-style southern fare will enjoy locations like Spainhour’s or Paulette’s Place. Halifax is also home to a variety of ethnic cuisines, such as Italian at Viny’s; Cuban and Peruvian at The Ranch; or authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex at Mexico Viejo. Those seeking a more upscale experience need look no further than the award-winning Molasses Grill, or The Mansion Restaurant at the historic Berry Hill Resort. Regardless of your taste and preference, we’re sure you’ll find our dining scene fit for victory lane.

6. Swap Horses Under the Hood for Horseback Riding

Before motorsports, there was horseback racing. Pay homage to this precursor of NASCAR by spending a few hours touring the idyllic countryside on horseback. At Shangrila Guest Ranch, guests can saddle up and hit the trail with a guided tour using one of the ranch’s trained horses. Riders can book by the hour or even enjoy a four-hour excursion which includes lunch on the trail.

7. Get Your (Pre) Tailgate on at Factory Street Brewing

What’s a tailgate without brews? Downtown South Boston is home to Factory Street Brewing Company, a tobacco warehouse turned craft brewery. The brewery hosts live music every Friday, providing a great opportunity to enjoy drinks while listening to music by a local band. Alternatively, stop by Saturday afternoon and enjoy a pint (or flight) from a selection of eight craft beers. Either route you take, Factory Street is perfect to celebrate a pre-race round.

8. Pop Bottles at Local Vineyards

Wine enthusiasts will find two vineyards in the northern part of the county, and they’ll be in for a treat! Hunting Creek Vineyards of Clover sells a variety of wines from their “sin series,” served by the glass or the bottle in their tasting room, The Barn. Alternatively, Bright Meadows Farm and Vineyard in Nathalie serves a selection of sweeter wines from fruits, such as their popular blackberry and apple wines. You may not find any champagne at either location but trust us – you’ll be popping bottles like you’re in the winner’s circle.

9. Go on the Hunt for Racing Memorabilia

Considering the county is home to two tracks and the Burton brothers, it’s no surprise many locals are fans of the sport. Plenty of residents own old machinery and signage – so much so that locals have been featured on American Pickers in the past. If you’re searching for racing memorabilia, you’re likely to find it at one of our local antique stores. Your best bet: Toots Creek Antiques or The Mercantile and Vintage Market, which feature items displayed by different collectors in booths throughout the store.

10. Weekend Events

There’s never a dull moment on weekends in Halifax County, and the easiest way to stay up to date on weekend events is by checking our calendar. Venues featured in the post regularly host events on weekends, in addition to local bars, farmers markets, and attractions that have live music, vendors, and food trucks. Be sure to check it out to make the most of your time here in Halifax County.