While groups are exploring the natural areas of western Virginia, they can also visit one of the birthplaces of country music. The Carter Family Memorial Music Center, better known as the Carter Family Fold, is located in Hiltons, Va., a small town not far from Cumberland Gap.
The Carter family is often referred to as the First Family of Country Music, thanks to early commercial recordings they made in 1927. Numerous family members, including June Carter Cash, went on to be influential in country music.
Today, groups can visit the center every Saturday night for traditional music shows featuring old-time folk, country and bluegrass performances. In keeping with tradition, no electric instruments are allowed on the stage.
Visitors can also see the A.P. Carter Cabin and Birthplace and visit an on-site museum that details the lives and musical accomplishments of the Carter family.
More on Virginia:
America’s cradle
Time-tested menus
Natural elegance
A family of note
