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Ring in the Holidays! 5 Festive Events to Attend in Roanoke County

As the crisp fall air gives way to the joyous spirit of the holidays, the city of Salem, VA transforms into a festive haven filled with charm, culture, and celebration. Whether you’re seeking handcrafted treasures, dazzling lights, or unique experiences, there’s something special waiting for everyone. From family-friendly parades to bustling markets, these holiday events offer a perfect opportunity to explore the vibrant community of Salem and its surrounding areas. Join us in embracing the magic of the season, where community, tradition, and holiday cheer come together to create unforgettable memories. more Discover Seasonal Joy in Salem, VA and Roanoke County Fall Poker Run for Charity November 16, 2024 Preceding the official start of the holiday season, the Fall Poker Run on November 16th from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM offers an exhilarating way to give back to the community. Participants begin their journey at the Virginia Museum of Transportation, collecting cards as they navigate scenic routes adorned with autumn’s vibrant foliage. The event culminates in an afterparty featuring food trucks, prizes, and live music on the Rail Yard Stage, creating a festive and rewarding experience for all. Proceeds from the Poker Run benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Roanoke, while a Thanksgiving food drive at the museum encourages additional acts of kindness. With its blend of adventure, camaraderie, and charity, this event sets the tone for a season of giving and joy. Holiday Night Market in Roanoke November 23, 2024 On November 23rd, the Holiday Night Market at the Historic Roanoke City Market offers a vibrant and festive shopping experience from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. As you stroll through the market, you’ll discover specialty vendors showcasing handmade crafts, holiday decor, and unique gifts ideal for the season. Live music by Jeff Todd adds to the cheerful ambiance, while Something Bubbly Mobile Bar serves complimentary hot chocolate to warm your hands and spirit. Children can participate in creative holiday crafts, ensuring fun for the whole family at this community-centered event. Located just a short drive from Salem, the market provides the perfect opportunity to kickstart your holiday season with charm and excitement. Lighting of the Christmas Tree and Holiday Parade December 6, 2024 The annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree on December 6th at 6:00 PM at the Salem Public Library serves as a radiant kickoff to the holiday festivities in downtown Salem. As the tree glows with thousands of twinkling lights, the community gathers to sing carols and share warm moments before the highly anticipated Salem Christmas Parade begins. This year’s parade, commencing at 6:15 PM on Main Street, promises a delightful display of festive floats, local marching bands, and Santa himself, spreading joy to attendees of all ages. The parade, organized by the Kiwanis Club of Salem, embodies the city’s dedication to fostering togetherness and holiday spirit. Don’t miss the chance to revel in this tradition, where nostalgia and excitement blend seamlessly under a canopy of glittering lights. Roanoke Symphony’s Holiday Pops December 6, 2024 Music lovers won’t want to miss the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops, a spectacular performance scheduled for December 6th at 7:30 PM at the Salem Civic Center. Experience the spirit of the holidays at Southwest Virginia’s biggest tradition, where the joyous sounds of the season come to life. This year’s concert features the incredible talent of American Idol star Michael Lynche, affectionately known as “Big Mike,” whose powerful vocals will resonate with the whole family. Joined by the RSO Chorus, guest choruses, the Roanoke Valley Children’s Choir, and led by conductor David Stewart Wiley, the evening promises a transformative celebration of holiday cheer. Gather your loved ones for an enchanting night of music that will bring everyone closer together, creating memories filled with joy and harmony. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and enjoy a performance that is sure to be a highlight of the season. Gingerbread Festival at the Salem Museum December 7, 2024 Get ready for a magical experience at the upcoming Gingerbread Festival, a fantastic Christmas celebration that promises to fill your heart with joy! Taking place on Saturday, December 7th from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, this enchanting event follows the Salem City Christmas Parade on December 6th, and will be hosted at the charming Longwood Park and Salem Museum. The festival boasts a lineup of heartwarming activities, including the En L’Air Academy of Dance and Acrobatics’ Christmas Festival Show and the all-new Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center Education Gingerbread Festival Program, making it an event not to be missed. Guests will delight in the Gingerbread House Competition, where local bakers showcase their intricate and imaginative creations that capture the holiday spirit in edible form. Beloved traditions such as the Marshmallow Roast, face painting, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus add to the festival's magical atmosphere. With festival vendors offering handcrafted treasures and sweet treats, this celebration is sure to leave everyone enchanted and brimming with holiday cheer. Salem Crafty Christmas at the Farmers Market December 7, 2024 The Salem Crafty Christmas, held on December 7th from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Salem Farmers Market, is a haven for shoppers seeking unique and locally made treasures. More than 40 artisans and vendors will present a dazzling array of items, including holiday greenery, handcrafted decor, and specialty food products such as baked goods and cheeses. As you wander through the market, you’ll feel the festive spirit come alive through the vibrant energy and creativity on display at every stall. This event not only supports local businesses but also allows visitors to find one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones, making holiday shopping an enjoyable and memorable experience. The market takes place right in the heart of Salem, so it’s an ideal spot to soak in the season’s cheer while ticking items off your gift list. Salem Holiday Market at the Civic Center December 13-15, 2024 The Salem Holiday Market, spanning December 13 th through the 15th, transforms the Salem Civic Center into a festive marketplace bursting with local talent and creativity. Featuring over 70 regional vendors, this two-day event highlights handmade crafts, delectable treats, and artisan goods that capture the essence of the holiday season. Shoppers are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items for donation to the Salem Roanoke Food Pantry, embracing the true spirit of giving during this joyous time. The market’s lively atmosphere, coupled with the opportunity to discover unique treasures, makes it a highlight of the holiday calendar. Whether you’re browsing for gifts or simply enjoying the festive vibes, this event is a celebration of community and creativity. Here at Hart Motors GMC, we invite you to immerse yourself in the spirit of the holidays with our beloved city of Salem, VA. From dazzling light displays to enchanting festivals and bustling markets, there’s something magical for everyone. Make this holiday season unforgettable by exploring the rich traditions and festivities that make Salem shine--and feel free to stop by our Salem GMC dealership to find the perfect vehicle for all of your holiday travels!

Make the Drive: 3 Favorite Hiking Trails and Walking Paths Near Salem, VA

Image via Pixabay There is a lot to love about living in Salem, VA. One of our favorite things about living in this beautiful city is the number of great places to walk safely and enjoy nature in the area. Read on if you are wondering which trails are worth checking out. Today, we're focusing on our favorite hiking trails and walking paths that you can drive to from Salem. more 1. Mason Creek Greenway One of the most popular walking paths in the area is the Mason Creek Greenway. You can find this one-mile one-way paved path behind the GE plant at 1501 Roanoke Blvd. If you usually take long trail hikes, you may doubt that the Mason Creek Greenway is worth checking out. We can assure you, though, that there is a lot you can see along this greenway. You can find workout equipment along the path, so you can work your lats or abs. There are also open fields that are great for soccer, lacrosse, or tossing the softball with your kids. Moreover, if you keep your eyes peeled, this is a great one-mile stretch for bird watching. Over 100 bird species have been documented along this greenway. 2. Hanging Rock Battlefield Trail Hanging Rock Battlefield Trail at 469 Kessler Mill Rd is also worth checking out. There are many points of interest along this trail, including a railroad trestle bridge, a low water bridge, and Hanging Rock. There are also several historical markers that you can stop and read that commemorate the Civil War skirmish that was fought at Hanging Rock. This one-way trail is 1.8 miles in one direction, and it is great for: Walking Cycling Dog walking Bird watching Jogging 3. Roanoke River Greenway You also can't go wrong hiking down a section of the Roanoke River Greenway. This paved greenway is nearly 10 miles long, and there are several access points. Our favorite access point is Green Hill Park at 2500 Green Hill Park Rd. Once you're done walking, there is a wide variety of outdoor activities you can enjoy. You can watch your kids play soccer, football, baseball, or softball or fish along a one-mile section of the Roanoke River. It is stocked with trout, and you may catch enough fish to grill at the park. There are many miles of beautiful trails and stroller-friendly paths within driving distance of Salem. However, you can't get there without a vehicle that won't let you down. If your current car has been letting you down a lot lately, consider upgrading to a 2023 GMC Terrain SLT. To take it for a test drive, visit us today at Hart Motors GMC.

4 Outdoor Activities You Can Drive to Near Salem, VA

Are you looking for the best outdoor activities near the Salem, VA, area? Start your search for warm-weather fun with this list of our four favorite ways to spend a day outside without straying too far from town. more 1. Green Hill Park One of the largest parks in the Roanoke County Park System, Green Hill Park in Salem is a common location for community events. Facilities here include a spacious open field, a 20-acre equestrian center, a covered picnic shelter, a playground, and athletic fields. While you're here, you can also fish for trout on the Roanoke River and access the paved multi-use Roanoke River Greenway Trail. Green Hill Park is located at 2501 Green Hill Park Rd. 2. Hanging Rock Battlefield Trail Explore this local rail trail in Salem, which has a cinder surface that's perfect for biking and hiking. As you traverse the nearly 2-mile route, you'll observe historical markers that highlight important aspects of the Civil War battle that occurred here at Hanging Rock. In addition to the rock itself, you can look for old loading platforms used to transport coal, a trestle bridge, and Mason Creek. Hanging Rock Battlefield Trail is also designated as an important spot for birdwatching by the Virginia Wildlife and Trail Guide. For a longer journey, you can access the nearby Hinchee Trail, which ascends about 2 miles up Brushy Mountain. The parking lot for the south end of the trail is located at the intersection of Branch Dr and Kessler Mill Rd. 3. Elmwood Park Located about 7 miles from Salem in Roanoke, Elmwood Park is a popular spot for summer concerts and festivals with its 4,000-seat amphitheater. It also has a fountain walk, an art walk with outdoor sculptures, and a playground. Check the official Elmwood Park calendar to learn about outdoor yoga classes, races, tours, and other community events. If you'd like to host a community event in the park, the city's event planners can help you get started. Elmwood Park is at 706 S Jefferson St. It's open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. 4. Moyer Park This local Salem park is a great place for a picnic lunch, especially if you reserve the covered shelter for a large group of family or friends. Moyer Park also has a skate park, a playground, horseshoe pits, and a basketball court for pick-up games. You'll find Moyer Park at 900 Union St. It's open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. You'll be able to bring the whole family, their sports equipment, your picnic gear, and more when you drive a GMC Yukon. Come to Hart Motors GMC today to see this spacious SUV in person.

Drive on Down: Find the Best Burgers Near Salem, VA

Salem, VA is home to some great places where you can stop and enjoy a comfort meal with friends and family. If you find yourself in the mood for a burger, hop in your 2023 GMC Sierra 1500, enjoy its available Super Cruise technology that will let you drive hands-free, and check out some of these places with the best burgers that are located near Salem! more 1. Mac and Bob's Mac and Bob's is located at 316 E Main St and is open daily for lunch and dinner. The restaurant has been a staple in Salem since 1980 and has served as the backdrop for high school and college reunions. Mac and Bob's specializes in American fare, and some of its available burgers include a bison burger, black and bleu burger, and a basic burger. 2. Chip and Jo's Chip and Jo's is located at 315 8th St and is open Monday-Saturday for breakfast and lunch and Monday-Friday for dinner. The restaurant serves breakfast all day and also offers a variety of burgers that are made using a hand-crafted sirloin beef patty and are served with lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo, and a pickle. Some of Chip and Jo's available burgers include a bacon Swiss burger, a mushroom Swiss burger, and a double cheeseburger. 3. AllSports Cafe AllSports Cafe is located at 152 E Main St and is open daily for lunch and dinner. The restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy award-winning food while watching an important sports game or singing some karaoke. Some of its available burgers include The Daytona, which is comprised of bacon, American cheese, and spicy Daytona sauce, and ​The Pete Rose, which is comprised of bacon, fried jalapeño peppers, and pimento cheese. 4. West Salem Diner West Salem Diner is located at 10 W Main St and is open daily for breakfast and lunch. The restaurant is located in a chic restored building and boasts a welcoming atmosphere. Some of its available burger options include its Smash Burger, which uses a typical beef patty, and its Jailbird burger, which features grilled chicken breast. If you're looking for a good side to pair with your burger, be sure to try the restaurant's onion rings or cucumber salad. 5. Angelle's Diner Angelle's Diner is located at 101 Wildwood Rd and is open Saturday and Sunday for breakfast and daily for lunch and dinner. The restaurant opened in January 2016 and has received great reviews from its customers ever since. Some of its burger offerings include a black and bleu burger, a prime rib burger, and a mushroom Swiss burger. If you're craving something sweet at the end of your meal, be sure to try Angelle's sweet potato maple. After you've enjoyed some fantastic food and conversation with loved ones, it's a great time to keep the positive momentum going by looking for a new car. Stop by Hart Motors GMC today and have a look at our selection of new and used GMC vehicles!

Drive on Down: 5 Tourist Attractions Near Salem, VA

Whether you're on a family excursion or taking a road trip along the scenic route of Blue Ridge Parkway, here are some tourist attractions you won't want to miss in Salem, VA. more 1. Salem Museum The free museum at 801 E Main Street strives to preserve over 300 years of the town's history. The permanent exhibit Through Their Eyes is an up close and personal look through the eyes of historical individuals as they experienced sixteen major events that helped shape Salem. The impact of the Civil War, the Flood of '85, and desegregation are witnessed through the narrative of folks who lived through these difficult times. The upcoming exhibit called Talk & Tour will share the findings of a genealogy research project that identified over 2,500 enslaved people in Roanoke County. The emotional revelations will be shared via a short documentary and a walking tour of the town's historic buildings. 2. Parkway Brewing Company Named after the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway highway, the small but mighty brewing company located at 739 Kessler Mill Road provides joy and tasty brews to visitors. Whether you take a tour or go straight to the tasting room, the atmosphere at Parkway's is laid-back and inviting. Alcohol is only intended for adults of legal drinking age. Please remember to drink responsibly and in moderation, and never drink and drive. The tasting room is a great place to relax with a fresh, delicious draft beer and watch the flames dance in the fireplace, or come on trivia night to show your prowess. Watch their website and social media for upcoming live music performers and a rotating list of food trucks! 3. Salem Civic Center Hop in your 2023 GMC Acadia Denali and drive down to 1001 Roanoke Blvd for exhibits like the Gem, Mineral, and Jewelry Show, which will feature the finest fossils, beads, and meteorites from around the world. Or create lifelong memories by watching Foreigner perform hits like Feels Like the First Time and Cold as Ice. 4. Dixie Caverns & Pottery Inc. Witness a stunning display of natural beauty in the caverns located at 5753 W Main Street, one of the few remaining caverns in western Virginia still open to the public. Behold the beauty by taking a 45-minute walking tour, or camp out at the nearby campground. 5. Thunder Valley For kid-friendly thrills, don't miss the family fun center at 1865 Dillard Drive. Equipped with attractions like mini golf, laser tag, arcade games, go-karts, and batting cages, there's something for everyone to enjoy. When you've learned something new or vibed to live music with like-minded strangers, stop by Hart Motors GMC to see what's in store!

4 Spring Activities Near Salem, VA

Are you looking to take advantage of the spring weather but don't want to go far? You're not alone. Fortunately, there is a lot happening in Salem, VA that has our attention. You won't need to drive far to take advantage of some great spring activities nearby. more 1. Dilly Dally Hummingbird Festival Celebrate springtime with outdoor activities, a vendors' market, and specials in the cafe. The backyard space will be used for the hummingbird festival at 1511 Eddy Ave. This is a kid-friendly event, so bring the whole family. Fortunately, admission is free. This event takes place between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm on Sunday, May 7th. It will be a great day to celebrate spring with the family. You'll love opening the sunroof in your 2023 GMC Terrain SLE and taking full advantage of the weather. 2. Ernest "Pig" Robertson Fishing Rodeo This fishing event is for kids only, though of course adults can come and watch the show. Admission is free from April 29th through May 6th from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm each day. Come to Lake Spring Park at 2 Green St to participate. This will be the 71st annual event for this local tradition. Children need to bring their own fishing equipment and may catch up to six trout during the event. Local businesses have donated prizes. The winner of the rodeo will receive prizes and a trophy. It's promising to be another fun year on the lake for our local kids. 3. Salem After Five: Domino Have you wondered what happens in the Farmer's Market space in the evenings? Well, on Friday, April 28th, it'll be live music, dancing, local vendors, and a lot of food. Come to 3 East Main St from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm to join the fun. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children 12 and under. Participating food trucks include Cabo Fish Taco, The Kettle Cooker Express, and Dale's Diner Express. There will be activities for children to participate in. Note that pets, outside food, and skateboards are not allowed. 4. Bike, Car, & Truck Show It's time for the FSRV Bike, Car, & Truck show in Salem. It will be the third time Salem has seen this annual event take place. This year it will be happening on May 13th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Admission is free for spectators so come on down to 1001 Roanoke Blvd to join the fun. The building is the Salem Civic Center. This event is fun for the whole family. There will be kids' activities, vendors, and over 100 awards given out to participants. Salem is up to a lot of fun this spring. It's a good time to start thinking about your next vehicle. Visit Hart Motors GMC now to see our selection of new cars.

Hit the Road: 3 Great Day Trips Near Salem, VA

Whether you're looking for a scenic drive, a fun and educational experience, or a chance to enjoy some outdoor recreation, there are plenty of great day trips to be found in and around Salem, VA. So, grab your friends and family and hit the road for a day of adventure and fun. more Dixie Caverns & Pottery Inc If you love to explore and are interested in seeing things that are, quite literally, out of this world, then you'll love Dixie Caverns. You'll have to drive about an hour from Salem to get to Dixie Caverns and Pottery Inc, but it's well worth the trip. This is a world-class show cave and pottery studio that's open year-round. Dixie Caverns is a great place to take the kids, as it's educational and very family-friendly. You can tour the cave and learn about its fascinating history, take a pottery class, and shop for souvenirs in the gift shop. You can even schedule a private party or event at the caverns! Dixie Caverns is located at 5753 W Main St, Salem. Lake Spring Park If you're looking for a scenic drive, Lake Spring Park is the perfect place to go. This beautiful, scenic park is located right beside Lake Smith and is a great place to go for a walk, hike, or bike ride. You can also fish in Lake Smith or enjoy a picnic while you listen to the sounds of the water. Lake Spring Park is also home to the only Virginia State Park Naturalist Program in the Roanoke Valley. The Naturalist Program offers a variety of lectures, workshops, and guided activities for all ages. These include Full Moons on the Lake, Stargazing, and Hot Air Balloon Rides. These events are offered seasonally, so be sure to check the calendar before you head out. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Located about an hour from Salem at 1235 Rd 888, Huddleston, Smith Mountain Lake State Park is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers a wide variety of outdoor recreation and is a great place to go boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, paddle boarding, and swimming. You can enjoy wildlife tours, walk nature trails, and even take a cruise. The park also has a campground with a variety of different campsites and facilities, including RVs and cabins. If you're lucky, you may even get to see the spectacular fall colors at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. So, don't wait another minute. Hit the road, explore the area around Salem, and enjoy a day trip like no other. With the increased fuel efficiency of the new GMC Acadia Denali, you can explore the island with a smaller environmental footprint! Stop by Hart Motors GMC and see what's in stock!

Take the Car and Check Out These 3 Pizza Joints Near Salem, VA

Pizza is a food that brings people together. Whether it's date night, friends getting together before the game, or a family day out, pizza is one of the most popular food choices. In Salem, VA, we're lucky to have a large selection of great pizza joints to visit. These are a few of our picks for the best pizza in town. more Lydia's Italian Kitchen Lydia's isn't one of the oldest restaurants in town, but it makes some of the tastiest pizza around. There are 11 basic pizzas available in 16". If you'd like something more personal, you can build your pizza in 10" or 16". Once you've chosen the size, it's time to select the ingredients to create your very own pizza masterpiece. Our favorite is the Tuscan pizza with artichokes, black olives, mushrooms, and roasted red peppers. It's also a perfect choice for our vegetarian friends. If you prefer a more meaty option, the barbecue chicken pizza with chicken and barbecue sauce hits the spot. You can try Lydia's pizzas for yourself by visiting them at 1713 Riverview Drive. Pappas Pizza Pappa's has a causal, friendly ambiance and some of the best pizzas in town. The cafe-style layout gives you a feeling of being in a New York pizzeria. When you walk in, you're greeted by a friendly smile and good service that prepares you for the pizza experience to come. They have fifteen signature pizzas and a choice of sizes of 10", 14", and 16". You can also choose gluten-free as an option, and your pizza will be prepared exactly as you want it. We like the supreme pizza with pepperoni, ham, sausage, onion, mushrooms, olives, and green peppers. Pappas can be found at 1951 Electric Road. Frank's Pizza Frank's is a relatively new addition to pizza joints in Salem, as they opened in 2008. Since then, they've been providing the community with amazing pizza and earning many loyal fans in the process. They've been nominated numerous times for their pizza. Their menu is comprised of fourteen main pizzas in a choice of four sizes. We love their hot honey pepperoni, made with a white base, goat cheese, caramelized onion, spicy pepperoni, hot honey, and topped with loads of fresh mozzarella. Frank's is located at 14 E Main Street. Round up the family, get behind the wheel of your 2022 GMC Terrain SLE, and head on out for some great pizza. The 60/40 split back seat has more than enough room for the kids, and the extra pizza or two you're guaranteed to bring back with you. On your way back from the pizza joint, come and see some of the accessories we have available for your car at Hart Motors GMC.

5 Fun Fall Activities in Driving Distance of Salem, VA

Salem, VA, is the place to be in the harvest season when festivities packed with fall activities are in full swing throughout the Shenandoah Valley between the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains. Take your family to join the festivities in a GMC Terrain or Acadia and go on hayrides, get lost in corn mazes, grape stomp, hunt for the best pumpkins, and enjoy delicious fall foods. more 1. Pumpkinfest Celebrate the harvest season at the annual Pumpkinfest at the end of October, held at the Salem Farmers Market on Main Street. Each year the Pumpkinfest is full of fall surprises, from giant inflatables and carnival games to the popular Surgeons vs. Chefs pumpkin carving contest. Dress the kids in their Halloween finest to trick or treat, buy farm-fresh produce and homemade baked goods, jellies, and jams, and eat fall eats and treats bursting with harvest goodness. 2. Harvest Homecoming Every year around the middle of October, the Virginia Museum of Transportation at 303 Norfolk Avenue SW in Roanoke hosts the festive Harvest Homecoming. It's a lovely family-friendly community evening by the tracks with games, live music, great food, and delicious fresh squeezed lemonade. 3. Vinton Fall Festival Celebrate the fall season in Vinton, just over nine miles away from Salem, at the annual Vinton Fall Festival. The downtown streets are lined with food and craft vendors. There's a pet contest and live entertainment on two stages. Pop in at the locally owned shops and enjoy fine dining at the downtown restaurants. 4. Moonlight Grape Stomp Take a 17-mile drive to AmRhein Wine Cellars at 9243 Patterson Drive in Bent Mountain for the annual Moonlight Grape Stomp around the end of September to celebrate a successful harvest and vintage on a real working farm. Enjoy delicious food, taste wine from the AmRhein Wine Cellars, listen to live music performed by local musicians, get cozy around the bonfire roasting s'mores, and join in the foot-stomping, grape-crushing festivities. 5. Sinkland Farms Pumpkin Festival The yearly Pumpkin Festival on Sinkland Farms at 3060 Riner Road in Christiansburg, 27 miles from Salem, is one of those fall festivals not to be missed. For six weekends, the farm is a hub of fall entertainment with hayrides to the ten-acre pumpkin patch, a challenging five-acre corn maze, horseback riding, pony rides, barrel train rides, giant slides, kiddie zip line, and face painting. There are arts and crafts vendors, blacksmith demonstrations, delicious fall foods, and local bands playing on the stage. The festivities usually begin around September 23 and continue through the end of October. In fall, it can get chilly in the valley, so grab a warm sweater, head outside to join in the festivities, and have loads of fall fun with your family and friends. Stop at Hart Motors GMC today for top-quality vehicles, expert maintenance and repairs, and exceptional customer service.

4 Great Ice Cream Places within Driving Distance of Salem, VA

Salem, VA is home to a variety of delicious locations to grab a sweet treat with those you love. During those times when you've had a hard work week and could really use a cool treat to boost your mood, take your 2022 GMC Canyon for a spin, enjoy its leather-appointed seating that is both classy and comfortable, and go check out some of these great ice cream places that are in driving distance of Salem! more 1. Champloo Desserts Champloo Desserts is open daily and is the go-to eatery for handcrafted rolled scoops, boba teas, lattes, and smoothies. The shop has the goal of continuing to grow so it can make life sweeter for everyone, and serves rolled scoops that are inspired by Thailand. Available rolled scoop flavors include cookies n' cream, cinnamon rolls, birthday cake, and Thai tea. If you're in the mood for something fruity, consider trying Champloo's peach cobbler rolled scoop. 2. Dilly Dally Dilly Dally prides itself on serving the best scoops and hot dogs in the valley and is open Tuesday-Sunday. The shop's menu includes scoops, shakes and sundaes, baked sweets, hot dogs and sandwiches, homemade deli salads and spreads, and candy. Available scoop flavors include yellow cake batter, no-sugar-added butter pecan, Nana's banana pudding, chocolate, and vanilla. Available shake flavors include peanut butter and banana and birthday cake. 3. Kelly Cafe Kelly Cafe is open Thursday-Sunday and serves amazing homemade treats. The shop's menu includes blended or iced bubble tea, gelato cups, gelato cones, frozen pops, gelato sandwiches, coffee and drinks, and specialties. Kelly Cafe's available gelato flavors rotate weekly, with past flavors including cookies and cream, butterscotch, pineapple sorbet, and coffee. If you're more in the mood for something to sip on, consider ordering the shop's green apple bubble tea. 4. Katie's Katie's is open daily and specializes in scoops, chocolate, and candy. The shop's menu includes cones, shakes, floats, banana splits, yogurt, sundaes, drinks, Klondikes, and smoothies. Available toppings that you can add to your creation include brownie, nuts, hot fudge, peanut butter, chocolate, strawberry, caramel, and pineapple. If you have a little one with you, consider ordering Katie's junior yogurt, junior sundae, or a to-go quart you can share with the whole family. Now that you've made your day a little more sweet, why not make it even sweeter by looking for the new car you've been thinking about purchasing? Stop by Hart Motors GMC today and have a look at our inventory of new and pre-owned GMC vehicles! Our dealership was founded in 1937 and has been exceeding customers' expectations ever since by providing friendly and helpful customer service.

Make the Drive: 3 Amazing State Parks Near Salem, VA

Located at the foothills of the Roanoke Valley in western Virginia, the city of Salem, VA is surrounded by rugged scenery, beautiful nature reserves, and plenty of nearby destinations where you can enjoy your favorite outdoor activities with your family or a group of friends. If you are planning a trip around the region, here are three fantastic state parks you can reach in less than two hour's drive from the city center. more 1. Claytor Lake State Park Sitting on the shores of an artificial reservoir fed by the New River, Claytor Lake State Park is a popular destination among Salem residents. Covering an area of a little over 470 acres, this nature reserve is managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and is open to visitors year-round between 6:00 am and 10:00 pm. Claytor Lake State Park is located about 40 miles southwest of downtown Salem and can be reached in just 45 minutes by car via route I-81. Some of the attractions you can find here include a full-service marina, a visitor center, a swimming beach, interpretive programs, and public boat launches. Although this place can be easily visited as part of a day trip, camping areas and lakeside cabins are available for rent 2. Douthat State Park Located about 50 miles north of the Salem city center, Douthat State Park is a sprawling nature reserve that can be reached in about one hour by car via route US-220. Developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this public recreation area sits in the heart of the Allegheny Mountain range and offers a plethora of activities for nature lovers. Encompassing an area of over 4,500 acres, Douthat State Park is a wonderful destination for hiking and mountain biking, boasting an extensive network of well-maintained trails. Other popular activities among visitors include swimming, boating, fishing, selective hunting, and picnicking. A true paradise for birders and wildlife photographers, this place provides habitat to several species of birds and mammals. 3. Natural Bridge State Park An expansive nature reserve known for its impressive 215-foot-high natural limestone arch, this state park was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997 and is a fantastic destination to spend a day or a weekend away from the city. Besides the famous arch, this place also features scenic waterfalls and several hiking trails. Getting here from Salem takes about 40 minutes via route I-81. With a powerful V8 engine and intelligent 4WD, the 2023 GMC Yukon is a great vehicle to explore the most remote nature reserves in Virginia and beyond. Visit us today at Hart Motors GMC and check out this and other fantastic new and pre-owned models we have available for you.

3 Fun Summertime Activities in Driving Distance of Salem, VA

As the weather warms while the kids are out of school, summertime can be a fun time to get outside and enjoy activities you may not have tried. Here are some fun summertime activities within driving distance of Salem, VA, that are sure to get you closer to nature. more Lake Spring Park Lake Spring Park is an outdoor recreation area located in the mountains of Hardy County. It's located at the base of Sharp Top Mountain and is the perfect place to spend a day or weekend with family and friends. Lake Spring Park offers many different types of activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking/canoeing, horseback riding, and more! You'll find yourself surrounded by beautiful scenery as you explore this park. There are many different trails that take visitors on a journey through meadows and forests where they can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Green Hill Park Green Hill Park is a fun and educational place to visit with your kids. There are plenty of opportunities for them to learn about nature, play outside and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The park has an old-fashioned playground for kids as well as swings, slides, and other equipment. There are also several walking trails that wind through the woods, which you can hike with your family. The park also has picnic tables where you can sit down and enjoy a meal together. Green Hill Park is located in Fairfax County, just off Route 50 near Salem. It's open daily from sunrise to sunset throughout the year, except during inclement weather or when the gates are closed due to flooding or excessive snowfall in the winter months. Smith Mountain Lake State Park The Smith Mountain Lake State Park is less than an hour away from Salem and offers something different for everyone. With over 3,000 acres of land and water, it is one of the most beautiful spots in Virginia. The park has something for everyone: hiking trails, fishing piers, swimming beaches, canoeing/kayaking areas, bike paths, and much more! The park also offers accommodations at several cabins and campgrounds with amenities such as outdoor grills, fireplaces, and picnic tables. There are also some larger cabins that can accommodate up to 8 people each. Whether you are headed to one of the locations above, taking the kids to school, or even running your weekly errands, you need a car that can withstand. With the lane keep assist of the GMC Terrain SLE, you can safely navigate any area. Stop by Hart Motors GMC to help you find the perfect car for your lifestyle.

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