Wainwright & Co. Realtors

Rocky Mount, VA Area Guide

Rocky Mount, Virginia is nestled among the peaceful rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is bordered by farmlands and forested ridges.  The town is a government and business center, and has been the seat of Franklin County since it was established in 1786. 

Settlers first arrived in Rocky Mount in 1760, and the town was named after a steep cliff located nearby.  Originally the area included two villages that were side by side, Rocky Mount and Mount Pleasant.  In 1873, Rocky Mount absorbed Mount Pleasant completely and the current town boundaries were created.

The community is dotted with charming neighborhoods, churches, thriving business districts, and plenty of winding roads.  Here the county courthouse is a prominent local landmark, and Rocky Mount provides a variety of services for smaller rural towns due to its proximity to Roanoke, Virginia, Greensboro, North Carolina, and the majestic Smith Mountain Lake.

Community Features

There are plenty of activities to enjoy here in Rocky Mount!  The open air Farmers’ Market offers fresh produce and home made items, and there is a hospitality center available for first-time visitors.  The town comes complete with a variety of dining options from fast food to gourmet to down-home Southern cooking, and there are plenty of choices for overnight accommodations as well including hotels, motels, and romantic bed and breakfasts.  Cultural attractions include our history museum and an annual bus tour that highlights interesting historical points around town.  There are also several live music events that take place throughout the year, as Rocky Mount is the eastern gateway to the Virginia Heritage Music Trail.  Other recreational activities include dinner theatre, paddle boats, and the annual river ramble.

For more information about Rocky Mount Parks and Recreation, please visit  
http://www.franklincountyva.org/parks/index.htm

For information about Smith Lake Mountain, please visit
http://smith-mountain-lake.com