Blue Ridge Parkway Journeys

Blue Ridge Parkway Destination CenterAfter a beautiful drive from Boone, I finally reached the Blue Ridge Parkway Destination Center. The first thing I notice is the plants growing on the roof, and find out later how it’s called a “green roof”.

Information inside tells how their roof is layered with soil and plants. Green roofs help in absorbing rainwater, providing insulation, and creating a habitat for animals.

Walking inside was like walking into a history museum of the Parkway. But not just any old museum, this one was interactive and interesting. When younger people think of museums they think of strictly history with no hands-on exhibits.

Every station I stopped at stole my attention. Even up until it closed for the day, there were children inside begging their parents to stay longer so they could play.

Two of the stations had wooden pieces for children to pick up and make something. History about the trains of the area was paired with a build-your-own train track out of wooden pieces.

Next to this, was a huge photograph of a view from one of the many Parkway overlooks. The activity was called “Frame your Own View”. Here, children or adults chose which wooden pieces with scenes on them they wanted to place in the frame to create their own view.

The Destination center also had a theatre. One film was shown every hour throughout the day. This film, called “The Blue Ridge Parkway-America’s Favorite Journey” was my favorite part of my time at the center.

The film reminded me of why I came to the Destination Center in the first place, and my love for the Blue Ridge Parkway. It touched on many topics such as Appalachian music, artisans in the area, and the history of the parkway.