Town of Big Stone Gap

Big Stone Gap is a little town with a big story!

In the heart of Appalachia lies Big Stone Gap. Founded in 1856, Big Stone Gap represents quintessential Southern charm. Considered a small town, with a population of roughly 5,700, Big Stone Gap allows residents and visitors the opportunity to step back into old Americana—when life was simpler and land was abundant. 

The inspiration for the novel, Big Stone Gap, by Adriana Trigiani, shows that good old-fashioned southern hospitality and a warm sense of humor aren’t simply works of fiction in this lovely, Victorian-era town. Many of the town’s attractions are featured in Trigiani’s books, Big Stone Gap, Big Cherry Holler and Milk Glass Moon. In 2013 Adriana brought this historic town to the big screen with the filming of Big Stone Gap, the movie. The movie was filmed totally on location and premiered at the 2014 Virginia Film Festival. The movie opens in theaters Oct. 9, 2015.

Stop by the Tourist Info Center and pick up your free map to the novel’s and movie’s settings when you come to town! Take the self-guided walking/driving tour and immerse yourself in the experience.