Celebrate Buena Vista

Nestled on the western slope of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the southwestern corner of Rockbridge County, Virginia, Buena Vista is an area of great natural beauty. It is bounded by the Maury River on the west, a major tributary of the James River. Partially surrounded by the Jefferson and George Washington National Forests, the area offers numerous outdoor activities, including canoeing, kayaking, tubing, hunting, fishing, and hiking. The city's own Glen Maury Park is a 315-acre jewel, offering camping, golfing and other recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Buena Vista is located six miles east of Lexington, three miles east of Interstate 81,and four miles west of the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is easily accessed from the east or west by U.S. Route 60 and is the beginning point for U.S. Route 501 as it winds its way southward to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It is the home of Southern Virginia University.

As beautiful as it is however, being located next to a river at the foot of the mountains can have dire consequences. Over the years, Buena Vista has been hit hard by several devastating floods and although it had long been the industrial nucleus of Rockbridge County, many factories have closed. In spite of those setbacks, the spirit of the people has endured. It is still an area of breathtaking beauty and amazing views. In spite of the rough times of the past, Buena Vista has the opportunity to reinvent itself, utilizing its assets, heritage, resources, and strengths. Today, city officials, citizens and businesses are working together to make the most of that opportunity. Celebrate Buena Vista recognizes the potential for economic, business and social growth within the community. It is a volunteer grassroots organization working to achieve change, by promoting programs and events relating to the overall image of the community, including physical beautification, the arts, public relations, and coordination and promotion of volunteers and volunteerism.