Goodview, Virginia, is home to about 4,700 residents in the southwestern part of Bedford County near Smith Mountain Lake. Its name appears in records from the late 19th century, a time when the area’s economy depended on farming and shipping. Over time, the mix of farmland and lake access shaped the community’s development and character. Goodview’s location offers the benefit of being within an hour’s drive of Roanoke and Lynchburg. Residents can attend concerts, theater productions, and museum exhibits in those cities without giving up their quieter surroundings. Closer to home, local parks, trails, and the lake provide ways to stay active year-round.

The area’s history shows how Bedford County shifted from a rural, agriculture-based economy to one that also includes recreation and tourism. Late-1800s maps reveal small settlements connected by dirt roads, with nearby rail lines vital for moving crops and goods. The creation of Smith Mountain Lake in the 1960s brought a new chapter, attracting fishing, boating, and seasonal visitors. Families who once focused only on farming began guiding boat tours, renting lake houses, and supplying services tied to water activities, adding new layers to local life.

Businesses in Goodview reflect both the area’s traditions and newer ventures. Pet Paradise, Inc., offers pet boarding, grooming, and training, serving residents as well as travelers visiting the lake. Huddleston Grocery & Farm Supply has been serving the Goodview area since 1987, providing both grocery items and farm essentials in one location. The store offers everything from fresh produce and pantry staples to feed, tools, and fuel.

Food in Goodview ranges from hearty comfort meals to quick family outings. Mill Iron Grill serves items like smoked brisket and seasoned wings that keep regulars coming back. Jake’s Place Restaurant offers meals such as fried catfish and homemade meatloaf, popular with those fresh off the lake or on a lunch break. For a more casual mix of food and entertainment, Hot Shots Family Fun Center serves burgers, pizza, and ice cream alongside arcade games and miniature golf, making it a choice for both kids and adults.

Outdoor activities are a major draw in the area. Smith Mountain Lake has over 500 miles of shoreline and is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Local marinas rent boats and sell gear, making it easy to get on the water. Away from the lake, quiet country roads provide routes for cycling and photography, especially during autumn. Public lake access areas allow for swimming and picnicking, and fishing trips target striped bass, largemouth bass, and crappie.

Community events in Goodview are tied to the seasons. Summer fishing tournaments and lakefront fireworks bring out both residents and visitors. The Moneta/Smith Mountain Lake Library Summer Farmers Market runs weekly through August, offering fresh produce and locally made goods. The Vinton Farmers Market operates several days a week year-round, with vendors selling regional foods and crafts. In the fall, farms open pumpkin patches and run hayrides, while winter features church bazaars and craft fairs with handmade quilts, woodwork, and preserves.

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