Long before Radford was a city, it was a crossing point on the New River known as Lovely Mount and later Ingles Ferry. In the mid-1700s, Mary Draper Ingles returned to this spot after her escape from Shawnee captivity and, with her husband, established a ferry service. This crossing became part of the Wilderness Road, carrying settlers and traders westward. The New River’s bend and the surrounding hills shaped where the early town took root, and traces of those beginnings still remain in its historic structures and street layout. The city’s history is preserved in landmarks like the Glencoe Museum, an 1870s Victorian mansion that now houses exhibits on Radford’s railroad past, Mary Draper Ingles’ story, and regional culture. The West Radford Commercial Historic District holds rows of late-19th and early-20th-century buildings, their facades recalling a time when rail and river trade kept the streets busy.

Today Radford has an estimated population of about 17,500. The geography is defined by the New River, which borders it on three sides. Rolling foothills frame the water, and neighborhoods rise along gentle slopes above the floodplain. This setting provides natural space for recreation while keeping the city’s size manageable.

Radford University plays a major role in local culture. Founded in 1910, the school brings galleries, theater productions, concerts, and athletic events to the city. The Dedmon Center arena hosts university sports and community events, while campus venues often open to the public for performances, lectures, art exhibitions, film screenings, and seasonal festivals that draw visitors from across the New River Valley. The university also partners with local organizations to host workshops and youth programs, further connecting students and residents. Its year-round schedule of activities ensures there is nearly always something to experience, whether indoors or outdoors.

Outdoor life in Radford centers on the river. Kayaking, canoeing, and tubing are common in warm weather, and anglers cast for smallmouth bass and muskellunge. Birders visit year-round, with four stops on the Lower New River Loop of Virginia’s Birding Trail offering sightings of more than 200 species. The New River’s unique geography, nearly encircling the city, contributes to both its scenery and its wildlife diversity.

Radford’s businesses thrive. Winterfrost Farm offers horseback riding lessons, guided trail rides, and children’s parties with rescue horses, combining recreation with education. The YMCA Thrift Shop in Radford offers gently used clothing, furniture, books, and household items at affordable prices. Proceeds support local YMCA programs, making it both a place to find bargains and a way to give back to the community.

Dining options reflect the city’s blend of college town and river community. Sal’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria serves New York–style pizza, garlic knots, pasta dishes, and specialty subs in a relaxed setting. Tha’ Dawg House in Radford is a casual eatery specializing in hot dogs with a variety of toppings, along with burgers, fries, and other comfort foods. Popular with students and locals, it’s known for friendly service, quick meals, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere near the heart of town. 

Just as these restaurants keep people well-fed, other services in Radford focus on keeping their homes in top shape. Star City Crawl Space provides crawl space cleaning, drainage solutions, vapor barrier installation, and mold removal, helping protect properties from moisture damage and supporting healthier, more energy-efficient living environments year-round. Contact us today for a free estimate.