Independence Day Getaway

Photo Credit: Belcher Images

In our mountain town, July brings lazy floats down the Clinch River, summer celebrations and long, golden-hour sunsets. In other words: it’s the perfect time to get away!

To help you make the most of it, we’ve created the ideal Fourth of July itinerary for a relaxing and fun-filled Independence Day right here in St. Paul, Virginia. It’s part history, part small-town festivity, part river adventure — and all fun. So, pack your bags and prepare to discover all that our little town has to offer. Read on for the details of your three-day Fourth of July getaway!

Photo Credit: Western Front Hotel

July 3: Step into History at the Western Front Hotel

The hub for your Independence Day stay? The Western Front Hotel, a charming boutique hotel steeped in history.

In its coal-mining days, St. Paul was known as the “Western Front,” which is where the hotel gets its name. Check into your room in the historic Willis Building, a former community hub where teachers once boarded. Built nearly a century ago, the hotel provides a true window into the past — with former doors transformed into headboards and original wood repurposed into bunk beds, nightstands and dining tables. Yet you’ll also find modern conveniences to make your stay smooth and hassle-free: high-speed Wi-Fi, walk-in glass showers and even ATV rentals for exciting mountain adventures.

After settling in, grab dinner at Puerto Nuevo, the hotel restaurant (and a local favorite). Enjoy Tex-Mex specials, fresh seafood, margaritas and a fun salsa bar. One of our top dishes? The Hawaiian fajitas!

Photo Credit: Alex Veatch

July 4: Celebrate Your Independence & Cool Down in the Pool

What’s better than watermelon, cake, bingo and fireworks? How about a free pool day!

Join us in downtown St. Paul for an unforgettable Fourth of July celebration. Enjoy family-friendly entertainment all afternoon and evening with live music, a DJ and delicious eats from local food trucks. Participate in the cake walk, try your luck at bingo and when the heat gets too much, cool off in the pool — free of charge in honor of Independence Day! Cap off the festivities with a spectacular fireworks display for the grand finale.

Photo Credit: Clinch River Adventures

July 5: Float the Day Away with Clinch River Adventures

Take the morning slow, and when you’re ready to venture out, choose your breakfast spot. If you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked meal, Mamaw’s Cafe is the place for biscuits and gravy, French toast or a towering stack of pancakes. If you prefer lighter bites, the Coffee Station offers a variety of options, including homemade granola bars, muffins and more. Tired after last night’s festivities? A Clinch River Red Eye is the perfect way to jumpstart your day on the water!

Once you’ve fueled up, grab your sunscreen and towel and make your way to Clinch River Adventures for a self-guided kayaking or tubing trip. Sit back and relax as you float through the natural beauty of the Clinch River Valley. Keep an eye out for wildlife. Soak up the sun — or stay close to the riverbanks and catch a little shade. Enjoy the gentle rapids and take the journey at your own pace.

When you return to town, pizza’s up at Giovanni’s Pizza on 4th Avenue! For over 40 years, Giovanni’s has been serving up pizzas, sandwiches and salads with fresh veggies, premium meats and their signature dough recipe. It’s the perfect way to end a day spent in the mountains.

July 6: Until Next Time, St. Paul!

On your final morning in St. Paul, enjoy a delightful breakfast pail from the Western Front Hotel, featuring fresh fruit and other treats to start your day. As your Independence Day getaway winds down, don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the two love signs — one right in our backyard and the other against the stunning backdrop of the Clinch River.

We hope you’ll return soon for more mountain adventures, small-town charm and the rich cultural heritage that makes Southwest Virginia so magical. Until then, we’ll be here, ready and waiting to welcome you back to the mountains!