H L Bonham Regional Tourism & Development

The H. L. Bonham Regional Tourism & Development center, operating from a historic house in Chilhowie, Virginia, presents a unique model that blends the functions of a tourist information center with those of a local museum. Located at 408 Whitetop Road, this establishment serves as a primary contact point for travelers venturing into Smyth County and the broader Virginia Mountains region. Its dual purpose offers a distinct experience, but it also comes with a specific set of advantages and disadvantages that potential visitors should consider in their travel planning.

A Dual-Purpose Destination: Agency and Museum

Unlike a conventional travel agency focused solely on transactions like hotel bookings or arranging vacation packages, the Bonham Tourism Center functions more as a regional welcome hub. Its primary role is to equip visitors with the knowledge and resources needed to appreciate the surrounding area, which includes the towns of Chilhowie, Saltville, and Marion. The staff provides maps, brochures, and personalized recommendations for local attractions, lodging, and dining, making it an essential first stop for those unfamiliar with this part of Southwest Virginia.

What sets this center apart is its housing within the H. L. Bonham House, a Colonial Revival home built in 1911 and listed on the National Historic Register. This transforms the center from a simple office into a destination in its own right. The house itself is a museum, preserving the legacy of Hezekiah Love Bonham, a key figure in the region's apple industry. Visitors can tour the well-preserved rooms and view exhibits detailing the history of the Bonham family and the broader development of Smyth County. This integration of local history provides a rich context for tourists, connecting them to the area's heritage before they even begin their journey. The exhibits cover a wide range of local topics, from prehistoric findings like woolly mammoths to the area's role in industry and culture.

Strengths of the H. L. Bonham Center

The establishment has several key attributes that make it a valuable resource for travelers.

• Strategic and Accessible Location: Situated just off Interstate 81 at Exit 35, the center is exceptionally convenient for road trippers. Its visibility and ease of access from a major transportation artery make it a logical and low-effort stop for anyone passing through the region, encouraging spontaneous visits and information gathering.
• In-Depth Local Expertise: As a dedicated regional center, the information provided is highly specialized. This is not a generic service offering broad advice; instead, it's a focused operation managed by people with deep knowledge of Smyth County's attractions. This makes it an ideal partner for planning customized tours or engaging in specific activities like adventure travel, such as hiking in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area or fly fishing.
• Added Value of a Museum: The historical setting is a significant draw. Rather than just collecting pamphlets in a sterile office, visitors can immerse themselves in local history. The 1911 house, with its original woodwork and decorative details, offers a tangible connection to the past. This dual function elevates the visitor experience and makes the stop more memorable.
• Comprehensive Resources: The center is well-stocked with practical resources, including maps and guides for various local points of interest. Recently, the Smyth County Chamber of Commerce also opened a gift shop inside, offering locally sourced products like honey and apple butter, as well as Virginia-themed merchandise, which adds another layer of local flavor and convenience for visitors.
• Accessibility: With a wheelchair-accessible entrance, the center ensures that its facilities and information are available to all visitors, which is a crucial aspect of modern hospitality.

Significant Weaknesses and Considerations

Despite its strengths, the H. L. Bonham Regional Tourism & Development center has operational limitations that can pose significant challenges for potential visitors.

• Highly Restrictive Operating Hours: The most critical drawback is its schedule. The center is only open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays and is closed entirely on Saturdays and Sundays. This schedule is fundamentally misaligned with the travel patterns of most tourists, who are most likely to be exploring the area and in need of information during the weekend. This weekend closure can be a source of major inconvenience and frustration, forcing travelers to either plan their visit meticulously for a weekday or miss out on this resource altogether.
• Information Center, Not a Booking Agency: Travelers expecting a full-service tour operator that handles reservations and bookings will find the services here different. The center's role is primarily informational. While they provide the necessary details for travel planning, visitors are generally expected to make their own arrangements for lodging, tours, and other activities. It acts more as a destination management company on a local level, promoting the area rather than selling specific packages.
• Potential for Static Information: While the staff is a source of dynamic, up-to-date advice, the physical materials like brochures and exhibits can sometimes lag behind the fast-changing schedules and offerings of local businesses. Visitors should always be encouraged to cross-reference information, such as opening times for attractions or restaurants, with online sources or by calling ahead.

The Ideal Visitor Profile

This center is best suited for travelers who arrive in the Chilhowie area on a weekday and are at the beginning of their trip. It is particularly valuable for those who prefer a deliberate and informed approach to their travels, including families, history enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers looking for detailed maps and local tips. The museum aspect makes it a worthwhile stop even for those who are just passing through and want a brief, educational break from driving. However, weekend travelers or those who need on-the-spot assistance on a Saturday or Sunday will unfortunately find its doors closed and will need to rely on other resources for their information needs.