The Galax Smokehouse

101 N Main St, Galax, VA 24333

Hours

Open Tuesday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Closed Sunday & Monday

About

The Galax Smokehouse has been serving pit-style BBQ since February 28, 2003, earning rave reviews from locals and vacationers.

Located in the heart of downtown Galax, this beloved establishment is known for its mouth-watering smoked meats and welcoming atmosphere.

The secret to top-quality barbecue is slow-cooking over hickory wood. This is exactly what The Galax Smokehouse does! They use this time-honored technique to smoke St. Louis-style ribs, pulled pork, Texas Beef Brisket, smoked chicken, and even burgers.

Another necessity for authentic Southern BBQ is the sauces, and The Galax Smokehouse offers five house-made "secret sauces." Choose from Sweet BBQ, House BBQ, Mustard BBQ, Mountain BBQ (a unique sweet-n-spicy), or Lexington-style BBQ.

While many Southern BBQ joints are roadside shanties, this eatery sits on a downtown corner. But don't let the location fool you into thinking it doesn't serve authentic barbecue, because it does!

A perk of being in the city is that it's close to other Galax attractions like the Rex Theater, which allows you to plan a dinner before or after a music concert.

Vibe

When you venture into this BBQ joint, you'll be impressed by the roadhouse vibe, the sweet scent of hickory-smoked meats, and the friendly atmosphere.

Unlike many BBQ spots, this eatery has plenty of room for diners, whether you choose any of the tables or sit at the small bar. This much space makes it perfect for families or even large groups needing to pull tables together.

The fire-engine-red painted walls are covered with photos of local and national music stars. There are also images of Galax buildings, local sports teams, and much more. Part of the joy of dining here is examining the pictures that tell a tale of Galax and the people who call it home.

The ceiling sports an industrial look with gun-metal gray tiles, duct work, and ceiling fans. But instead of making the room feel cold, it contrasts the vibrancy of the walls, focusing the eye on what's most important: food and companionship.

Whether you're having a family dinner, a casual lunch with friends, or a quick bite, The Galax Smokehouse's ambiance creates a satisfying and soulful dining experience.

The Galax Smokehouse: Menu & Drinks

While ambiance and history are essential to a restaurant, the litmus test is the food. The Galax Smokehouse passes this with flying colors.

One standout Southern BBQ classic dish is the Pulled Pork Plate. The meat is slow-cooked for hours over hickory wood, which makes it tender, juicy, and packed with smoky goodness. It's served with a generous heap of homemade coleslaw and baked beans, giving you the perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Another must-try is the Beef Brisket, a quintessential Texas delicacy. The beef is smoked to a melt-in-your-mouth perfection. This meal comes with creamy mac and cheese and tangy pickles.

For a unique taste, try the St. Louis-style Ribs, slow-cooked until they're fall-off-the-bone tender. They are glazed with the signature barbecue sauce and served with crispy French fries and cornbread. It's the perfect meal to get you ready for toe-tapping fun at the Blue Ridge Music Center.

The drink selection is equally impressive, with teas, soft drinks, and draft beers, proving there's something for everyone at this BBQ joint.

When your Blue Ridge Parkway vacation calls for authentic Southern BBQ, visit The Galax Smokehouse.

Local Tips

  • Make sure to arrive early on weekends to beat the crowds.
  • Ask about daily specials. Parking can be tricky in downtown Galax; plan accordingly.
  • Order carry-out for a picnic or a meal back at your Casago rental.
  • Check their Facebook page for specials and menu updates.

Location

101 N Main St, Galax, VA 24333

Frequently Asked Questions

If you only have one day to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, we have a top-notch recommendation for you: Primland Resort and Spa. This isn’t just an ordinary resort; it’s a destination that has been carefully curated to offer an unparalleled experience, as evidenced by its impressive 4.8-star Google rating.

Primland Resort and Spa is located right in the heart of the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s not just about the location, though; it’s about the experience. From the moment you step foot onto the property, you’re enveloped in a blend of rustic charm and refined luxury that makes for an unforgettable visit.

The resort offers a wide array of activities tailored to suit all interests and age groups. For the golf enthusiasts, there’s the award-winning Highland Course, ranked as the #1 course in Virginia by Golf Digest. For the nature lovers, there are horseback riding and ATV tours that let you explore the beautiful surroundings in a fun and engaging manner.

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And let’s not forget about the culinary delights. With multiple eateries serving up a variety of dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, your taste buds are in for a treat.
So, if you’re looking for a one-day itinerary that seamlessly combines adventure, relaxation, and gastronomic delights, Primland Resort and Spa is the place to be. Don’t just take our word for it—we invite you to experience it for yourself.

The New River Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. According to sources like dcr.virginia.gov, traillink.com, and roadslesstraveled.us, the trail spans an impressive 57.5 miles, starting from E Main St/VA 99 & Xaloy Way in Pulaski and ending at T George Vaughan Jr Ave in Galax.

This trail isn’t just about distance, though. It’s about the journey. As you embark on this trail, you’ll find yourself meandering through four counties and the city of Galax, as per blueridgeparkway.org. The trail parallels the historic New River for 39 scenic miles, offering a unique blend of forested mountains and pastoral valleys that create a visual feast for the eyes.

But the benefits of this trail extend beyond its stunning landscapes. The New River Trail State Park is a hub of activities, with options for biking, hiking, and camping, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The changing of the leaves along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a breathtaking event that attracts countless visitors each year. This natural spectacle begins at the highest elevations in late September, soon after the first calendar days of fall.

The timing and intensity of the color change can differ from year to year and are affected by varying factors such as temperature and rainfall. However, the general pattern is that leaves change color at higher, cooler elevations first. The elevation along the Parkway ranges from over 6,000 feet at Richland Balsam in North Carolina down to just 649 feet near James River in Virginia.

This beautiful autumn leaf show typically starts in early October in the highest elevations above 5,000 feet and gradually descends to lower elevations by late October or early November. In fact the Farmers Almanac, projects peak fall color for the inland portion of Virginia to occur between October 12-28.

So, if you’re planning a trip to witness the stunning fall colors of the Blue Ridge Parkway, aim for these dates. But remember, the beauty of nature is unpredictable and can surprise you at any time. So, pack your camera and hiking boots, and get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of autumn on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

More questions

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