With some awesome road trip options in the surrounding area, renting a car makes sense. Without one, it’d be much harder to soak up all that Abingdon, 25 miles away, has to offer. Virginia Creeper Trail Abingdon, Barter Theatre and Abingdon Courthouse alone justify the drive out here. Situated 30 miles away, Banner Elk is another popular destination. If you stop by, be sure to check out Sugar Mountain Resort, Grandfather Mountain and Beech Mountain Resort.