The Museum of Appalachia tells the story of our pioneer forebears, in their own words and through the artifacts they left behind. Built over a span of 40 years, this authentic replica of mountain life includes historic log buildings, display halls filled with authentic artifacts, and gardens & farm animals in a picturesque setting surrounded by split-rail fences. Cabins are furnished as if the family had just stepped out to work in the fields or go to Sunday meetings.

The Museum, a non-profit organization, has gained worldwide renown for its extensive collections and personalized exhibits. In 2007, the Museum became an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. Today the Museum continues its mission to “preserve the past for the future” by collecting and conserving the artifacts of times past, and by providing educational programs and events to teach and enrich lives.

A large craft and gift shop at the Museum features handiwork from regional artisans, and a small restaurant offers hot lunches, fresh-from-the-garden vegetables, and home-style desserts. Facilities are available for weddings, reunions, corporate meetings, and other events. The Museum of Appalachia offers indoor and outdoor wedding venues. They have large open fields allowing for unlimited seating, rustic structures for pictorial backdrops and a spacious banquet hall that comfortably seats 225 and features a large stone fireplace.