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AdventureWorks: An Outdoor Economy Summit

Exploring the intersection of outdoor recreation, tourism, economic development, and higher education.

Adventure Works Logo

AdventureWorks is an outdoor economy summit hosted by Radford University, celebrating its designation as Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine's Top Adventure College.

This inaugural event brings together community leaders, outdoor businesses, educators, and policymakers to explore the dynamic intersection of outdoor recreation, economic development, and higher education. The summit highlights the ways outdoor assets and experiences create opportunities for business growth, tourism development, talent attraction, and community vitality.

Two people in kayays on the New River
  • Canoe on river with two people

    Outdoor experiences attract visitors, support local businesses, and strengthen regional economies.

  • Classroom with students

    Recreation-based businesses create jobs and encourage entrepreneurship.

  • three students preparing to rock climb

    Access to outdoor recreation helps communities attract and retain talented workers.

AdventureWorks begins with an afternoon of curated experiences across the region.  From 12:30-4:30 PM on September 8, attendees will engage directly with the region’s “adventure” assets through curated experiences designed to showcase recreation, tourism, and placemaking in action.  Due to limited capacity, advance registration is required.

The day concludes with a welcome reception designed to foster connections among attendees, speakers, and community partners.

Love image in Radford VA

Two days of exploration, learning, and connection in Virginia’s outdoor economy

  • students riding inner tubes on the New River
  • person presenting on a stage in front of an audience
  • Selu Conservancy at Radford University
  • Three people talking at a showcase setting

AdventureWorks lodging options are available throughout the region.  

Here are a handful within 30 minutes of Radford University, providing convenient access to the unique communities, outdoor amenities, and hospitality of Southwest Virginia.