Earth Day: a national holiday on a freshly opened calendar, an invitation to explore beyond the ordinary, and a time to celebrate the beauty tucked away in your own backyard.
Danville and Pittsylvania County are home to winding paths, wooded hiking trails, tennis and pickleball courts, parks, splash pads, and so much adventure. But did you know our region is also home to 8 LOVEworks signs? These signs, created in partnership with the Virginia Tourism Corporation, are spread throughout the state, inviting residents and tourists to discover new places, snap a photo, and feel the love wherever they go.
This April, discover each LOVEworks sign and maybe wander a little farther off your beaten path.
Chatham Main Street
A hidden gem to some, home to others: Chatham is a small town with so much charm. Whether you’re looking for a place to dine (J&T’s on the Main, El Cazador), a place to stretch your legs (Frances Hurt Park), or a place to find a new read (Shadetree Rare Books), Chatham offers a wide variety of things to do and see, including a LOVEworks sign located along Main Street. Painted in front of local businesses, Studio 29 and Pruden & Main, this mural boasts a reminder that “You Are So Loved Here.” The painting also pays tribute to Chatham’s rich history, including details of Chatham Hall, Hargrave Military Academy, the Courthouse, and more.
Danville’s Riverwalk Trail
Just last year, the River District Association (RDA), an organization dedicated to the promotion, betterment, and economic vitality of downtown Danville, unveiled a new LOVEworks sign along Danville’s Riverwalk Trail. The bright red sign sits directly at a trail access point by the Community Market, welcoming guests, residents, nature lovers, dog walkers, market visitors, and more to our hometown. The installation also features a LOVE Locks sculpture, offering a place for community members to attach their own personal notes and lockets.
“The LOVE Locks installation has given residents and visitors alike a meaningful way to ‘lock in’ their connections of love for family, friends or our beautiful city,” said Shane Brogden, RDA Director of Promotions and Communications. “As one of over 300 LOVEworks displays across the Commonwealth of Virginia, it’s been incredible to see how the community has embraced this space and made it their own, adding their personal stories to this growing symbol of love in Danville’s River District.”
Wayside Park
Have you ever visited Wayside Park, located in Hurt? This park features hiking trails, pickleball courts, a destination playground, and a grand LOVEworks sign, sitting at 8 feet tall. Designed and built by Pittsylvania Career and Technical Center students, this sculpture was installed in 2020 and honors the region’s deep industrial roots, from textile mills to rail history.After capturing your photo with the iconic sign, you can wander peaceful trails, cast a line into Sycamore Creek, or relax over a family picnic. This hidden gem is an ideal place for visitors of all ages to enjoy the great outdoors.
More to Love
Discover even more LOVEworks sign at:
- Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex: 19783 US-29, Chatham
- Caesars Virginia: 1100 W Main St, Danville
- 5047 Riverside Drive, Danville
- 2130 Riverside Drive, Danville
- VIRginia International Raceway: 1245 Pine Tree Road, Alton
Tourism With Purpose
The Danville Office of Economic Development & Tourism continues to spotlight the region through its Visit SoSi brand, promoting events and experiences that draw visitors from near and far. In fact, Danville and Pittsylvania County was recognized as the fastest‑growing tourism destination in the Commonwealth in 2024. Outdoor recreation and attractions play a key role in this momentum, helping introduce new faces to our community.
So, what will you discover this month? Dive deeper into the many outdoor adventures in Southern Virginia at www.visitsosi.com.
