Appomattox Department of Tourism Ready for Curiosity Seekers
Beckie Nix, Director of Tourism for the Town of Appomattox, is preparing for a busy tourist season this year. Appomattox annually receives about 200,000 visitors, most of them going to the National Park. But thanks to Nix and her crew of Travel Counselors, more and more are staying on in Appomattox and spending their money here.
Nix proudly said, “Every year we introduce a new reason for visitors to spend more time here. Next week we are debuting Voices of the Past, an audio dramatization of our history.” The different scenarios can be downloaded into iPods at the Visitor Information Center or from the website (www.tourappomattox.com). For visitors without iPods, MP3 players already loaded with the dramatizations are available to borrow. The scenarios were professionally scripted and recorded at a Nashville studio and contain all the proper sound effects to make it easy for listeners to transport themselves back in time.
Over the winter a kiosk was installed outside the Visitor Information Center in the old train depot on Main Street (see image above). This is for the use of both Appomattoxians and visitors. It is stocked with brochures on local events and attractions so that visitors can get information when the Visitor Center is closed. Citizens are urged to post notices of upcoming events as well, especially events that are not well-publicized otherwise and would be of interest to curiosity seekers.
The Appomattox Visitor Center is open seven days a week from 9 am until 5 pm. The Center boasts a theater where curiosity seekers can view a video of the town and surrounding county, highlighting local attractions. The gift shop offers a wide selection of Appomattox-themed gifts and souvenirs. Visitors can check on local weather conditions, relax with a cup of complementary coffee, and make reservations for their stay. Free WiFi is available for those who travel with laptops or blackberries.
This summer, Nix is planning to have Living History on the weekends. Visitors will be able to watch Civil War re-enactors and local crafters demonstrating heritage crafts while dressed in period costume. Living History has proved to be a popular attraction wherever it is available. Tourists and local residents alike enjoy the short trip back in time that this type of entertainment affords. Anyone wishing to participate in this project should contact Mrs. Nix at the Town Office, 352-8268 during business hours.
Leave a Reply