This is a useful stop when driving the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) in Virginia. There is a small building, which was manned by a park ranger (or perhaps a parks volunteer?) who provided maps and answered questions. Small, clean, but dated restrooms were along the side of this building. Parking was free and sufficient, even on a leaf-peeping Saturday in October.
The real "attractions" here are beyond the actual Visitor Center's building. If you continue along the path past the restrooms, there's a large lawn along the James River with picnic tables. Very relaxing. If you continue, there are also some short "hikes" right at the Visitors Center. The first, which is more of a "walk", takes you across a pedestrian bridge (which is directly below the bridge with Blue Ridge Parkway traffic) that goes to a historic lock. This trail is mostly flat, except for some stairs, and is mostly in the sun. Separately, if you continue straight, instead of crossing the bridge, there's a short loop hike referred to as "Trail of Trees". This one has identifying markers on the trees, and has more of the feel of a short hike. It has some ups and downs, and you need to watch your footing for roots and rocks. You can also hike along the Otter Creek Trail to reach the Otter Creek Lake in about 3 miles.
One final note. This Visitors Center does not have a gift shop, nor any snacks or other amenities for purchase. Our "check tire pressure" light had come on, and the ranger was unable to provide assistance nor were there tire pressure gauges for sale. (We learned later that there's a service station relatively close to an exit off the BRP very close to the Visitors Center, but this wasn't mentioned). See separate entry for H&H Market in Big Island, VA. read more