
One of the largest yard sales in Virginia that is over 40 miles long down U.S Route 11.
There is no official starting place for the annual Route 11 Yard Crawl that stretches from New Market all the way to Stephen’s City VA. Located on the Old Valley Pike in Shenandoah County, visitors should anticipate a full day of finding antiques and unique treasures.
While you are hunting for treasures be sure to stop by the Route 11 Potato Chips to get a tour and see how the chips are made. They also sell Route 11 Yard Crawl souvenirs, so pick up a T-shirt!
After a day of shopping and hunting for that one of a kind treasure, be sure to grab a bite to eat any many local restaurants that are right on Route 11. A great local restaurant is the High Point in Stephens City that offer a family environment and great hamburgers!
Things to know before you go:
Prince William Ice Center provides Northern Virginia with a premier facility for all of your skating and hockey needs.
Prince William Ice Center provides Northern Virginia with a premier facility for all of your skating and hockey needs. We offer a full range of figure skating and ice hockey programs on our NHL and Olympic-sized rinks, all year round. Our professional staff of ice hockey and figure skating instructors offer lessons for all ages and skill levels to assist our skaters and players to reach their optimum level of performance. Prince William Ice Center has a variety of public skating, Freestyle, and Stick & Shoot sessions scheduled through the week. Our full-service Pro Shop has professionally trained skate sharpening technicians, and our Café offers snacks, meals, and catering for parties, business meetings, and team meetings. For more information about our services, please call 703.730.8423. For a fun time, just add ice!
Bring your friends out for a day of quality antiquing in the largest antique stores in the Shenandoah Valley.
Do you enjoy a day full of antiquing? Here at Lake Frederick, you are within miles of multiple unique antique stores. Visit the Strasburg Emporium of Antiques which is one of the largest antique stores in the Shenandoah Valley. With 52,000 square feet of space and over 60 dealers you are guaranteed to find something for everyone! There is a variety of items from jewelry, vintage coins, military artifacts and a wide array of furniture. The emporium is just 25 minutes away from Lake Frederick and well worth the short trip, bring your friends and see what treasures you will find.
Things to know before you go:
Take a trip to the beach!
As the hub of hotels, dining and entertainment in Virginia Beach, the Oceanfront is where the action is. Live music, street performers on Atlantic Avenue, outdoor cafes, hot dog and snow cone vendors, the popular Rudee Inlet marina area, and our famous three-mile boardwalk, perfect for rollerblading, jogging, or cruising down the strip on a fat tire bike. Sunbathers come for the wide, sandy beaches. Surfers come for the waves. Shoppers and walkers come for strolling Atlantic Avenue. And everyone comes for the unforgettable experience of a classic day at the beach.
Come view the awe-inspiring nature-sculpted arch that soars high above Cedar Creek.
For years, Natural Bridge was a mountain retreat, drawing visitors from all over to view the awe-inspiring nature-sculpted arch that soars high above Cedar Creek. Once among our nation’s most visited natural wonders and known as One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the Modern World, the Bridge inspired the Monacan Indians to worship it, young George Washington to survey it, Thomas Jefferson to purchase it, and famous artists to paint and illustrate it. The Natural Bridge now stands tall as a National Historic Landmark and the gateway to the historic and beautiful Cedar Creek Trail, and the Monacan Indian Living History Village. The Natural Bridge Caverns, museums, a hotel & conference center, and restaurants surround the nature park. Once owned by Thomas Jefferson and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 215-foot tall Natural Bridge is a limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. The newest Virginia State Park is more than just the bridge. Beautiful forests, open, rolling meadows showcase the area’s karst terrain, and vistas of surrounding mountains and the James River valley display nature’s splendor. Access these via 6 miles of hiking trails, including the accessible Cedar Creek Trail that leads from the bridge to the Monacan Indian Village and Lace Falls with its 30-foot cascade. Living history programs connect you to the past and cover how people once used the area’s resources for survival and inspiration. Start at the Rockbridge Center, where you will find exhibits and a gift shop.
Spend a rainy day exploring all of your favorite stores with your friends at the biggest outlet mall in Virginia.
Potomac Mills is Virginia’s largest outlet mall, located minutes from the heart of Washington D.C. Potomac Mills features an indoor shopping experience with over 200 stores, including Bloomingdale’s-The Outlet Store, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Nordstrom Rack, Kate Spade New York, The North Face, and Nike Factory Store.
Things to know before you go:
Buzzard Rock is a 7.4 mile, heavily trafficked out-and-back trail located near Strasburg, VA.
Buzzard Rock is a 7.4 mile, heavily trafficked out-and-back trail located near Strasburg, Virginia that offers the chance to see wildlife, and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail, but must be kept on leash.
Luray Caverns is the largest caverns in the eastern United States, yet walking through feels more akin to an unearthly experience.
Luray Caverns is the largest caverns in the eastern United States, yet walking through feels more akin to an unearthly experience. Baseball has a hall of fame. So does rock and roll. And after millions of years, geologists have one, too. Discover it for yourself. We are proud to offer guided tours along well-lighted, paved walkways that lead visitors through cathedral-sized rooms with ceilings 10-stories high, towering stone formations, and natural wonders at every turn. Come visit Luray Caverns and discover a world unto itself. Want a peek? The Car & Carriage Caravan Museum, Shenandoah Heritage Village, and Toy Town Junction are included with every Luray Caverns ticket!
White Oaks is a great place to enjoy the relaxing aroma of lavender and a delicious glass of wine.
White Oak Lavender Farm and Vineyard is located in Harrisonburg, VA right near Massanutten Resort. The farm grows over 8,000 lavender plants in many interesting varieties. They harvest their lavender plants in the summer to dry the flowers for buds and extract the essential oils and hydrosol or floral water through steam distillation.
The White Oak Lavender Farm (WOLF) Vineyard and tasting room is on the same property as the lavender farms and offers you a delicious variety of wines. Of course they have a few wines that are infused with lavender. This is a great trip to make in the summer to enjoy a glass of wine while you tour through the lavender fields. This is a great place for a romantic date or for the whole family to enjoy! With it being only an hour and fifteen minutes from Lake Frederick, it makes it worth the trip to relax for the day!
Things to know before you go:
Take me out to the ballgame... take me out to the crowd...
The Washington Nationals are an American professional baseball team based in Washington, D.C. The Nationals compete in Major League Baseball as a member club of the National League (NL) East division. From 2005 to 2007, the team played in RFK Stadium while their permanent stadium was being built. In 2008, they moved into Nationals Park, located on South Capitol Street in the Southeast quadrant of D.C., near the Anacostia River. The Nationals are the eighth major league franchise to be based in Washington, D.C., and the first since 1971. The current franchise was founded in 1969 as the Montreal Expos as part of the MLB expansion. After a failed contraction plan, the Expos were purchased by MLB, which sought to relocate the team to a new city. Washington, D.C. was chosen in 2004, and the Nationals were established in 2005 as the first franchise relocation in MLB since the third Washington Senators moved to Texas in 1971.
Explore the wonders of air and space travel at one of D.C.'s most popular museums!
Exhibitions, Science Demonstrations, Virtual Reality and Simulators, IMAX Theater, Public Observatory, story times and daily tours are all a part of this amazing Museum, one of the most popular in D.C.
The Inner Harbor is a historic seaport and landmark of the city of Baltimore.
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor has many stories to tell, from its heyday in the 18th century as the nation’s leading shipbuilding site, to a major site for oyster canning, steel working, railroad building, immigration port and military supply center. In 1980, the Inner Harbor area underwent a major revitalization with the addition of many attractions, hotels, restaurants and shops. Today, the Inner Harbor is a major tourist destination and port of call for cruise ships.
You can enjoy things like a dinner and a show at Medieval Times with a four course feast, magnificent horses, sword fights and jousting. Visit the National Aquarium and enjoy a day of watching beautiful sea creatures swim all around as you marvel at their beauty or you can catch a game at Camden Yards as the Baltimore Orioles swing the night away for your entertainment. This is a good trip for the whole family or just an enjoyable date night.
Stay in one our Historic Hotels of America, the Lord Biltmore Hotel. This hotel is billed as the largest hotel ever built in the state of Maryland. Driving time is approximately 2 hours.
Meet you at the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival for great family fun!
The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival is Winchester’s most well-known annual event centered around the blooming apple trees. The event is one of the largest in the mid-Atlantic area, featuring more than 45 events including the Coronation of Queen Shenandoah, the Bloom Wine Fest, two parades, band concerts, dances, a carnival, a 10k run and firefighter events.
The Coronation of Queen Shenandoah is one of the oldest and most notable traditions of the Festival and kicks off the rest of the events. Nominations for Queen are made by festival organizers, former queens, past celebrities, and political figures. The Coronation is held at Handley High School where the Queen is presented by the Handley Singers and the traditional Royal Command Performance performs for her. The Bloomin’ Wine Fest is a unique outdoor wine festival held in downtown Winchester’s original marketplace. This event features 20 of Virginia’s finest wineries who will be offering wine tastings and craft beers to taste or purchase. Aside from wine tasting there will be delicious festival foods and three stages with different musical talents performing.
There are two featured parades during the Festival, the Firefighters Parade on May 4th and the Grand Feature parade on May 5th. The Firefighters Parade is one of the largest and oldest annual firefighter’s parades in the world put together by members of Winchester and Frederick County Firefighters. The Grand Feature parade includes more than 200 floats, bands, special units, and antique cars to celebrate the town of Winchester.
Things to know before you go:
The living history museum and two art museums at Colonial Williamsburg offer something for everyone!
The living history museum and two art museums at Colonial Williamsburg offer something for everyone, from hands-on activities to guided tours of original 18th-century buildings, to an unmatched folk-art collection. Colonial Williamsburg is the world’s largest living history museum. Over 300 acres feature more than 40 historic sites and trades, four historic taverns, and two world-class art museums. With so much to see, a little planning will help you make the best of your trip.
Soar through the sky and enjoy the Shenandoah Valley like you have never seen it before.
Experience the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley like never before with Soaring Sports. Have you ever wanted to see what the Shenandoah Valley looks like from over a hundred of feet in the air? Here is your chance… No, you are not going to be in a helicopter or a plane. You will be in a hot air balloon over a hundred feet in the air with just a basket beneath your feet. Hot air balloon rides typically take place either first thing in the morning so you can catch the sunrise you later in the evening to see the sunset making it a great adventure whether you are an early bird or a night owl. This is a great experience for you and your significant other or for a small group of friends to go out and enjoy!
Things to know before you go:
An underground world ready to be discovered.
The Luray Caverns are a historic US Natural Landmark famous for their variety of formations and natural colors. Located in the midst of the Shenandoah Valley along with hundreds of other caverns, these caverns were discovered in 1878, and thus far they are the largest series of caverns to be discovered in the region. They are certainly the most famous.
The caverns consist of paved walkways that explore cathedral sized rooms with ceilings 10 stories high, filled with towering stone columns and crystal-clear pool that look like mirrors to the blind eye. They also hold some of the largest known columns of stalactites and stalagmites that are still growing to this day!
Be sure to break a sweatshirt, since the caverns maintain a natural temperature of 54 degrees no matter what time of the year it is.
While in Luray, don’t miss the famous Triple Crown BBQ owned by the Coleman family. It may not be much to look at, but the BBQ is the best in the region. It’s well worth the drive to Luray on its own!
What would happen if bowling, golf, your favorite sports bar, and a great outdoor restaurant birthed a love-child? TopGolf.
Regardless of whether golf is your thing, there is no better afternoon or evening fun than TopGolf. Each venue features fun and competitive golf games for all ages, climate-controlled playing “bays”, an impressive food and drink menu, private spaces for groups of any size, HDTVs to watch the big game and a music selection that will make every visit feel like a party. Featured amenities include 100+ climate-controlled hitting bays, full-service restaurant & bars, a rooftop terrace with fire pit, over 200 HDTV’s and free WiFi.
TopGolf has quickly grown from a single Dallas, Texas location to a network spanning the country. The reason? It’s fun as heck. Give it a try.
The Dukes of Hazzard comes alive at Cooter’s Place.
Take a trip down memory lane as you explore Cooter’s Place in Luray, Virginia. About an hour south of Lake Frederick, Cooter’s Place is a great place to relive memories from the famous Dukes of Hazzard television show that aired in the ‘70s and ‘80s. Walk through the replica garage to see memorabilia from the show including the cars used in the show! In fact, as you pull into the parking lot you will see the General Lee, a tow truck and police squad car parked outside. Cooter’s is also home to Daisy’s Diner, where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a sweet ice cream treat while perusing the gift shop. Cooter’s place hosts classic car shows, monster truck rides, and family friendly events on select weekends.
Things to know before you go:
Visit our Historic Downtown area, within walking distance of restaurants, art galleries, and unique shopping.
To say all roads lead to Front Royal is not an exaggeration. From the numerous winding state roads lined with gorgeous fields and farms, to fast-moving multi-laned interstates, you’ll find an easy commute to our community. Once here, we can personalize all your travel needs. Front Royal/Warren County is conveniently located within the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and offers numerous recreational activities, historical landmarks, and annual events in and around us. Visit Front Royal to find out why it’s the perfect location for your next family reunion, business meeting get-away girls weekend or just your partner. Front Royal is the northern region of the Shenandoah Valley and Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. Within an hour of Washington, D.C., this is the place to enjoy the crown jewels of outdoor recreation. Before you visit Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, find time to enjoy Shenandoah River State Park and the George Washington National Forest, where visitors can backcountry hike, mountain bike, paddle or ride a zip line in a variety of settings. Find biking routes, or explore the river and find boat landings, canoeing and kayaking, and tubing. Known as the Canoe Capital of Virginia, Front Royal Canoe Company, Adventure Enablers, and River and Peak Outfitter will take you on your Shenandoah River Trip along the legendary river. Front Royal is also a beautiful place for golf, horseback riding, scenic airplane and balloon rides. Don’t miss the delicious treats from the Apple House Restaurant and Gift Shop, famous for local products and apple fritters! Just a stone’s throw from our Nation’s capital but miles from the hustle and bustle, free parking is available at the Gazebo when you visit our Historic Downtown area, within walking distance of restaurants, art galleries and unique shopping. Start your visit at the Visitor Center on Main Street and get your Walking Tour brochure. Check for events at the Gazebo Gatherings during the summer. In Front Royal you can unwind, reconnect and rediscover!
Learn what you may not know about early American history at the Frontier Culture Museum near Charlottesville.
The Shenandoah Valley is an area rich with American History; one of the best museums in the area to go and learn about the early years of American settlement is the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton. You can learn the story of how Native Americans and European Settlers from Germany, Ireland and England came to America to start a new life. This museum is not for those who believe they know everything there is to know about American history.
Take a tour through history with the many different exhibits that the Frontier Culture Museum has to offer. Starting in the 1600’s you will pioneer across the Atlantic Ocean from England and start settling in Jamestown, one of the first English colonies in North America. You will then travel forward 100 years where around the 1700’s the German immigrants started to colonize southeastern Pennsylvania near Philadelphia and continued to venture beyond the Susquehanna River and south into Maryland and slowly making their way down into Virginia. Continuing to travel through the museum you will also learn about the Irish settlement, West African Settlement and Early Native American settlement west of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Frontier Culture Museum is a great visit for any history buff in the Shenandoah Valley. There is plenty to learn and different types of educational tours to take throughout the outdoor museum.
The museum also hosts a summer Roots Music concert series on Sundays. These are always a lot of fun.
The Winchester Little Theatre was organized in 1929.
Are you looking for a night of quality entertainment without having to travel too far? Look no further than the local Winchester Little Theater, approximately 20 minutes from the community.
The Winchester Little Theatre was organized in 1929 “…to present, produce and encourage the production, acting and writing of plays…” by a group of persons interested in providing an outlet for their artistic interests and bringing to the community entertainment and culture. The first production, Ario de Capo, was staged at Handley High School in 1930.
By 1955 the WLT had found a home in the old Bark Mill, which was owned by one of its members. Here the group began to do shows in “arena” style, or theater-in-the-round. In 1974, WLT stayed on track as it moved into the old Pennsylvania Railroad freight station (circa 1895). Through the generous support of friends and patrons, the building was paid for in only three years.
Want to make a night of it? Plan you stay in advance at The George Washington Hotel and take in dinner at one of the local favorites.
Come see a variety of unique, intricate and unexpected formations like the Capitol Dome, Rainbow Lake and Beyond the Veil!
The caverns tour consists of a one mile, one hour walk through around 17 spectacular rooms and passageways. All of our tours are personally guided by a knowledgeable guide who will show you all the wonders of this underground world, as well as answer any questions you may have. You’ll see a variety of unique, intricate and unexpected formations like the Capitol Dome, Rainbow Lake and Beyond the Veil. Our famous “Breakfast Bacon” formations were featured in National Geographic Magazine. From soaring rooms like Long View Hall to the extraordinary crystalline formations of Diamond Cascade, there’s a new wonder around every bend. The caverns remains a constant 56 degrees year-round, so only a light jacket is needed. The elevator takes you into and out of the caverns, but the cave is not considered ADA accessible. You do need to be able to stand for one hour and walk one mile on a crushed gravel pathway with inclines and declines. There are two ramps with handrails. Due to the nature of the cave, there are some spots where you will need to duck your head. We do allow wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers to go through about 80% of the tour, but please keep in mind that it is quite difficult to push a wheelchair on the gravel pathway.
Established in 1728, the Red Fox Inn & Tavern today claims to be a “Historic Property with Modern Hospitality”. They live up to that and more.
The historic Red Fox tavern welcomes diners to enjoy hearty breakfasts, intimate dinners and weekend brunches in the traditional Virginia style. Oak tables, handcrafted furnishings, stone fireplaces, hand-hewn ceiling beams and thick fieldstone walls feel like a step back in time. The Night Fox Pub, a cozy space on the second floor, features a full bar in a more casual dining atmosphere.
Many notable politicians, authors, musicians, athletes and celebrities have visited the Red Fox, including President John F. Kennedy, who held a press conference in the JEB Stuart Room. The lovely and kind Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis frequently overnighted at the Inn while on fall foxhunting holidays. Elizabeth Taylor and U.S. Senator John Warner often dined together in the Tap Room during their courtship and after their marriage. Hollywood’s finest regularly entertain friends here, most notable being Joan Woodward, Paul Newman, and Tom Cruise.
Over the last four decades the Red Fox Inn & Tavern has been owned and operated by three generations of the Reuter family. Today it is managed by the husband and wife team of Matilda Reuter and Jonathan Engle.
A center for shared discovery by audiences, scholars, and artists of Shakespeare, his contemporaries, and classics old and new.
Located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, Virginia’s premiere classical theatre is at once intimate in scale and epic in imagination – creating vital, sophisticated, and accessible seasons built around a company of versatile actors performing in repertory all year round. We are a center for shared discovery by audiences, scholars, and artists of Shakespeare, his contemporaries, and classics old and new.
A family owned, pick-your-own, farm.
Mackintosh Fruit Farm is a great place to pick fresh fruits, berries and vegetables. The quality of the fruits are superb and the local atmosphere provides a rich sense of Shenandoah Valley living. From the moment you check in at the Farm, you are welcomed with a wealth of information about the freshest fruits ready for picking. From there, you are guided to the different fields and offered a wagon, for big hauls, to get you started on your picking adventure.
A lunch menu is offered or feel free to bring your own snacks to enjoy. In addition to the pick-your-own fun, the Farm hosts events such as cooking demonstrations, monthly farm dinners and festivals. Whether you are looking for the freshest fruits around or a fun-filled day with your family, Mackintosh Fruit Farm has you covered.
Things to know before you go:
Enjoy a summer show under the stars with an array of acts ranging from the Bard to the Okee Dokee Brothers.
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts is a majestic natural setting for over 100 performances across all genres every summer. Home to the architecturally stunning Filene Center and the charmingly intimate Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, the 117-acre Park offers dining and hospitality amenities throughout the summer season, and year-round recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and sledding.
Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts is the official partner to the National Park Service in providing concert and performance programming within the Park. As a nonprofit organization, Wolf Trap Foundation is dedicated to creating excellent performing arts experiences for the enrichment, education, and enjoyment of diverse audiences.
Located in Vienna just about an hour away from Trilogy, a show at the Wolf Trap is something that should be experienced by every resident in the area.
Escape the everyday hustle and enjoy a luxurious weekend in Virginia’s horse and wine country.
Take a nice vacation and escape to Middleburg and enjoy Virginia’s horse and wine country. You can stay, play, dine and relax all in the same place. Enjoy your day at Salamander Resort with a day full of play while you fish, zip line, ride horses and enjoy a variety of daily family activities. After you play you can relax by the pool and enjoy their full service spa where you can enjoy massages, facials, salon services and pools.
Things to know before you go:
Explore two large hangars displaying thousands of aviation and space artifacts!
Two large hangars display thousands of aviation and space artifacts, including a Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, a Concorde, and the Space Shuttle Discovery. The Center also offers the Airbus IMAX® Theater, the Donald D. Engen Observation Tower, and the Mary Baker Engen Restoration Hangar. Researchers will also find the majority of the Archives’ collections at the Udvar-Hazy Center reading room.
The U.S. National Whitewater Center is an outdoor recreation and athletic training facility for whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, zip-lining, mountain biking, and hiking.
The U.S. National Whitewater Center is an outdoor recreation and athletic training facility for numerous activities including whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, zip-lining, mountain biking, and hiking. The property’s 1,300 acres borders on the Catawba River and has a man-made, whitewater course as its centerpiece. There are also several food outlets including a full-service restaurant called River’s Edge, an outdoor beer garden featuring craft beers, and several snack bars.
Things to know before you go:
A State Park that is surrounded by Tidewater coastal marshes that is great for any outdoor adventure and family fun.
Belle Isle State Park is perfect for the weekend getaway for anyone from an active family all the way to an outdoor enthusiast. This 892-acre park has facilities for camping, fishing, boating and picnics. Hike through the park and find beautiful views of nature and of the James River.
The park offers overnight lodging from large frame tent rentals, campsites and spacious RV lots. The park also provides picnic tables and serval tables and the option to rent pig roasters. If you are looking for a more comfortable place to spend the night, stay at The Tides Inn and The Whispering Pines Hotel. Both locations are less than 10 miles. Away.
After a day of hiking, rewards yourself with a glass of Virginia wine at The Good Luck Cellar. This winery and many more are a part of the Northern Neck Wine Trail. Another attraction you don’t want to miss while in Lancaster is the Virginia Oyster Trail, where you can learn about the bi-valve that helped define Northern Neck History.
Things to know before you go:
The Billy Graham Library is a 40,000-square foot, barn-shaped building designed to reflect Rev. Graham’s journey from a humble farm boy to an international evangelist.
The Billy Graham Library is a 40,000-square foot, barn-shaped building designed to reflect Rev. Graham’s journey from a humble farm boy to an international evangelist. The building is situated on 20 landscaped acres, only miles from where Bill Graham grew up in Charlotte, NC.
The highlights of your visit will include:
Things to know before you go:
The Shenandoah Valley is rich in history, art and culture and there is no other way to see all of what Shenandoah Valley has to offer than at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley.
With seven acres of beautiful gardens, an 18th century historic house and a museum designed by an internationally recognized architect there is so much to view and learn while at the MSV. You can purchase a membership to MSV which offers free general admission into the museum, free admission to Garden’s at Night, gallery talks, lectures and much more!
During the summer MSV offers concerts at the Garden that any age can enjoy. Listen to music, dance, taste wine and eat delicious local foods all under the stars. You won’t want to miss. Check the website’s event page to see what is being offered and what collections are being showcased.
The museum is located in Old Town Winchester that offers local food, lodging and shopping all within one mile. Roma Old Town Wood-Fired Pizza (located on the pedestrian walking mall) is a perfect place to fuel up after a Garden Walk at the museum. And The George Washington Hotel is just a short walk from the pizzeria.
Things to know before you go:
Learn about the local history of a worldwide music star who was raised right in Winchester.
Keep your adventure local with a short trip to Winchester to visit the Patsy Cline Historic House. The Patsy Cline Historic House is on the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Street Landmarks Register. Located in a working-class neighborhood in the city of Winchester, Virginia, this modest house was the residence of country music legend Patsy Cline, who lived here from 1948-53, longer than at any other house associated with her. Even after her move to Nashville, she considered this South Kent Street house her home.
Things to know before you go:
Challenge your creative side and take a trip to the Workhouse Art Center.
The Workhouse Arts Center is a highly entertaining facility lacking no creativity! At this facility, you can do anything from watch a Broadway show, take a variety of art workshops, attend an art show or even host your own special event or wedding. The Workhouse Arts Center is located in Lorton, VA just an hour and fifteen minutes from Lake Frederick. This is well worth the trip to experience any of the events that they host. You can choose from a variety of art classes consisting of Ceramics, drawing and design, glass art, music, painting and many more. No matter what your interests are there is a class for you, there is even opportunity to pick up new hobbies that you may not have thought you would like. When visiting the Workhouse, be sure to bring your sense of adventure and willingness to learn and try new things, there is plenty to do at this local adventure to keep you busy no matter what the time of year is.
Things to know before you go:
Washington, DC is in a league of its own when it comes to world-class museums, many of which are free to visit!
Washington, DC is in a league of its own when it comes to world-class museums, many of which are free to visit. Wander the halls of the Smithsonian Institution museums, explore cool off-the-Mall knowledge centers, and discover groundbreaking exhibits and works of art right here in the nation’s capital.
If you love animals, this is the trip for you!
Hop in the car for a quick 2 ½ drive to the National Aquarium in Baltimore. If you love animals this is the trip for you. Visit all the different exhibits including the Amazon River Forest, Atlantic Coral Reef, Australia: Wild Extremes, Waterfront Park, 4 D Immersion films and so much more.
You can tour the aquarium at your own speed or join a guided tour. See your favorite animals including sharks, amphibians, reptiles, penguins and so much more. The aquarium offers several specialized tours daily from the insider’s Tour to the Animal Care and the Daily Behind Scenes. Within walking distance of the Aquarium you will find Phillips Seafood, Rusty Scupper or Miss Shirley’s Café and many more.
With close to 20,000 animals at the National Aquarium, you’ll discover something new every time you visit. The aquarium is located near the inner Baltimore Harbor area you could combine the two and spend the night.
Get some fresh air and explore the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley along the Appalachian Trail.
One of the greatest trails in the US runs through Virginia. Great for day hikes or longer, the trail has many access points in the Shenandoah National Park, located just outside of Front Royal town limits. Not all hikers are thru hikers” and many “section hike.” No need to hike the entire Appalachian Trail, there are a variety of trails and loops that you can hike to see parts of the overall trail and meet some hikers that are doing the whole trail through. All parts of the Appalachian Trail vary in difficulty,
Things to know before you go:
Enjoy a day traveling back in time to the Civil War and enjoying the rich history of the Shenandoah Valley.
Take a step back in time and explore the land of the Manassas National Battlefield where the first and second Battle of Manassas had taken place. The park offers a wide array of activities, scenic vistas, historic sites, and walking trails to interest the casual visitor of the true Civil War historian. A good place to begin your visit is the Henry Hill Visitor Center. Pick up a brochure, map and trail guide.
You can also enjoy a park orientation film that lasts about 45 minutes and covers both the First and Second Battles of Manassas. The film shows every hour on the hour from 9 AM – 4 PM. There is also an exhibit with artifacts on display for all to enjoy.
Things to know before you go:
Indulge a unique Winery experience at the Villa Appalaccia Winery.
A unique experience of Virginia Wine and Virginia Wineries is defined by a visit to Villa Appalaccia Winery. Villa Appalaccia is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway close to Floyd and Stuart VA, Greensboro and Winston Salem NC and Roanoke VA. The Italian-inspired Villa is situated with stunning views and a relaxing environment, one mile from Chateau Morrisette Winery and 9 miles from Floyd. They have predominantly grown Italian grape varieties and make award-winning Virginia Wine from Sangiovese, primitive, pinot grigio and more.
This is a one of a kind winery with limited hours on weekends and holidays you will want to make this trip to experience their wines, service and beautiful views. This breathtaking winery is a little farther than your normal local winery but worth the trip. Be sure to check out some other attractions in the area before heading there and make the most out of your trip!
Things to know before you go:
Take a step back into history and learn about the early English settlement of North America.
Are you looking for a great adventure that could turn into an overnight trip? Take a trip down to Bacon’s Castle down in Surry, Virginia. This beautiful castle is located just outside of Historic Jamestown, VA where the remains of the first permanent English settlement in North America. You can tour the Castle, the 17th century English formal gardens restored by the Garden Club of Virginia, and our surviving vernacular buildings including an 1830s Slave Quarter. You can choose from a guided tour where you will be lead through the castle on a 45 minute tour as interpreters cover Bacon’s Rebellion and the lives and legacy of the families that lived at Bacon’s Castle. Or you can tour the castle on your own and proceed at your own pace as you indulge in the rich history of the exhibit room, work yard, slave quarters and a variety of 18th-20th Century Barns. Bacon’s Castle is about a 3 and a half hour drive that is well worth the travel. If you are not interested in traveling back to Lake Frederick in the same day, there is a variety of lodging you can enjoy in Surry and Jamestown and plenty of attractions for any history buff to enjoy!
Things to Know before you go:
Cheer on the Redskins at FedEx Field in Landover, MD
The Washington Redskins are a professional American football team based in the Washington metropolitan area. They compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member of the National Football Conference (NFC) East division. The team plays its home games at FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland; its headquarters and training facility are at Inova Sports Performance Center at Redskins Park in Ashburn, Virginia and the Redskins Complex in Richmond, Virginia, respectively. The Redskins have played more than 1,000 games since their founding 88 years ago in 1932, and are one of only five franchises in the NFL to record over 600 regular season and postseason wins, reaching that mark in 2015. The Redskins have won five NFL Championships (the latter three in Super Bowls), and have captured 14 divisional titles and six conference championships. The Redskins were the first NFL franchise with an official marching band, the Redskins Band, and the first with a fight song, “Hail to the Redskins.”
Shop more than 100 designer and name-brand outlet stores!
Leesburg Premium Outlets is located 17 miles west of Dulles International Airport and 35 miles from Washington, D.C. Shop more than 100 designer and name-brand outlet stores including Armani Outlet, Burberry, kate spade new york, Michael Kors, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Restoration Hardware, Tory Burch, vineyard vines, Under Armour and Williams-Sonoma. Leesburg is located in the heart of Virginia’s scenic Loudoun County. Area attractions include golfing, fine dining, DC’s wine country, hunt country, historic attractions and the world-famous Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Air and Space Museum.
Old Town Winchester offers convenience, charm, and a warm welcome to all.
Discover charming shops, delicious restaurants, centuries-old architecture, numerous historical landmarks, and museums waiting to be explored. Old Town Winchester offers convenience, charm, and a warm welcome to all. Discover Old Town Winchester and join us at downtown Events. If you’re tired of traffic and the suburbs, you will love your visit to Old Town. Come enjoy a wonderful meal on the Walking Mall; eat at an outdoor cafe and watch people stroll by, or dine in a sumptuous dining room with a crackling fire. No matter the season or your dining preference, Old Town Winchester has something for you. And after your meal, visit our unique shops, enjoy a drink or an ice cream cone, stroll down shady streets, and enjoy the feeling of nostalgia here. It’s like coming home.
Explore the historical beauty of Harpers Ferry.
A little over 30 miles north of Lake Frederick is the beautiful town of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. It’s the land where the Potomac and Shenandoah River meet. It is also the home of a quaint 19th Century village that is nestled in the lower level of the town.
The town is emerged in history, best known for John Brown’s raid in 1859 and its role in the first American Civil War. There are numerous informational signs and wayside exhibits throughout the town and on the walking paths that explain different historical events in Harpers Ferry. The streets are made from cobblestone and the houses were built into the side of the mountains, adding to the town’s historic character. The majority of Lower Town is made up of shops and diners. Occasionally, you’ll see the passenger train come in loading and unloading passengers from the depot. You can cross the river by taking the bridge next to the train tracks, which crosses over the Maryland state line. For a breath-taking view of the town, hike the three-mile, roundtrip trail up the mountain to the overlook!
Things to know before you go:
Spend a weekend getaway in Charlotte, North Carolina!
Charlotte is the most populous city in the state of North Carolina. Charlotte has many notable attractions including the Carowinds Amusement Park and the US National Whitewater Center. After tiring yourself out at Carowinds and the Whitewater Center be sure to plan a night with Chef Alyssa in the kitchen.
Spend the day at Carowinds Amusement Park – suitable for all ages from the young thrill seeker to adults! The park is home to the world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster, Fury 325; and in 2017 it debuted the all-new Carolina Harbor Waterpark which celebrates the culture of the Carolina Coast with new attractions for everyone. Not sure what a giga coaster is? It is a type of roller coaster with a height or drop of at least 300 feet. On your way, stop by Cabellas and Bass Pro Shops for the ultimate retail adventure. Both Bass Pro Shops and Cabellas are the big boys on the block in the outdoor retail and Outfitter industry and both are within a short drive of Trilogy® at Lake Norman! Bass Pro Shops is in Concord, North Carolina and Cabellas is on the North and South Carolina borders near Fort Mill, South Carolina. Both offer multiple outdoors recreation departments for retail and services, and in shop restaurants and snack bars. Both offer weekly outdoors events and activities and an outdoor education series focused on outdoor education in both North and South Carolinas. It makes for a fun day to travel and visit both locations in the same day as they are only minutes apart from each other.
The US National Whitewater Center is an outdoor recreation facility and home to the world’s largest man-made whitewater river. Activities include whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, mountain biking, rock climbing, and hiking trails. The whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding are all water activities that will involve getting wet. The land sports include a climbing center, zip-line courses, and over 35 miles of biking and walking tours. The main attraction of this center is the whitewater rafting where a guide takes the rafters down either class II, III, or IV rapids. The rapids are ranked in level of difficulty with II being for beginners, III for intermediate, and IV for intense rapids. It is best to purchase the all-day package when visiting since there are so many different activities. The day pass costs $59 for adults and $49 for children which will allow you the opportunity to try every activity as many times as you wish. After working up an appetite, go reward yourself with a delicious meal at the River’s Edge Bar and Grill. Sit outside and enjoy the views of the US National Whitewater Training Center and its other attractions. The menu offers a variety of sandwiches, pastas, burgers, salads and wraps to choose from. Two menu favorites are the Apple Walnut Chicken Salad and the Pulled Chipotle Chicken Sandwich.
Learn how to cook at one of the top nine cooking classes in the United States. Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen makes for a perfect date night or a place to experience culinary delights with friends and family. There are five different classes offered based on levels of difficulty. The classes range from beginner, beginner plus, intermediate, intermediate plus, and advanced. Make sure to know which class will be the best fit for you before making a reservation. The cooking classes are not only enjoyable but also informative. Alyssa teaches you how to cook healthy meals based on the available ingredients of the current season. These classes are a great way to socialize with new people and enjoy a delicious meal you’ve prepared yourself. While attending Chef Alyssa’s class you may also bring your own bottles of wine or beer to drink while you cook. After you finish prepping and cooking, you will be able to eat your outstanding meal and take the recipe book home with you.
Things to know before you go:
Cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway, a Trip Perfectly Curated by Men's Journal
Mile for mile, the winding Blue Ridge Parkway may be the nation’s most pulse-quickening stretch of blacktop. And while the speed limit is 45 miles per hour, driving it can feel like living a high-speed car chase. You dive into narrow, oak-lined hairpin turns one moment, and the next you’re powering through the clouds on a ridgeline straightaway along a thousand-foot drop. When work started on the parkway in 1935, its designers engineered every mile of road to wring maximum drama from the topography, but the characters you’ll find along the way are far more low-key and free of pretension.
Here, locavorism is not a lifestyle, it’s life, so the region is a hotbed of fresh-food fervor and iconoclastic cooking. And being Appalachia country, this is the birthplace of bluegrass and home to some landmark music venues and festivals. From mile marker zero, 25 miles west of Charlottesville, Virginia, south to Asheville, North Carolina (the “Berkeley of the Blue Ridge”), you’ll pack an excellent long-weekend journey of righteous dining and world-class banjo. Here’s where to stop.
Enjoy a great weekend of history at our states capital where there is events to enjoy for the whole family.
Richmond’s Canal Walk features four centuries of Virginia’s state capital history depicted through fascinating history medallions, statues and exhibits. This is a great adventure to take from the spring time all the way through the fall. Enjoy a numerous amount of events on weekends along the canal with music every Friday through May and June, cruises up and down the canal and a variety of exhibits and museums for everyone to enjoy. No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy!
Things to know before you go:
A 105-mile road that is the entire length of the Shenandoah National Park in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia.
Major entry points to the Drive is located right in Front Royal, VA. Take your car and cruise down the two-lane road that has 75 overlooks views of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and the Piedmont to the east.
On the drive there are many access points to trails, like the Appalachian Trail, these trails can be used for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The Drive also hosts several stopping points for restrooms, picnic grounds and ranger stations. Bring your camping gear and stay the night under the stars as there are access to campgrounds. Wanting a more comfortable stay? Front Royal offers lodging right outside the entrance of the drive.
Depending on how far you cruise down the drive, food service on the Drive is minimal. Bring a packed lunch and have lunch at the picnic areas. If you didn’t bring lunch, Front Royal offers local bites right near the entrance of the Skyline Drive.
Things to know before you go:
Take your family out to see the Shenandoah Valley in a way not many people have seen it before with the Rocking S Ranch.
Rocking S Ranch is a local horseback riding where you can enjoy trail rides and lessons for riders of all ages. The ranch is located in the foothills and ridges of the beautiful Northern Shenandoah Valley. Located in the upper Shenandoah Valley and just a little over an hour away from Washington D.C., Northern Virginia and Suburban Maryland. Trail rides are available for individuals with a passion for riding or groups that are looking to get out and explore the local wilderness. Rocking S is open all year round and rides are led by Bill through the mountains and back trails through the local woodlands. This is a great experience for friends and family.
Things to know before you go:
In the Safari, you'll be able to see animals run and frolic with abandon on our 180-acre property. The animals are free to roam!
The Virginia Safari Park opened in the spring of 2000 because we felt there was a need and desire for people to be able to see wild animals in a much more natural environment than had previously been available. In the Safari, you’ll be able to see animals run and frolic with abandon on our 180-acre property. The animals are free to roam! Drive your vehicle over three miles of maintained gravel road and feed the animals through your windows! But don’t be in a hurry, the animals often block your path…or lay flat-out in the sun…the choice is theirs! Not only are our animals free to roam, but they follow their instincts. Males challenge each other for the attention of the females, resulting in cute baby animals being born throughout the season. Sometimes visitors are lucky enough to observe a birth in progress and watch as the baby takes its first steps!
Just minutes from downtown Washington, D.C., Tysons Corner Center is Virginia’s premier shopping destination.
Just minutes from downtown Washington, D.C. with direct access to the Metro’s Silver Line, Tysons Corner Center is Virginia’s premier shopping destination. One of the largest shopping centers in the country, the center houses 300 shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations, including Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, Apple, Dyson, Uniqlo, American Girl, L.L. Bean, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Michael Kors, Lacoste, SPANX, The Disney Store, Kiehl’s, H&M, Zara, Charles Tyrwhitt, lululemon, and more.
An infamous piece of U.S history that allows visitors into the resident of each United States President since John Adams in the 1800's.
As the official residence and work place of the President of the United States, the White House is a piece of history where it continues to unfold. Typically, the White House is admired from a distance, as roaming tourists are unable to just step inside. Stop inside of the White House Visitor Center which offers an eye into the President’s home. Admission to the Visitor Center is free and you can explore the White House with a virtual tour. The grounds are only open for special events such as the White House Easter Roll and the National Christmas Tree.
Modern day White House still allows visitors inside to take a step back into history. To take a tour of the White House, you must submit a tour request through one’s Member of Congress.
There are several attractions, restaurants and lodging all within two miles of the White House. The Lincoln Memorial and World War Two Memorial are attractions you will not want to miss while in Washington D.C. There’s not cost view, just have on your walking shoes.
Thing to know before you go:
Festival Of The Leaves features a 5K Race and Fun Walk, a parade, crafters/artists, merchants, food, and more.
The Festival takes place in historic downtown Front Royal, Virginia on Chester and Main Streets. Come enjoy Front Royal at its best. Arts and crafts abound in the heart of our historic district. Bluegrass, blues, country, jazz, big band, and choir music represent some of the musical entertainment. Come enjoy Heritage Square on the grounds of the Warren Heritage Society at 101 Chester Street where you will find museums, tours of our historic homes – Belle Boyd Cottage (Front Royal home of Confederate spy Belle Boyd) and 18th century Balthis House – and their outbuildings, re-enactors, living history demonstrations, crafts people, and apple butter making, to name a few. Plan on joining us for a day of fall fun for all ages.