Adventure Aplenty in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley
Published June 27th, 2023
Photographs by Jay Kana
Along Interstate 81’s corridor lays the Shenandoah Valley, a hidden gem that’s brimming with adventure, nature, excitement, arts and culture, history, food, drink and waiting for you to discover.
Balancing quaint cities and towns with marvellous mountain views, small town charm and warm welcomes, the Shenandoah Valley harmonizes them beautifully.
I’ve detailed my recent experience from north to south, that balances attractions, dining and lodgings.
If you’re doing a road trip, it’s only an eight hour drive from Mississauga to Winchester to start your adventure. If you prefer to fly, it’s a short flight from Pearson to Washington Dulles, where you can rent a car. Whichever medium you choose, there’s so much to explore.
Take your time through the Valley as each destination is special with its own unique offerings and atmosphere.
With that, l’m excited to share how I spent five fun-filled days in this stunning part of Virginia and hope that it inspires you to go.
Winchester
Bonnie Blue Southern Market & Bakery
Southern cooking is at its finest here in this repurposed gas station, complete with hundreds of vintage license plates. The plates from the kitchen are loaded with authentic southern comfort food from biscuits and gravy to smoked beef brisket to chicken and waffles. They also won 2022 Small Business Of The Year!
Museum of the Shenandoah Valley
With the valley bathed in rich history, this museum is a focal point for knowledge and boasts seven acres of gorgeous and gracefully designed gardens. This cultural centre hosts various events and is a key hub to the Valley.
Patsy Cline Historic House
Country music’s key contributor, Patsy Cline, had a house here and its now is a lovely attraction in town. There are letters, clothing, historical artifacts and a true piece of music history.
George Washington Hotel
Recharge at the central and elegant George Washington Hotel, which blends modern and historic design, complete with a beautiful brick courtyard retro US Mail Letterbox.
While you’re there, visit the very walkable Old Town area, complete with shops, murals and small-town charm that photographs quite well.
Woodstock
Woodstock Brew House
50ish km/30-ish miles southbound brings you to wonderful Woodstock and with a couple of turns, to a repurposed clothing factory, now home to the Woodstock Brew House. There’s quite the selection of in-house brewed beer on tap, live entertainment, fabulous food and an electric atmosphere.
Seven Bends State Park
With eight miles of hiking trails, enjoy the outdoors and as you meander, be sure to cross the walking bridge over the Shenandoah River for a unique perspective.
Muse Vineyards
Housed on Serendipity Lane, Muse Vineyards is a multiple award-winning winery with sprawling views and wonderful wine options, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Rose, and Petit Verdot.
The Edinburg Mill
This houses a broad collection of relics from decades gone by, including a full model train set of the area, a hot air balloon, bicycles, a carriage, typewriters, household items Red Cross paraphernalia, and a moonshine still, to name a few.
Southern Kitchen
In New Market, Southern Kitchen will replace all the calories you lost during the day…but in the most delicious way. Nearing seven decades of serving southern classics, be sure to get here.
Skyline Drive
I encourage you to enjoy an early dinner so that you can soak up some of the serenity of the Skyline Drive. Spanning 105 miles, this scenic drive weaves through the Blue Ridge Mountains, generously offering panoramic views, lookouts, wildlife and as someone who’s driven over a million km’s, it’s a slice of heaven.
Skyland Resort
Near the middle of Skyline Drive is Skyland Resort, where you can enjoy peace, quiet and nature throughout. Bonus points go to the Pollock Dining Room that adds an extra serving of Valley views.
Luray Caverns
Head 40 minutes westward to the astonishing Luray Caverns and then literally head south into these caverns, which are the largest in the Eastern US. The breathtaking ancient formations are enchanting and haunting. My highlight was Dream Lake as it creates a perfect reflection of these stunning stalactites. Each collection has its own name and you’ll be taking pictures for likely the entire 2 km pathway.
Harrisonburg
Mashita
45 minutes southbound brings you to Harrisonburg and be sure to experience the state’s first culinary district, specifically at Mashita. Specializing in farm-to-table and from-scratch Korean delights, this is a key anchor dining-wise.
Virginia Quilt Museum
Here, you’ll find three floors of history and culture stitched together woven across a variety of quilts, each
with a unique story to share
Brethren & Mennonite Heritage Center
Learn the history of how the Brethren Mennonites shared lives for over 200 years, their history and an authentically decked out barn.
Sage Bird Ciderworks
Using locally sourced fruit, this quaint and high quality cider is brewing with excitement and community togetherness. Owned by the lively and lovely Amberlee and Zach Carlson, it’s easy to feel at home here, especially with a delightful drink in hand.
Ridge Room at the Hyatt Place
If only all hotel restaurants brought such sweeping Valley views…The Ridge Room is on the top floor of the Hyatt Place and their outdoor sky view patio heightens the dining experience.
Massanutten Resort
Lodging-wise, there are condo-style options at this massive 6,000 acre resort, so whether it’s friends and or family, there’s plenty of space.You can stay on the mountain or in the Valley! It’s easy to stay active here between golf, zip lining, tubing, mountain biking, hiking, and the huge water park. There’s also an array of winter sports to make it a true year round destination. Throw in farm-to-table dining and you’ve got the complete package here.
Waynesboro
Crozet Tunnel
A former abandoned train tunnel that’s nearly 200 years old, this 1.3 km tunnel has an aura of intrigue even in daylight. To get there, it’s a beautiful 3 km hike and worth every step.
Blue Ridge Bucha
This certified organic kombucha brewery is award-winning with a small footprint and serves up creative flavours.
Havoc House
It’s exactly what it’s named as! Whether it’s axe throwing or romping through the rage room, break some stuff in a safe space.
Staunton
Ox-Eye Vineyards & Ballerino Creamery
Bringing a wine and cheese tasting together is quite the pairing, especially when you get a detailed history on both simultaneously. It’s no surprise these wines are award-winning after tasting them.
American Shakespeare Center
The world’s only modernized yet historically accurate version of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre has performed all of his 38 plays. This Elizabethan theatre sees visitors from around the globe and spectators aren’t disappointed. Try and sit on the balcony in the middle for the best views.
Zynodoa Restaurant
A savoury first date that lasts a lifetime blending southern style food in a modern world is what you’ll find here. Primarily farm-to-table, this simple yet superb menu is loaded with great eats.
Hotel 24
This modernized historic hotel buidling celebrates its 100 anniversary in 2024. Beautifully decor, comfortable rooms and good service will help recharge your batteries to keep exploring the Valley.
Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery
This 17-acre vineyard produces award winning wine and beer and recently, 2022’s Grower of the Year award. Offerings include their dessert wine, Rieslings, Merlots, Ales, Porters, Stouts and much more.
Lexington
Devils Backbone
Grab a quick bite and pint at this ward-winning restaurant and brewery, that features a custom-built brewery that’s buzzing with live music, events and splendid mountain views.
Lexington Carriage Company
A nostalgic horse and carriage ride will tour you through this quaint area, with interesting tidbits of history, a unique view and stop in at Sweet Things Ice Cream Shoppe for a delicious treat afterward.
Natural Bridge State Park
15 miles south of Lexington is the remarkable Natural Bridge State Park, featuring the awesome 215 tall limestone gorge that’s millions of years old. There’s a short, moderately challenging hike to get there but once you do, it’s worth it. This Dark Sky Park is truly a state gem and should be on your must-experience list.
The Georges Hotel
This ultra luxury hotel features 33 rooms that are all uniquely furnished and decorated, giving you an unforgettable, premium experience. Bathed in sheer elegance, it’s more than simply a place to rest and rejuvenate.
Dining-wise, there are two options TAPS and Haywood’s, with tasty menu options worth checking out.
Now that you’ve got a solid base to build from, to plan your visit to the Shenandoah Valley to create new memories or rekindle previous ones, start with their website by clicking here.