Race to Shenandoah Downs July 18, 2022 by Visit Shenandoah County Strong bodies pull against the weight of the carts behind them. Manes flying, nostrils wide, sucking in as much air as possible, the horses follow behind the moving gate waiting for the moment the wings come in and the race begins. The crowd roars as the race starts and the horses and drivers head into the first turn, jockeying for position. Twice around the track and the winner crosses the line in front of the grandstand to the cheers of the crowd. Shenandoah Downs at the Shenandoah County Fairgrounds in Woodstock, VA, is the only harness racing venue in the state of Virginia. For five weekends – mid- September through October, the racetrack is open to harness racers. Previously 188 horses are registered to participate in 25 races over a weekend. Harness racing has been part of the Shenandoah County Fair for more than 100 years. Many local families have participated in the sport over the years as well. One such family is the Lineweavers. Doris “Dee” Lineweaver has been a trainer and driver since she was in her teens and now is the director of Shenandoah Downs. Her young children, Weston and Maggie, help at the Downs, continuing the tradition by working with the horses in their stalls and taking care of them both before and after the races. “It has been something our family has been involved in forever,” Dee said, from her seat in a golf cart as she watched the horses fly by in front of her. When Shenandoah Downs was established four years ago, it was announced as a pari-mutuel track which means that race-goers can place bets on their favorite horses. Pari-mutuel is a betting system in which all bets are placed together in a pool; taxes and the house take are deducted and payoff odds are calculated by sharing the pool among all winning bets for that race. Winnings are awarded to win, place, show and exacta in every race. No entry or parking fee is charged to people who want to come and watch the races. Typical crowds are full of people of all ages who have come to enjoy this historical sport. To draw larger crowds, simultaneous events are held at the track on race day. The race early October will take place at the same time as Autumnfest, a chamber-sponsored event which will feature whole-hog barbecue, chicken barbecue, 35+ crafters, a wood-splitting competition, music and beer, wine and spirits tasting. Dee noted that Shenandoah Downs is sponsored by the Virginia Equine Alliance which is a non-profit association comprised of members from the Virginia Harness Horse Association, the Virginia Horsemen’s Benevolent & Protective Association, the Virginia Gold Cup Association, and the Virginia Thoroughbred Association. The purpose of the Virginia Equine Alliance is to sustain, promote, and expand the horse breeding and horse racing industries in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Standing outside the barn area where the horses are prepared for racing is fascinating and offers an up-close view of these beautiful racers and all that goes into getting them prepared to run. The horses are excited, waiting for their turn on the track. Their ears are pointed and some paw at the dirt in their stall as their harnesses and tracings are checked for a final time. They will get on the track for a brief trot until it is time for the race to begin. Each racer pulls up behind a car which has wings sprouting from its sides. Inside, the back has two bucket seats facing the horses. The rear driver has control over the wings and the gas. The front driver does the steering. He increases the speed of the car until the race is ready to begin and he draws in the wings as the driver moves off to one side to let the horses pass. Shenandoah Downs is a wonderful way to spend the day. For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/Shenandoah-Downs or www.shenandoahdowns.com.
Shenandoah County’s Wine and Art Scene June 16, 2022 by Visit Shenandoah County Shenandoah County’s Wine and Art Scene Shenandoah County is lauded for its beauty and wealth of outdoor entertainment options. But Virginia is also known as the “birthplace of American wine,” and residents have been growing and pressing grapes here for 400 years. Shenandoah County is home to nine vineyards that produce tasty and complex wines and take advantage of some of the area’s most impressive views. And while you might think the wine and natural landscapes are all you need to be happy, Shenandoah County also has a thriving art culture. From a historical pottery exhibit to world-class street art to workshops in pastel painting, we have plenty to feed your art-loving soul. Read on to learn how to connect to Shenandoah County’s wine scene and art scene. Festivals & Events On June 25, 2022, the Shenandoah Valley ArtFest and Vintage Woodstock will bring downtown Woodstock’s Court Square to life with local and regional art, community spirit and dancing in the street. This annual event helps the public connect with emerging and established artists in a variety of mediums. Plus, there will be live music, games for all ages, lots of tasty food-truck food, and wine and beer. Keep an eye on the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley’s calendar for quality art programming like Strasburg photo walks and presentations on Strasburg and Shenandoah County’s 250-year history of fine, decorative, and folk art. Wineries and Vineyards North Mountain Vineyard and Brewery (Maurertown) uses estate-grown grapes to “present a unique array of elegant wines exclusive to [the] vineyard’s terroir.” Toast your party by the fire in the elegant tasting room, or bring your kids and spread your blanket on the picture-perfect grounds. Check the schedule for live music and events, and stop in at the gift shop for unique gifts by local artists. Nearby Star in the Valley Estate Winery (Strasburg) produces small-batch wines with flavors unique to the Shenandoah Valley. Enjoy the wine by glass, bottle, or flight in the tasting room or from your picnic space on the patio. A trip to the winery will afford you with tremendous views from Little North Mountain. Muse Vineyards (Woodstock) is a wonderful place to taste some of the best wine around. Hungry? They serve lunch and snacks. They also host rotating monthly art shows and artist receptions in the tasting room. Nearby Shenandoah Vineyards (Edinburg) is the oldest winery in the Shenandoah Valley and the tasting room is in a Civil-War-era barn. The vineyard takes advantage of the “viticultural potential of the limestone soils and drier growing conditions” to produce a variety of award-winning whites, reds, and rosés. Check the calendar for events like live music and wine dinners. Family-owned Cave Ridge Vineyard and Winery (Mt. Jackson) won the 2021 Virginia Governor’s Cup Gold Medal and more for its excellent estate-grown wines. The vineyard is also known for its wide views of the Shenandoah Valley. Visit for a tasting and lite fare, and consider reserving an igloo on a cold night. Check the calendar for art exhibits, live music, and events like wine dinners. Also located in Mt. Jackson, the tasting room at the Winery at Kindred Pointe features lots of comfy seating and large doors that can be opened to let in the balmy spring air. The winery sells flights, glasses, and bottles of site-made wine, hard cider, sangria, and hot mulled wine. You can also book a private tasting in the new tasting room space. Nearby Wolf Gap Vineyard and Winery boasts picture-perfect views of Wolf Gap and the Great North Mountain from the wine-tasting deck. Stop in for a tasting or a bottle of your favorite red, red blend, white, or rosé. If you’d like to learn more about the wines or wine-making process, schedule a tour. Finally, Third Hill at De Mello Vineyards (Quicksburg) can help you unwind with a glass of Virginia wine, a view, and live music most Saturdays. Relax by the fire in the cozy tasting room or kick back in a chair on the deck. Check the website for a list of the wines they’re currently serving. Shenandoah Valley Wine Tours If you want to enjoy your wine tastings and not worry about a designated driver, Shenandoah Valley Wine Tours is your answer. They’ll pick you up in Woodstock and then head either north or south and provide safe transportation to four vineyards. You can even complement your wine with an optional snack box. Seven Bends Spirits Tours is another great option to tour the vineyards and breweries too without having to drive yourself. They offer private customized tours for groups of up to 12. Museums and Exhibits For over a hundred years, Strasburg was famous for commercial manufacturing of stone and earthenware pottery. In fact, the Strasburg Museum was originally a steam pottery. Now it’s a museum where you can find a large collection of antique pottery and photographs, learn about more than 250 years of Shenandoah Valley history, and much more. Since 2015, Strasburg has been making a name for itself in the street art scene with the Staufferstadt street murals. Located on and just off King Street, the 10 large-scale paintings grace the sides of buildings and were created by artists like Gilf! Alice Mizrachi, NDA, and Over Under. While you’re scoping out the murals, stop at the Stasburg Pavilion’s exterior display cases to see ShenMOCA’s American Masters of the 20th Century Temporary Contemporary exhibit that will feature a new artist each month in 2022. Another place to see art outside is Mount Jackson’s Apple Basket Water Tower, which rises 150 feet in the air. The design features a basket of red Gala apples to celebrate the area’s identity. It was painted freehand by mural artist Eric Henn. Shoppers looking for art can find the work of talented local artists in a variety of media showcased at Woodstock’s Valley Educational Center for Creative Arts (VECCA). VECCA sponsors six juried shows each year as well as exhibition artists in the 7 East Gallery space. Exhibition artists offer regular demo days to the public to demonstrate their art. The work of local artists is always on display at Penelope’s Cafe-Gallery in Edinburg. It’s a great place to get your morning coffee and pastry or a light lunch and support the local art scene. You find art by Karen Sue Burnett, Kent Harper, Emilie Boyde, and more. Classes and Workshops The Art Spot is a DIY art studio that lets you try your hand at canvas and pottery painting, sign making, and hand-built clay projects. Check the calender for special ladies’ night events like 80s Trivia Paint and Play or Wine & Shine. You’ll bond with the gals over crafts, refreshments, and prizes. If you’re interested in creating your own art, check out the class schedule at Strasburg’s Kay Witt Fine Art studio. Work to create an entirely new project or receive guidance on one you’ve already started. Classes are appropriate for all skill levels. If you love the look of realistic pastel paintings, sign up for Lisa Ober’s 3-day workshop in Edinburg. You’ll get personal instruction and feedback at all stages of the artistic process.
Shenandoah County’s Wine and Art Scene Shenandoah County is lauded for its beauty and wealth of outdoor entertainment options. But Virginia is also known as the “birthplace of American wine,” and residents have been growing and pressing grapes here for 400 years. Shenandoah County is home to nine vineyards that produce tasty and complex wines and take advantage of some of the area’s most impressive views. And while you might think the wine and natural landscapes are all you need to be happy, Shenandoah County also has a thriving art culture. From a historical pottery exhibit to world-class street art to workshops in pastel painting, we have plenty to feed your art-loving soul. Read on to learn how to connect to Shenandoah County’s wine scene and art scene. Festivals & Events On June 25, 2022, the Shenandoah Valley ArtFest and Vintage Woodstock will bring downtown Woodstock’s Court Square to life with local and regional art, community spirit and dancing in the street. This annual event helps the public connect with emerging and established artists in a variety of mediums. Plus, there will be live music, games for all ages, lots of tasty food-truck food, and wine and beer. Keep an eye on the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley’s calendar for quality art programming like Strasburg photo walks and presentations on Strasburg and Shenandoah County’s 250-year history of fine, decorative, and folk art. Wineries and Vineyards North Mountain Vineyard and Brewery (Maurertown) uses estate-grown grapes to “present a unique array of elegant wines exclusive to [the] vineyard’s terroir.” Toast your party by the fire in the elegant tasting room, or bring your kids and spread your blanket on the picture-perfect grounds. Check the schedule for live music and events, and stop in at the gift shop for unique gifts by local artists. Nearby Star in the Valley Estate Winery (Strasburg) produces small-batch wines with flavors unique to the Shenandoah Valley. Enjoy the wine by glass, bottle, or flight in the tasting room or from your picnic space on the patio. A trip to the winery will afford you with tremendous views from Little North Mountain. Muse Vineyards (Woodstock) is a wonderful place to taste some of the best wine around. Hungry? They serve lunch and snacks. They also host rotating monthly art shows and artist receptions in the tasting room. Nearby Shenandoah Vineyards (Edinburg) is the oldest winery in the Shenandoah Valley and the tasting room is in a Civil-War-era barn. The vineyard takes advantage of the “viticultural potential of the limestone soils and drier growing conditions” to produce a variety of award-winning whites, reds, and rosés. Check the calendar for events like live music and wine dinners. Family-owned Cave Ridge Vineyard and Winery (Mt. Jackson) won the 2021 Virginia Governor’s Cup Gold Medal and more for its excellent estate-grown wines. The vineyard is also known for its wide views of the Shenandoah Valley. Visit for a tasting and lite fare, and consider reserving an igloo on a cold night. Check the calendar for art exhibits, live music, and events like wine dinners. Also located in Mt. Jackson, the tasting room at the Winery at Kindred Pointe features lots of comfy seating and large doors that can be opened to let in the balmy spring air. The winery sells flights, glasses, and bottles of site-made wine, hard cider, sangria, and hot mulled wine. You can also book a private tasting in the new tasting room space. Nearby Wolf Gap Vineyard and Winery boasts picture-perfect views of Wolf Gap and the Great North Mountain from the wine-tasting deck. Stop in for a tasting or a bottle of your favorite red, red blend, white, or rosé. If you’d like to learn more about the wines or wine-making process, schedule a tour. Finally, Third Hill at De Mello Vineyards (Quicksburg) can help you unwind with a glass of Virginia wine, a view, and live music most Saturdays. Relax by the fire in the cozy tasting room or kick back in a chair on the deck. Check the website for a list of the wines they’re currently serving. Shenandoah Valley Wine Tours If you want to enjoy your wine tastings and not worry about a designated driver, Shenandoah Valley Wine Tours is your answer. They’ll pick you up in Woodstock and then head either north or south and provide safe transportation to four vineyards. You can even complement your wine with an optional snack box. Seven Bends Spirits Tours is another great option to tour the vineyards and breweries too without having to drive yourself. They offer private customized tours for groups of up to 12. Museums and Exhibits For over a hundred years, Strasburg was famous for commercial manufacturing of stone and earthenware pottery. In fact, the Strasburg Museum was originally a steam pottery. Now it’s a museum where you can find a large collection of antique pottery and photographs, learn about more than 250 years of Shenandoah Valley history, and much more. Since 2015, Strasburg has been making a name for itself in the street art scene with the Staufferstadt street murals. Located on and just off King Street, the 10 large-scale paintings grace the sides of buildings and were created by artists like Gilf! Alice Mizrachi, NDA, and Over Under. While you’re scoping out the murals, stop at the Stasburg Pavilion’s exterior display cases to see ShenMOCA’s American Masters of the 20th Century Temporary Contemporary exhibit that will feature a new artist each month in 2022. Another place to see art outside is Mount Jackson’s Apple Basket Water Tower, which rises 150 feet in the air. The design features a basket of red Gala apples to celebrate the area’s identity. It was painted freehand by mural artist Eric Henn. Shoppers looking for art can find the work of talented local artists in a variety of media showcased at Woodstock’s Valley Educational Center for Creative Arts (VECCA). VECCA sponsors six juried shows each year as well as exhibition artists in the 7 East Gallery space. Exhibition artists offer regular demo days to the public to demonstrate their art. The work of local artists is always on display at Penelope’s Cafe-Gallery in Edinburg. It’s a great place to get your morning coffee and pastry or a light lunch and support the local art scene. You find art by Karen Sue Burnett, Kent Harper, Emilie Boyde, and more. Classes and Workshops The Art Spot is a DIY art studio that lets you try your hand at canvas and pottery painting, sign making, and hand-built clay projects. Check the calender for special ladies’ night events like 80s Trivia Paint and Play or Wine & Shine. You’ll bond with the gals over crafts, refreshments, and prizes. If you’re interested in creating your own art, check out the class schedule at Strasburg’s Kay Witt Fine Art studio. Work to create an entirely new project or receive guidance on one you’ve already started. Classes are appropriate for all skill levels. If you love the look of realistic pastel paintings, sign up for Lisa Ober’s 3-day workshop in Edinburg. You’ll get personal instruction and feedback at all stages of the artistic process.
Farms, Family Fun and Ice Cream in Shenandoah County May 16, 2022 by Visit Shenandoah County Bring the Family together for a Summer Experience in beautiful Shenandoah County, Virginia! Get closer to nature and build family bonds with a visit to Shenandoah County. Attractions here are no-frills and not fancy, but are guaranteed to bring smiles and warm hearts. Hike in the woods, skip rocks on the river, feed llamas, pick berries and explore caverns are just a few ideas, but imagine a place that allows for together time, marveling at the views, enjoying farm-fresh foods and creating beautiful memories. Agricultural Experiences Once called the “Breadbasket of the South”, Shenandoah County has deep roots in agriculture with many family farms still in operation a hundred or more years after their original ancestor first put a shovel in the land. Nowadays, family farms are diversifying, and creating spaces for visitors to pick fruits and pet the animals. One “Century Farm” has even begun brewing craft beer and serving wood-fired pizzas made with ingredients sourced within a stone’s throw. Here are some of our favorite farm experiences in the area: Posey Thisisit Llama Farm– This 27-acre farm is home to over 30 llamas visitors can meet, pet, feed and, if you’re lucky, even share a llama kiss! The mission of the farm is to share their love of llamas with all who visit and they deliver on that promise. The owner’s love and enthusiasm for these charming animals is infectious. Open year round by appointment. Swover Creek Farms– is a Virginia Century Farm offering pick-your-own berries in several varieties including raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and black raspberries, and gooseberries. Their kitchen also offers wood fired pizzas, farm crafted sausages and home-made pretzels and well as farm crafted beers. Woodbine Farms– is a family owned and operated farm market offering a huge variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs including peaches, plum, cherries, apricots, apples, tomatoes, green beans and much more. Their bakery also serves up some of the best cookies around as well as fresh baked pies, artisan breads, and apple dumplings. Enjoy local cheeses, jams, ciders and more inside the market or venture outside for their children’s play area complete with mining sluice. Rivers, Caverns and other outdoor destinations Bryce Resort– This four season resort offers a variety of summer activities including biking, boat rentals, and golf. Beginner cyclists can take a lesson on their state of the art mountain bike trail which allows visitors to coast down the mountain and take in the spectacular views. Lake Laura is also part of Bryce Resort’s summer fun where the family can enjoy paddleboarding, canoeing and tubing. Shenandoah Caverns Family of Attractions– Beat the heat in an underground landscape- At a constant 56°F, the beauty and wonders of Shenandoah Caverns is a family experience like no other. Check out Shenandoah County’s beautiful scenery below the surface and learn the story of two young boys who discovered it over a hundred years ago and made it their secret hideaway. Shenandoah Caverns has working elevator service and is home to the famous “bacon formations” as featured in National Geographic Magazine. Included with your ticket to the Caverns there are several other attractions that are definitely worth seeing: Main Street of Yesteryear, the Yellow Barn and American Celebration on Parade. American Celebration on Parade is a favorite among families who enjoy seeing floats from the Rose Bowl Parades, Thanksgiving Day Parades and Presidential Inaugurals up close and personal. Many even come to life with the push of a button. Strasburg River Walk– This park offers a one of the most family/kid friendly river access points in the area suitable for canoes, kayaks and shallow aluminum boats. Fish for redbreast sunfish or small-mouth bass along the shores or enjoy a stroll along the gravel path running alongside the river. Woodstock Tower– Take a short 1/3 mile round-trip hike to one of the most spectacular views of the Shenandoah Valley. The Woodstock Tower was originally built as one of the first Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) projects now offers stunning 360 degree views of the Seven Bends of the Shenandoah River, the Town of Woodstock, and Fort Valley. It’s a perfectly short hike for little ones and the views are breathtaking. Note: The drive to the trail head is filled with switchbacks as it climbs over Massanutten Mountain. RV’s Trailers and buses are not allowed. Hike to Big Schloss– For your tough-and-mighty trail warriors this 4 mile round trip hike offers a perfect day on the mountain with places to stop for a picnic. A beautiful rock outcropping at the end makes a perfect spot for a family photo. You can’t beat the views here! At the trail head are several places to set up a tent and campfire for the night. Memories made. Ice Cream Stands: No matter what part of the county you visit, there’s always a good place to stop and cool down with a sweet treat. After your adventures, on the rivers, trails or underground it’s easy to find a place to stop at one of the many ice cream stands around the County. Offering classic treats such as hand-dipped cones, custard and milkshakes as well as chillers filled with your favorite candy bars. Most places are open seasonally and are enjoyed by locals and travelers alike. Ice Cream Depot 363 E King St Strasburg Katie’s Custard– 870 S Main St Woodstock Smiley’s Kustard– 1562 Orkney Grade Bayse (near Bryce Resort) Sugar Creek Snowy & Sweet– 154 E King St Strasburg Pack’s Frozen Custard – 211 East Lee Hwy New Market
What’s Cooking? Shenandoah County for Foodies May 16, 2022 by Visit Shenandoah County When you’re zipping along on the interstate, it might be easy to assume that Shenandoah County is a county full of fast food. But while there’s plenty of convenience food to be found, there’s also a wealth of restaurants serving fresh-cooked food that emphasizes local meat, produce, and other ingredients. From bakeries and cafes to brew pubs, wine bars, and even a restaurant in a greenhouse, the “Breadbasket of the South” is a wonderful place to enjoy farm-to-table dining. Basye When you’ve worked your body hard – as you surely will skiing, biking, or hiking at Basye Resort – you’ll be hungry for the choices at the Cooper Kettle Bar & Lounge the ultimate venue to relax après ski or after a round of golf. Offering soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and entrees of braised beef and spring salmon. Catch live music on the weekend in the evenings. For an upscale experience at an extensive wine bar, try RHouse Wine & Cafe. Share plates from their menu, including charcuterie platters and dishes like mushroom fontina fonduta, which is mushrooms baked with fontina and drizzled with truffle oil. Other decadent dishes include baby back ribs with maple sauce and mashed potatoes. Save room for decadent desserts like key lime cheesecake and Spanish flan. New Market If you’re exploring the area around New Market and indulging your appreciation for history at the New Market Battlefield State Historical Park you’ll definitely work up an appetite. Stop at the Jackson Corner Cafe in the Lee-Jackson building for a light meal of salad, quiche, pastries, and soups and sandwiches. Don’t skip that good-smelling cup of Crazy Fox Coffee Roasting Co. coffee. This local small-batch, artisan roaster buys beans from farms that emphasize sustainability. For a nostalgic treat, a view of a retro neon sign, and true Southern cooking, plant yourself in the locally-owned Southern Kitchen for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Not only can you get classics like peanut soup, and sirloin barbeque beef tips, you can also gnosh on something called a 50/50 burger that’s made from a mix of ground beef and ground bacon. If you’re around on a Wednesday evening, indulge in the all-you-can-eat fried chicken wing special. Follow that up with some homemade apple fritters or fruit or meringue pie. Mount Jackson Mount Jackson is a terrific place to start a day of biking. Explore the quiet country roads surrounding the town, making sure to stop for photographs of the Meems Bottom Bridge and the landmark water tower that’s decorated with Shenandoah County apples. Spread out a blanket and catch some Second Sunday music at Mayor’s Park if you happen to be in town for it. A nice place to have a meal is the Curtain Call Coffeehouse Cafe. The interior is decorated with cool classic movie posters, and you’ll love the lattes, scones, and other items freshly made by local bakers. The cafe specializes in sandwiches and wraps, as well as other breakfast and lunch items. You also won’t want to leave Mount Jackson without a tour of the Route 11 Potato Chip factory facilities and a taste of local, kettle cooked goodness Edinburg A day in Edinburg isn’t complete without a visit to the Shenandoah Valley Cultural Heritage Museum at Edinburg Mill. The 1848 mill, known for being spared when Sheridan burned the Shenandoah Valley, provides hands-on history exhibits about the Civil War and America’s first Civilian Conservation Camp. Head downstairs to dine on pub-style food in the Edinburg Mill Restaurant. Chefs Jason Burns and Dennis Stickley emphasize local products in their seasonal menu items. Start with an order of braised pork belly prepared with local apples and fresh herbs. Next, dig into an entree of blackened Virginia catfish or pecan chicken. The restaurant also serves steaks, burgers, as well as breakfast and lunch selections. Penelope’s Cafe-Gallery puts “coffee, pastries, soup, and art all in one place.” Munch breakfast or lunch on freshly-baked bread while admiring the works of local artists like Ralph Weber, Brigitte Smith, Kent Harper, and more. You won’t leave hungry after a meal at Beans BBQ, but you’ll want to pack a cooler and take some with you to eat at home the next day. The eatery is low frills, but the food is simple, but it’s to die for. Choose from pork bbq, ribs, chicken bbq, andouille sausage, brisket and a selection of sides. Edinburg is also centrally located for touring five nearby vineyards: Muse Vineyards, Shenandoah Vineyards, Cave Ridge Vineyard, Wolf Gap Vineyard and Winery, and the Winery at Kindred Pointe. Woodstock Whether you’re hiking or biking the trails in Seven Bends State Park or hunting for treasures in the antique shops lining Woodstock’s main drag, eventually you’ll want to slow down for a meal. Check out the bread schedule, peruse the pastry menu, and see what’s on the drink specials menu at Flour and Water. Your favorites will probably include olive sourdough, bacon, cheddar, and chive scones, and marigold lattes, but there’s much more to choose from on the menu of chef-designed sandwiches, fresh soups, and more. Chef Jose at Woodstock Cafe serves brunch, lunch, and dinner. Standout menu selections include D’Artagnan grass fed ribeye with fries and Shenandoah ramp butter and the homemade mafaldine pasta with asparagus, hen of the woods mushrooms, bacon, and parmesan fondue. Save room for a seasonal dessert or swing by Sugar Creek Snowy and Sweet for hand-dipped Pennsylvania Dutch-style ice cream. Choose from more than two dozen delicious flavors like orange creamsicle, coffee crunch, and coconut. Plant enthusiasts will dig eating inside the Fort Valley Greenhouse at Woodstock Garden Cafe. The cafe emphasizes the use of fresh, local ingredients from area producers like Mowery Orchard, Shenandoah Spice Company, and Dayton Produce. They also grow ingredients onsite and change their menu seasonally to reflect what’s fresh. Strasburg A fun way to explore downtown Strasburg is to look for the colorful murals painted on the sides of buildings. Afterwards, widen your pancake horizons with The Pancake Underground’s savory fried chicken and pancakes doused in house-made Nashville hot or apple bbq sauce. Your tastebuds will sing with a serving of Elvis-inspired peanut butter, banana, and bacon cakes doused in bourbon-maple syrup and powdered sugar. You can even get a stack of s’mores cakes, which are flavored with cinnamon and piled high with marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker crumbles. If you’d rather have fresh seafood, Crabby Maggie’s offers a wide selection at fair prices. Try the crabcakes or a cluster of snow crab legs with sides of hush puppies and cole slaw. Hungry for chicken? Chow down on “sandwichez, tenderz, or wingz ” hand-breaded and prepared according to a family recipe at Chickn EATZ. If you’re sick of the hockey puck burgers and dried up hotdogs coming off your grill, take the family to Old Dominion Doggery and Burger Shoppe. Start with Bavarian pretzel logs dipped in beer cheese sauce and then build your own kosher all-beef dog or 100% local grass-fed beef burger. The extensive list of toppings includes classics like chili and cheese as well as pork rinds and crushed pineapple. The Box Office Brewery taproom is located in a renovated 1918 theater – the first in Shenandoah County. The bar is constructed from a local reclaimed bowling alley lane and flights of beer are served in cool film reel-inspired trays. You can order local wine, cider, and a dozen refreshing craft beers on tap. Accompany you drinks with brick oven pizza, sandwiches like cheesesteaks and smash burgers, and starters like wings and nachos.
When you’re zipping along on the interstate, it might be easy to assume that Shenandoah County is a county full of fast food. But while there’s plenty of convenience food to be found, there’s also a wealth of restaurants serving fresh-cooked food that emphasizes local meat, produce, and other ingredients. From bakeries and cafes to brew pubs, wine bars, and even a restaurant in a greenhouse, the “Breadbasket of the South” is a wonderful place to enjoy farm-to-table dining. Basye When you’ve worked your body hard – as you surely will skiing, biking, or hiking at Basye Resort – you’ll be hungry for the choices at the Cooper Kettle Bar & Lounge the ultimate venue to relax après ski or after a round of golf. Offering soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and entrees of braised beef and spring salmon. Catch live music on the weekend in the evenings. For an upscale experience at an extensive wine bar, try RHouse Wine & Cafe. Share plates from their menu, including charcuterie platters and dishes like mushroom fontina fonduta, which is mushrooms baked with fontina and drizzled with truffle oil. Other decadent dishes include baby back ribs with maple sauce and mashed potatoes. Save room for decadent desserts like key lime cheesecake and Spanish flan. New Market If you’re exploring the area around New Market and indulging your appreciation for history at the New Market Battlefield State Historical Park you’ll definitely work up an appetite. Stop at the Jackson Corner Cafe in the Lee-Jackson building for a light meal of salad, quiche, pastries, and soups and sandwiches. Don’t skip that good-smelling cup of Crazy Fox Coffee Roasting Co. coffee. This local small-batch, artisan roaster buys beans from farms that emphasize sustainability. For a nostalgic treat, a view of a retro neon sign, and true Southern cooking, plant yourself in the locally-owned Southern Kitchen for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Not only can you get classics like peanut soup, and sirloin barbeque beef tips, you can also gnosh on something called a 50/50 burger that’s made from a mix of ground beef and ground bacon. If you’re around on a Wednesday evening, indulge in the all-you-can-eat fried chicken wing special. Follow that up with some homemade apple fritters or fruit or meringue pie. Mount Jackson Mount Jackson is a terrific place to start a day of biking. Explore the quiet country roads surrounding the town, making sure to stop for photographs of the Meems Bottom Bridge and the landmark water tower that’s decorated with Shenandoah County apples. Spread out a blanket and catch some Second Sunday music at Mayor’s Park if you happen to be in town for it. A nice place to have a meal is the Curtain Call Coffeehouse Cafe. The interior is decorated with cool classic movie posters, and you’ll love the lattes, scones, and other items freshly made by local bakers. The cafe specializes in sandwiches and wraps, as well as other breakfast and lunch items. You also won’t want to leave Mount Jackson without a tour of the Route 11 Potato Chip factory facilities and a taste of local, kettle cooked goodness Edinburg A day in Edinburg isn’t complete without a visit to the Shenandoah Valley Cultural Heritage Museum at Edinburg Mill. The 1848 mill, known for being spared when Sheridan burned the Shenandoah Valley, provides hands-on history exhibits about the Civil War and America’s first Civilian Conservation Camp. Head downstairs to dine on pub-style food in the Edinburg Mill Restaurant. Chefs Jason Burns and Dennis Stickley emphasize local products in their seasonal menu items. Start with an order of braised pork belly prepared with local apples and fresh herbs. Next, dig into an entree of blackened Virginia catfish or pecan chicken. The restaurant also serves steaks, burgers, as well as breakfast and lunch selections. Penelope’s Cafe-Gallery puts “coffee, pastries, soup, and art all in one place.” Munch breakfast or lunch on freshly-baked bread while admiring the works of local artists like Ralph Weber, Brigitte Smith, Kent Harper, and more. You won’t leave hungry after a meal at Beans BBQ, but you’ll want to pack a cooler and take some with you to eat at home the next day. The eatery is low frills, but the food is simple, but it’s to die for. Choose from pork bbq, ribs, chicken bbq, andouille sausage, brisket and a selection of sides. Edinburg is also centrally located for touring five nearby vineyards: Muse Vineyards, Shenandoah Vineyards, Cave Ridge Vineyard, Wolf Gap Vineyard and Winery, and the Winery at Kindred Pointe. Woodstock Whether you’re hiking or biking the trails in Seven Bends State Park or hunting for treasures in the antique shops lining Woodstock’s main drag, eventually you’ll want to slow down for a meal. Check out the bread schedule, peruse the pastry menu, and see what’s on the drink specials menu at Flour and Water. Your favorites will probably include olive sourdough, bacon, cheddar, and chive scones, and marigold lattes, but there’s much more to choose from on the menu of chef-designed sandwiches, fresh soups, and more. Chef Jose at Woodstock Cafe serves brunch, lunch, and dinner. Standout menu selections include D’Artagnan grass fed ribeye with fries and Shenandoah ramp butter and the homemade mafaldine pasta with asparagus, hen of the woods mushrooms, bacon, and parmesan fondue. Save room for a seasonal dessert or swing by Sugar Creek Snowy and Sweet for hand-dipped Pennsylvania Dutch-style ice cream. Choose from more than two dozen delicious flavors like orange creamsicle, coffee crunch, and coconut. Plant enthusiasts will dig eating inside the Fort Valley Greenhouse at Woodstock Garden Cafe. The cafe emphasizes the use of fresh, local ingredients from area producers like Mowery Orchard, Shenandoah Spice Company, and Dayton Produce. They also grow ingredients onsite and change their menu seasonally to reflect what’s fresh. Strasburg A fun way to explore downtown Strasburg is to look for the colorful murals painted on the sides of buildings. Afterwards, widen your pancake horizons with The Pancake Underground’s savory fried chicken and pancakes doused in house-made Nashville hot or apple bbq sauce. Your tastebuds will sing with a serving of Elvis-inspired peanut butter, banana, and bacon cakes doused in bourbon-maple syrup and powdered sugar. You can even get a stack of s’mores cakes, which are flavored with cinnamon and piled high with marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker crumbles. If you’d rather have fresh seafood, Crabby Maggie’s offers a wide selection at fair prices. Try the crabcakes or a cluster of snow crab legs with sides of hush puppies and cole slaw. Hungry for chicken? Chow down on “sandwichez, tenderz, or wingz ” hand-breaded and prepared according to a family recipe at Chickn EATZ. If you’re sick of the hockey puck burgers and dried up hotdogs coming off your grill, take the family to Old Dominion Doggery and Burger Shoppe. Start with Bavarian pretzel logs dipped in beer cheese sauce and then build your own kosher all-beef dog or 100% local grass-fed beef burger. The extensive list of toppings includes classics like chili and cheese as well as pork rinds and crushed pineapple. The Box Office Brewery taproom is located in a renovated 1918 theater – the first in Shenandoah County. The bar is constructed from a local reclaimed bowling alley lane and flights of beer are served in cool film reel-inspired trays. You can order local wine, cider, and a dozen refreshing craft beers on tap. Accompany you drinks with brick oven pizza, sandwiches like cheesesteaks and smash burgers, and starters like wings and nachos.