10 Epic Experiences in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley

Shenandoah Valley is a picturesque region nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Alleghany Mountains in Virginia. The area is known for its natural beauty, thrilling outdoor adventures, historic significance, relaxing vineyards, artsy towns, and much more that make for an ideal mix of travel experiences for all ages.

1. Outdoor Bliss with Jordan Hollow Stables, Stanley
   Jordan Hollow Stables offers horseback riding adventures through 140 acres of quiet, breathtaking trails shared by various wildlife that roam the property. Shaded, safe trails lead past the rolling waters of Hawksbill Creek. Ride through beautiful country fields surrounded by a panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park, home to the famed Skyline Drive.

2. Hidden Gem Wonder at Camera Heritage Museum, Staunton
   Over 7,000 cameras and accessories are catalogued at the Camera Heritage Museum in Staunton, Virginia. That volume makes it the largest public camera museum in the United States (maybe the world?), and it continues to grow. A non-profit, the museum relies on donations and aspires to obtain a larger space to be able to display more of the collection.

3. Geological Discoveries at Luray Caverns, Luray
   First discovered in 1878, Luray Caverns is the largest cavern in the eastern United States and a Registered Natural Landmark. It is home to Geology’s Hall of Fame and the Great Stalacpipe Organ, the world’s largest musical instrument with 37 different stalactites spanning 3.5 acres. Explore stunning ancient rock formations, all made of a crystalline form of limestone, like Titania’s Veil, a white calcite formation, and Giant’s Hall, a 47-foot chamber of towering stalactites and stalagmites.

4. Hiking Trails to Big Schloss, George Washington National Forest
   Big Schloss is a white sandstone outcrop within George Washington National Forest named by German immigrants to the Shenandoah Valley. Take the 4.4-mile trail to reach the summit. There is about 1,000 feet of elevation gain, which can be steep at times. Native flowers dot the path in spring and of course, fall foliage is stunning. Plan to stay a while and soak in the amazing views with camping facilities available at Wolf Gap Recreation Area, the starting point.

5. Family Fun at Virginia Scenic Railway, Staunton
   Ride the Virginia Scenic Railway through the beautiful scenery of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Sit back and enjoy the renovated passenger cars while you take in the view. This is Virginia’s only regularly scheduled tourist train excursion. The two excursions of the Alleghany Special and Blue Ridge Flyer provide not only wonderful views but some great food and beverages too.

6. Travelling Back in Time at Belle Grove Plantation, Middletown
   Belle Grove was the home of Major Isaac Hite and his wife Nelly Madison Hite, sister of President James Madison who used enslaved labour to expand his original 483 acres to a prosperous 7,500-acre plantation. Belle Grove was occupied several times during the Civil War, most notably by Union General Philip Sheridan in the fall of 1864. The Manor House, completed in 1797, remains the centrepiece of the property and is open for touring. Belle Grove is a National Historic Landmark and the crown of the Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historic Park.

7. Art Hopping Along Waynesboro Street Arts Trail, Waynesboro
   The Waynesboro Street Arts Trail is a collection of 20 public art installations in downtown Waynesboro. The art ranges from fabulous murals and sculptures to a LOVEwork created by Shenandoah Valley artist Mark Cline. Many of the murals came to fruition through the Virginia Street Arts Festival and included artists like Kimchi Juice, Nils Westergard, Andie Peach, G.W. Lundeen, and Peyton Moore.

8. One-of-a-kind Experience at White Oak Lavender Farm, Harrisonburg
   More than 8,000 lavender plants and 3,000 grape vines are nestled in the soil at White Oak Lavender Farm in Harrisonburg. The lavender is harvested in summer and dried to extract essential oils and floral water. The grapes are harvested in the fall to craft a dozen varieties of wine. Visitors are welcome to spend time at White Oak Lavender sipping wine, getting new knowledge with a lavender crafting class, or shopping for lavender products in the gift shop.

9. Luxury Stay at The Omni Homestead Resort, Hot Springs
   The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa has been delighting vacationers – including 24 U.S. presidents – for over 250 years. A recently completed $170 million renovation restored the historic character of this Allegheny Mountain resort in Virginia, from the Great Hall to the guest rooms and the bathhouses at the iconic Warm Springs Pools. This one-of-a-kind resort features a two-acre water park and top-ranked golf courses, including the nation’s oldest first tee in continuous use. Deepen your experience with a soothing massage at The Spa. Dine across eight charming restaurants and bars, plus taste wines from fine regional vintners during your stay.

10. Festival Season at Shenandoah Valley Music Festival, Orkney Springs
    The summers are sprinkled with wonderful concerts at Orkney Springs, collectively called the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival, Virginia’s longest-running music festival. Genres of all kinds are mixed into the annual calendar that begins in July and concludes in September. The festival is outdoors with plenty of lawn seating, or secure a seat under the pavilion. Overnight accommodations and dining are available to make your experience a relaxing one.