The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley is a way of knowing and appreciating the valley. It is all about the art, culture and other interesting facts regarding the valley. There are three parts to the museum: The House, The Gardens and the Museum. Each one is complex and unique in its own way and each one has an amazing story to tell about the valley.
George Washington's Office Museum was the abode and the workplace of the former President between 1755 and 1756, while he was building Fort Loudoun. Washington had taken up a small log cabin on the property which now makes up the central part of the museum. The place is used to display several artifacts from the fort and also has some temporary exhibitions with themes displaying Washington's ideas. The place is open from April to October, so make sure you are in time to catch the exhibits.
Built in 1797, Belle Grove Plantation is an admirable mansion in Virginia and is the evidence of German immigration to the Shenandoah Valley. Built by Major Issac Hite and his wife, the property now stands on a sprawling area of 283 acres. The architecture is also outstanding and the interior woodwork and magnificent outdoors have stood the test of time. The mansion is a historic landmark and tries to create historical awareness with various interpretive programs and guided tours
Sitting amidst Shenandoah Valley's Scenic wine country is Muse Vineyards on an estate of 30 acres. Located in the vicinity of Washington DC, Muse is a family-run estate and winery that grows and bottles premium wines. The modern tasting room offers lovely views of the surrounding vineyard and the rolling mountains. Some additional highlights are delicious food, special events, and a self-guided trail of 1.8 miles through rows of ripe and bright vineyards. Spend a day sipping on full-bodied Cabernet Franc on the upstairs terrace surrounded by the Shenandoah river, gorgeous green fields, and breathtaking views.
Marker Miller Orchards Farm Market and Bakery is a must visit when you're in Winchester. This beautiful orchard comprises 325 acres of apples and about 15 acres of peach plantations. Plums, pears, apricots and raspberries are seasonally grown and during certain seasons you can Pick-Your-Own fruit. Children will love the playground, the wagon rides, and more! The bakery at the farm is a delight for people with a sweet tooth. Events like the Century Farm Birthday Festival, Apple Festival, Peach Festival, Fall Festival, and Bakery Festival are also held here.
A beautiful addition to Luray's many perfect parks, Luray-Hawksbill Greenway, is an ornithophile's paradise. This park has a flourishing natural environment teeming with wildlife, butterflies, and various exotic species of birds. Fresh, clean air, beautifully scenic surroundings, picnic areas, and drinking fountains are some of the superb features here. With wonderfully paved walkways and Hawksbill Creek to keep you company, it is brilliant for walking, biking, or exercising. Loved by locals and tourists alike, this park is excellent for couples or families due to the many fun activities available.
Fort Collier was built to provide protection to the Northern entrance of Winchester, Virginia. Confederate Lieutenant Collier, along with Virginia militia and Federal prisoners constructed this fort. Also referred to as Battery No. 10, this fort played an important part in the Third Battle of Wincheseter. Currently, the site is maintained and preserved by the Fort Collier Civil War Center, Inc.
Marker Miller Orchards Farm Market and Bakery is a must visit when you're in Winchester. This beautiful orchard comprises 325 acres of apples and about 15 acres of peach plantations. Plums, pears, apricots and raspberries are seasonally grown and during certain seasons you can Pick-Your-Own fruit. Children will love the playground, the wagon rides, and more! The bakery at the farm is a delight for people with a sweet tooth. Events like the Century Farm Birthday Festival, Apple Festival, Peach Festival, Fall Festival, and Bakery Festival are also held here.
Long Branch Historic House & Farm is a unique museum which also plays the role of an event venue and more. The Long Branch Historic House & Farm house furnishings from the early 18th Century which are kept in the lavish rooms of the venue. The manor has been owned by men who made an impact in American history, such as, Lord Culpeper, Lord Fairfax, and Robert “King” Carter. Nowadays, the museum is used for fairs, wine and music festivals, horse rides and more. A must visit for those visiting Millwood, as there is so much history behind this manor. For further details do visit their website.
Located in the small town of Huntly, is the family owned and run Rappahannock Cellars, which has relocated from California. This thriving winery and farm is sprawled over more than 85 acres (34 hectares) of land, and has variations of wine including Merlot, Norton and Petit Verdot. Drop in here to enjoy a tour of the winery, followed by a tasting of eight different wines, in their cozy and welcoming tasting room.
Balthis House was built in 1787 in the town of Front Royal in Virginia. Owned by the Balthis family, this house is now open as a museum and visitors can take a tour. Built in a classic architectural style, this house has undergone many renovations and many additions were made to it later on. Visitors are advised to take the guided tours and learn more about the history and time this house has been through.