Consider yourself officially invited to explore the Shenandoah Valley as often as you want, anytime you want. In fact, we have this handy list of 22 places you should visit in 2022, though it could be 2,022 if we thought you’d scroll through it.
Peruse this mix of well-known and under-the-radar destinations, then mark a few weekends on the calendar to explore your top choices. See you in the Valley soon!
1. Ecco Adesso Vineyards in Fairfield, Virginia
The Shenandoah Valley’s newest vineyard and winery just opened July 31, 2021 and is already drawing an audience. The atmosphere is both farmstead and luxury with on-site accommodations and incredible views.
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2. American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, Virginia
The Blackfriars Playhouse is the world’s only re-creation of William Shakespeare’s indoor theatre, and it’s an incredible, intimate treat. Consult their calendar for show schedules.
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3. Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, Virginia
It’s a beautiful home, acres of lush gardens, and an important museum. The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley tells not only the story of two families and their time on the grounds of Glen Burnie, but also often untold stories of the culture and heritage of the Shenandoah Valley.
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4. White Oak Lavender Farm in Harrisonburg, Virginia
Summer is the key time to visit White Oak Lavender Farm as you can pick-your-own bundles of lavender. The family also makes soothing lavender lotions, soaps, and more that you may purchase. If you enjoy wine, try a glass of wine from their Purple Wolf Vineyard.
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5. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
John Brown’s Raid to free enslaved people occurred at Harpers Ferry on October 16, 1859 after months of planning and preparation. Get the full story of the events that ignited the Civil War when you see the sites in person and experience the quaint town nestled between two rivers.
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6. Copper Fox Distillery in Sperryville, Virginia
Scotch whisky is hand-crafted with local ingredients at Copper Fox Distillery, and you’re welcome to sample the spirits and learn about the distilling process daily. Try a cocktail and then recreate it at home with your own Copper Fox collection.
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7. Massanutten Resort in McGaheysville, Virginia
From ropes courses and mountain biking trails to music festivals and snowsports, you can enjoy a little bit of everything at Massanutten. Pamper yourself at the spa or putt around at the golf course. Kids in tow? Massanutten WaterPark is regularly hailed as a top indoor waterpark and is always a family favorite.
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8. Fort Valley Ranch in Fort Valley, Virginia
Learn to ride a horse with a guided trail ride at Fort Valley Ranch. Spend the weekend camping or in a cabin. You’ll feel like a cowboy in no time.
Fort Valley Ranch
9. The Caverns of the Shenandoah Valley
When there are multiple caverns dotting the Shenandoah Valley – each with its own amazing story and features – it’s impossible to choose just one to visit. Rock, paper, scissors? Shoot, just see them all!
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10. Virginia Safari Park in Natural Bridge, Virginia
The largest drive-through safari adventure is home to unexpected extras like the United States’ only king cheetahs, rare white rhinos, and a sky-high giraffe feeding experience. Drive the three-mile road through the park and then walk the 10-acre Village to meet more animals and mingle with the birds in the free-flight aviary.
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11. Bryce Resort in Basye, Virginia
A mountain biking mecca, Bryce Bike Park continuously adds to their trails to create excellent experiences for both beginners and professionals. More adrenaline to burn? In winter you can hit the slopes, ice skate, or throw your hands up as you slide down the mountain on a snow tube.
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12. Shenandoah National Park in Luray and Waynesboro, Virginia
What is there to do inside Shenandoah National Park? Whatever you can imagine. There are more than 200,000 acres, 500 miles of trails (101 are the famed Appalachian Trail), waterfalls, gorgeous views while dining, comfortable lodging and camping options, and abundant wildlife. SNP is an essential experience for any outdoor wanderer.
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13. Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest in Forest, Virginia
Jefferson’s private retreat was a favorite place to dwell post-presidency, and it is an active archaeological site. Tours of the octagonal home are offered every 30 minutes but visitors are welcome to spend time exploring the grounds and slave quarters at their own pace.
Poplar Forest
14. Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail
Trailblazers welcome! You’ll want to pace yourself as you sip your way through nearly 20 breweries stretching from Harrisonburg to Natural Bridge, Virginia. Pick up a passport and have it stamped at 8 locations to get a free Beerwerks t-shirt.
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15. Shenandoah Valley Music Festival in Orkney Springs, Virginia
Though more of an event than an attraction, the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival is spread across nearly two months, which allows many people an opportunity to catch a show. Watch for the 59th annual festival schedule and plan your trip around exciting entertainment.
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16. Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton, Virginia
Imagine Virginia being the frontier. It was at one time, of course, and the Frontier Culture Museum demonstrates and displays how the various immigrant and enslaved communities built their lives and influenced culture in the Shenandoah Valley.
The German Garden at Frontier Culture Museum
17. National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia
June 6, 1944 was the first day of Operation Overlord, a major campaign of World War II. That day, 150,000 Allied forces stormed Normandy by air, land, and sea; 4,415 of them perished. The National D-Day Memorial exists to honor their sacrifice and remember Bedford’s 19 lost servicemen, known as The Bedford Boys.
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18. Route 11 Potato Chip Factory in Mt. Jackson, Virginia
Locally sourced potatoes (and sweet potatoes) are transformed into crunchy, delicious Route 11 Potato Chips at their factory. Visit to see the small-batch production process and taste kettle-cooked chips in a multitude of flavors. You’ll want to take a case of each!
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19. Factory Antique Mall in Verona, Virginia
Antiquers, rejoice! You’ve landed on the largest antique mall in America … and they’re still growing. You’ll find more than antiques in this 135,000-square-foot mall, however, as artisans also offer their handmade goods inside.
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20. Capon Springs & Farms in Capon Springs, West Virginia
An all-inclusive, family-centered getaway, Capon Springs & Farms is a throwback to far simpler times. Dining is family style (or camp style, if you prefer), and the lodging is much like a bed and breakfast experience. Retreat from a life of technology and soak in the soothing sounds of nature and laughter.
Capon Springs and Farms
21. Natural Bridge State Park in Natural Bridge, Virginia
The Natural Bridge is one of those places you have to visit in person to appreciate. It’s impressive, to say the least. Walk along Cedar Creek Trail beneath the soaring limestone arch, but don’t stop with the bridge. Keep going to encounter a re-created Monacan Indian Village, a lost river, a cave that was once mined during the Civil War, and a cascading waterfall.
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22. Peaks of Otter in Bedford, Virginia
The Peaks of Otter were once believed the be the highest points in Virginia. They’re not, of course, but the view from Sharp Top may make you question the data. Hike the Peaks or take an easier stroll around the picturesque Lake Abbott. If you need a meal or a place to lay your head, the Peaks of Otter Lodge is your go-to.
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So off you go! 2022 is yours for the taking and we hope this list of ideas helps you make new memories with family and friends, or simply adds to your solo traveling journaling. Happy Jaunts!