Unique Finds & Local Flavors
The best way to experience an area is to do as the locals do and what better way to discover the local flair of Shenandoah County than by experiencing many of our unique finds and local flavors!
DAY 1
Take a trip down historic US Route 11 to experience locally owned shops, restaurants, and lodging as well as the bountiful talent of local artists and craftsmen dot The Old Valley Pike like a String of Pearls along Route 11. Start in Strasburg and take the mural walk painted by world-renowned artists, then enjoy an array of talent at VECCA Gallery located in the heart of Woodstock.
For an exceptional meal, head to the Edinburg Mill Restaurant “Rustic venue, Rustic cuisine” describes the restaurant on the ground floor of the historic Edinburg Mill, set in the 1848 charm of its limestone walls and low beam ceilings. In a cozy and intimate atmosphere, you’ll find a menu that takes simple offerings and elevates them to extraordinary heights. After your meal discover the Shenandoah Valley’s rich history at the Shenandoah Valley Cultural Heritage Museum at the Edinburg Mill. Best of all, admission is just $2! Visitors can explore exhibits on the history of Shenandoah County, agriculture, fashion, and even photography within one of the few historic mills to escape “The Burning” during the Civil War.
DAY 2
Another great place to experience the unique history of Shenandoah County during the Civil War is the Virginia Museum of the Civil War , which tells the story of the young Virginia Military Institute (VMI) cadets that were called to duty in 1864 at the Battle of New Market in what became known as the “Field of Lost Shoes”. Just outside the Historical Park and the Historic Bushong Farm located on the National Register of Historic Places is part of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail System making it a perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh mountain air. There are plenty of picnic tables on site to accommodate large groups.
Before you leave New Market stop by Jon Henry General Store, a truly unique shopping experience where you can get anything from local produce, organic snack foods, unusual candies and some of the best ice cream sandwiches around. Shenandoah County is also known for its vast array of antique shops and flea markets with unusual finds. Browse the many antique shops in Strasburg including the Strasburg Emporium which offers the largest selection of antiques in the Shenandoah Valley. Three French Hens in Woodstock offers a variety of shabby chic and vintage finds as well as jewelry, hand-made cards, and adornments for your home. Just down the street, Travelers Treasures carries a wide variety of unique local products from independent Woodstock and Shenandoah Valley area vendors or be sure to pop across the street for a sweet treat at Sugar Creek Snowy and Sweet before venturing south down Route 11 to the Edinburg Flea Market or Shenandoah Valley Flea Market.
DAY 3
Finally, no trip to Shenandoah County is complete without a stop at Route 11 Potato Chips. Watch as chips are made right before your eyes and sample their wide variety of flavors including Dill Pickle, MamaZuma’s Revenge, Chesapeake Crab, Sweet Potato, and more. Be sure to stop just around the corner at Shenandoah Caverns and their Family of Attractions including American Celebration on Parade. Caverns exist throughout the Shenandoah Valley but Shenandoah Caverns is the only one with elevator service making it handicap accessible. Admission to the caverns also includes a tour of American Celebration on Parade, a museum of retired parade floats from the Rose Parade, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and Presidential Inaugurations. Before heading home, make a stop at Jackson’s Corner Café in New Market for locally roasted coffee by Cabin Creek Roasters. Located within the historic Lee-Jackson building in the center of town, visitors can watch as the beans are roasted on site. Their sandwiches and pastries are also fantastic for a light bite before hitting the road.