No One Goes There

I have only been to a handful of cities and towns in Northern Virginia so far, but the other day I came across a tweet from someone who was snarkily asking why one of those places is listed on signs for Route 66.  According to her, no one goes there (I got the impression that she meant no one of consequence).  As one of the few places I've ventured to since moving here, I was a bit surprised.  Then dismayed by the fact that this rather snobby comment was retweeted by a Virginia magazine (I'm still trying to figure out why).  I did not doubt myself at all, feel uncouth for having traveled there, or reconsider my future travels because of it.  I understand that Front Royal feels out in the middle of nowhere and it doesn't have a lot of the culture that people move to big cities for.  But it does have history, it does have a few really cool places to check out and, oh, one more little thing:


If you've been reading this blog from the beginning, Front Royal might sound familiar to you.  That is because, coming from the DC Metro Area, Front Royal is the town you're going to head to if you want to see Shenandoah National Park, Shenandoah River State Park, the George Washington National Forest and The Appalachian Trail.  It takes about two hours (from the District) for you to get there and immerse yourself in nature and history. I also  found out at ZooFari that the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) has a complex located in Front Royal.  


So if you don't like nature or history, then yeah, I guess you won't like it there.


If you do like these things, then let me give a few more incentives to go to Front Royal:


Spelunker's: Best burger I've had in Virginia.  Tastes even better after a day of hiking and gives you a chance to meet some really nice locals (at least, I did).


Skyline Caverns:  Because Spelunker's should obvious be followed by spelunking.


The Apple House:  In Linden, just outside of Front Royal.  All you need to know: warm apple cider donuts.  Read the Yelp reviews on this one for other great menu recommendations.


Orchards & Farms:  Yes, there are closer ones in Virginia, but if you're out there for the rest of it, why not make a day out of it and pick some fruit or veg?


Wineries & Vineyards:  Glen Manor Vineyards, in particular, has received great reviews.  Check the list for the surrounding area and you can make a day of this, too.


Get Out on the River: Canoes, kayaks, rafts (including white water) and tubes.  The companies listed only have "canoe" in the title, don't let that discourage you.


Annual Virginia Wine & Craft Festival:  Just missed this one - In May: shopping, live music, kids games, artwork, crafts, wine tasting and food vendors.


Autumn Conservation Festival:  In early October: The Zoo's SCBI is only open to the public during this festival, so you won't want to miss it.  Dirt cheap compared to ZooFari tickets, this event gives you the opportunity to interact with the National Zoo's scientists who work with endangered species.  The festival also includes live music, draft horse wagon rides, cavalry maneuvers and food/beverages.


Annual Festival of the Leaves: In October: an arts and crafts festival in the historic district.  Ooo, including living history demos and a parade.


I like Front Royal.  I think it is definitely worth a visit.