10 Fun Things to Do on a Getaway to Front Royal, VA
The Town of Front Royal, VA is located just two miles from the entrance to Skyline Drive making it a popular choice for lodging among visitors to Shenandoah National Park. Now I love Skyline Drive as much as the next gal, but on my recent trip to Front Royal I discovered something I’ve missed while traveling through the area in past years. As you plan your next Shenandoah getaway DO NOT cheat yourself out of experiencing the small town magic waiting for you in Front Royal. You are going to fall in love with this place & the vibrant people who have come together in recent years to bring so much life and color back to this historic mountain town. Here are 10 things you can do while discovering Front Royal.
1. Try your hand at axe throwing
Release your inner warrior and challenge yourself with a little friendly competition over at Shenandoah Valley Axe Throwing, CO. Conveniently located in the heart of Front Royal, this is a stop you definitely do NOT want to miss out on. Perfect for groups of all sizes and ages – this is a fun & memorable experience to include on your getaway agenda. Book online before your visit, $20.00 per person/ per hour, Instruction included!
2. Drink like a local at Front Royal Brewing
This craft beer hub opened in 2018 and quickly became a staple on Main Street. The energy here is phenomenal! I can’t quite put my finger on what is was about this space, but there is a very real and tangible feeling of small town pride and community here. Whether you come for the craft beers, the sports bar, or the gourmet restaurant- you are sure to have a great experience with a visit to Front Royal Brewing. (Order the pretzel, you will thank me later)
3. Explore Main Street
Front Royal has truly undergone a renaissance of sorts in the past few years. Small businesses have found home along Main Street and make up a colorful collection of local shops, restaurants, cafes and bakeries. Recently on Saturdays, Main street has been closed off to traffic to allow for an open-air marketplace that is safe for visitors. During our visit there was a local band jamming out, local vendors and artisans lined the streets, and shops had their doors open for business. The mood was fantastic and everyone we came into contact with was wearing a mask and respectfully practicing social distancing.
A few of my favorite spots:
Manor Line Market: A great pick for any foodies out there, enjoy a tasty farm-to-table lunch here!
Inklings: This boutique shop is women-owned and IT SHOWS. You will find a ton of unique treasures reflecting the local area & the artisans that live here. Featuring a beautiful, modern retail space, this spot is an overall gem.
Mountain Trails– Another really impressive addition to Main Street, this shop has all the feels of a miniature REI. Perfect for a stop before visiting Shenandoah National Park!
4. Visit a local art gallery
If you are craving a little more retail therapy after your visit to Main Street you may want to check out Turnmeyer Galleries. Check out the photography collection and shop a variety of goods created by talented local artisans and vendors. The gallery also features a beautiful mural outside that makes for a great photo op!
5. Pave Mint Smokin' Taphouse
Enjoy some BBQ and brews at one of Virginia’s coolest dining experiences- Pave Mint is a newly renovated, 1960’s gas station situated just a short walk from Main Street. Both indoor and outdoor seating available, come in the evening and you can even enjoy some smores by one of their fire pits!
6. Experience the Shenandoah River
Fun fact for ya- Front Royal happens to be the ‘Canoe Capital of Virginia’ because of its endless opportunities for rafting, kayaking, canoeing and fishing out on the Shenandoah River. If you’re interested in getting out onto the water, be sure to check out Front Royal Outdoors a local company that offers all types of different river adventures, equipment rentals, and transportation shuttles!
7. Satisfy your sweet tooth
Down Home Comfort Bakery, is another iconic spot on Main Street you cannot pass up. Serving up iconic southern sweets like fresh baked pies, strawberry shortcake, cinnamon rolls and my personal favorite: whoopie pies (they are SO good). The owners, Keith and Maureen, embody the small town spirit here. Inside the bakery you’ll find a wall of historical town photos and artifacts, a history they love to share with anyone who wants to visit and chat.
8. Experience a new type of tasting
Ever had a flight of Mead before? Before our visit to Saga Meadery I was unsure of my own answer to this question, as I had no idea what mead was. For those who also have missed the boat on this one, Ill fill ya in- ‘Mead is an alcoholic beverage created by fermenting honey with water & various fruits, spices, and grains.’ Now that you know what it is, I will share with you that it is really, really good! If you are a wine and beer lover, mix things up and experience something new with a tasting at Saga.
9. Snap a picture for Instagram at one of the colorful murals around town
Front Royal has been working on a colorful new initiative across town and it wont take you long to notice it. Murals commissioned by artists from near and far are going up around town, see how many you can spot during your visit! Share your experiences by tagging @discoverfrontroyal in your best photo ops!
10. Wine & Dine on Main Street
If you are looking for a more elevated dining experience during your getaway look no further than Main Street. For a night out I would recommend dining at either Vinova or Element. Vinova tapas and wine bar offers a range of European inspired dishes with a speakeasy feel, while Element is known for its contemporary feel and ever changing gourmet menu (pro tip- don’t skip dessert).
A big thank you to Discover Front Royal for generously hosting us and covering the costs of our visit. All recommendations and reviews remain genuine, these opinions are my own.
