First stop: Stonewall Jackson Hotel. Located in the heart of the scenic and historic Shenandoah Valley, and named for General Stonewall Jackson, the hotel originally opened in 1924, and quickly became the gathering place for Shenandoah Valley society. The Stonewall Jackson Hotel & Conference Center has undergone a complete renovation to historically preserve its charm while providing modern guest amenities, accommodations and services.

After you’ve stowed your luggage, head over to Local Chop & Grill House, listed as one of the Top 51 Steakhouses in America. Local flavor is the main seasoning here, and your palate is in for a treat! Executive Chef Brian Bogan, creates his dishes using seasonal produce, meats, and ingredients sourced from Shenandoah Valley family farms. If you don’t have room for dessert, be sure to take one of Pastry Chef Alicia Barger’s treats back to the Inn.

After “A Night’s Delight & a Breakfast to Remember” at the Stonewall Jackson Inn, enjoy a leisurely drive along the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Artisan Trail with stops at artisan studios and agri-artisan farms. At Brydgeworks Glass Studio, Supplies & Gifts you’ll be inspired by the colorful panels, gorgeous glassware, and illuminating home decor being created in this state-of-the-art working studio. Catch a demonstration, take home a one-of-a-kind piece from the studio’s gift shop, or better yet, coordinate your visit so you can enjoy your own stained glass experience! Brydgeworks offers a variety of workshops as well as personalized classes for individuals, reunions, bridal showers, and church and civic groups.

As you continue along the Artisan Trail, be sure to pause for refreshment at Bluestone Vineyard & Winery, one of many delicious stops on the Shenandoah Spirits Trail. With 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains and magnificent sunsets, Bluestone Vineyard is the perfect way to close out your day. Enjoy a glass of award-winning white, red, sweet, or reserve wine on the patio while taking in the quiet cascading vineyard below. For an extra special evening, time your visit with the vineyard’s Toast the Weekend Concert Series.

Harrisonburg and Rockingham County are known as “The Cultural Crossroads of the Shenandoah Valley.” A scenic drive along the Wilderness Road: Virginia’s Heritage Migration Route is an opportunity to retrace the footsteps of Daniel Boone and the 300,00 westward pioneers that traveled through the Shenandoah Valley. Along the Wilderness Road, visitors can experience the sites of natural, historical, and cultural significance to early settlement and migration.

All that exploration is sure to work up an appetite. Set your sights on the Little Grill Collective. Their delicious menu is sourced from local vendors and features seasonal produce, baked items, free range chicken and eggs, and grass-fed beef. If your sweet tooth has kicked in, head to Smiley’s Ice Cream at Mt Crawford Creamery where you can tour the dairy farm and then enjoy cold, refreshing farm-to-table dessert. There’s so much to savor in the Shenandoah Valley, you’ll want to extend your getaway!

Other things to see along the way:

Edith J. Carrier Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at James Madison University
Forbes Center for the Performing Arts
WILD GUYde Adventures

This getaway was submitted by BrydgeWorks Glass Studio, Supplies, and Gifts