The Big Valley
The Shenandoah Valley stretches 200 miles across the Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountains. It's been nicknamed "The Big Valley" and immortalized in song, dance, film and television.
The history and heritage of the region includes many sites devoted to the pioneers who traveled westward, settled and farmed - those like the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton and Cyrus McCormick's Farm in Raphine. He invented the first reaper!
During the Civil War this region was nicknamed "The Breadbasket of the Confederacy." In Lexington, visit Virginia Military Institute and Washington & Lee University - where Gen. Robert E. Lee served as president after the war and where the Lee Chapel & Museum is located. See battlefields - New Market Battlefield State Park and Fisher's Hill Battlefield.
Another historical site of the region is the Birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson.
Outdoor Wonderland
The Shenandoah Valley features picture-perfect postcard farms and inns along country roads and the popular Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway. One of the natural wonders of this world is the Natural Bridge. Be sure to visit the region's many caverns, which include Luray, with the only stalacpipe organ, and Shenandoah, with an elevator to take you underground!
If you're interested in the great outdoors, you'll love the hiking trails, paddle sports and horseback riding in the Blue Ridge Mountains, too
Two popular resorts are in the Shenandoah Valley: Bryce and Massanutten, which offer year-around activities. And don't forget the beautiful Shenandoah National Park with its portion of the Appalachian Trail and two resorts, too!
You'll be singing "Oh, Shenandoah!" when you arrive and experience this magnificent "Big Valley" for yourself.
Area Events
Trip Ideas
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Harrisonburg welcomes visitors to easily explore the city center, with tons of free parking, a walkable downtown area, and boutique shops filled with locally made goods, food, and just about anything else you’re looking for.
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An agricultural hub, the Shenandoah Valley is the best place for authentic farm-to-table culinary experiences.
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The Shenandoah Valley has more to offer than just beautiful scenery; the region is quickly making a name for itself in the craft beer market.
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Shenandoah National Park is only a little over 100 miles long, but in that narrow strip of Virginia wilderness, you’ll discover abundant examples of Virginia wildlife, nature, and magnificent mountain views.
