Shenandoah Valley and Beyond - Fall/Winter 2020-2021

Fall/Winter 2020-2021

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Inside...

• West Virginia Breeders Classics • Civil War: Battle of Cedar Creek • Cheetahs at Virginia Safari Park • Virginia Mountains Region

Visit us online at: shenandoahvalleyguide.com

Your Guide to the Mountains & Foothills of the Virginias

Cottages at Montfair Resort Farm Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Montfair Resort Farm is a picturesque and relaxed destination for staycations, weddings and events. The wooded property offers nine eco-friendly cedar vacation cottages overlooking a small lake stocked with all the amenities of home including self- catering kitchens, cookware, organic coffee and teas as well as Wi-Fi. Onsite outdoor activities include hiking, canoeing, bikes, fishing, birdwatching, and stargazing. Stay in place for a few days of relaxation or enjoy a weeklong vacation with plenty of space to social distance, fresh air and room for kids to run. Make Montfair your home base to explore stunning day hikes in the Shenandoah National Park, cook your own meals in your cottage kitchen or enjoy great take out from local restaurants. Local wineries, breweries, cider works, distilleries all offer curbside pickup and you can pre- order produce from local farmers markets.

Attractions and restaurants are open with 50% occupancy. Access into the Blue Ridge minute drive. Montfair’s lakeside Events Parkway and Skyline Drive is a short 25 Lodge and deck are a beautiful setting for weddings, family reunions and retreats.

Montfair is celebrating 55 years of ecofriendly recreation in the community and is located 30 minutes from Charlottesville and 15 minutes from Crozet, Virginia.

Excellent TripAdvisor Rating and 2020 “Wedding Wire” Couples Choice Award.

Open year ‘round. See Montfair website for special COVID Safety Precautions.

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In this Issue...

2 Cottages at Montfair Resort Farm 4 Table of Contents 5 West Virginia Breeders Classics Races 6 Shepherdstown, WV 8 Civil War: Battle of Cedar Creek 10 Rockingham County 13 Military Schools Past and Present 14 Augusta Military Academy Museum 15 Fishburne Military School 16 Centerfold Map 18 VMI Museums 20 Lexington & Rockbridge County 21 Virginia Safari Park’s Cheetahs Virginia Mountains Region (See the blue pages starting on p. 23.)

23 Alleghany Highlands 24 Bath County 26 Salem 28 Bedford 30 Smith Mountain Lake

ON OUR COVER: The D-Day Memorial in Bedford County. Photo courtesy of Mark Calhoun Photography.

See pp. 28 & 29 for story.

Fall/Winter 2020/2021 Allen Publishing 30 Overlook Circle Palmyra, Virginia 22963 Phone: 434-960-9115 Publisher Edward P. Allen, Jr Art Director Adam McBryde Editor and Account Executive Michelle Scott scott@shenandoahvalleyguide.com 540-817-9075 Contributing Writers Joshua Gooden, David Mikula, Nicole Johnson, Christopher Finley www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com Shenandoah Valley and Beyond is published four times a year and is available free of charge, at over 300 locations in Virginia and West Virginia. All creative material and text in this publication are the property of Allen Publishing, and are intended for reference use only. Reproduction without written permission of the publisher is forbidden.

A Kayaker on Smith Mountain Lake See pp. 28 - 31 for story.

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Š2020, Allen Publishing, LLC

The West Virginia Breeders Classics Races

Champions are made at the West Virginia Breeders Classics. The annual races are the year-end championships for West Virginia’s finest Thoroughbreds. The highlight of the program is the Classic for horses three years old and older. These are horses with an established race record and are hometown favorites. They are often know as “Saturday night” horses because they often compete in and win the most important race on the Saturday night card.

The fillies and mares also have their own championship-defining race; the “Cavada.”

The name is derived from the winner of the Classic in Breeders Classics IX. Cavada was a filly who beat the boys in the one and oneeighth mile Classic. Last year’s Cavada winner, Anna’s Bandit, was co-champion West Virginia – bred with Breeders’ Classic XXXII winner Runnin’taluvya. Their outstanding race records were so close that it was considered a dead heat for Championship honors.

The Classics are run at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races the second weekend in October. This year’s event takes place Saturday, October 10th. The Classics present a 9 race card featuring the best of the best. Distances go from the ultra-fast four and one half furlongs (a little more than one-half mile) to the more classic distance of one and one-eighth mile.

Fans get to see the horses go past the wire 3 times at that distance, so don’t cash your ticket until the final lap!

The Classics are a racing tradition on the Eastern Panhandle which includes other events for horsemen, sponsors, locals and all others who would like to join in the fun. The Sam Huff Golf Classic will be held on Friday, October 9th at the Locust Hill Golf Course in Charles Town.

Special guests are Redskin Alumni, and golfers are welcome to join. For information call 304725-0709.

Normally a Gala Dinner Dance is held, but Covid 19 has put that on hiatus for 2020.

Post time for the West Virginia Breeders Classics is 7pm. It’s a full night of racing which owners, trainers and jockeys look forward to. The Classics are the local super bowl or Breeders Cup; whichever year-end highlight you prefer.

It’s best to get to the races early so you have time to pick your winners and see the horses and the pageantry as they go to post for championship honors.

Runni’taluvya

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Shepherdstown , WV It’s easy to see why Shepherdstown is called one of the best small Southern towns and one of the best weekend getaways! Visitors will find a lively downtown with coffee shops, casual and fine dining restaurants, one of a kind boutique shopping and a variety of lodging options History, culture, and outdoor activities abound in West Virginia’s oldest town, where the steamboat was invented in 1787. Backroads and trails attract cyclists, hikers and runners with easy access to the C & O Canal. The Potomac River is perfect for a day of kayaking, fishing or just relaxing.

European elegance is found nestled on limestone bluffs overlooking the Potomac River in the Alpine-styled Bavarian Inn, offering 72 elegantly appointed rooms featuring fireplaces and whirlpools. Peached on cliffs 101 feet above the Potomac River are the Infinity Pool and outdoor bar.

Downtown Shepherdstown

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Dining at the Bavarian Inn

Guests interested in a casual dining experience can eat in the Rathskeller Lounge or the new Bavarian Brothers Brewing Pub, both offering the same award-winning international cuisine and traditional German entrees as the main dining rooms, in addition to a special menu in the brew pub. The Bavarian Inn boasts a first-class wine cellar and impeccable service to hotel and dinner guests all located within walking distance of all Shepherdstown sites and activities.

Stop by the Jefferson County Convention & Visitors Bureau for a brochure featuring over fifty sites to see on a walking tour of the County and check-in with the Shepherdstown Visitors Center for additional local information and a calendar of upcoming Shepherdstown’s events and festivals.

Brewing at the Bavarian Inn and Lodge

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Battle of Cedar Creek The Battle of Cedar Creek began in the early morning hours of October 19, 1864 with Confederate forces under General Jubal Early attacking Union troops camped along Cedar Creek and the property of Belle Grove Plantation.

Confederate Lt. Gen. Jubal Early launched a surprise attack against the encamped army of Union Maj. Gen. Philip Sheridan, across Cedar Creek, northeast of Strasburg, Virginia. During the morning fighting, seven Union infantry divisions were forced to fall back and lost numerous prisoners and cannons. Early failed to continue his attack north of Middletown, and Sheridan, dramatically riding to the battlefield from Winchester, was able to rally his troops to hold a new defensive line. A Union counterattack that afternoon routed Early’s army.

effectively ended. The Confederacy was never again able to threaten Washington, D.C. through the Shenandoah Valley, nor protect one of its key economic bases in Virginia. The stunning Union victory aided the reelection of Abraham Lincoln and won Sheridan lasting fame.

The decisive Confederate defeat secured the Shenandoah Valley for the Federals for the remainder of the war. Unfortunately, the price was 8,600 Union and Confederate men killed, wounded, or captured making it one of the bloodiest battles in the Shenandoah Valley.

Today the battlefield is preserved as the Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park, established in 2002 as a public and private partnership. A full schedule of events is posted at www.nps.gov/ cebe and additional information is at www.

At the conclusion of this battle, the final bellegrove.org and at www.ccbf.us.

Confederate invasion of the North was Photo by Buddy Secor

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A reenactment at Belle Grove Plantation

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Rockingham County

Photo by Joshua Gooden

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Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, bounded by two magnificent mountain ranges and the impressive Shenandoah River, Rockingham County is a must-see destination that boasts diverse outdoor recreation, thriving cultural attractions, vibrant and inviting small towns, numerous historical attractions, and farm-to-table dining opportunities.

Situated just two hours from D.C. and minutes from the George Washington National Forest and Shenandoah National Park, its central location makes it an easy destination for a day, weekend, or weeklong trip.

Tastes for Every Appetite Not only is the area home to bustling farm stands featuring local produce, but it also houses a community of restaurants that bring farm-fresh to life in their unique dishes. Restaurants offer an array of flavors to satisfy a variety of cravings, with eateries like The Cracked Pillar, The Dayton Tavern, Ciro’s Italian Eatery, Thomas House, Log Cabin BarbeCue, Hanks Grille, and Thunderbird Café. There are sweet treats from Smiley’s Ice Cream and the Mt. Crawford Creamery, too.

You will not want to miss the opportunity to visit some of the award winning Photo by Joshua Gooden

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wineries, cidery, or breweries within Rockingham County. CrossKeys Vineyard, Bluestone Vineyards, Marceline Vineyards, The Purple Wolf Vineyard, and Brix and Columns Vineyards are sure to have something for every palate. Relax with a glass of Cider at Showalter’s Orchard and Greenhouses, home of Old Hill Hard Cider. For the beer lovers, check out Cave Hill Farms Brewery or Elkton Brewing Company.

Adventure for any age

Places to Stay

This vibrant destination boasts a diverse mix of county trails, bike-friendly streets, and challenging mountain bike courses and is designated as a “Bronze level Bicycle Friendly Community” by the League of American Bicyclists. Canoeing, kayaking and tubing with friends or local river outfitters are popular among locals and visitors. Head underground to visit the wonders of nature at Grand Caverns or Endless Caverns.

Whether your preferences range from tame to extreme, Rockingham County has attractions to get your heart pumping, your mind expanding, or to let you relax with friends.

After exploring and discovering, rest your head at one of our historic bed and breakfasts, quaint inns, or Massanutten Resort. Wherever you choose to stay you will find friendly folks to make sure your visit is pleasant. With over 177,000 acres of National Park and National Forest land, you are sure to find something new every day of the year. Discover your next adventure in Rockingham County!

Reconnect with what you love: quaint small towns, calming mountain views, and the winding roads in between. Plan your next road trip today! Discover your next adventure in Rockingham County.

By Joshua Gooden

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Photo Courtesy of Montfair Resort Farm – see p. 3.

Military Schools in Virginia - Past and Present.

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Lexington & Rockbridge Augusta Military Academy MuseumCounty The Augusta Military Academy Museum is located in Fort Defiance, Virginia. The Museum Building sits among stately old trees and expansive lawns on the grounds of the now-closed military academy. Fort Defiance is located eight miles north of Staunton on U.S. Route 11, the historic Valley Pike.

Charles S. Roller founded Augusta Male Academy in 1874. In the Civil War, he served in Confederate General J. E. B. Stuart’s cavalry and during Reconstruction, he was elected to the Virginia General Assembly, the state’s legislative body.

He introduced military instruction and discipline to his students by 1879, and changed the name of the school to Augusta Military Academy in 1890. The school had a major educational, social, and economic impact on this area of the Shenandoah Valley for over 100 years.

of a typical cadet barracks room and a classroom. Another display examines the athletic programs at AMA. In one area of the first floor there is a display featuring AMA graduates who became published authors. Be sure to visit the Gift Shoppe The museum building was built in the too, well-stocked with Virginia items.

1870s by Roller for his family. The original house has been completely and carefully Another room in the museum houses renovated. One of the first floor rooms chronologically arranged material of the museum has been decorated and covering activities at the school from 1900 furnished as a late 1800s Victorian Parlor, until the institution closed in 1984. This and it contains displays showing the early display features an impressive collection days of the military school. Other rooms of uniforms and artifacts. The renovation on the first floor contain a recreation of this Augusta County landmark was accomplished by hundreds of alumni and Santa Will Keep an friends of the Augusta Military Academy Eye on You During through the non-profit AMA Alumni the Holidays Foundation, Inc. The museum opened to the public in May, 2000. It is open Tuesday thru Sunday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. It is closed on major holidays. The museum can be open at other times by appointment. There is no admission charge, and the facility is handicapped accessible.

Phone 540-248-3007 more information, or send an email to augustamilitaryacademy@verizon.net

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Lexington After Appomattox & Rockbridge FishburneCounty Military School

Founded in 1879 by Waynesboro Native and Washington College Graduate, Professor James A. Fishburne, Fishburne Military School is woven into the very fabric of Waynesboro and Shenandoah Valley History. For 138 years, FMS has been preparing young men for lives of leadership and service.

At the school’s inception, Fishburne wrote: “It is my purpose to have here an institution which shall rank as first class in everything that constitutes true worth, and from which shall go forth loyal, earnest, industrious boys and young men, well-equipped for the duties and responsibilities of life, and above all else, to maintain a high standard of honor and integrity in the Corps of Cadets.”

Today, Fishburne Military School is a leader in the United States Army JROTC Cadet Command’s Fourth Brigade and, as an Honor Unit with Distinction, holds the privilege of nominating qualified cadets to any of the United States Service Academies.

mission statement is to provide each cadet with a sound academic foundation, a healthy mental and physical environment, and leadership training for a better understanding of the obligations of honor, citizenship, and self-discipline.

Famous Alumni of Fishburne Military As an all-male college preparatory School include former Virginia Governor school and leadership training program, Gerald Baliles and Pulitzer Prize winner Fishburne Military School’s modern Eugene Payne.

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Seneca State Forest

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Droop Mountain Battlefield Watoga State Park Beartown State Park

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Greenbrier State Forest Bluestone State Park

Pipestem Resort State Park

Moncove Lake State Park

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New Castle

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Boones Mill

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To Tennessee Ferrum Fairy Stone State Park Philpott Lake

To Greens

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Berkeley Springs State Park

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Cacapon Resort State Park

GRANT

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Parsons

Davis

Blackwater Falls State Park

Canaan Valley State Park

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Sky Meadows State Park

Lost River State Park

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Shenandoah River State Park Seven Bends State Park

road

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hat Park

Natural Bridge State Park James River State Park

Holiday Lake State Park

Open to Traffic “H” Corridor

Smith Mountain Lake State Park

WVA State Parks Shenandoah Valley Virginia Mountains Region

sboro, NC

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Lexington & Rockbridge County

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Museum is VMI’s Middle Name

Well, not really—it’s actually Virginia Military Institute. But the colorful and rich history of the nation’s first state sponsored military college provides plenty of artifacts and art to fill the galleries of the three museums owned and operated by the academically renowned VMI. Jackson Memorial Hall

upwardly mobile Victorian professor at VMI. By 1861 the world knew him as ”Stonewall.” But the house is not about his Civil War exploits; it’s about the life of Thomas and Mary Anna on the eve of war.

Knowledgeable and engaging guides lead you on a journey of their time. Tours begin every half hour. Before you leave make sure you spend some time in one of the cutest museum shops in Virginia! And check out the potato scarecrow in the garden!

Eighty miles north of Lexington, right off I-81, you will find the third VMI Museum: the Virginia Museum of the Civil War at New Market Battlefield State Historical Park. Here the VMI Cadets engaged in Virginia Museum of the Civil War

Located in Jackson Memorial Hall, the four galleries of the VMI Museum reveal amazing artifacts. Don’t be startled when you see a horse in the main gallery. Little Sorrel, Stonewall Jackson’s mounted warhorse is one of only a dozen historically significant mounted horses in the world.

The world-class Henry Stewart Antique Firearms Collection has over 400 rare and one-of –a kind firearms—like the air gun carried by Lewis and Clark. General George Patton’s famous shiny helmet and his personal M1 rifle are here.

Just a few blocks from VMI is the Stonewall Jackson House, a part of the VMI Museum System since 2011. When Thomas Jackson purchased the house in 1858, he was an

pitched battle on May 15, 1864. The farm of Jacob and Sarah Bushong, where the battle took place, has been painstakingly restored.

One room of the farmhouse depicts the quiet family parlor while another room graphically reveals the drama of the house serving as a hospital immediately after the battle. The Virginia Museum of the Civil War takes you through all four years of conflict in the state—impressive! All three museums are open 9 to 5 daily.

Little Sorrel (VMI Museum)

Couple walking in Jackson House garden: Explore Stonewall Jackson’s interest in gardening at his home

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Lexington & Rockbridge Lexington and Rockbridge County County Downtown Lexington is on everyone’s list of favorite places to visit. Stroll brick sidewalks lined with historic buildings and beautiful gardens. Fabulous one-of-a-kind shops abound, and cozy cafes, many with outdoor seating.

Enjoy seeing more than 1,000 animals as you drive three miles of winding safari roads in the 180-acre park. Or, hop aboard a guided wagon tour for an awesome adventure.

Either way, you’ll have a chance to enjoy wildlife “up close and personal.” Encounter friendly bison, antelope, llamas, ostriches, and other curious critters anxious to take a snack from your feed bucket! The Safari Village walk-thru includes the Kangaroo Walk-About, Tiger Territory, Giraffe Feeding Station, petting area, Watering Hole Café, and so much more!

Step back in time and tour the town in a horse drawn carriage while your driver shares the history of the town. Tours begin across from the Lexington Visitor Center daily through October. One of the most famous generals of the Civil War, Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, lived in Lexington, and his home and garden are open for tours. Then pay a visit to the Just a bit further south on Route 11, folks newly-renovated VMI Museum - a must for head to see one of nature’s true wonders, the Natural Bridge. This 215-foot-tall bridge any Civil War buff. was once owned by Thomas Jefferson, who Located in Natural Bridge, the Virginia described it as the most beautiful place in Safari Park has been the leading destination the world. It’s now a Virginia State Park. for tourists in western Virginia for years.

The Gift Shoppe at the AMA Museum

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Welcome to the Virginia Mountains Region…

· Outdoor recreation of every description · Amazing cultural experiences · Astounding natural beauty

Just turn the pages to find out more!

Photo Courtesy of Alleghany County Chamber of Commerce

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Virginia Mountains Region

Relax Amid Unspoiled Mountain Scenery

For breakfast or a mid-day snack, sip an espresso paired with home-made pastries.

Dinner options range from pizza and sandwiches to gourmet delights. Creative chefs are winning over food lover’s hearts with European-inspired dishes and exceptional farm-to-table experiences thanks to the region’s many family farms.

There are many reasons why Bath County is a magical place to explore — unique places to stay, world-class arts and cultural experiences, great dining options, and endless outdoor recreation. Looming large above it all is the magnificent and unspoiled beauty of A great complement to the local culinary community is a growing and thriving Virginia’s Allegheny Mountains. beverage scene. Bath County is excited to The mountain scenery has an undeniable welcome a winery and cidery. Rock effect on visitors. It lifts spirits and melts away Roadhouse Winery is housed in a historic stress. A visit to Bath County is a relaxing building constructed by the Civilian getaway that will leave you refreshed and Conservation Corps in 1933. Outside rejuvenated. One of the keys to a relaxing overlooking the mountains, it may be the vacation is the impeccable hospitality and most scenic vineyard in Virginia. Troddenvale charming places to stay. Bath County is home at Oakley Farms in Warm Springs is to The Omni Homestead Resort, which revitalizing fruit growing for cider production opened its doors in 1766, a full decade before in Bath County. Both Rock Roadhouse and the Revolutionary War. There are numerous Troddenvale are available for tours and award-winning Bed & Breakfast Inns, each tastings by appointment. Bacova Beer in Hot with its own history and personality. You’ll Springs may not be new. They have been want to experience all of them. There are also serving great craft beer for two years. Not private cabins and homes for rent, some with surprisingly, it has become a favorite gathering place for visitors and residents. breathtaking views of the mountains.

Visitors are beginning to recognize Bath One of Virginia’s greatest cultural gems is County as a destination for foodies. The tucked away on a beautiful campus in Warm culinary scene is as varied as it is sophisticated. Springs, Virginia. Garth Newel Music Center Bath kayaking-courtesy-of-Natural-Retreats

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Bath County is a chamber music venue that presents over 50 concerts throughout the year.

Performances include the Garth Newel Piano Quartet, as well as renowned guest musicians, and are often paired with gourmet meals prepared by their resident chef.

Bath County is the perfect hub for exploring the mountains of Virginia. With exceptional lodging and dining options, it’s exactly where you’ll want to be at the end of a busy day of adventure. There are many miles of hiking and biking trails plus rivers and lakes for paddling and fishing. A favorite way to see the countryside is on a scenic drive. The county is a favorite for motorcyclists and automobile enthusiasts alike because of the peaceful and winding roads. A number of popular driving loops begin and end in Bath County. A free brochure is available at discoverbath.com.

For more than 250 years visitors have been making the journey to Bath County just west of the Shenandoah Valley. One thing that has not changed is the breathtaking beauty. The views are endless and unspoiled. One can easily imagine it is exactly the same as what George Washington and Thomas Jefferson saw centuries ago. There are still no interstates, mega-malls or even a stoplight in Bath County. Visitors seeking a unique vacation experience certainly hope it stays that way.

Bath County is located in the Allegheny Mountains of Virginia along the border with West Virginia. More information can be found at discoverbath.com

By David Mikula

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Virginia Mountains Region

Welcome to Salem

- where we completely understand.

Whether you are taking in one of these events, exploring the history of Virginia’s Blue Ridge region, or enjoying a craft beer from one of Salem’s award-winning breweries - You will discover that there is Yes, our ways of interacting and participating plenty to sample in Salem from Main Street may have changed, but the Historic Main to the Mountains.

Street corridor is still a busy place. A visit to the city’s Farmers Market, Lake Spring Park or the Salem Museum is the perfect complement to the variety of unique dining and shopping options throughout the city.

You will find an array of good eats along with some unique antiques during your visit.

This has been a year of uncertainty for all of us, but the opportunities to Safely Shop, Play and Eat throughout Salem are still as abundant as ever!

This fall and winter, Salem’s outstanding civic facilities will continue to host a variety of sports tournaments and music events. We may not be as close as we once were in these socially distant times, but the cheering and clapping we generate when we come together will be a welcome sound for the athletes and musicians.

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Bob Rotanz at Mac and Bob’s Invites You to Try the Calzone

Salem

Lake Spring Park

A View of Downtown Salem

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Virginia Mountains Region

Where Ordinary Ends…

personal collections of the Bedford Boys, who went in on D-Day, June 6, 1944.

From the magnificent Peaks of Otter along the Blue Ridge Parkway, to the quaint streets of historic downtown, to the shores of Smith Mountain Lake - Bedford offers outdoor adventure and historical treasures, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or your next vacation destination! In 2019, Smithsonian Magazine named it one of the “15 Best Small Towns to Visit”!

Historic downtown Bedford also offers a variety of art galleries, shops, antiques, and restaurants that are within easy walking distance from each other in a charming atmosphere of 19th Century buildings. The Bedford Museum, located beside the County Courthouse, showcases Bedford’s rich history.

Bedford’s first craft brewery, Beale’s, is also located downtown and features a full-service restaurant, indoor/outdoor seating, and special limited beer releases throughout the year.

Bedford Begins!

Perhaps most notably, Bedford is home to the National D-Day Memorial, a deeply moving tribute to the American and Allied forces that fought in the largest amphibious invasion of all time. The Memorial overlooks the community that suffered the greatest loss per capita of any in the United States. It creates a solemn atmosphere for veterans and visitors alike to gain insight and learn more about the events that shaped history. The Memorial is open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. for self-guided tours, and it is an outdoor facility. For more information, visit www.dday.org. After your visit, be sure to drive the short distance to historic downtown Bedford and tour the Bedford Boys Tribute Center. This museum opened in 2019 and features items from the “Sharp Top” at the Peaks of Otter in Bedford

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Two-hundred years ago, Thomas Jefferson retired from public life and began to spend time at his private retreat, Poplar Forest, located in the eastern part of Bedford County.

Named as one of Virginia’s top 10 attractions by readers of USA Today, Poplar Forest was built in a grove of poplar trees, and the octagonal house offers great insight into the private side of this extraordinary Founding Father. Guided tours are available on select days. Please visit www.poplarforest.org for more information.

Bedford County has more mileage along the Blue Ridge Parkway than any county in Virginia. With multiple exits from the

Bedford Parkway into Bedford, it is easy to explore the Bedford Wine Trail, apple and peach orchards, local artisan studios, as well as 25+ trails for hiking, biking, wildlife, and horseback riding. You will need more than a day to experience it all, so be sure to check out the many different lodging options that Bedford has to offer.

Start your visit at the Bedford Area Welcome Center. From the Shenandoah Valley, take exit 150A from I-81 to Route 460 east. The Welcome Center is located at 816 Burks Hill Road (Rt. 460 at Rt. 122). You can also call 540-587-5681 or go to www.destinationbedfordva.com.

The Welcome Center is open daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed some holidays) and offers free Wi-Fi, restrooms, a gift shop, firefighter exhibit, RV parking, picnic tables, electric car charging station, and information about exploring the area. Be sure to snap a photo

Gross’ Orchard

with our LOVE sign for the perfect photo souvenir of your trip! Share your experiences in Bedford on social media using #LOVEBedfordVA!

Fall/Winter 2020/2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

By Nicole Johnson

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Virginia Mountains Region Smith Mountain Lake is among the most popular residential, vacation and recreational spots on the East Coast. Set amid the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake is a breathtakingly scenic destination with 22,000 acres of crystal-clear water.

Vacationers from across the globe come to Smith Mountain Lake during all four seasons to fish, enjoy numerous water sports and play on more than 500 miles of shoreline. And, they usually end up discovering a variety of unexpected delights. Friendly people and genuine hospitality make everyone feel welcome, and with world-class historical sites such as the Booker T. Washington National Monument and the National D-Day Memorial nearby, unique shopping opportunities, fantastic dining and entertainment options, there’s always something new to do.

countless recreational opportunities and a close-knit community of residents. The lake itself and the community of people and businesses around it make the Smith Mountain Lake region an exceptional experience for day trips, weekend getaways and family vacations.

Sound too good to be true? Just wait until you see the beautiful sunsets! Once you visit, you’ll want to make Smith Mountain Lake your home. In fact, this little community of Smith Mountain Lake is thriving, with over 20,000 has grown in large part to the outstanding restaurants and retailers, top- many vacationers who have decided to notch health care and wellness facilities, relocate here permanently. The temperate

Photo by Bob Burns

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Smith Mountain Lake weather, central location and small-town atmosphere make Smith Mountain Lake an excellent place to raise your family, start a business, or just kick back and relax.

Visit the Lake online at VisitSmithMountainLake.com to request a visitor guide to help plan your trip! Better yet, stop by the Moneta, Virginia, office located at 16430 Booker T. Washington Highway inside the SML Visitors Center at Bridgewater Plaza or call 540.721.1203.

By Christopher Finley

Fall/Winter 2020/2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

Photo by Elisabeth Flynn

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