Shenandoah Valley and Beyond - Late Summer 2021

Late Summer 2021

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Inside...

• Village of the Valley • Civil War: Hunter’s Raid • Conservation at Virginia Safari Park

Visit us online at: shenandoahvalleyguide.com

Your Guide to the Mountains & Foothills of the Virginias

Explore Virginia’s Western Highlands on Pages 26 & 27!

A “Barn Quilt” Near Paint Bank in Craig County

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Cottages at Montfair Resort Farm

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Montfair Resort Farm is a picturesque and relaxed destination for staycations, small 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, canoeing, bikes, fishing, birdwatching, and organic coffee and teas as well as Wi-Fi. stargazing. Stay in place for a few days of Onsite outdoor activities include hiking, relaxation or enjoy a weeklong vacation with plenty of space to physical 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. Many Attractions and restaurants are now open.

Access into the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive is a short 25 minute drive.

Montfair’s lakeside Events Lodge and deck are a beautiful setting for weddings, family reunions and retreats. Montfair is celebrating 56 years of eco- friendly 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 COVID Safety Precautions..

Summer 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

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In this Issue...

2 Cottages at

Montfair Resort Farm 4 Table of Contents 6 Martinsburg-Berkeley

County, WV 8 Shepherdstown, WV 11 Shenandoah County 12 Rockingham County 16 Centerfold Map 18 Village of the Valley 20 Civil War: Hunter’s Raid 22 Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at

Natural Bridge 24 Conservation at the

Virginia Safari Park 26 Virginia’s Western Highlands 28 Salem 30 Bedford

ON OUR COVER: Photo from Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge.

See pp. 22 & 23 for more!

Summer 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, Mike Stevens, Nicole Johnson, Jenna French 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.

Geocaching in Berkeley County. See pp. 6 & 7 for story.

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©2021, Allen Publishing, LLC

Summer Fun Awaits You in West Virginia Photo courtesy of The Bavarian Inn (See p. 9)

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Martinsburg-Berkeley County, WV

Sleepy Creek Lake

With the arrival of summer comes long, sunny days dedicated to creating memorable experiences for yourself and the whole family.

There’s no better place than Berkeley County, WV, to have experiences you and the family will remember for a lifetime – from beautiful nature walks to lazy picnics, hands-on children’s exploration centers, and thrilling festivals and events. Throughout the summer months, Berkeley County offers an escape from the ordinary and a chance to spend time together away from the stresses of life while providing an exciting atmosphere for fun.

Thursday. Bring your kids to the park early and let them expend their energy at the playgrounds, mini-golf course, or community pool before attending the free concert.

With multiple public parks and hiking and walking trails, Berkeley County can accommodate all levels of outdoor interest and experience, from a fun picnic with the family to a multi-day hiking and camping adventure.

Try out the Tuscarora Trail, which is a long spur off the Appalachian Trail. A large portion of the trail’s 33 miles winds through the 23,000-acre Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area, where you’ll also encounter Sleepy Creek Lake—a 205-acre impoundment that is nestled among the rolling hills and is the perfect destination for a day on the water.

Paddle around in a canoe, kayak, or do a bit of fishing by the lake shores—you may be greeted by one of our local beavers, otters, or soaring bald eagles; you won’t be disappointed with the incredible views.

While you are in town for Berkeley County’s unique festivals and events, you can also experience the extraordinary low-key events that define the area’s charm. Tour the county’s four farmers markets to discover delicious local produce, freshly baked breads and sweets, a sampling of West Virginia wines, and charming décor items. Recall the zeal of the outdoors through a picnic at any of the local parks while tossing a Frisbee, playing cornhole, fishing at the public ponds and streams, or If bird watching or natural preserves are your simply walking through one of the many interest, take advantage of a walk through the 46-acre marsh preserve, Stauffer’s Marsh, or nature trails. the 104-acre natural preserve Yankauer Nature Keep the music coming with free summer Preserve, which has spectacular overlooks of concerts by talented regional bands at the Potomac River. Step into The Woods for Martinsburg-Berkeley County Park and the perfect getaway for golfing and spa Recreation’s Toni Saylor Summer Concert activities, a world apart from everyday hassles.

Series. From July 1 through August 26, you’ll Renowned for spectacular mountain views, be entertained with the variety and energy of The Woods offers an 18-hole championship great bands in the series, held at War Memorial Mountain View course and a mid-length Park in downtown Martinsburg every course to quench your golfing thirst.

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There are so many ways to play: World-class Golf, Paintball, Hunting, Geocaching, Birdwatching, Shooting, Camping, and so much more. It is your turn to get away, relax, and unwind in a beautiful piece of “Almost Heaven.” As many local festivals and events come back online from 2020’s unparalleled shutdowns, know that the county’s engaging culture is waiting to be shared with you.

Change your view from your home or office As Summer finds its stride, history comes to window to the beautiful summer scenery of life in Berkeley County, as the area’s historic Martinsburg, Berkeley County, WV. homes and museums open their doors for visitors. Learn about Berkeley County history You can plan your custom vacation and book and the infamous Confederate spy Belle Boyd your hotel stay all through the Martinsburgat the Berkeley County Museum at the Belle Berkeley County CVB’s website TravelWV. Boyd house. Take a spin around the com. The Martinsburg-Berkeley County CVB Martinsburg Roundhouse, dating back to the is located at 126 E. Race St. in Martinsburg and 1840s and seeing the site destroyed by can be reached at 304-264-8801 or www. travelwv.com.

Stonewall Jackson’s troops in the 1860s.

Berkeley County is also known as a geocaching destination. With more than 57 active caches that have earned nearly 15,000 favorite points, geocaching in Berkeley County is an unforgettable adventure that offers challenging caches for all experience levels. Challenge yourself on the newest geocaching trail, Berkeley Gadgets, which features 18 gadget caches.

Summer 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

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Shepherdstown , WV Brewing at The Bavarian

Shepherdstown’s charm is unmistakable— and irresistible. The town has a way of wrapping its arms around you. The historic structures, dining destinations, one-of- a-kind shops, and bucolic scenery draw vacationers from around the country.

Shepherdstown is the oldest town in West Virginia, established in the 1730s by landowner Thomas Shepherd as Mecklenberg. Shepherdstown of today (population 2,000) is young in spirit, bolstered by students from Shepherd University, which is located in the center of town and boasts year- round concerts, plays, sporting events, and other entertainment open to the public.

An influx of academics, artists, and retirees have contributed to the rich cultural mix. Residents are also passionate about active pursuits like hiking, biking, and canoeing or kayaking on the Potomac.

German Street is lined with an eclectic mix of shops—you’ll find everything from clothing, jewelry, toys, and homegoods to gourmet food, books, and artisan- made products.

Located on a spectacular bluff overlooking the Potomac River, the Bavarian Inn Resort and Brewing Company is a Europeaninspired boutique resort famous for incredible food, warm hospitality, and the finest in guest comforts. For over 40 years, the Asam family has hosted friends and neighbors on their 11-acre property and treated them to world-class cuisine and service.

Learn more at DiscoverItAllWV.com

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Town of New Market

Downtown Shepherdstown

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Welcome to Virginia!

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

Peaks of Otter. Photo by Mark Calhoun

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Just turn the pages to find out more!

Shenandoah County With over 26% of Shenandoah County comprised of National Forest, Shenandoah County is the perfect destination to enjoy the great outdoors and wondrous scenery of the Shenandoah Valley. Over 175 miles of trails are available for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Some are even handicap accessible for people of all ages and abilities. Take in the breath-taking views of the seven bends of the Shenandoah River from the Woodstock Tower and enjoy the beauty of the fields and trees on a leisurely drive through Meems Bottom Covered Bridge.

Market Battlefields State Historical Park in The Shenandoah River is one of the few New Market. rivers that flow from south to north, and the North Fork in Shenandoah County Learn the true meaning of old-fashioned is ideal to float by canoe. Clear water, Southern hospitality when you stay at pleasant scenery, abundant wildlife, and one of the locally owned inns, bed and mild whitewater make the North Fork breakfasts or vacation rentals where historic a paddler’s dream. Locations of public surroundings meet modern comfort and river access can be found here: http:// mountain views. You can also choose to visitshenandoahcounty.com/outdoors- stay at a well-appointed modern hotel like the Hampton Inn & Suites in Woodstock. recreation/public-river-access/ Come hang out with us and discover why After a day on the river, savor the fruits “There’s Only One Shenandoah County in of award-winning wineries, and wine the Shenandoah Valley!” and dine at one of many local cafes and restaurants. Travel the scenic byways where you’re sure to stumble on a historic landmark or two. History buffs will enjoy the many museums for exhibits on the roots of local culture. Known as the breadbasket to the nation during the War Between the States, Shenandoah County was considered strategically important to both sides and therefore offers a variety of historic sites to visit including the New

Summer 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

By Jenna French

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Rockingham County 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.

Italian Eatery, Thomas House, Log Cabin Barbecue, Hanks Grille, Thunderbird Café as well as sweet treats from Smiley’s Ice Cream and the Mt. Crawford Creamery.

You will not want to miss the opportunity to visit some of the award winning 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 wine lover. 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 Not only is the area home to bustling farm Hill Farms Brewery, Elkton Brewing stands featuring local produce, but it also Company, or BrewHaHa Brewing Co. houses a community of restaurants that bring farm-fresh to life in their unique After exploring and discovering, rest dishes. Restaurants offer an array of your head at one of the historic bed and flavors to satisfy everyone’s palate with breakfasts, quaint inns or Massanutten eateries like Jack Browns Single Wide, The Resort. Wherever you choose to stay you Cracked Pillar, The Dayton Tavern, Ciro’s will find friendly folks to make sure your Grand Caverns

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

Log Cabin BBQ

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!

Upcoming Events: The largest event of the summer is the Rockingham County Fair, slated to take place August 16-21. The Rockingham County Fair is the largest Agricultural Rockingham County Fair

Gardens at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley

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Rockingham County Fair in Virginia and is always filled with amazing food, family fun, farm animals and more.

Grandstand line up:

August 15: Jimmy Fortune, The Isaacs & Brotherly Love August 16: Tracy Lawrence & The Kentucky Headhunters August 17: Jimmie Allen & Matt Stell August 18: HARDY & The Hacken’s Boys August 19: Diesel Truck Drag Show August 20: Demolition Derby August 21: Interstate Tractor Pull For up-to-date information regarding tickets, specials, and the grandstand line up, visit RockinghamCountyFair.com.

Zip Line at Massanutten Resort

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Rockingham County Fair

Scenes from the Rockingham County Fair

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Seneca State Forest

Cass Scenic Railr

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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18 Paint Bank

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

MORGAN

Cacapon Resort State Park

GRANT

TUCKER

Parsons

Davis

Blackwater Falls State Park

Canaan Valley State Park

ins

Sky Meadows State Park

Lost River State Park

ANDOLPH

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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Civil War: Hunter ’s Raid With the help of Virginia Civil War Trails markers, you can travel the route of Hunter’s Raid and visit many sites associated with that 1864 raid. Starting in Staunton, visit Staunton National Cemetery where nearly 1,000 Union soldiers are buried, and then Thornrose Cemetery where nearly 2,000 Confederate soldiers rest.

Drive down I-81 to Lexington for the next leg of your search. Although the Virginia Military Institute Museum on the Civil War is temporarily closed, you can go downtown to Jackson’s restored home and then visit his gravesite at Stonewall Jackson Cemetery. Lee Chapel on the campus of Washington and Lee

Photo by Bob Szabo

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University is where Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee is buried. The chapel also houses a memorial sculpture of the recumbent Lee, and a family crypt. From here you can meander down US11 as it passes over Natural Bridge, one of the natural wonders of the world. Stop to visit the bridge, and marvel at it just as the Union and Confederate soldiers did.

Your next stop is Buchanan, the place where Confederate General McCausland personally set fire to the covered bridge in the face of Hunter’s advancing army. After setting the fire, McCausland swam across the James River to safety as Union soldiers fired at him.

Civil War: Hunter’s R

The stone pilings of the bridge still stand.

From Buchanan you’ll pass through the Blue Ridge Mountains at the Peaks of Otter just where Hunter’s army did in1864. Beautiful mountain vistas await you at this junction with the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here you will find a lodge, visitor center, campground, picnic area and historic farm.

of Bedford for over 150 years, is one of the region’s treasures.

Halfway between Bedford and Lynchburg on US 460 you will come upon New London, the site of a sharp skirmish between Confederate cavalry and Union forces. Here the New London Academy was pillaged and ransacked during Hunter’s Raid. When you reach Lynchburg on Business 460 you’ll find the Quaker Meeting House. This ridge line marks the location of the fighting that took place June 17, 1864. It has been carefully restored to its 18th Century appearance.

As you descend from the Peaks of Otter on Rt. 43, you will soon arrive in downtown Bedford. Visit the Confederate Monument in front of the Bedford County Courthouse and the Civil War exhibits at the Bedford City/ County Museum. Historic Avenel Plantation, center of the social, cultural and political life Next you should visit Historic Sandusky. This Federal-era home was seized by Hunter and used as his headquarters during the Lynchburg battle. Tour the grounds and Civil War exhibits there. Hear scores of anecdotes and tales of the Union occupation there. In Lynchburg are three cemeteries, Old City Cemetery, Spring Hill Cemetery, and Presbyterian Cemetery, where many Civil War soldiers are buried. These include Generals Jubal Early, Robert Rodes, Sam Garland, and James Dearing along with over 2,200 Confederate soldiers from fourteen states who died in the Lynchburg military hospitals during the war.

Just twenty miles east of Lynchburg is Appomattox, the small village where Lee surrendered the Army of Northern Virginia, and the nation was reunited. The McLean house is where the surrender terms were signed. From there, drive over to Salem and visit the site of the Hanging Rock Battle, the last action of Hunter’s Raid. Enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains by hiking along the Hanging Rock walking trail.

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Yogi Bear ’s Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge is the perfect campground for families looking for a place to reconnect. With great amenities and fun planned activities, your family can enjoy sharing all of this in a beautiful outdoor environment.

Access to the James River offers opportunities to kayak, canoe, or float on tubes using the campground’s shuttle service… or just play in the river from the shoreline. Since it borders the Jefferson National Forest, there are awesome hiking trails nearby, too.

With so much to do nearby and all the fun awaiting you at Jellystone Park, your family is sure to have a great time together. So plan your stay soon: all information including availability, specials, and themed weekends can be found at www.campNBR.com.

Lake View at the Campground

Visit the Bears’ Den in Natural Bridge Treat the whole family to a stay at our Virginia resort and enjoy primitive tent camping, spacious full hookup RV sites and a variety of vacation rentals. You’ll also experience amazing amenities to keep the whole family entertained.

Dual Water Slides • Jumping Pillows • Spray Playground • Swim Lake With Beach • Fishing

CampNBR.com | (888) 991-5336 YOGI BEAR and all related characters and elements © & ™ Hanna-Barbera. (s21)

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Aerial View of the Campground at Natural Bridge

Mini-Golf at the Campground

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Virginia’s Western Highlands Peaceful Back Roads, Mountain Views, and a Few Surprises

West of the Shenandoah Valley, tucked against the border with West Virginia is a four-county region that is just enough off the beaten path to count as an adventure. The counties of Highland, Bath, Alleghany and Craig make up Virginia’s Western Highlands.

It’s a sprawling region with room to roam.

Visitors will find breathtaking natural beauty, outdoor adventures, charming towns and more than a few unexpected delights.

Highland County is located at the northern end of Virginia’s Western Highlands. In the Town of McDowell, the Highland Historical Society runs The Highland County Museum.

The museum and the historical society’s website are the official source of information on the 100th anniversary of the classic silent film, Tol’able David, which was filmed in Highland County in 1921 and featured local residents as extras. Highland County’s main claim to fame is its maple syrup heritage. For

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two weekends in March, visitors flock to the Highland County Maple Festival, which was twice voted Best Food or Drink Festival in the region by the readers of Virginia Living Magazine. In 2020, the county launched the Virginia Maple Syrup Trail. Now year-round, visitors can take a personal tour of eight unique sugar camps, get a passport stamped and receive a free gift after experiencing them all. It’s a sweet deal!

A short drive south along Sam Snead Highway leads to Bath County, home to The Omni Homestead Resort, which opened its doors in 1766. In addition to exceptional hospitality, visitors are beginning to recognize Bath County as a destination for foodies. The culinary scene is as varied as it is sophisticated.

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. In 2020, Bath County’s only winery opened. Rock Roadhouse Winery is housed in a historic building constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933. It’s one of the newest and most scenic vineyards in Virginia.

Troddenvale at Oakley Farms in Warm Springs is revitalizing fruit growing for cider production in Bath County. Bacova Beer in Hot Springs has become a favorite gathering place for visitors and residents because of the friendly vibe and great craft beer.

The Alleghany Highlands is home to two historic and pedestrian-friendly downtowns.

The Town of Clifton Forge and the City of Covington both feature museums, shops and locally-owned restaurants. The downtowns are vital to the Alleghany Highlands’ vibrant

arts and culture scene. Visitors can browse galleries, take a class or catch a performance at The Historic Masonic Theatre.

Bring your camera because two of Virginia’s most Instagrammable spots are in the Alleghany Highlands. Falling Spring Falls is an 80’ cascading waterfall that can be viewed from a roadside overlook. Humpback Bridge was built over Dunlap Creek in 1857. It is believed to be the last remaining covered bridge of its design in the country. The bridge is part of a five-acre wayside park that features one of the most unique LOVEworks displays in the state.

of the most spectacular and unspoiled scenery in Virginia’s mountains. As a bonus, the trail will take you through the county seat of New Castle, where visitors can check out the historic Old Brick Hotel and the Emporium General Store. A recent must-see addition is the LOVEworks display in the A unique way to explore Craig County and town park. see its amazing beauty is by following the More information about visiting the region can Barn Quilt Trail. More than 30 of the colorful be found at vawesternhighlands.com quilt squares adorn barns around the county.

By David Mikula Driving the trail will take you through some

A unique Virginia adventure

is just around the bend Cruise along scenic roads, explore charming towns, meet local artisans and enjoy plenty of outdoor recreation in the breathtaking Virginia’s Western Highlands. You’ll find everything that Virginia is famous for – history, beauty, hospitality – plus a few surprises found only in the western Highlands.

Find directions, scenic routes, festivals and more for a great getaway at VaWesternHighlands.com Alleghany Highlands | Bath County | Craig County | Highland County

Summer 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

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Salem

The Salem Fair

Welcome to Salem

- where we also are ready to exhale!

The COVID-19 pandemic created a great deal of uncertainty for all of us, but the opportunities to Safely Shop, Play and Eat throughout our city are now more abundant than ever. Certainly, our ways of interacting and participating may have changed, but we are anxious to welcome you once again to our city sidewalks, parks, and attractions.

all ages. Make plans to catch tomorrow’s bigleague stars and a menagerie of food and fun at Salem Memorial Ballpark now through September.

The Historic Main Street corridor is always a popular destination for visitors and residents. A visit to the city’s Farmers Market, Lake Spring Park or the Salem Our outstanding civic facilities are playing Museum is the perfect complement to the host to a variety of festivals, sports variety of unique dining and shopping tournaments, and concerts, including the options throughout the city. annual Salem Fair June 30 - July 11.

America’s largest free gate fair features a 14- Professional pickers and those who are acre midway, an abundance of concessions, simply in search of a treasure will be able to enjoy the thrill of the hunt in every corner of free shows, and exhibits. the city. Our collectible shops feature a wide In addition, minor league baseball with the variety of antiques and primitives. So, Boston Red Sox Class A affiliate, the Salem whether it is vintage vinyl or retro furniture, Red Sox, is the perfect outdoor activity for our vendors have you covered.

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Be sure to recharge after a day of shopping or entertaining with a special concoction from one of our award-winning craft breweries and distinctive restaurants. Good eats and unique antiques always go well together.

there is plenty to sample in Salem from Main Street to the Mountains.

If you would like additional information on shopping, dining, sightseeing, or lodging, please contact the Salem Visitors Center at The history of Virginia’s Blue Ridge region (540) 375-4044 or check us out on the web at runs deep, and whether you are exploring or www.visitsalemva.com. enjoying, we trust you will discover that

by Mike Stevens

The James Moyer Complex

SHOP PLAY EATLEM IN SA

#SampleSalem Summer 2021 | www.shenandoahvalleyguide.com

Contact or visit the Salem Visitors Center at the Salem Civic Center (540) 375-4044

visitsalemva.com

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Bedford

Where Ordinary Ends…

Bedford Begins!

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!

Readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors named Bedford the Top Small Adventure Town for 2020!

Bedford County has more mileage along the Blue Ridge Parkway than any county in Virginia. With multiple exits from the Parkway into Bedford, it is easy to explore local wineries, apple and peach orchards, local artisan studios, as well as 25+ trails for hiking, biking, wildlife, and horseback riding. In 2021, the area’s fifth disc golf course will open, bringing the total to 90+ holes of disc golf, in addition to the more than 30 miles of mountain bike trails.

Memorial overlooks the community that suffered the greatest loss per capita of any in the United States. It was dedicated on June 6, 2001 by President George W. Bush, and will commemorate its 20th anniversary this year.

The Memorial is an outdoor facility and open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.dday.org. After your tour, be sure to drive the short distance to historic downtown Bedford and visit the Bedford Boys Tribute Center. This museum opened in 2019 and features items from the personal collections of the Bedford Boys, who went in on D-Day, June 6, 1944.

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

Bedford is home to the National D-Day Memorial, a deeply moving tribute to the Two hundred years ago, Thomas Jefferson American and Allied forces that fought in the retired from public life and began to spend largest amphibious invasion of all time. The time at his private retreat, Poplar Forest, Disc Golf in Bedford

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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 Founding Father. Guided tours are available, and advance tickets are required. Please visit www.poplarforest.org for more information.

You will need more than a day to experience it all! Check out the many different lodging options that Bedford has to offer by visiting www.destinationbedfordva.com and clicking Accommodations.

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

Poplar Forest

(540) 587-5681 and request for information to be mailed or emailed prior to your visit.

The Welcome Center is open daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed some holidays) and offers free Wi-Fi, 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 with our LOVE sign for a photo souvenir of your trip! Share your experiences in Bedford on social media using #LOVEBedfordVA!

By Nicole Johnson

Bedford has left its mark on American and world history. From a band of brothers to a founding father.

National D-Day Memorial

———— Where Ordinary Ends... ————

Bedford Begins.

Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest

DestinationBedfordVA.com 877-447-3257 | #DestinationBedfordVA

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