Front Royal is a short drive from the Northern Virginia suburbs, but feels like a mountain town in the middle of the countryside. It has everything from views of the Blue Ridge mountains and outdoor adventure to caverns and Civil War history.
Located just 90 minutes from Washington D.C., this charming historic town is full of outdoor adventures in the Shenandoah Valley, with its location at the northern entrance of Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive, as well as close proximity to George Washington and Jefferson National Forest.
Even if you don’t want to chase waterfalls and hike Appalachian mountain peaks, there is still plenty to enjoy, from gorgeous Virginia vineyards to unusual museums.
Here are some of our favorites.
What to do in Front Royal Virginia
Walk Historic Main Street
When you visit Front Royal, VA make sure to explore Main Street! There are so many cute shops and restaurants to explore. It definitely has small town charm!
You’ll find the gazebo downtown, which is the location for community events and concerts.
The streets have vibrant murals, too.
And if you need some outdoor gear before your next adventure in Shenandoah National Park, stop by Mountain Trails. They have all the feels of REI!
Enjoy the Beautiful Shenandoah River
The Shenandoah River is a popular destination for kayakers and canoeists. The river offers a variety of experiences, making it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced adventurers.
You can take out canoes and kayaks from the boat ramp in Front Royal with Front Royal Outdoors outfitters. This makes it an affordable way to spend hours on the water enjoying the natural beauty of the Shenandoah Valley.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, consider taking one of the guided tours offered on the river. Participants are not able to choose their own itinerary, but this tour is perfect for those who want to see as much of the valley as possible.
Spelunkers
Arguably one of the best hamburgers you’ll ever have! Spelunkers Frozen Custard and Cavern Burgers (a nod to the area’s underground caves) is good, old-fashioned comfort food that everyone wants when they come to Front Royal!
Explore Local History at Warren Heritage Society
The Ivy Lodge Museum is a great place to explore the history of Front Royal. The free museum has exhibits and artifacts on the history of the Native American population, early settlers, and industry and agriculture.
Ivy Lodge has an interesting history on its own, from being a girls school started by relatives of President John Tyler to being the birthplace of Elizabeth Brown Davis, the world’s greatest woman scientist in astronomical mathematics in her day.
You can also get historic home tour tickets to Balthis House and Belle Boyd Cottage at Ivy Lodge Museum.
Country Store Museum
The reproduction of an 1800s Country Store Museum is just one of the many outbuildings around the Ivy Lodge that further tell the story of what life was like in Front Royal centuries ago.
Learn Surprising Civil War History at Belle Boyd Cottage
The Belle Boyd Cottage is one of the oldest buildings in Front Royal and has associations with many American historical figures, including President Franklin Pierce.
The Union officers used the hotel as their headquarters during the Civil War, but Confederate spy Belle Boyd helped General “Stonewall” Jackson win the Battle of Front Royal on May 23, 1862.
As part of your $10 general admission ticket for the self-guided tours, you can also explore the Balthis House, which showcases the architectural styles of the day.
Battle of Front Royal Tour
Relive the fateful day in 1862 when “Stonewall” Jackson led 13,000 Confederate troops to surprise General Banks. Visit the Warren County Visitor Center for a walking tour booklet revealing the city’s Civil War heritage.
Drive Skyline Drive
Want great views where you can see wildlife? Then the famous Skyline Drive is the place to go.
Similar to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Skyline Drive is a U.S. National Park Service destination with scenic drives. The popular Skyline Drive has an entrance with easy access in Front Royal, VA at Mile Marker 0 of the road.
It is the only public road that goes through Shenandoah National Park.
The road is limited to 35 mph, so visitors can enjoy the 75 overlooks without having to worry about speed limits. Deer, black bear, and wild turkey are commonly seen there.
Explore a Cavern
Then Skyline Caverns are one of the few caverns in Virginia you can actually go in.
There is a 37-foot waterfall, three streams and the oldest Anthodite formation in the world know to man found in Skyline Caverns on your guided one-hour tour.
In addition to the cool cavern, there is also a maze, walking tail and train to keep the kids entertained.
Visit the Bing Crosby Stadium
Yes, the Bing Crosby Stadium is named after the famous singer of White Christmas fame! Crosby himself was part of a fundraising effort to create the stadium, not only appearing to raise money but also donating to the cause himself. (He was also known to visit Skyline Caverns while in the area.)
Today, it’s home to the Front Royal Cardinals baseball team and you can catch a game during the season.
Virginia Beer Museum
The only beer museum in Virginia! This is the FIRST beer museum in the U.S. to focus on only one state’s beers. Virginia has more than 200 craft breweries, so there’s a lot of history to explore!
Take a free tour to explore the history of beer from 1607 to present day at the Virginia Beer Museum, and then stay to enjoy one of their many brews at the tasting bar!
The Apple House
Though The Apple House is in Linden, VA, just about everyone that comes to Front Royal finds themself stopping here on their way in or out of town.
Known for their delicious apple butter doughnuts (different than apple cider donuts), this is a must-stop destination! Get some doughnuts, browse the small gift shop or dine in their restaurant for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Go Horseback Riding at the Royal Horseshoe Farms
If you’re looking for a great place to ride horses, look no further than the Royal Horseshoe Farms! They offer hour-long sessions and two-hour trail rides, as well as riding camps for all skill levels. Plus, their horses are beautiful and well-trained.
Before saddling up and hitting the trails, be sure to ask one of the farm’s certified instructors to teach you how to ride. That way, you’ll know what to do in case something happens while out on the trail.
The Royal Horseshoe Farms are a great place for families to go horseback riding together. The trails are 1.5 miles long and take riders through varying levels of difficulty. There’s also a historic 1740s era farmhouse on the premises that visitors can check out!
Explore Outdoor History at Cedar Creek & Belle Grove
If you are looking for a fun and educational outdoor activity to do in Front Royal, VA, Cedar Creek & Belle Grove Park is the perfect spot! This U.S. National Park Service site is home to Native Americans, pioneers, and wheat production exhibits. It is also just 17 minutes from Front Royal.
This park was established in 1936 and has been designated as a National Historic Landmark site. There’s definitely plenty to see and do here! One of the highlights is the Battle of Cedar Creek battlefield. This battle helped secure Union victory in the Civil War for their final victory.
Dinosaurland
Dinosaurland is a retro-style theme park with lots of outdoor dinosaur sculptures.
Opened in 1963, Dinosaur Land is a beloved family-friendly roadside attraction that continues to attract kids and adults for generations.
Relax at Glen Manor Vineyard & Winery
The Glen Manor Vineyard & Winery is managed by Jeff Raymond White, a tribute to his great-grandfather Stephen Clifton Lawson who bought the land from William Woodward in 1901.
The winery is surrounded by green fields, hills and other natural features. It features a pretty comfortable outdoor seating area with picturesque views.
You can visit the Glen Manor Vineyards for a wine tasting or tour the grounds. The company offers a wide variety of wines, including Sauvignon Blancs, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Francs and many more types of wines.
Burwell-Morgan Mill
The Burwell-Morgan Mill is located a short drive from Front Royal, Virginia. The mill was built in 1811 and features an original water wheel mill used to grind grain into meal for flour.
It still uses a “manual” system, meaning that the mill is run by hand. The 18th-century has been the most recent time in which major changes have occurred at this mill.
Grains from local farms are ground and sold at the Mill. If you want to see the ancient mill in action, the grinding days are on Saturdays.
Patsy Cline’s Childhood Home and Grave
Patsy Cline is an American country music singer and songwriter who was born in Winchester, Virginia. When Patsy was only eleven years old, her family moved to Front Royal, Virginia. This is where Patsy’s childhood home is located today.
The Patsy Cline Historic House is 18 miles from the town of Front Royal and it is open for tours year-round.
The grand ole opry’s big voice came from a small home in rural Virginia where she was eventually buried. If you are a fan of Patsy Cline or just enjoy learning about history, then this is definitely something you don’t want to miss!
Take the Front Royal Walking Tour
If you’re looking for a fun way to learn about the history of Front Royal, VA, take the self-guided walking tour! You’ll get to see some of the town’s most historical sites, including homes and churches. This is perfect for anyone who loves exploring architecture!
Hike the Appalachian Trail!
The Appalachian Trail goes through Front Royal, which means you can hike a small portion of the infamous trail, or do a longer section hike.
Enjoy the Beauty of Shenandoah River State Park
The Shenandoah River State Park is a scenic spot along the South Fork of the Shenandoah River. The park has 24 miles of trails which are great for biking and hiking. It also offers an overlook with views of Massanutten Mountain and Shenandoah National Park in the distance.
The park is close proximity to Front Royal, VA and it’s a short train ride away from the towns of Winchester, Harrisonburg, and Lexington. There are plenty of attractions to explore in your time there!
Go Fishing at Eastham Park
Eastham Park is a beautiful park located on the Shenandoah River in Front Royal, VA. Enjoy river access as well as trails in this state-operated park.
Vibrissa Brewery
Previously known as Front Royal Brewing Company, Vibrissa is a brewery and restaurant in downtown Front Royal, with another location in Winchester, too.
You’ll also find a Basecamp here for Appalachian Trail hikers, with laundry facilities, showers and storage.
Have an Iced Coffee at the Daily Grind
There are plenty of great coffee shops in Front Royal, VA. The Main Street Daily Grind is the perfect place to start your day or grab a meal during the day.
Front Royal Trolley Shuttle Service
The Front Royal Trolley system is a convenient way to explore the city without needing to drive. This is not a narrated tour, but rather a fun transportation option through VATransit.
Save this post for later so that you don’t forget any of these fun things to do in Front Royal, VA, just an hour and a half from the nation’s capital!
Edie
Saturday 11th of January 2025
Sounds like fun could I get more info of things to do in your area! Thanks!!