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DIDYOUKNOW

DIDYOUKNOW

A gateway to all things outdoors

Breathtaking views, outdoor recreation and distinctive sites highlight area n Front Royal is the gateway to the Shenandoah National Park and the beautiful Skyline Drive! With more than 105 miles of breathtaking views, over 70 overlooks for photos and nearly 75 trails for all types of adventurers, this is a stop that cannot be missed! Be sure and check out the NPS website for more information about admission deal days and other events. n Our hidden gem is absolutely the Shenandoah River State Park, known as the Raymond “Andy” Guest State Park! Nearly 9 miles south of town, this park is more than 1,600 acres of scenic views and river access with over 5 miles of riverfront recreation. We can’t stress enough that you must stop at Cullers Overlook – you won’t be disappointed. n Speaking of natural wonders, how do you feel about heading below ground? Skyline Caverns was discovered in 1937, with the caverns opening to the public in 1939. The tours below ground last nearly an hour and your guide will give you history and geology facts along the way. They also are home to one of the largest anthodite collections left in nature – including the oldestknown to man. The caverns are a cool 54 degrees year-round, so we strongly encourage you to check this one out on a hot day! n With two forks of the Shenandoah River winding across the county, we have plenty of opportunities to recreate on the water. Whether it’s kayaking, paddleboarding, tubing, fishing or canoeing, we’ve got you covered. Did we mention we are the canoe capital of Virginia? Our community is chock full of experts in water fun, such as Downriver Canoe Company, Front Royal Outdoors and more! n Maybe getting in 18 holes is more your outdoor style? We have four golf courses right here in our backyard. Blue Ridge Shadows, Front Royal Golf Club, Shenandoah Valley Golf Club and Sly Fox Golf Club are each unique experiences, with award-winning courses and delicious food. If you’re looking to hit the links, we’ve got you covered. n Perhaps following your tastebuds through town is more your speed? We have a wide variety of restaurants, many of which are locally owned, that can take you on a journey all your own. From all-American and diner fare to Indian, Thai and so much more. We’re pretty sure you want to start your day with an apple cider doughnut from the Apple House in Linden.

Front Royal and Warren County have so much to offer! We’re a colorful town full of outdoor adventure for the whole family! Let’s highlight some of our main attractions!

Didyouknow

n Warren County, Virginia, is the home to the “Horseshoe Curve,” a unique geographical feature. The Horseshoe Curve is a natural bend in the Shenandoah River that forms a horseshoe shape, giving it its name. This distinctive curve in the river is located near the Bentonville area of Warren County.

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n Civil War History: Front Royal played a significant role during the American Civil War. The town changed hands multiple times and was the site of several battles and skirmishes. Visitors can explore historical sites like the Warren Rifles Confederate Museum and Belle Boyd Cottage.

n Front Royal Cardinals: Front Royal is home to the Front Royal Cardinals, a collegiate summer baseball team that competes in the Valley Baseball League. The team plays its home games at Bing Crosby Stadium, providing affordable and family-friendly entertainment during the summer months.

n Film Festivals: Front Royal is the site of two film festivals, the n Canoe Capital of Virginia: Front Royal is often referred to as the “Canoe Capital of Virginia” due to its proximity to the Shenandoah River and the opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing that it offers. n Outdoor Recreation: The Front Royal area offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Besides the Appalachian Trail, there are other nearby hiking trails, fishing spots, canoeing and kayaking opportunities on the Shenandoah River, and picnic areas. n Did we mention we are home to seven wineries, two breweries and two meaderies, just to name a few? Whether it’s an uncommon flavor, a relaxing atmosphere or something more, our Warren County watering holes have just what you’re looking for. n We have plenty of distinctive shopping and creative spaces, too! With a whole host of boutique shops for clothing, gifts, crafts and more – it’s hard to believe you couldn’t find something! Our historic downtown has a vibrant mural collection nestled amongst our shopping and dining hub. Not to mention our classic movie theater, arcade, art galleries and more – Main Street is not to be missed.

“Rolling Revue” and the “Front Royal Independent Film Festival.” These festivals showcase independent films from around the world, providing a platform for aspiring filmmakers to share their work.

Not to mention we’re world famous for our homegrown pizza sensation, Melting Pot Pizza! And if you need a sweet treat, be sure and stop in to Spelunkers for custard or C&C Frozen Treats for the most unique flavors you could encounter!

No matter what brings you to our beautiful mountain town, we bet you’ll want to settle in and then venture out!

Fastfacts

NAMESAKES

Jefferson County: Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence and third president of the United States.

FOUNDED

Jefferson County: 1801

In the center of it all

The Ranson Convention and Visitors Bureau, located on Mildred Street in Ranson, welcomes travelers and works to provide tourism information about the town for which it is named and for the surrounding towns and county neighboring its borders.

Nestled in the Eastern Panhandle, Ranson puts one in the center of it all. A quick drive from Washington, D.C., Ranson n Shepherdstown is the oldest town in West Virginia, established in 1762 by Thomas Shepherd. It predates the formation of West Virginia as a separate state by almost a century. n The town was originally known as Mecklenburg, but it was later renamed Shepherdstown in honor of its founder, Thomas Shepherd. n The town played a significant role during the Civil War. It was the site of the Battle of Shepherdstown, also known as the Battle of Boteler’s Ford, which took place on September 19 -20, 1862. It was the last major engagement of the Maryland Campaign and resulted in a Union victory. n The town has a rich literary history. Many renowned authors, including F. Scott Fitzgerald, Henry David Thoreau, and Willa Cather, have visited or lived in Shepherdstown. The town’s picturesque charm and historical significance have inspired numerous works of literature. n Every year, Shepherdstown celebrates the Shepherdstown Street Fest, a popular event that features live music, local vendors, food, and entertainment. It draws visitors from all over the region and showcases the town’s lively and welcoming community spirit.

Didyouknow

places you in the heart of early American history and outdoor serenity. It is a place where community pride runs deep and “hellos” are commonplace.

“We welcome people to our town and to our region and state,” shared Debbie McClure, executive director at the Ranson CVB, adding that while the town offers a great variety of lodging, restaurants and events that the CVB promotes, the agency also works through sponsorships and promotions of county and regional festivals, fairs and activities.

“We offer a ‘Weekend Roundup’ newsletter each week that highlights the local events happening both in Ranson in the at-large community,” McClure said. “We have developed many partnerships with others who also work to bring tourism dollars into the area. As partners, we can accomplish so much more than we can alone,” she added.

In addition, the CVB continues as a partner with the Jefferson County Parks and Recreation department as they help with the return of the Independence Day celebration scheduled for July 1 at Sam Michaels Park.

“We have always enjoyed assisting with the event in July and are so excited that it is returning following the years of the pandemic shutdowns,” McClure said. “The entertainment on stage by the Kelly Bell Band and the fireworks display put on by Digital Lightning will not disappoint the thousands who come out to share – whether they be locals or tourists from outside the area,” she continued.

To find out more about Ranson CVB, visit www. ransonwv.us.

n Harpers Ferry has been featured in several works of literature, including the novel “The Book of Harlan” by Bernice L. McFadden and “Cloudsplitter” by Russell Banks. Its historical significance, natural beauty and unique atmosphere have made it an inspiring setting for storytelling.

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Fastfacts

NAMESAKES

Frederick County:

Either Frederick, Prince of Wales, or Frederick Calvert, 6th Baron

Baltimore.

FAST FACT

Frederick is the secondlargest city in Maryland behind Baltimore.

FOUNDED

Frederick County: 1748

Frederick: 1745

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