WanderLove is about reconnecting with what you love. Experience charming downtowns, delightful eateries, and all of the winding roads in between when you road trip the Shenandoah Spirits Trail through the northern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.
As you travel through six counties, several cities, and countless towns, you’ll find some of the finest outdoor recreation and craft drinks Virginia has to offer. Running along the Interstate 81 corridor through the Shenandoah Valley, the spirits trail is a great way to take in the mountain views and delightful downtowns with a drink in your hand.
Featuring 23 wineries, 22 breweries, three cideries, and two distilleries, you’re sure to find a drink that satisfies your post-adventure cravings. Discover the best spots for shopping, eating, and drinking in this guide to the Shenandoah Spirits Trail.
Wandering Main Street
The small towns of Virginia’s northern Shenandoah Valley offer a quiet getaway just a short drive from many of the East Coast’s major cities. Among the rolling hills, you’ll find welcoming faces and thriving local shops no matter where you stop.
Browse the many delights of Luray’s Downtown Historic District where you’ll find everything from antiques and books to galleries and boutique clothing shops. West Main Market, a full service delicatessen and sandwich shop, features a variety of homemade dishes and specialty meats. Grab lunch or dinner to take with you wherever the day may lead you. Inspired by the farms of Page County, nearby Hawksbill Brewing Company provides a rotating menu of craft beers to choose from. Or try a glass of their Boo Beer, a root beer made from local honey, for a non alcoholic alternative.
Take a tour of the contemporary murals and artistic talent at the heart of Strasburg. Along the way, you can learn about the local history or pick up something to take home with you from one of the 90 antique vendors at Strasburg Emporium. When you’re done shopping, The Pancake Underground is a cozy eatery serving delicious comfort foods for breakfast and lunch. Settle in for an evening at the town’s historic theatre, now home to Box Office Brewery, for good food and even better beer.
Pop into Locke Store in Millwood for a sandwich to go, a slice of pie, or any number of other delicious treats from the deli and bakery. Then it’s just a short drive to the town of Berryville for a day shopping for antiques and hand-crafted goods to remember your trip by. Veramar Vineyard is the perfect place to end your tour of the area with a glass of wine in an idyllic setting.
Just off the South Fork Shenandoah River, stroll through Elkton as you take in the history and scenery in the shadow of Shenandoah National Park. For a true local experience, order a rack of ribs or pulled pork sandwich from Log Cabin BBQ. Grab a drink from Elkton Brewing Company or head into the city of Harrisonburg for a variety of brewery options nestled together in downtown.
Swing by Heard’s Cedar Hill Farm Market in Bentonville to pick up a variety of local produce, fruits, meats, and more to make a meal on the go. Then make your way into the town of Front Royal to explore the shops in the Main Street Historic District, plus the northern entrance to Shenandoah National Park. Finish up your day at Front Royal Brewing Co. with craft beer, gourmet food, and live music.
With all of these stops and more, you’ll want to keep coming back year after year. Experience WanderLove for yourself when you visit the Shenandoah Spirits Trail.
Please check local guidelines and regulations before making plans to get outside. Remember to practice social distancing guidelines, wear a mask, and respect others’ health when outside.
All photos courtesy Shenandoah Spirits Trail
