With a population of just over 5,000, Woodstock is a small town with plenty of charm. Woodstock is located in northern Virginia, in the heart of the breathtaking Shenandoah Valley. Established in the 1700s, it’s a town with plenty of history, much of which has been preserved in the historic district. Visitors today will find plenty of things to experience, whether they be outdoor activities, restaurants to try, or shops to visit. Here’s more information about one of Virginia’s most charming small towns.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr The town of Woodstock was originally part of a land grant from Lord Fairfax and its charter was sponsored by George Washington himself. Needless to say, this place has acquired quite a bit of historical significance in its time.
Doug Kerr/flickr One of the most prominent features of Woodstock is its architecture. The distinguished buildings offer character and meaning to the downtown area, making for a beautiful walk through town. Photographed above is the historic courthouse, which is the oldest of its kind west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The original limestone dates back to 1790, and the building itself was designed by Thomas Jefferson.
Rudi Riet/flickr If you’re curious to see the city from a different perspective, you can opt for a hot air balloon ride. Valley Ballooning offers memorable rides that are both exhilarating and informative.
Kathy J./TripAdvisor One of the most popular attractions in town is the Woodstock Tower Observation Site. You’d be hard pressed to find a better view of the Shenandoah Valley in the entire state. Be warned, however, that the drive up is incredibly windy. Just be sure to take your time and admire the views once you’re at the top.
Wes M./TripAdvisor
Wes M./TripAdvisor Big Schloss is another local favorite, especially among outdoor enthusiasts. The hike is 4 miles total and is rated moderately difficult, although the views will be worth your effort. The hardest part of the hike is the very beginning, but once you’ve made that elevation gain you can start to enjoy the beautiful surrounding scenery.
Rich C./TripAdvisor In the mood for browsing some of the town’s finest crafts and homemade goods? Be sure to stop by The Market. It sells a little bit of everything, specializing in kitchen wares, coffees, wines, and other speciality goods.
daisyferret1/TripAdvisor And if you’re looking for the perfect spot to enjoy those local goods from The Market, you’ll want to take a pit stop at W.O. Riley Park. This family-friendly spot has beautiful grounds for taking a stroll, playing a quick game of tennis, or simply enjoying the day.
Woodstock Brew House/Yelp
Woodstock Brewhouse/Facebook As the evening approaches, check out Woodstock Brewhouse for some tasty craft beer and live music. Located in the renovated Casey Jones work clothes factory on Main Street, it’s a spot loaded with local history.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick hello or happen to have a whole day to spend in Woodstock, you’ll enjoy choosing among plenty of activities. Looking for more of small-town Virginia? Be sure to try this memorable Road Trip Through Virginia’s Most Picturesque Small Towns.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
The town of Woodstock was originally part of a land grant from Lord Fairfax and its charter was sponsored by George Washington himself. Needless to say, this place has acquired quite a bit of historical significance in its time.
Doug Kerr/flickr
One of the most prominent features of Woodstock is its architecture. The distinguished buildings offer character and meaning to the downtown area, making for a beautiful walk through town. Photographed above is the historic courthouse, which is the oldest of its kind west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The original limestone dates back to 1790, and the building itself was designed by Thomas Jefferson.
Rudi Riet/flickr
If you’re curious to see the city from a different perspective, you can opt for a hot air balloon ride. Valley Ballooning offers memorable rides that are both exhilarating and informative.
Kathy J./TripAdvisor
One of the most popular attractions in town is the Woodstock Tower Observation Site. You’d be hard pressed to find a better view of the Shenandoah Valley in the entire state. Be warned, however, that the drive up is incredibly windy. Just be sure to take your time and admire the views once you’re at the top.
Wes M./TripAdvisor
Big Schloss is another local favorite, especially among outdoor enthusiasts. The hike is 4 miles total and is rated moderately difficult, although the views will be worth your effort. The hardest part of the hike is the very beginning, but once you’ve made that elevation gain you can start to enjoy the beautiful surrounding scenery.
Rich C./TripAdvisor
In the mood for browsing some of the town’s finest crafts and homemade goods? Be sure to stop by The Market. It sells a little bit of everything, specializing in kitchen wares, coffees, wines, and other speciality goods.
daisyferret1/TripAdvisor
And if you’re looking for the perfect spot to enjoy those local goods from The Market, you’ll want to take a pit stop at W.O. Riley Park. This family-friendly spot has beautiful grounds for taking a stroll, playing a quick game of tennis, or simply enjoying the day.
Woodstock Brew House/Yelp
Woodstock Brewhouse/Facebook
As the evening approaches, check out Woodstock Brewhouse for some tasty craft beer and live music. Located in the renovated Casey Jones work clothes factory on Main Street, it’s a spot loaded with local history.
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