FAQs about Woodstock, VA
General Information
Where exactly is Woodstock located and how do I get there?
Woodstock is located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley in northwestern Virginia, approximately 90 miles west of Washington, D.C. and Charlottesville. The town is easily accessible via Interstate 81 (exits 283 or 285). By car, it's about a 2-hour drive from Washington D.C., 2 hours from Richmond, and 1 hour from Charlottesville. The closest major airports are Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (SHD).
What is the best time of year to visit Woodstock?
Each season offers unique experiences in Woodstock:
- Spring (March-May): Enjoy blossoming flowers, pleasant temperatures, and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June-August): Perfect for outdoor activities, though temperatures can reach the high 80s°F.
- Fall (September-November): The most popular season due to spectacular fall foliage, with peak colors typically occurring in mid-October.
- Winter (December-February): Quieter season with possible snow, ideal for a peaceful getaway and winter sports in nearby mountains.
What is the history of Woodstock?
Founded in 1761 by George Washington's military colleague Colonel Joseph Funk, Woodstock is one of Virginia's oldest towns. It served as an important settlement along the Great Wagon Road during colonial times. The town has witnessed key events in American history, including the Revolutionary War and Civil War. Woodstock is particularly known for Civil War activity, including some of General Stonewall Jackson's Valley Campaign maneuvers. Many historic buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries still stand today.
Things to Do
What are the must-see historic sites in Woodstock and the surrounding area?
What outdoor activities are available in the Woodstock area?
- Seven Bends State Park: Offers hiking trails, river access, fishing, and wildlife viewing along the Shenandoah River.
- George Washington National Forest: Features numerous hiking trails, including popular routes like Signal Knob and Little Crease.
- Shenandoah River: Perfect for kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and fishing.
- W.O. Riley Park: Community park with sports facilities, walking paths, and picnic areas.
- Woodstock Tower: Scenic overlook with panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and Seven Bends of the Shenandoah River.
- Bicycle routes: The valley offers numerous scenic cycling routes on less-traveled country roads.
- Shenandoah Caverns: Take a tour of Virginia's most beautiful and unique caverns.
- Murray’s Fly Shop: One stop shopping for all things fly fishing.
- Valley Ballooning: Hot air ballooning in the Shenandoah Valley.
- River Outfitters: Canoeing, rafting and kayaking the river.
- Farm Experiences: Explore agri-tourism activities in the valley.
What wineries and breweries can I visit near Woodstock?
What are the best restaurants in Woodstock?
- Edinburg Mill: A restored 1850s mill with a museum about the region's history.
- Italian Touch: Delicious pizza, pasta and subs.
- Woodstock Café: Popular spot for breakfast and lunch with farm-to-table ingredients and homemade baked goods.
- Woodstock Garden Café: Casual eatery with fresh salads, sandwiches, and vegetarian options.
- Spring House Tavern: Historic tavern with casual American fare and local beer.
- Flour & Water: Artisan pizza and pasta in a relaxed atmosphere.
Are there any annual events or festivals in Woodstock worth planning a trip around?
- Shenandoah County Fair (August): One of Virginia's oldest agricultural fairs with exhibits, livestock shows, carnival rides, and entertainment.
- Fall Festival (October): Celebration of autumn with crafts, food vendors, and activities.
- Christmas in Woodstock (December): Holiday parade, tree lighting, and festive downtown decorations.
- Woodstock BLOOM (May): Spring celebration with garden tours, plant sales, and outdoor activities.
- Shenandoah Valley Music Festival (Summer): Concert series featuring diverse musical performances.
- Valley Fourth (July): Independence Day celebration with fireworks and community events.
Practical Information
What shopping opportunities are there in Woodstock?
- Downtown Woodstock: Features boutique shops, antique stores, and specialty retailers.
- Farmers Market: Saturdays (May-October) at the Woodstock Hub, featuring local produce, crafts, and food.
How walkable is downtown Woodstock?
Downtown Woodstock is very walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops within a few blocks of each other. The historic district is compact and pedestrian-friendly with well-maintained sidewalks. Free parking is available in designated lots and on side streets. For visitors with mobility concerns, most downtown businesses are accessible, though some historic buildings may have limited accessibility.
Regional Exploration
What day trips are possible from Woodstock?
- Shenandoah National Park: 30-45 minutes east, offering Skyline Drive, hiking trails, and spectacular views.
- Luray Caverns: 30 minutes east, featuring impressive underground formations.
- Winchester: 30 minutes north, with Old Town shopping, museums, and George Washington's headquarters.
- Harrisonburg: 30 minutes south, home to James Madison University and diverse dining options.
- Natural Bridge: 90 minutes south, a natural wonder once owned by Thomas Jefferson.
- Charlottesville: 90 minutes southeast, featuring Monticello, University of Virginia, and wineries.
- Washington D.C.: 2 hours east, for national monuments, museums, and attractions.
- Shenandoah Caverns: Take a tour of Virginia's most beautiful and unique caverns.
- Route 11 Potato Chips: Watch us make our chips, taste and buy.
- Belle Grove Plantation: Tour the main manor on the plantation built in the 1700s.
What is the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail, and how can I experience it?
The Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail connects over 20 wineries throughout the valley, with several located near Woodstock. To experience it:
- Self-guided tour: Visit 2-3 wineries per day at your own pace. Nearby options include Muse Vineyards, North Mountain Vineyard, and Cave Ridge Vineyard.
- Guided tours: Several companies offer wine tour services with transportation.
- Events: Many wineries host special events like harvest festivals, concerts, and food pairings.
- Passport programs: Seasonal programs offering discounts when visiting multiple wineries.
The valley's unique terroir produces distinctive wines, particularly Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot varieties. Most wineries offer tastings for $10-15 per person, often waived with bottle purchases.
How can I best experience the Shenandoah Valley's natural beauty from Woodstock?
- Woodstock Tower: Just minutes from town, offering panoramic views of the Seven Bends of the Shenandoah River.
- Seven Bends State Park: Riverside trails and access points to experience the Shenandoah River.
- George Washington National Forest: Multiple trailheads near Woodstock leading to mountain vistas.
- Skyline Drive: Accessible from several nearby entrances, this scenic highway runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Fort Valley: Scenic "valley within a valley" offering peaceful drives and natural beauty.
- Seasonal experiences: Spring wildflowers, summer river activities, fall foliage, and winter snow scenes each offer unique perspectives on the valley's beauty.
- Scenic byways: Routes like Route 11 (Old Valley Pike) and Fort Valley Road (Route 678) offer beautiful drives through the countryside.
Is the Inn at Narrow Passage available for business meetings and retreats?
Yes, the Inn at Narrow Passage is a very special place for small executive meetings and retreats for groups up to 25 ( 12 guest rooms). There are conference rooms, and space for breakout meetings. The private setting on the Shenandoah allows quick access to a nice natural setting for outdoor events and team building activities. There is a wide choice of restaurants all located within 5 minutes from the inn.
