Winchester Virginia is arguably one of the best places to visit if you are interested in Civil War history or just history in general. Found in the Shenandoah Valley, the city changed hands more than 70 times during the Civil War. Numerous fights took place near town, and there are no fewer than seven major battlefields in the surrounding county. Remains of Civil War-era forts can also be found in and around Winchester, and the relative proximity of Antietam is just one more thing to consider.
Before the Quakers settled in what is now Winchester Virginia in 1732, the area was more or less a camping area that was used by the Shawnee Indians. By the 1750s, it had become a frontier city of sorts, and you might be interested to know that one of the early residents was George Washington. At the time, Washington was a military commander, and quite a young one at that. His purpose for being in Winchester revolved largely around the French and Indian War, and his office is still in town. Known as George Washington's Office Museum, it can be found where Braddock Street and Cork Street meet.
Visiting museums and historical sites are things that most tourists have in mind when it comes to Winchester VA. Among the other museums that are of great interest are the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley and the Old Court House Civil War Museum. The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley calls 801 Amherst Street home and is arguably the first attraction that Shenandoah Valley tourists should consider visiting. The various exhibits cover northern Virginia history from prehistoric times up until the present day. Over at the Old Court House Civil War Museum, visitors can learn all about the role that Winchester VA played in the Civil War. The Frederick County Court House dates back to 1840 and is worth the visit alone. You can find it at 20 N. Loudon Street.
Among the numerous historical sites that can be found in and around Winchester Virginia are Stonewall Jackson's Headquarters and the Cedar Creek Battlefield. As its name would imply, Stonewall Jackson's Headquarters was the headquarters for Confederate Army general Stonewall Jackson. The structure dates back to 1854, and it has been restored to appear much like it would have during Civil War times. 415 North Braddock Street is where you can find this interesting site. As for the Cedar Creek Battlefield, it was the site for a bloody Civil War battle of great significance. Every October, a battle reenactment is staged at the Cedar Creek Battlefield, and it figures among the largest reenactments of its kind in the entire country. Other battlefields can also make for wonderful places to visit while in the Winchester area. They include Maryland's Antietam National Battlefield, which is approximately 30 miles to the northeast.
Winchester VA is certainly a dream destination for history buffs. Delving into the city's rich past isn't the only option for things to do, however. Portions of the Appalachian Mountains run through the region, and not far off to the south is the northern edge of Shenandoah National Park. Hiking can be tremendously rewarding, as is true of scenic drives. While driving in the area during the warmer months, it is possible to stop at farm markets and fruit stands. You might also visit an area winery.
Apples are in especially good supply at the Winchester area farm markets and stands. In fact, the city is known as the Apple Capital of Virginia, and among the top annual events is the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival. Held in May, this festival is actually one of the most popular Virginia events and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
There are so many things to do on a Winchester VA vacation that it can be hard to know where to begin. You can get some help making sense of the area attractions at the Winchester-Frederick County Visitor Center, which is found at 1400 S. Pleasant Valley Rd. This center can also provide recommendations on the Winchester Virginia hotels, as well as the local dining establishments.
Among the best hotels in Winchester Virginia is the George Washington Hotel. Found at 103 E. Piccadilly Street, it blends history with modern convenience and is more unique than the Winchester chain brand hotels. Should you prefer a chain brand establishment, on the other hand, there are a number of good ones. Enticing bed and breakfasts are also in good supply.