Chris Militzer
It’s that time of year, there’s a chill in the air, pumpkin spice latte on your lip, and leaves to be peeped!
One of the top targets for leaf peepers from the DMV is Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park — and for good reason. Miles and miles of a slow-paced cruise along twisty mountain views, with those yellow, orange, and piercing red leaves calling out to you… and thousands of your fellow peepers.
This year, consider mixing it up and little and taking a slight detour: Make a stop in Front Royal.
Chris Militzer/Miliman12 Photography
Just about 90 minutes from Alexandria, and right at the top of that beautifully curvy road, is a little town that holds a lot more interesting options than you might know.
With long lines of people driving from the DC area and trying to enter Shenandoah Park from the Front Royal entrance, consider doing the reverse and entering through the Thornton Gap entrance and then heading towards Front Royal, ending up in this little town with much to do.
DINING
Pave Mint
A farm-to-street food experience in a renovated 1960s garage with an excellent selection of beers and cocktails. Currently seating outdoors in distanced covered picnic tables, this place can’t be missed especially if you happen to drive by and smell what’s coming out of the smoker! I went with pulled pork and brisket, and it was honestly one of the better combos I’ve had in awhile. So flavorful and juicy, I even skipped the sauce...and I love the sauce. www.paveminttaphouse.com
Main St Mill
Once a fully functioning mill, this fixture right on the lively downtown Main Street, offers up family friendly comfort foods. You have a choice of distanced indoor seating or outdoor patios where you can get a home cooked meal to refuel after your drive. Pro tip: grab some of the meatloaf while it’s available, it will have you wondering what they’re doing back there. www.mainstreetmillfr.com
Chris Militzer/Miliman12 Photography
Wine and Mead: Saga Meadery and Winery
What is mead? Basically, a fermented honey and water that can be flavored with all sorts of additions. Saga is a unique spin if you’re looking for something different than wine or beer, and with all the flavors, you’re likely to find one you like. Choices include apple, citrus, and yes even pumpkin spice. Personal favorite was Puff’s Sweet Heat with a little habanero kick! www.sagameadery.com
Chris Militzer/Miliman12 Photography
Craft Beer: Front Royal Brewing
The name gives it away, they don’t just have good burgers. Constantly changing taps with pretty much every type and style of beer you might enjoy. Personal favorite was Aquablazer, and American IPA with good flavor and not too much bitterness.
Interesting fact: Front Royal Brewing sponsors and houses Basecamp which is a facility designed for thru-hikers/kayakers/bikers along the Appalachian Trail to store equipment, get a shower (maybe a beer), and do laundry before getting back on the trails. www.frontroyalbrewing.com
Other Things to Try
Chris Militzer/Miliman12 Photography
Shenandoah Valley Axe Throwing Co.
Such a fun, safe, clean place to throw axes with your friends! Because let’s be honest, who wants to stand close to a guy throwing an axe at Halloween? Luckily they have Viking hats to wear and not hockey masks! www.svaxethrowingco.com
Front Royal Outfitters
Skip the whole skyline drive and get a brand new view of the changing leaves. Take a kayak, or canoe and cruise the Shenandoah river and get a unique view from the water. These guys are incredible, a fun time, very helpful, and kept everyone warm and dry. A great alternate choice! This was a highlight of my visit, and one I will do again at anytime of year! www.frontroyaloutdoors.com
Turnmeyer Galleries
Art gallery/boutique/unique item shop with lots of amazing photo work, candles, Shenandoah themed gifts etc. If you’re interested in buying photos from the park, or taking a tour to learn how to take your own shots, this is worth a stop. And I thought I knew what I was doing with a camera! www.turnmeyergalleries.com
