After a day of exploration, what higher option to loosen up than in an enthralling downtown filled with actions, eating, and leisure? These vibrant city areas function the right basecamp for journey, providing one thing enjoyable for the entire household whereas conserving you near the nice outside. From intriguing museums and scenic trails to cozy cafes and native gear retailers, kick off your new yr with this information to a few of the finest downtowns and Principal Streets in our area!
A Shenandoah Valley Escape in Staunton, VA
Nestled within the coronary heart of the Shenandoah Valley, downtown Staunton is an enthralling, walkable hub that spans 5 energetic sq. blocks. With its mix of unbiased retailers, award-winning eating places, and cultural landmarks, Staunton’s downtown presents one thing for everybody. The town’s wealthy historical past shines by means of its superbly preserved structure and a number of historic districts, making it an ideal vacation spot for exploration, eating, and procuring.
Close by Out of doors Adventures
Simply minutes from Staunton’s energetic downtown, out of doors fanatics can immerse themselves in a wide range of pure escapes. Native parks similar to Gypsy Hill, Montgomery Corridor, and Betsy Bell & Mary Grey Wilderness supply tranquil strolling trails and gorgeous scenic overlooks. For a extra adventurous expertise, Shenandoah Nationwide Park and George Washington Nationwide Forest are only a 30-minute drive away, that includes over 500 miles of mountaineering trails, together with iconic routes like Outdated Rag and Hawksbill.
For much more journey, e-book a visit with Vivid Earth Adventures, providing thrilling actions like climbing, rappelling, and canoeing.
In City To-Dos
Downtown Staunton is a energetic hub with distinctive retailers, top-notch eating places, and cultural sights. Store for one-of-a-kind gadgets at Latitudes Truthful Commerce Retailer, Made; By the Folks, For the Folks, and Wilderness Journey. For a meal, go to Candy Addie’s Waffle Store, Cranberry’s Grocery & Eatery, Zynodoa, or The Depot Grille, all providing domestically impressed delicacies. Finish your day with a craft brew at Redbeard Brewing Firm, a neighborhood favourite.
Cultural experiences abound with the American Shakespeare Middle, the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum, and the Digicam Heritage Museum. Don’t miss the Historic Downtown Staunton Strolling Tour, which highlights Victorian structure and landmarks like Trinity Episcopal Church’s Tiffany stained-glass home windows. For native produce and crafts, go to the Staunton Farmer’s Market, taking place from April till December.
With its preferrred location, Staunton serves as the right basecamp, mixing easy accessibility to world-class out of doors adventures with the comfort and attraction of its downtown facilities.
Downtown Occasions
- Queen Metropolis Mischief & Magic Pageant
Every fall, downtown Staunton transforms right into a magical realm with wizard-themed actions. - Staunton Music Pageant
Held each August, this multi-day occasion brings world-class musicians to gorgeous venues downtown.
Expertise the NEW Cumberland in Allegany County, MD
Nestled within the coronary heart of Allegany County, the Mountain Facet of Maryland, Cumberland, MD, serves because the county seat. With a downtown space spanning roughly 21 acres, it presents a compact but vibrant hub for each residents and guests to discover.
A High Journey Downtown
Cumberland has been acknowledged by BRO as a High Journey City with its connectivity to many out of doors recreation alternatives. It’s also a Path City, because the downtown is simply steps from the internationally acknowledged Nice Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile path system connecting Cumberland to downtown Pittsburgh. The path connects to the C&O Canal, providing cyclists a 334-mile route from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC. The C&O Canal is among the most-visited nationwide parks within the nation and essentially the most visited in Maryland!
The Potomac River can be iconic to downtown Cumberland because it varieties your complete southern border of Allegany County and has earned a place as one of many area’s main drivers of tourism. Guests include internal tubes, canoes and kayaks to benefit from the water’s delicate rapids. For individuals who don’t have their very own vessels, there are many outfitters accessible. Outdoors of metropolis limits however but a brief drive away is entry to 70,000 acres of public land in state parks and a forest, in addition to ample alternatives for mountaineering, backpacking, mountain climbing, and extra.
Should-Go to Spots
Cumberland’s downtown combines historical past, out of doors journey, and native taste, with the Allegany Museum, out of doors outfitters like Wheelzup Adventures, native espresso at Basecamp, craft beer at Dig Deep Brewing, and traditional eats from Queen Metropolis Creamery Scoop Store and Curtis’ Coney Island Well-known Weiners.
Along with these companies, Cumberland presents notable websites and excursions for these trying to discover its historical past and tradition. Emmanuel Episcopal Church, is a historic web site that additionally served as a station on the Underground Railroad. The Cumberland Arts & Leisure District showcases galleries, efficiency areas, and cultural occasions, supporting native artists and entrepreneurs whereas enhancing town’s vibrant arts scene.
A New Look!
Cumberland revealed its revitalized historic downtown in November 2024, finishing a decade-long redevelopment that modernized infrastructure, added new companies, and breathed new life into this vibrant hub for guests and residents alike.
Step right into a Vibrant Downtown in Salem, VA
The charming Metropolis of Salem, Virginia, is completely located for a mountain getaway, conveniently accessible by way of State Route 460 and I-81. In Salem, the guts of eating, nightlife, and leisure lies in its vibrant historic downtown.
Journey is All Round
Downtown Salem is the right hub for out of doors adventures. Inside minutes you will discover your self on world-class mountain bike trails and epic mountaineering trails, together with essentially the most well-known footpath on the East Coast — the Appalachian Path. On weekends between March and November, the revolutionary McAfee Knob Shuttle takes hikers from downtown Salem on to the trailhead.
For paddlers and anglers, the Higher James River Water Path and the Roanoke River Blueway are close by. Each rivers supply nice surroundings and enjoyable tubing journeys.
A Vigorous Principal Road
Salem will not be your typical sleepy, small city Principal Road. Downtown Salem is alive with retailers, eating places, craft beer, a farmers market and vibrancy impressed by the campus of Roanoke School. You’ll need to keep a couple of days to soak up the websites and the out of doors recreation. Boutique lodging in downtown makes it simple to stroll to retailers and eating places. The Rowland Lodge is house to the upscale Frankie Rowlands Steakhouse. Just a few blocks away, The Lofts at Downtown Salem presents fashionable one-bedroom loft type lodging in a restored 1924 constructing that after housed an car dealership.
Referred to as Virginia’s Championship Metropolis, sports activities followers can plan a go to to catch some motion. Salem hosts school championships and different sports activities tournaments all year long. Each spring and summer season, the Salem Purple Sox play house video games in one of the scenic minor league stadiums in America. For 2 weeks every summer season, the Salem Truthful rolls into city with rides, video games, music and meals.
Downtown Occasions
- Olde Salem Days – Be part of the Metropolis of Salem and Rotary Membership on September thirteenth to have a good time domestically handmade, hand-altered, and home-baked crafts!
- Lewis Gale Salem Half Marathon – Expertise the attraction of downtown Salem on the run! Enroll now for races of various distances, taking place October eleventh.
Expertise the Coronary heart of Harford in Bel Air, MD
Set within the coronary heart of Harford County, Maryland, simply half-hour north of Baltimore, the City of Bel Air is a radiant neighborhood celebrated for its historic attraction and welcoming environment. This picturesque city boasts tree-lined sidewalks and an array of independently owned retailers and eating places.
Excursions and Extra!
Discover the 2-mile self-guided Public Artwork Tour, showcasing 25 items of public artwork, with 15 further works close by. Or take the Historic Strolling Tour to admire nineteenth and Twentieth-century structure, and go to landmarks just like the County Courthouse and the restored Bel Air Armory, a hub for neighborhood occasions. Distinctive retailers similar to REB Information, Twisted Roots Uncommon and Frequent Vegetation, and the Nest on Principal, together with eating choices like Vagabond Sandwich Firm and One-Eleven Principal, make the city a vacation spot for all.
Parks and Trails to Discover
Out of doors fanatics will discover a lot to discover in Bel Air, beginning with the scenic 4.5-mile MA & PA Heritage Path, which winds by means of stunning landscapes and presents a peaceable escape for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Decide up the path on the centrally situated Williams Road Trailhead, conveniently located close to Unbiased Brewing Firm, the place you’ll be able to reward your self with a refreshing native brew after your journey. For much more out of doors experiences, head to Rocks State Park to hike to the long-lasting King and Queen Seat, a panoramic overlook, or discover the luxurious trails, waterfalls, and riverfront views at Susquehanna State Park.
As a delegated Principal Road Maryland Neighborhood and Arts & Leisure District, Bel Air brings vitality and attraction to each season with a calendar filled with festivals, occasions, and cultural celebrations. From artwork reveals and concert events to vacation markets and neighborhood gatherings, there’s at all times one thing taking place to entertain guests of all ages and pursuits. Whether or not you’re in search of out of doors thrills, native taste, or creative inspiration, Bel Air presents a bit one thing for everybody.
Downtown Occasions
- The Chocolate, Brew & Wine Tour – March 1: Take pleasure in a pub crawl with drinks, candy treats, and unique presents. Tickets promote out quick, so seize yours now for a enjoyable day of beer and chocolate!
- Annual Kite Pageant–April 12: Take pleasure in a day of kite flying, reside music, and meals for the entire household! Free kites (whereas provides final) and assist for freshmen can be found. 10AM–4 PM, free admission.
Discover the Capital of Bourbon Nation in Frankfort, KY
Plan your subsequent journey in Kentucky’s capital metropolis, the place downtown Frankfort presents an ideal mixture of historical past, tradition, and scenic magnificence. Spanning a compact, walkable space of 4 by six blocks, this inviting vacation spot is good for a leisurely day of exploration.
Simple Entry to Journey
Nestled alongside the picturesque Kentucky River, downtown Frankfort offers easy accessibility to out of doors actions with three river entry factors. Guests can get pleasure from paddling leases, embark on guided riverboat excursions, or just take within the serene views from the water’s edge.
Downtown Frankfort presents a wide range of partaking excursions that spotlight town’s wealthy historical past, surroundings, and vibrant tradition. The Bourbon Blazer tour takes guests on a spirited journey by means of Frankfort’s bourbon heritage, mixing tastings with tales of Kentucky’s well-known distilleries. For these in search of a broader expertise, further guided excursions showcase Frankfort’s historic landmarks, architectural gems, native artwork, and distinctive attraction.
Savor, Store and Uncover Downtown
Downtown Frankfort invitations you to bask in a culinary journey with an array of native eating choices. Whether or not you’re within the temper for upscale Southern delicacies at Serafini or a extra informal vibe at Bourbon on Principal, the downtown meals scene presents one thing for each palate. Pair your meal with Kentucky-crafted bourbon or discover cozy cafés and bakeries, like Andy’s Artisan Bread or Engine Home Espresso, for a candy deal with or fast pick-me-up.
Immerse your self in Frankfort’s historical past and tradition by visiting the Capital Metropolis Museum, the place reveals share tales of town’s bourbon legacy and political previous. Afterward, get pleasure from a stroll by means of downtown’s distinctive retailers, like Utterly Kentucky, that includes handcrafted items by native artisans, or Glitterati Treasures, a favourite for jewellery and trend lovers.
Whether or not you’re indulging in native flavors, uncovering historical past, or paddling the Kentucky River, downtown Frankfort guarantees a enjoyable and enriching escape.
Downtown Occasions
- Downtown Derby Celebration Kick off Derby season in Downtown Frankfort on Might 3, 2025, with reside music, a scrumptious breakfast, signature cocktails, family-friendly actions, and neighborhood races!
- Bourbon on the Banks Pageant Occurring October 4, 2025 alongside the Kentucky River, options bourbon tastings, reside music, artisan items, and extra, with 60+ distilleries, breweries, and wineries.
Downtown Delights in Lexington, Buena Vista, and Rockbridge County, VA
Positioned within the southern Shenandoah Valley close to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lexington and Buena Vista in Rockbridge County supply walkable downtowns with free parking and many to discover. Lexington’s historic Principal Road and Buena Vista’s Magnolia and Beech Avenues are hubs for procuring and eating, enriched by the vitality of close by schools—Washington and Lee College, Virginia Navy Institute, and Southern Virginia College.
Nature Inside Attain
Wooden’s Creek Path, a 2.25-mile path inside Lexington, winds alongside Woods Creek and thru wooded areas. It connects to the seven-mile Chessie Nature Path, a rail-trail linking Lexington and Buena Vista alongside the Maury River, showcasing various wildlife and flora. Only a mile from downtown, Boxerwood Nature Middle and Woodland Backyard presents birdwatching, a youngsters’s play space, and fairy woods.
Buena Vista, an Appalachian Path Neighborhood and gateway to the Blue Ridge Parkway, options Glen Maury Park, a 315-acre leisure space with almost 9 miles of trails, kayak and bike leases, tenting, and summer season concert events. In spring, it hosts Gravista, a gravel bike race with two difficult routes: Stoked 60 (68 miles, 8,524 ft climb) and Worthy 30 (34 miles, 4,400 ft climb).
Lower than 15 miles from Lexington or Buena Vista, Pure Bridge State Park options the long-lasting 217-foot limestone arch, mountaineering trails, disc golf, and ranger-led stargazing as a part of its Worldwide Darkish Sky Park designation.
Excursions and Extra!
The Lexington Carriage Firm offers enchanting, narrated horse-drawn carriage excursions by means of historic downtown Lexington, operating from spring to fall and persevering with into the festive Christmas season. Historical past fanatics will recognize cadet-led excursions of Virginia Navy Institute and the VMI Museum, together with visits to the Jackson Home Museum, the one house ever owned by Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson. For a spookier expertise, Haunting Tales, led by artist and entertainer Mark Cline, delve into Lexington’s ghostly lore.
Simply 5 miles north of downtown, Hull’s Drive-In Theater—a 74-year-old native treasure—presents traditional motion pictures underneath the celebrities, reside music, and a 0.25-mile strolling and health path, making it an ideal spot for a nostalgic night out.
Go to RockbridgeOutdoors.com for mountaineering, biking, paddling, and different out of doors experiences in Rockbridge County, VA.
Downtown Occasions
- The Freedom Meals Pageant, held yearly on July third, transforms Principal Road right into a festive hub with a chef-led cook-off and proceeds benefiting native nonprofits.
- On the primary Friday of every month, artwork galleries host receptions with new reveals, reside music, and artist meet-and-greets.
- Each Friday, Purveyors on Principal and Lexington Mercantile supply free wine tastings to kick off the weekend.
An Appalachian Basecamp in Tazewell, VA
Tazewell’s Principal Road serves as the colourful centerpiece of Tazewell, Virginia, surrounded by the gorgeous great thing about the Appalachian Mountains. This quaint downtown blends historic attraction with trendy conveniences, providing a energetic vacation spot for each locals and guests. With its distinctive array of retailers, eating places, and lodging, Principal Road exudes a heat, welcoming vitality that showcases the guts of this close-knit neighborhood.
Minutes Away from Exploration
Tazewell’s Principal Road is completely located simply minutes from a few of the area’s most breathtaking out of doors locations, making it a superb start line for journey. Discover Cavitt’s Creek Park & Lake Witten, the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, or just soaking within the peaceable environment. Close by, Lincolnshire Lake and Park presents actions like mountaineering, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, together with an aqua park for household enjoyable.
For a really distinctive expertise, go to Burke’s Backyard, affectionately often called “God’s Thumbprint.” This gorgeous valley is well known for its outstanding geological options and presents direct entry to the Appalachian Path, making it a must-visit for mountaineering fanatics and nature lovers.
City Treasures and Tasty Treats
Tazewell’s Principal Road is crammed with distinctive companies that improve its attraction. Discover Between Pals Presents, a boutique that includes native artisan items, seasonal décor, and one-of-a-kind treasures. Cease by The Pleased Goat for artfully crafted sandwiches, soups, salads, and grab-and-go snacks, together with a number of mountaineering gear. Don’t miss Bee Noodle’d, a preferred spot recognized for its wonderful meals and energetic occasions. For a really memorable keep, e-book an evening at The Outdated Jail, the place historic structure meets trendy consolation.
Along with its retailers and eating, Principal Road showcases its inventive aspect with sights like Artwork on Principal. Colourful murals, together with “Standing Tall and Proud: Tazewell County’s African American Heritage,” convey vibrant artistry to the downtown space. Whether or not you’re trying to store, dine, or soak in native tradition, Tazewell’s Principal Road has one thing for everybody.
Downtown Occasions
- Principal Road Retailers: Yr-round festive occasions hosted by native retailers!
- Principal Road Moments: A signature occasion showcasing the very best of Tazewell’s Principal Road.
- Oktobrewfest: A festive fall celebration with native brews, music, and actions.
Uncover Winter Heat and Out of doors Adventures in Entrance Royal, VA
Nestled within the coronary heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Entrance Royal, VA, is the final word basecamp for winter exploration. Its charming downtown is simply minutes from breathtaking trails, serene rivers, and the long-lasting Skyline Drive—an adventurer’s gateway to Shenandoah Nationwide Park.
Brisk Hikes and a Cozy Retreat
For these in search of out of doors thrills, embark on a brisk winter hike to Compton Peak, the place dramatic rock formations and sweeping vistas reward your efforts, or take within the gorgeous panoramic views alongside the Buzzard Rock Path, a neighborhood favourite for its ridge-top surroundings. For those who want a comfortable retreat after your journey, head to downtown Entrance Royal, the place charming cafés, native eateries, and alluring retailers supply the right locations to heat up, loosen up, and revel in a style of the city’s hospitality. Whether or not you crave the crisp mountain air or a comfortable indoor escape, Entrance Royal has one thing for everybody this season.
When in City
Savor scrumptious eats at On Cue Sports activities Bar & Grill, the place hearty meals and a energetic environment make it a favourite gathering spot, or unwind with a domestically brewed beer at Vibrissa Beer, recognized for its inventive brews and welcoming vibe. Want a caffeine repair? Cease by Melania’s Gourmand for expertly handcrafted espresso, pastries, and a comfortable place to recharge. Downtown’s native retailers and companies are brimming with distinctive finds, from artisan items and handcrafted presents to specialty merchandise, all served with a heat smile.
For a dose of native historical past, go to the Warren Heritage Society, the place reveals and historic buildings inform the story of Entrance Royal’s wealthy previous. Artwork lovers can head to the Blue Ridge Arts Council to discover inspiring reveals that showcase the expertise and creativity of regional artists.
This January, embrace each the outside and the heat of small-town attraction. Whether or not you’re right here for a day or a weekend, Entrance Royal invitations you to expertise its good mix of journey and coziness.
Downtown Occasions
Have fun Earth Day and kick off Spring Entrance Royal type! Lone Pine Day is predicated on the long-lasting lone pine overlooking the city, and can join you with various, nature-oriented conservation teams that showcase environmental stewardship at its finest.
