Winchester Travel Guide

In the Shenandoah Valley of northern Virginia lies Winchester. It's a small city that played an important part in the Civil War but nowadays it serves as a small hub for tourism as it's home to leafy green parks, springs, forests, alongside history and museums.

Things to Do in Winchester

To experience the beauty of Winchester, visitors flock to Jim Barnett Park to explore its various trails and enjoy its year-round indoor and outdoor pools. Other great parks in the area include the Frederick Douglass Park and Weaver Park, both of which are ideal for playing soccer and field sports.

Shawnee Springs Preserve, the site of an old Civil War hospital, is the perfect place to admire some of Winchester’s most scenic wetlands, lush forests, and trickling springs.

Meanwhile, history buffs will be amazed by the various historical sites and museums in Winchester, including Stonewall Jackson’s Headquarters, Handley Regional Library, Virginia Museum of Veiled History, Shenandoah Valley Civil War Museum, and the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum.

Guests looking to soak in views of the epic Blue Ridge mountain range can make their way to Marker-Miller Orchards to sample tasty cider, donuts, and slushies, and marvel over the countryside views.

Best Places to Stay in Winchester

As for vacation homes, Winchester has a great selection. From log cabins to modern three-story houses, the city has the perfect rental for everyone. Many of the rentals are not only stylish but friendly and spacious, as well, with great views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Time to Visit Winchester

The best time to visit Winchester is from mid-June to July when the sun is shining and the warm weather is at its finest.

Best Events in Winchester

A few of the most exciting things in Winchester are the city's annual events. For example, the St. Paddy's Celtic Fest celebrates everything Celtic, featuring Celtic-themed games, balloon animals, face painting, dancing and music, food vendors, a photo booth, bagpipers, movies, and a petting zoo. Other fun events include the Rockin’ Independence Day Eve, Oktoberfest, and Holly Jolly Celebration.

Things to Do for Families in Winchester

Animal-loving families can spend the day amongst horses at the Rocking S Ranch. The ranch offers guided horseback trail rides with friendly guides that can take riders through streams, forests, fields, and wetlands. They can also feed the animals at Wilson’s Wild Animal Park. Shopping is another great activity, with Winchester offering Apple Blossom Mall and Creekside Station, alongside a dozen other unique shops and local boutiques.