The Winchester-Frederick County CVB is the official tourism and film office for the Winchester, Virginia area. Perfectly situated in the Northern Shenandoah Valley and just over an hour west of Washington D.C., our area enjoys significant American history (e.g. Civil War, George Washington, Patsy Cline), a beautiful and vibrant Old Town walking mall, farm markets and orchards, and close access to the Appalachian Trail. In addition, we boast over 30 hotels and 3,000 rooms for great sports and event capacity. We’re also home to the world-famous Apple Blossom Festival, which is over 90 years old.
What is your destination most known for?
A unique history and uncommon experiences, like Patsy Cline’s hometown with her childhood home museum, an array of unusual dining hotspots like several converted gas station eateries and the 22 local restaurants along the beautiful Old Town walking mall, and an emerging Civil War era African American history being cultivated by numerous local organizations. Not to mention the world-famous Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, anticipated to return in May 2021!
During this time, how can we enjoy your destination from afar?
Our destination is actually open, all of our 36 hotels are open with no state or local restrictions, and many of our museums and restaurants are opening throughout early June. If you would like to check us out virtually, our tourism office has done a number of 360 degree virtual tours which are available on our website here: https://visitwinchesterva.com/self-guided-tours/
Once travel resumes, what hidden gem should not be missed when visiting your destination?
Again, travel is open now, but people definitely shouldn’t miss the Patsy Cline museum, Old Town Winchester, our 60+ year-old Family Drive-In Theatre, our numerous generations-old orchards and markets, experiencing our great outdoors through hiking, biking and horseback adventures, and our festivals and events when they get going again.
What’s one feature that can’t be missed when visiting your website?
Right now the Travel Updates and Now Open page, which has transformed from listing closings to listing what’s open and special offerings. https://visitwinchesterva.com/winchester-travel-advisory-updates/
How did you hear about NATJA, why did you join?
Through peers in the DMO world.
Is there anything else you feel travel media should know about your destination?
We’re open and safe – our location in the beautiful Northern Shenandoah Valley is close to the NOVA/DC metropolitan area but far enough away to be an escape. Most of our restaurants already heavily featured outdoor seating due to our beautiful area and great weather, and there are many lodging options to safely accommodate folks getting away for a few days. Our businesses are dedicated to following safe procedures and welcoming visitors whenever folks are ready to travel and get a breath of fresh, uncrowded air.
