Of all the beautiful places to visit in Virginia, we think you need to keep Front Royal near the top of the list. This awesome small town lies in the amazing Shenandoah Valley and is known as a wonderful base for enjoying the outdoors. Its historic downtown is also worth your time, and not just because of Front Royal’s backstory. We were lucky enough to visit and fell in love with its food and beer scene and even had the pleasure of meeting a few people who run these businesses. If you’re looking for a place to spend at least a weekend and haven’t been to Front Royal yet, it’s time to get started before everyone else figures it out. We’ll keep coming back and look forward to sharing more Front Royal VA travel guides like you’ll find below, as we do.
Front Royal VA Travel Guides and Mentions
When to Visit
With changes in elevation ranging from 566 feet in the downtown to over 3,300 feet in the mountains, Front Royal weather is pretty interesting throughout the year. Mild summers averaging mid-70s and winters hover around 35 degrees. We can’t wait to keep coming back to scope out beautiful flowers blooming in the spring, but also the incredible fall foliage over the mountains. Oh, and we’ll definitely be here for expansive views of the mountains in the winter.
Front Royal Fun Facts
Front Royal was originally known as LeHewtown, after its founder, Peter LeHew. Front Royal became an important railway stop during the Civil War. Nobody really knows where the current name came from, though it is common lore the giant Royal Oak tree in the middle of the square is responsible. Soldiers during the Civil War would practice their drills in this square and the command, “Front the Royal Oak!” was often used.
For more background info about Front Royal, check out this book that covers the last 150 years there via pictures and words.
Searching for Something Specific?
We’re always on the lookout for places to visit in Virginia, in and around Front Royal, and will continue sharing what we find with you. If there’s something you’re looking for and can’t find on our blog, please contact us and let us know about it. We also welcome any travel writers who would like to contribute your own Front Royal travel guides with a specific city, location, hotel guide, something that might fit into our People Who Travel, Baby Travel, or Travel with Kids sections, or anything else. Send your idea our way because we’re always excited to collaborate! Regardless of what you’re looking for or hoping to contribute, we’ll be happy to work with you.