​It’s time for a guessing game! What sport: 

• Can be enjoyed by players of all ability levels?
• Is a great way to make a walk in the park more fun? 
• Combines the fun of ultimate Frisbee and golf? 

You’ve got it: it’s disc golf!

​Disc golf is a great sport to try out this year as the winter weather slowly warms up. And if you’re in the Front Royal area, you’ll find two fantastic disc golf courses to choose from. Read on for a run down on disc golfing, as well as more information on Front Royal’s disc golf courses.

Disc Golfing 101
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​The concept of disc golfing is simple: it’s golf . . . but with a Frisbee-type disc! Instead of aiming for a hole in the ground, players try to throw discs into a series of eighteen specially designed baskets. And, just like in golf, the winner is the player who takes the least throws to get his or her disc in the basket. 
 
Disc golfing can be played at many levels – all the way up to world championships, but it is a widely accessible sport that many can enjoy. Of course, you can spend some time studying specialized techniques, but in general, if you can throw a Frisbee you can have fun disc golfing. It’s also a good fit for groups of different sizes. You can play by yourself, with one partner, or with a bigger group of friends.

​As well as being fun at many different skill levels, disc golfing is also accessible because it’s inexpensive. Most disc golf courses are found in parks, so you don’t have to worry about paying hefty membership fees. The only investment you’ll need to make is purchasing a few discs. Disc golf discs come in many shapes and sizes – just like golfers use different clubs for different shots, disc golfers will select from a range of discs for each throw. Some discs are designed for long distance throwing, while others are built for accuracy, or designed to suit the individual player’s strengths and weaknesses. For beginners, the best strategy is to choose a disc golf starter set. These sets contain a selection of discs that are suitable for beginner technique. You’ll also save money by buying several discs at once.

​If you’re ready to get started (or continue!) with your disc golfing career, two beautiful courses await you in the Front Royal area. For a woodland experience, head to Rockland Park. The disc golf course here is mostly wooded, and features lots of elevation change. These features make for a course that players and spectators will have fun discovering. However they can be a bit of a challenge for beginners – an inaccurate throw could easily turn into a disc lost in the woods. 

​For a course with more open fields and less hills, take the short drive out of Front Royal to Sherando Park. You’ll still find some woods and hills here, but these “holes” are mixed in with some more open, level terrain, where you’ll be able to work on your long distance throwing. Whichever course you choose, you’ll find that memorable disc golfing fun awaits you.
 
This year, as winter turns to spring, take the time to get outside and enjoy Front Royal’s disc golf courses. Players of all ages and ability levels can have a great time. It’s another popular sport that’s right at home in Front Royal.

March is women’s history month. We’re celebrating by shining the light on five famous women with connections to the Shenandoah Valley and the Front Royal area. Curious about our local women’s history? Read on to meet five women whose stories will make the Front Royal area come alive. Along with each woman, we’ve given a suggestion for a local outing you can take to honor her legacy and learn more about her.

Belle Boyd was a spy for the confederates during the Civil War. During the Battle of Front Royal, she was staying with relatives in the town of Front Royal. She overheard Union soldiers discussing their plans to withdraw from the town, destroying strategic bridges behind them. When she was unable to find a man willing to bring the intelligence to Stonewall Jackson, she made the perilous journey through the army lines herself. On the basis of Boyd’s information, Jackson advanced, and saved the bridges from destruction.
 
Today in Front Royal, you can still visit the building where Boyd was staying we she overheard the plans of the Union soldiers. The “Belle Boyd Cottage” is one of the oldest buildings on Front Royal. Call today to schedule your free, self-guided tours.

Staunton’s Suffragette: Fannie Stratton Bayly King (1864-1951)
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In the early 1900s, the movement to give women the vote was alive and well in the Shenandoah Valley. Fannie King was a leader in the women’s suffrage movement in Staunton, around an hour and a half drive down the valley from Front Royal. She organized the distribution of pamphlets, arranged for public debates, and corresponded with lawmakers, all in the cause of winning the vote for women. King even lectured publicly herself on several occasions . . . leading to some raised eyebrows, as public speaking was considered improper for women at the time.

​In addition to her work in the women’s suffrage movement, King was active in improving her local community. She gained recognition for her work with Staunton’s Community Welfare League, dedicated to helping the poor and caring for neglected children. In 1940, King gave her own house over to the use of the Staunton Public Library.
 
If you’d like to walk in this amazing woman’s footsteps, consider making a day trip to Staunton. You can enjoy a lovely drive down the valley, followed by a relaxing day in this quaint, historic town. The Staunton Public Library has now outgrown Fannie King’s house, but if you visit the library in its new location, you can still see her portrait prominently displayed.

The Shenandoah Valley’s Inspirational Artist: “Grandma” Moses (1860-1961)
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If you’re thinking you’ve reached a time in life when it’s too late to learn a new skill, spending some time with Grandma Moses will make you think again! Anna Mary Robertson “Grandma” Moses took up painting at the ripe age of 78. She is famous for her paintings of everyday farm life, set in New York and Virginia. Her work gained great popularity, and she continued to paint until a few months before her death at the age of 101. 

Grandma Moses spent much of her life in the Shenandoah Valley. Even though she lived in New York when she took up painting, the Shenandoah Valley remained one of her favorite painting subjects. Visit Winchester’s Museum of the Shenandoah Valley to see some of Grandma Moses’s work in person. 
 

This woman also made history later in life and is also affectionately called “Grandma” by her many fans. Emma “Grandma” Gatewood was the first woman to thru-hike the entire 2,200 miles of the Appalachian Trail solo. She performed this feat in 1955, at the age of 68. Before her death, she made Appalachian Trail history again when she became the first person ever to thru-hike the trial three times. 
 
Grandma Gatewood is credited with inspiring major improvements to the Appalachian Trail. As her record-breaking journey drew media attention, her loudly voiced complaints about the condition of the Appalachian Trail led to significant work on the trail.
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The Appalachian Trail’s Grandma Pioneer: Emma Gatewood (1887-1973)
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You may not be ready for the full 2,200 miles, but it’s easy to celebrate Grandma Gatewood’s legacy in the Front Royal area by hiking a section of the Appalachian Trail yourself. One option is to head to the Shenandoah National Park, which contains 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. See here for a list of popular hikes in the park that include stretches of the trail. Or head south on 522 just four miles from Front Royal and you’ll arrive at the Front Royal Junction Appalachian Trail crossing.

Front Royal’s Advocate for the Appalachian Trail: Sonja Carlborg
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Speaking of the Appalachian Trail, did you know that Front Royal was one of the first towns to be designated an official Appalachian Trail Community? Our town won this designation in 2012, thanks in large part to the work of Sonja Carlborg. Sonja first came across the town of Front Royal while thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail herself in 2000! Now a local resident, she was the founding chair of the Front Royal/ Warren County Appalachian Trail Community program.

Sonja works to make Front Royal a welcoming and helpful stop for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. With the town’s proximity to the trail, it makes sense that hikers would want to take a break here For just 50 cents, they can ride the Front Royal Trolley into town, where they can stock up on provisions, gear, and take a break for a night or even a few days. Celebrate Sonja this month, by giving a friendly welcome to any weary hikers you see on the streets of Front Royal! 
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The Front Royal Area is rich in women’s history. This March, celebrate women’s history month by planning an outing that celebrates one of these important local women. 

​March 1st is World Compliment Day. But while you may be preparing by thinking of something nice to say to your family member, boss, or coworker, we at Discover Front Royal are thinking of how many things in our great town go well together . . . or COMPLEMENT one another. 
 
Read on for some COMPLEMENTARY outing ideas in Front Royal that will have you putting two local businesses together . . . and enjoying both more!

1. Wine and Cheese
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​We’ll start our list with this classic pairing. There’s nothing quite like sipping on a glass of wine, perfectly paired with high quality cheese. If you’re on a search for Virginia wine, you’ll find several delightful wineries in the Front Royal area. You can enjoy a wine tasting, or purchase a bottle (or a few) to bring home! For some local cheese to pair with your wine, check out Dusty’s Country Store on Main Street. Most wineries allow you to bring your own food, so you can pick some cheese up on your way. Or grab it on your way home if you’re planning a wine night in with your newest winery purchases.

​​The Front Royal area is surrounded by fantastic trails and scenic hiking country. In the town, you’ll find the perfect food to fill you up after a long day on the trails. There’s a unique sense of satisfaction in sinking your teeth into a juicy burger and sipping on a craft beer after a day in the great outdoors. Some soreness in your muscles is a welcome reminder that you’ve earned a good dinner. 

​If you’re looking for a hike in the Front Royal area, you’ll find an inexhaustible treasure trove. Choose among options ranging from the world famous Shenandoah National Park, to well-kept local secrets like the Shenandoah River State Park, and the George Washington National Forest. For that post-hike beer and burger, try the Front Royal Brewing Company, PaveMint Taphouse, or the Bushel Pub at the Apple House.

3. Treats and Arcade Games
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​For some fun and budget friendly entertainment, check out Main Street’s Fireball Arcade. Here you’ll find a range of classic and new arcade games. Pair your visit to the arcade with an ice cream or a baked treat. Down Home Comfort Bakery (cakes and pies) and C & C Frozen Treats (ice cream) are both within easy walking distance. Finish your outing with a sweet ending.

​It’s a classic idea for a date, and generally a reliable recipe for a good time: dinner and a movie. You’ll find it’s easy to enjoy this well-loved pairing without leaving Front Royal’s Main Street. Enjoy a dinner to suit your style. There are plenty of choices: formal, Thai, brewery, wine bar, casual, even sea food! Then stroll over to Royal Cinemas to catch the evening’s feature film!
 

5. Coffee and a Good Book
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​Getting lost in a good book while sipping on a coffee is a great way to spend a Saturday morning for an introvert (or anyone who needs some quiet time!). Pick out a used book at Royal Oak Book Shop, or Page Master Books. Or head over to the Front Royal Library for a wide range of options to borrow. Then bring your newfound literary treasure with you to the Main Street area. Local coffee shop options include Happy Creek Coffee and Tea, DL Campus on Main, or the Daily Grind. Soak up all that coffee shop atmosphere while your reading takes you on a deep dive into another world.

​Enjoying a picnic in the park is a great way to spend time with family, friends, or a romantic interest! Front Royal features both delightful parks, and eateries eager to pack your picnic for you. Blue Wing Frog specializes in delicious carry out food that’s prepared with picnics in mind! Stop by on your way out to grab a picnic that will delight your taste buds without stressing you out as you try to pack! For stunning vistas while you eat, head to the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center in the Shenandoah National Park, or find an overlook at Shenandoah River State Park. For a sheltered picnic area where you can relax while kids explore a playground, stay right in town and head to Lion’s Park, a local favorite.

​There’s no reason to limit yourself to making just one stop when you plan an outing in Front Royal. Make your next excursion exciting with one of our complementary pairings. After all, two is better than one!

As the calendar turns to February, thoughts of romance begin to warm the winter air. If you’re planning an evening with a special someone look no further than the Front Royal area! You’ll find that a small town Valentine’s Day is the perfect setting for your romance to blossom. Read on for five tips (plus a bonus!) on celebrating Valentine’s Day (or any romantic occasion) in the Front Royal area. With fine dining, fun activities for couples, and wineries aplenty, there’s enough ideas here to keep the romance going all year long.
 

1. Sample Front Royal’s Fine Dining

​Nothing says “I love you” quite like dinner at an elegant table for two. If you’re in search of a traditional dinner date Front Royal’s fine dining eateries are at your disposal. 
 
At The Element on Main Street, you’ll find gourmet food and the atmosphere to go with it. Valentine’s seating is limited. Go here to make your reservation for The Element’s February 13th Valentine’s Day celebration. 
 

Is it just us, or is there something especially romantic about Italy? If you’re in search of pasta, pizza, and all things Italian, check out Front Royal’s Osteria 510 for farm-to-table gourmet Italian food.
 
For another fine dining options, lovers of Asian cuisine, should visit Try Thai on Main Street.
 

No one to watch the kiddos? No worries! 

In these unique times, neighbors, friends, and businesses are stepping up and working together to support one another. 

Battlefield Fitness is working in tandem with some restaurants and offering chid care services while couples can enjoy a Valentine's dinner out! Such a fabulous idea!

If you’re not in the mood for formal dining, a fun, casual eatery can also be a setting for great date. Today, we’re featuring two old Front Royal favorites where locals have been making great memories for years!
 
If there’s one restaurant in Front Royal that pizza lovers shouldn’t miss, it’s The Melting Pot! This local favorite has been feeding pizza to Front Royal for over 50 years. Some locals have been making memories here for a lifetime! 
 
For a fun twist on the traditional dinner date, why not try a breakfast date instead? The Apple House is an old Front Royal area favorite that gets you out of town, but doesn’t involve a long drive. Don’t forget to end your meal with one of their famous apple butter donuts! Or come back in the evening for a drink, appetizers, and a sandwich at the Apple House’s newly opened Bushel Pub. With a drink menu full of Virginia wines and Virginia Craft Beers, it’s a great date-spot for lovers of local products.
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 3. Take a Dance Class

​What could be more romantic than enjoying a dance together? If you or your partner have two left feet, don’t worry! Jig ’N’ Jive Dance Studio offers private ballroom and swing dance classes for couples. Have fun together, learn a new skill, and listen to romantic music, all at the same time!

4. Paint Your Own Memories! 
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Speaking of learning new skills, The Studio on Front Royal’s Main Street hosts frequent paint parties, where you’ll get step-by-step instructions on creating your own masterpiece. All supplies are provided, so you can relax and enjoy getting creative together. Paint party participants are welcome to bring their own beverages and snacks. Make it extra romantic with some wine and chocolate to enjoy while you work. At the end of the day, you’ll have something beautiful to hang on your wall that will remind of this special time spent together.  

5. Enjoy a Glass of Virginia Wine
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There’s something about the experience of sharing a glass of wine that is both memorable and romantic. If you’re in search of a wine date, the Front Royal area has a wealth of options. Enjoy a glass of wine and gourmet tapas at ViNoVA, right in town. Or drive out of the town to one of Front Royal’s local wineries. Rappahannock Cellars, and Fox Meadow Winery are two nearby favorites that combine delectable wines with all the classy winery atmosphere you love.   
 

Bonus: Take your picture by the LOVE Sign
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While you’re out and about town on your date, don’t forget that Front Royal has a great spot for a fun photo shoot. Stop by Front Royal’s LOVE sign (located by the downtown gazebo). It’s the perfect background for taking a memorable picture together.

And ... while you're out, take a stroll down Main Street and around town to enjoy Warren County's First Annual Chocolate Crawl! Sound deliciously enticing doesn't it? Be sure to check out the details and list of participants here! 
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These are our top picks, but there really are almost unlimited options for romantic outings in the Front Royal area. Anything can be romantic when you’re with the love of your life on Valentine’s Day! To get more ideas for a fun activity that you’ll both enjoy, see our posts here and here. Take it from someone who got engaged, and married in the Front Royal area: it’s easy to fall in love in Front Royal!