Scenic and Happening—Mt. Jackson and New Market

Late Summer 2008

New Market & Mt. Jackson Tourism Information

You can't miss Mt. Jackson as you are driving along I-81 between Harrisonburg and Winchester—see that huge water tower with the apple basket? Orchards are big in Mt. Jackson, but there's much more!

You'll find quaint antique shops, a circa 1947 duckpin bowling alley, and a historic covered bridge. The Meems Bottom Bridge, just south of town, is the longest remaining covered bridge in Virginia, stretching 191 feet in a single span, carried by the famous wooden Burr Arch.

From Mt. Jackson, it's just a hop, skip, and a jump west to two other great Valley destinations. If you enjoy the outdoors, visit nearby Bryce Resort with its great golf course, horseback riding, and water sports. Bryce Resort is the only place in Virginia you can try out the summer sport of grass skiing—no kidding!

Time allowing, you could also take a side trip to Orkney Springs. It has been a destination for tourists since the 1700s. The area was originally called Yellow Springs because the mineral content of the springs colored the moss-covered rocks bright yellow. It is one of the few mineral springs resorts still operating today. The beautiful old resort hotel is now an Episcopal Church conference center. The Shenandoah Valley Music Festival, with great live concerts on select Friday and Saturday evenings in July and August, is held on the grounds at Orkney Springs.

For entertainment to wow the whole family, you need look no further than Shenandoah Caverns and its family of attractions. The brand-new Yellow Barn offers a whimsical look at the Valley's agricultural history and rural life, with historical displays that include restored antique farm wagons, equipment, carriages and vehicles. There are exhibits galore in the 15,000-square foot space, including a special children's area, a lustrous mineral cave, a country store gift shop, wine shop, and Virginia arts and crafts.

The Yellow Barn joins Shenandoah Caverns (the only Virginia cavern with elevator service—no stairs to climb!), Main Street of Yesteryear (with delightful 20th-century storefront displays), and American Celebration on Parade to present the complete day’s worth of attractions. American Celebration on Parade is where you’ll find big—really big—parade floats, created by Hargrove, Inc., the company that designs the decorations and floats for presidential inaugurals and the Tournament of Roses Parade. If you’ve ever wondered where floats go after the parade passes by, wonder no more. The answer's right here!

Back on the interstate, head south to New Market. For the Civil War buff, a must-stop is the New Market Battlefield State Historical Park. It's the site of the battle made famous by the participation of the young VMI cadets. In addition to the Hall of Valor Museum and the battlefield itself, you can visit the Bushong Homestead and view the award-winning documentary film, Field of Lost Shoes. Don't miss the scenic overlooks, with outstanding views of the Shenandoah River.

Hungry yet? There are lots of great places to eat in New Market at lunchtime (the Southern Kitchen is always a good choice), but for fine dining, you must go to the Publik House Restaurant. This place is fabulous! The menu changes weekly, and every meal is absolutely perfect. (The Publik House is open for lunch, as well—and the building now hosts a terrific wine shop, too!)

For art lovers, Art Studio Pottery is a fun place to visit. Tour the studio and watch the potter at work. Joan and Bob Cordner create and showcase functional and art pottery in a log cabin just off US11 on Endless Caverns Rd.

Where to stay while you're here? Why not try one of the area's many bed & breakfasts? The Cross Roads Inn, very close to downtown New Market, is a gracious country manor in a garden setting, with great mountain views. Talk about amenities! There is even an outdoor hot tub for guests to enjoy! Your stay includes a full breakfast, with a menu that changes daily.

History, arts, caverns, outdoor recreation, and fine dining—you will find all these in Mt. Jackson and New Market, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Virginia mountains.

Article text ©2008, Shenandoah Specialty Publishing, LLC.
May be printed for personal use only.

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