SO, you've found yourself in (or planning to be in) Front Royal, Virginia before, after or even not coinciding with a fishing trip on the Shenandoah RIver with Rivergoat Outfitters... What is there to do?
The answer is quite broad and many factors need to be considered. Are you hungry, thirsty, looking for adventure or maybe just killing time between your arrival? If you plan on fishing, maybe you forgot a critical piece of gear or tackle? Below, you'll find my recommendations.
I'll start with the important stuff: FISHING.
If you forgot or need to grab something, Jake's Bait and Tackle in Winchester is locally owned and operated and they carry the stuff that works and is requested by locals on our bodies of water. The staff is knowledgable, helpful and the have a great variety or conventional gear as well as stuff for fly fishing to select from! They also have an online store.
They are about a 30min drive from Front Royal headed north on I-81. Your next best options would be Cabela's in Gainesville and Sportman's Warehouse in Winchester for their larger selections.
ADVENTURE
The area just south of Front Royal provides ample opportunities for hiking, camping and maybe experiencing something new. Park entrances for the scenic Skyline Drive and the Shenandoah River State Park are close by as well as Skyline Caverns and Front Royal Outdoors and Front Royal River Adventures for seasonal tubing and personal watercraft rentals if you want a little more time on the river by yourself or with friends and family. Ashby Gap Adventures also offers scenic trips by raft on the river and other seasonal opportunities.
Skyline Drive
Shenandoah River State Park
Skyline Caverns
Front Royal Outdoors
**FRO also has a small selection of fishing gear
Front Royal River Adventures
Ashby Gap Adventures
FOOD and DRINKS
Sustainence is important before, during and after long days of fishing on the Shenadoah River. Packing sandwiches, chips, jerky, and water/beverages is super important to stay comfortable on the water, but let's talk about the before and after. Front Royal once again offers multiple options and a lot of them are right down town. Here are my recommendations:
Spelunker's for a great burger and fries, spicy chicken sandwich (Helltown chicken for the more adventurous), and/or frozen custard (as well as shakes and malts). Their offerings are great and affordable and dont be afraid of the line for drive-thru, they work hard and operate efficiently to keep up with customer's orders. You can also check out their facebook page for daily custard flavors: https://www.facebook.com/p/Spelunkers-Frozen-Custard-Cavern-Burgers-100041454048012/
Maybe you're looking for food and adult beverages? Vibrissa Beer, located on main street offers a variety of table fare, their own beers and some wine and cocktails. I usually get the reuben.
For a chill vibe and great drinking/social experience, check out the homies over at Honey and Hops Brew Works. They offer a variety of meads and can help you make a selection if honey wine is something new for you.
If you want something cold, refreshing and possibly off the wall, look no further than C&C Frozen Treats. They're also a great option for an after meal treat!
Breakfast Spot: The Apple House. Their breakfast options are great and I wouldnt complain if you showed up with some of their apple cider donuts before a fishing trip. They also serve lunch, dinner, and adult beverages. You will also find a wide variety of souveniers, hot sauces and Virginia related offerings. During the warmer months you can even grab some soft serve or ice cream at the ice cream shack in the parking lot.
To clarify, I have no professional affiliation with any of these business establishments and there are most definitely other options in and around town for you to check out and enjoy. The information I provided you here is based soley off my experience(s) and preference. I'm a simple guy and try my best to keep it simple. I stick to what I like.
Hopefully this is a good benchmark to get you started and if you find something not mentioned, give them a shot!
Thanks for reading,
Brian
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