Bough and Dough Shop

Nov. 17 – Dec. 10; Wednesday-Sunday
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, as well as on Thanksgiving.

The Bough & Dough Shop, located on the first floor of the Hexagon House, is a boutique-style holiday gift shop featuring talented local artisans. You will find unique handmade items, freshly baked goods, as well as a selection of freshly-cut greenery, wreaths, and premade bows for your holiday decorating.

The shop will feature pottery, art glass, handwoven baskets, unique handcrafted gifts, ornaments, artwork, and books on local history.

Purchases will help support Preservation of Historic Winchester’s mission to preserve the best of the area’s past.

Hours of Operation:
10 AM – 5 PM
Admission: FREE

Shopping is also available online and by pre-order.

Learn more about the shop and its wares or follow our Bough and Dough Shop Instagram.

Posted on November 7, 2019

Bough and Dough Shop

Nov. 17 – Dec. 10; Wednesday-Sunday
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, as well as on Thanksgiving.

The Bough & Dough Shop, located on the first floor of the Hexagon House, is a boutique-style holiday gift shop featuring talented local artisans. You will find unique handmade items, freshly baked goods, as well as a selection of freshly-cut greenery, wreaths, and premade bows for your holiday decorating.

The shop will feature pottery, art glass, handwoven baskets, unique handcrafted gifts, ornaments, artwork, and books on local history.

Purchases will help support Preservation of Historic Winchester’s mission to preserve the best of the area’s past.

Hours of Operation:
10 AM – 5 PM
Admission: FREE

Shopping is also available online and by pre-order.

Learn more about the shop and its wares or follow our Bough and Dough Shop Instagram.

Posted on October 28, 2021

Bough and Dough Shop

Nov. 17 – Dec. 10; Wednesday-Sunday
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, as well as on Thanksgiving.

The Bough & Dough Shop, located on the first floor of the Hexagon House, is a boutique-style holiday gift shop featuring talented local artisans. You will find unique handmade items, freshly baked goods, as well as a selection of freshly-cut greenery, wreaths, and premade bows for your holiday decorating.

The shop will feature pottery, art glass, handwoven baskets, unique handcrafted gifts, ornaments, artwork, and books on local history.

Purchases will help support Preservation of Historic Winchester’s mission to preserve the best of the area’s past.

Hours of Operation:
10 AM – 5 PM
Admission: FREE

Shopping is also available online and by pre-order.

Learn more about the shop and its wares or follow our Bough and Dough Shop Instagram.

Posted on October 28, 2021

Bough and Dough Shop

Nov. 17 – Dec. 10; Wednesday-Sunday
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, as well as on Thanksgiving.

The Bough & Dough Shop, located on the first floor of the Hexagon House, is a boutique-style holiday gift shop featuring talented local artisans. You will find unique handmade items, freshly baked goods, as well as a selection of freshly-cut greenery, wreaths, and premade bows for your holiday decorating.

The shop will feature pottery, art glass, handwoven baskets, unique handcrafted gifts, ornaments, artwork, and books on local history.

Purchases will help support Preservation of Historic Winchester’s mission to preserve the best of the area’s past.

Hours of Operation:
10 AM – 5 PM
Admission: FREE

Shopping is also available online and by pre-order.

Learn more about the shop and its wares or follow our Bough and Dough Shop Instagram.

Posted on October 28, 2021

New Year’s Eve Guide for the Winchester Area

Image from First Night Winchester Facebook page
Got kids? Got grandparents and family visiting? Maybe you’ve got a party spirit rearing to go. Or maybe you prefer to enjoy New Year’s Eve in a peaceful, quiet setting. No matter what, we’ve got you covered this New Year’s Eve in the Winchester and surrounding Frederick County area with some ideas on what to do from the day before to the day after.  Need help getting home safely?  We’ve got a number of cab companies and Uber!  Please note: Hours/events listed below have been checked before posting, however are subject to change.  Please double-check before making plans.


Kid and Family Friendly

30th Annual First Night Winchester

  • Saturday, December 31 – 10am-Midnight throughout the Old Town Winchester area, culminating with the Apple Drop at midnight on the walking mall.  Buttons $10 for adults, children under 10 are free.  Reserve buttons online here (with a $2 convenience fee), or purchase at these locations.

Museum of the Shenandoah Valley

  • Friday, December 30 – Open from 10am-4pm (regular admission prices).
  • Saturday, December 31 – Open from 10am-4pm as part of the part of First Night Winchester celebration (free admission with First Night Winchester botton).
  • Sunday, January 1 – Closed.

Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum

  • Friday, December 30 – Open from 9am-5pm (regular admission prices).
  • Saturday, December 31 – Open from 12pm-4pm for the New Year’s at Noon event (regular admission prices), and later as part of First Night Winchester celebrations from 4pm-7pm (free admission with First Night Winchester botton).
  • Sunday, January 1 – Closed.

United Way/Rubbermaid Parking Lot Sale at the Apple Blossom Mall

  • Saturday, December 31 – Open from 8am-12pm – Very popular local event, with proceeds benefitting the Adult Care Center of the Northern Shenandoah Valley (free admission but show up early as the best items go fast!).

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

  • Friday, December 30 – Open from 5:30pm-9:30pm (regular non-peak admission prices).
  • Saturday, December 31 – Closed.
  • Sunday, January 1 – Open from 5:30pm-9:30pm – final day of the season (regular non-peak admission prices).

Winchester Model Railroad Club

  • Saturday, December 31 – Open from 6pm-10pm – part of First Night Winchester celebrations (free admission, First Night Winchester buttons not required, but donations accepted).

Party Spirit

Image from Sweet NOLA's Facebook Page Image of Sweet NOLA’s 2016 New Year’s Party from their Facebook Page

Alamo Drafthouse

  • Saturday, December 31 – 10pm-Midnight – “When Harry Met Sally” New Year’s Eve Party. Show starts at 10pm, special champagne toast at midnight.

Bright Box

  • Saturday, December 31 – 8pm-12:30am – “B105’s Boots Bourboun and Barbecue New Year’s Eve Bash” – live country music, dancing, fresh barbecue, and a bourboun toast at midnight.  $15 in advance or $20 at the door.  21+

Hideaway Cafe

  • Friday, December 30 – 8pm-10pm – Sashay Away 2016 Drag Show – admission $3

Sweet NOLA’s

  • Saturday, December 31 – 7:30pm-Midnight – New Orleans House of Blues circa 1940 New Year’s Eve Party with live music and 4 course buffet meal with incredible food.  $65 per person, reservations required.  21+

Winchester Brew Works

  • Saturday, December 31 – 8pm-Midnight – New Year’s Eve Brewery Bash with live music, dancing, light fare from eM, and beer.  $45 per person, reservations required. 21+

Winchester Beer Mile

  • Sunday, January 1 – 1pm-4pm – This national trend (as seen on CNN, ESPN, Jimmy Fallon, and more) is enjoying it’s second year in Winchester.  $20 registration, beer and root beer (non-alcoholic) categories. 21+

Valley Cat

  • Saturday, December 31 – 7:30pm-11pm – New Year’s Show & Afterparty featuring 5 live bands.  $10 cover, or $8 if you bring canned goods for donation to the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.  All ages.

A Quiet Celebration

Just a sampling of local spots to enjoy on your own casual time with limited or no special events planned Image from Region’s 117 Facebook Page    

Belle Grove Plantation

  • Friday, December 30 – Open from 10am-8pm – final day of the season (regular admission prices).  Candlelight tours 6p-8p.

Escutcheon Brewing Co.

  • Friday, December 30 – Open from 2pm-10pm
  • Saturday, December 31 – Open from 12pm-6pm
  • Sunday, January 1 – Open from 12pm-8pm

James Charles Winery 

  • Friday, December 30 – Open from 12pm-8pm
  • Saturday, December 31 – Open from 12pm-4pm
  • Sunday, January 1 – Closed

Region’s 117 Restaurant

  • Friday, December 30 – Open from 11:30am-9pm (regular hours/menu)
  • Saturday, December 31 – Open from 11:30am-9pm (reservations only, special menu)
  • Sunday, January 1 – Open from 11am-3pm (brunch menu)

Valerie Hill Winery

  • Friday, December 30 – Open from 11am-9pm
  • Saturday, December 31 – Closed
  • Sunday, January 1 – Closed
  • Monday, January 2 – 11am-6pm New Year’s Party with live music by Jimmy Lee from 2-5
Posted on December 27, 2016

The 2019 Guide to Halloween in Winchester

Excited for Halloween, but not sure what to do? Don’t freak out! Instead, let out a sigh of relief because we’ve got you covered. Here is a guide compiling some of Winchester’s Halloween happenings all throughout the month.

Blog post by Winchester-Frederick County Tourism intern, Paige Bridgeforth

Hill High Farm Presents: Haunted Nightmares and Other Events

Prepare to face your greatest fears at Hill High Farm’s Haunted Nightmares haunted house attraction. The house will be open through November 1st, 2019. For younger guests, they will be open during daylight hours on Saturdays and Sundays with a less-intense show. If you are eager for more scares, also check out The Last Ride. This is a “buried alive” simulator where you can lay in a casket to see what it’s like while still being able to get out afterwards. If spooky isn’t your cup of tea, they will also be hosting a slew of other activities such as escape rooms, a moonlit hayride, and a corn maze. For more information on these activities and their hours of operations for the haunted house, visit the Hill High Farm website. 933 Barley Lane, Winchester, VA 22602 Hill High Farm

Easely Created 

In the spirit of the season, Easely Created will be hosting a slew of Halloween-themed nights all throughout the month of October – and each night offers a different finished product. A sample of classes include: Hocus Pocus Door Hanger Paint Class, Hocus Pocus Sign DIY Workshop Class, and All Ages ‘The Great Pumpkin’ Paint Day 16×20 Canvas. New to painting? That’s okay! These classes are intended for anyone interested in painting and for all levels! For more information on specific classes and dates, check out their website. 47 W Boscawen St, Winchester, VA 22601

Courtesy of Easely Created’s Facebook Page

Worlds Away Escape: Redstar Sanatorium

Grab a few of your friends and head downtown to check out the latest escape room by Worlds Away Escape. The recommended number of players is 4-6 with 8 being max capacity. This room is horror-themed and features loud audio/music with strobe/flashing lights. Think you can solve the way out? For more information on this room, their other offered rooms, and for booking, check out their website. 9 N Loudoun Street, Suite 105, Winchester, VA 22601

Courtesy of Worlds Away Escape Website

October Happy Hour Run/Halloween Scavenger Hunt

Grab your sneakers because its time for Runner in Training‘s monthly happy hour run, but this time is different! This run will be in conjunction with their 3rd annual Halloween Scavenger Hunt. On October 18th, 2019 from 6pm-9pm, teams will have exactly one hour to race across Winchester finding the items needed and taking photos. Return back to Escutcheon Brewery to see which team ends up with the most points. Whether you win or lose, everyone can finish the evening off with a fresh pint. 141 W Commercial St, Winchester, VA 22601

Courtesy of Runner in Training’s Facebook Page

1st Annual Spooktacular Ball

Double, double toil and trouble! Come grab a Witches’ Brew or a Bloody Mary at this year’s Spooktacular Halloween Ball.  The Youth Development Center‘s first annual ball will be on October 19th, 2019 from 6pm-10pm. With your brew in hand, dance away the night to music performed by Meisha Herron Band. Take part in the costume contest by wearing your most hauntingly spooky costume. Also, expect to see a silent auction, door prizes, a dance competition, a cash bar, and more to be announced. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time on their website. The YDC said it best with, “It’s going to be a howling good time!” 3 Battaile Drive, Winchester, VA 22601

Halloween Trunk-or-Treat and Costume Contest

So great, it’s happening twice! The Family Drive-In will be hosting their annual Trunk-or-Treat and Costume Contest on Saturday, October 19th and Saturday, October 26th, 2019 from 5pm-7pm. As you go from trunk to trunk, make sure to catch the magic shows being performed by Kevin Owens, the face painting station, and an assortment of games. Don’t forget your best costume because there will be a costume contest with categories for children, teens, adults, and pets. The show is only beginning once trunk-or-treating is over! Screen 1 will show new releases Maleficent: Mistress of Evil and The Addams Family (2019) and over on screen 2 will be Zombieland: Double Tap and Joker. Keep checking their website or their Facebook page for when tickets go on sale. 5890 Valley Pike, Stephens City, VA 22655

Olde Towne Halloween Faire

Things are about to get a little bit spooky along the Loudoun Street Mall. This year, don’t just expect the usual trick-or-treating. The Olde Towne Halloween Faire will take place on Saturday, October 26th, 2019 from 4pm-7pm. Along with trick-or-treating, look for all kinds of new games and activities from kids of all ages. As you stroll along admiring the decorated storefronts, each participating business will be hosting their own game or activity. Some of these games include: Polka Dot Pot will be having a “Witches’ Hat Ring Toss” and Murphy Beverage Company will host “Mummy Bowling.” Once the sun goes down, the faire doesn’t end there. Head over to the Taylor Pavilion for a viewing of a Halloween classic, “Hocus Pocus,” or go on the family-friendly Apparition Trail tour to get a glimpse at the haunted history surrounding the Old Town Mall. 136 S Loudoun St, Winchester, VA 22601

Adults-Only Halloween Bash

Ghosts, goblins, and ghouls! Oh, my! All creatures are welcome for this creepy evening at the winery. On Saturday, October 26th, 2019, James Charles Winery & Vineyard has got you covered for an Adults-only Halloween Bash from 8pm-Midnight. As the rhythmic beats of BKDJ Paramount keep the night going, try a glass of Witch’s Brew! A glass of brew is included with the ticket purchase and additional glasses are only $5. Sexi-Mexi will be on-site serving up a wonderful selection of food for the evening. But don’t leave before 10pm or risk missing the costume contest. Prizes will go out to the best female, best male, and best couples costume. Tickets can be purchased online in advanced on their website or at the door, but beware. If the event is sold out, door tickets will not be available. 4063 Middle Rd, Winchester, VA 22602

Courtesy of James Charles Winery & Vineyard Facebook Page

Haunted History Ghost Tours

Ever wondered where the spirits of Winchester lie? These guided tours give you an in depth look at the mysteries found in Winchester’s history. As you glide along the streets and through the buildings of Old Town, the expert guide will tell historic tales and true ghost stories. There are three chances to go on this tour, Saturday, October 26th, Wednesday, October 30th, and Thursday, October 31st, 2019, all starting at 6pm. The tour lasts approximately one hour. Tickets for the tour must be bought in advance at the Winchester-Frederick County Visitors Center (1400 S. Pleasant Valley Rd, Winchester, VA 22601). Tickets are $10 and can be purchased with cash or check only. Each tour has a limit of 25 participants. For more information, call (540)-542-1326. Be prepared to have this tour leave you with goosebumps! Tour meets on the intersection of Cork St. and Loudoun St. Mall

History and Hauntings 

On Saturday, October 26th and Thursday, October 31st, 2019, the history of Valerie Hill Winery’s Manor House comes alive. Their ever-popular event known as “History & Hauntings,” allows guests the opportunity to listen to stories of first-hand accounts of experiences with the residential ghosts – such as the famous woman in the cellar that calls for help, and the spirit of a boy perpetually locked in the attic. Tickets include dinner by Village Square Restaurant, a glass of wine of your choice, and a detailed tour of the Manor House which focuses on the history and documented paranormal activity. This event is for adults 21 and over. For information on the event, check out their website. 1687 Malboro Road, Stephens City, VA 22655

Photo Courtesy of Valerie Hill Winery’s Website
Posted on October 16, 2019

11 Tasty Cups of Coffee in Winchester

I must admit, when my wife and I first scouted out the Winchester area, we immediately went online to see if there were any good local coffee shops. They’re just one of those underlying indicators of a community’s style. Just about any town can have a Starbucks or Dunkin (and yes, the Winchester area has several of each). However, not all of them have enough ‘flavor’ for a successful purveyor of a great local cup of joe. I’ve been to, and enjoyed, all of these spots, so here’s what I found (in no particular order). I sincerely hope you have a chance to check out at least one or two of these the next time you’re in the Winchester area. ~Justin


Hopscotch Coffee

Hopscotch Coffee and Records in Winchester. Image by Winchester-Frederick County Tourism.

These guys know their coffee; in fact that’s what dominates their menu, addition to a few small pastry offerings. They offer their own special roasts of local award-winning roaster Lone Oak Coffee. Situated in what feels like an old garage, they’ve got a unique 2-story set up where you enter upstairs, then below is the seating, and live music area. And get this – they even have a record shop attached. Seriously cool. 250 Millwood Ave, Winchester, VA 22601 Free wifi.  

Bro Bears Drive-Thru Coffee

A friendly smile, free with every cup! Image courtesy Bro Bears Facebook page.

Great coffee, friendly smiles, quick service, teensy-tinsy workspace. Owned by a disabled veteran and his wife (and Michigan natives, to boot), this tiny shop just off I-81 at Exit 315 turns out high quality beverages and has quickly become a local favorite. They offer keto coffee, a full espresso menu, locally made mini donuts, and cold drinks as well. You can stop and walk up to the window if you like, but most of their business comes from their drive-through. Tucked down in the parking lot of the Harbor Freight shopping center. 1141 Berryville Ave, Winchester, VA 22601.

Big L’s Bagels

Big L’s Bagels in Winchester. Image by Robert Harris for Winchester-Frederick County Tourism.

Want some fresh homemade bagels? Yes, Big L’s Bagels makes their own unique craft bagels in-house in very small batches. Their coffee is also expertly crafted, and they have an intimate, eclectic space that is exactly what you envision a college town coffee shop to look like. This is a great place to warm up (or cool down, depending on the weather) and watch the city go by. Located just steps from the Old Town Winchester pedestrian mall, this is a must for visiting on a chilly or drizzly day. 38 E Piccadilly St, Winchester, VA 22601Free wifi.

0-60 Energy Café

0-60 Energy Cafe in Winchester. Image by Winchester-Frederick County Tourism.

One of the more unique settings for a coffee shop; but don’t let the race car enthusiast interior or strip mall location fool you – this is some outstanding, artisan coffee. Their specialty is cold drip coffee, but they’ve also got some fresh made breakfast and lunch menu items. Make sure to check out their full grilled cheese menu! 170-11 Delco Plaza, Winchester, VA 22602. Free wifi.

Espresso Bar & Café

Espresso Bar and Cafe in Old Town Winchester. Image by Winchester-Frederick County Tourism.

This modern coffee shop, ideally located right on the Old Town Winchester pedestrian mall, is reminiscent of some European coffee shops we’ve seen – clean but cozy, with local artwork adorning the walls. They’ve got a few breakfast items like a breakfast sandwich and, our favorite, the locally made and incredibly rich little Irish tea breads. Cuddle up and sneak out back to the secret garden (pictured above) to enjoy your cup of coffee, or sit out front and people watch on the mall. 165 N Loudoun St, Winchester, VA 22601. Free wifi.

JoGail’s Country Cookin’ Restaurant


Image by Winchester-Frederick County Tourism

We just had to get this on the list – just about the opposite setting of a college town coffee shop, this local favorite turns out a two kinds of coffee – small and large. But boy, is this place hopping at 7am on a weekday. Heavily favored by locals, you’ll feel right at home no matter where you’re visiting from. The smiles are just as warm as the coffee, and the setting offers a nice view of the mountains and valley. Located just 20 minutes (but a world away) from downtown Winchester on Rt 50. 5665 Northwestern Pike, Gore, VA 22637.

Firefly Café & Bakery

This made our list as, in addition to a great cup of coffee roasted by Orange County Roasters out of Orange, VA (drip as well as espresso drinks), their food is fresh and fantastic. Lots of specials, incredible homemade desserts, friendly and happy employees, and a California flair that somehow fits just right in our community. And for a little dose of philanthropy to sweeten your coffee, they’ve got a long and ingrained history of employing folks with disabilities and other barriers to employment. 3035 Valley Ave. #101, Winchester, VA 22601. Free wifi.

Tropical Island Coffee Café

Welcome to our very own Little Jamaica here in Winchester. Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee (the legit stuff; not the mixed down blends you see so often) is brewed up daily here. But this is a whole Jamaican cuisine experience – including an incredible jerk chicken, curry goat, beef ox-tails and even a variety of York Castle ice cream flavors. Just can’t do without your espresso? They’ve got a full espresso bar menu as well. Located right around the corner from the Old Town Winchester pedestrian mall, directly across from the beautiful Handley Library. 39 W Piccadilly St, Winchester, VA 22601Free wifi.

The Hideaway Café

Hideaway Cafe in Old Town Winchester. Image by Winchester-Frederick County Tourism.

This coffee shop originally truly earned it’s name. Why? Well, they started in the basement of the old post office building in Old Town, just across the street from Handley Library. In early 2018 they moved to a much more visible and accessible spot at the southern end of the Old Town Winchester pedestrian mall, very near the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum. They have become a fixture of local university students and evening shoppers and diners, and have begun offering sandwiches and other in-house baked goodies. 141 S Loudoun St, Winchester, VA 22601. Free Wifi.

Bonnie Blue Southern Market and Bakery

Bonnie Blue Cafe in Winchester. Image by Robert Harris for Winchester-Frederick County Tourism.

This local hot spot for tourists and locals alike offers up very hearty cups of French-press coffee all day. You can find a variety of additional offerings here, including daily homemade pastries and muffins, a full lunch menu, and even local goods like hickory syrup, local eggs, and local brews. If you look closely, you can see the faded word Hopscotch on a counter near the entrance – this is where one of our other popular shops got it’s start several years ago. 334 W Boscawen St, Winchester, VA 22601Free wifi.

CD’s Coffee and Cream

A chocolate covered cherry frozen coffee at CD’s Coffee and Cream in Winchester. Image by Winchester-Frederick County Tourism.

One of Winchester’s newest coffee shops is in a fairly unexpected location. Situated in a small storefront on U.S. 50 about 5 minutes west of Valley Health hospital, this unassuming little combination coffee shop and ice cream parlor stays very busy year-round. They brew up an exclusive single origin Laos volcanic ash-grown light or dark roast, which is also available in whole bean (they grind for free on-site). You can also find shaved ice here in the summer. And don’t let the name fool you – CD’s stands for owners Craig and Diana, not the disc 🙂 Tip: try the chocolate covered cherry frozen coffee. 2953 Northwestern Turnpike, Winchester, VA 22602. Free wifi.

 

* Disclaimer – no businesses paid us or gave us anything to be on this list – we just love coffee and our local businesses, as we hope you do when you visit!

 

Posted on February 11, 2019

Quilter’s Quest Shop Hop

Quilters’ Quest is a free event that encourages quilters to explore 10 quilt shops Maryland and Northern Virginia over the course of 10 days.

2018 Theme:
Anchors aweigh! All aboard the S.S. Quilters Quest for a 10-day cruise to 10 different ports of call. Each shop will pick a location as a theme for Quilters’ Quest.

2018 Quest Cut:
This year’s Quest Cut is 2-1/2″ strips. Each shop will have packs of 6 strips available, each strip a different fabric. Receive one pack free with a minimum purchase of $40. Purchase packs for $5 each. Shops may limit you to two packs total.

2018 Finishing Reward:
When you finish the Quilters’ Quest and have all ten stamps in your passport, you will receive a Finishers Card that entitles you to a 15% discount in all ten shops through September 2019. Some restrictions may apply.

The 2018 Event Packet is now available to download. This packet will help you prepare for your adventure.

BUS TOURS
Prefer to let someone else do the driving? Hop on one of the many bus tours traveling the Quest loop. Call the stores to reserve your spot on the party bus! www.quiltersquest.org/bus-tour-information.htm

Posted on July 5, 2017

Italian Touch – Middletown

Posted on April 9, 2020

Italian Touch – Old Town Winchester

Posted on April 9, 2020 Next