Our Favorite Eats and Sights
Hi everyone. Hope you have all been doing well. We’re doing great! The Black Oak has been an awesome addition to our property. The hot tub is amazing in the snow!
One of the most common questions we get from our intrepid renters is regarding what there is to eat around Lost River, and also about things to do and see.
Although our extremely amazing welcome email goes into detail on this common query, since that email is not sent until a mere 48 hours before departure…. some travelers prefer to do research in advance.
We understand. We got you. This guide should help you! And yes, we know it’s kind of overdue.
🤟🏻
Table of Contents
On the Way to Lost River Vacations
Woodbine Farmers Market
This fantastic farmer’s market is halfway to LRV and makes a great stop. Their cookies are awesome (highly recommend the oatmeal raisin) as well as the produce and other local goodies. There’s a playground for the kids, and space to let your pup stretch as well.
5199 John Marshall Hwy
Strasburg, VA 22657
9 am – 6 pm daily
Spelunkers Cave Burgers & Frozen Custard
Oh, why are you so hard to resist, dear Spelunkers?! Your simple blue sign puts smiles on our faces. We recommend the burgers (duh), fresh cut fries and onion rings, and custard – pro tip: the best custard on the menu is usually the daily special!
116 South Street
Front Royal, VA 22630
11 am – 10 pm daily
Blue Wing Frog
“You are what you eat, so don’t be cheap, easy, fast or fake!”
Local, organic and from scratch food. They have awesome brunch, sandwiches, salads, and delicious desserts!
219 Chester Street
Front Royal, VA 22630
Hours vary.
Blue Wing Frog website
Big L's Bagels
Shawn’s favorite, and he insisted it be included even though it’s not on the way for most people! Bagels that tout themselves as the best bagels ever…. ambitious, but these hit the mark.
38 E Piccadilly St
Winchester, VA
7am – noon daily
Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns is the largest caverns in the eastern United States, yet walking through feels more akin to an unearthly experience. Visit Geology’s Hall of Fame. Tours along lighted, paved walkways lead visitors through cathedral-sized rooms with ceilings 10-stories high, towering stone formations, and natural wonders at every turn. Tickets are available online.
Luray, VA
luraycaverns.com
9am – 7pm daily
A few notes: There are tons of cool wineries and even a brewery or two on the way up, which are generally 21+, but a few are family friendly and dog friendly (even better!), and you can also hike a bit of Shenandoah from the Front Royal entrance. Front Royal also has some awesome tubing, and other outdoor adventures.
Near Lost River Vacations: Sights
Lost River State Park
The state park which is a mere 5 minutes away from Lost River Vacations, makes for a great day trip. There is a large playground, archery targets, horseback riding, picnicking areas, Olympic-sized pool, and fantastic hiking. The Cranny Crow hike (pictured) is a must do, in our humble opinion! It’s also home to the Lee Cabin, the summer retreat of Henry “Lighthorse Harry” Lee, a Revolutionary War general and father of Civil War General Robert E. Lee. See upcoming park events at this link.
321 Park Dr,
Mathias, WV 26812
Sunrise – Sunset daily
Trout Pond Recreation Area
This lovely destination is about 20 minutes from Lost River Vacations, and the Guesthouse or Grill (see Eats below) is also en-route! Trout Pond boasts two bodies of water. Relax on a sandy mountain beach or fish for stocked trout. A designated swimming area, fishing, easy lakeside trails, and a children’s playground make this a perfect family destination. You can also kayak, SUP or canoe (bring your own). Small entrance fee from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Main entry road is closed from November – March, although you can hike in.
814 Trout Pond Campground Rd
Lost City, WV 26810
Sunrise – Sunset daily (seasonal)
Lost River Farmers Market
This market is our favorite, be sure and stop by if you’re around on a Saturday. They have lots of produce, canned items, baked goods, fresh eggs, lunch stuff, wine, handmade crafts, and so much more in a great outdoor space with tables and room for your dog and kids to run around and play. It’s right on your way to Trout Pond (above) and is also by the Guesthouse (below).
1089 Mill Gap Rd,
Lost River, WV 26810
Saturdays, 10am – 6pm
Wardensville, WV
The small town of Wardensville is passed on your way in from the DMV area. There is shopping (bookstore, antiques), a garden market, a trading post and simple restaurants.
More information about Wardensville can be found at WVTourism.com.
Activities Farther Afield
Near Lost River Vacations: Eats
Lost River Grill
Simple classic comfort diner food a mere ten minutes away from Lost River Vacations. We have trouble resisting their homemade cakes (shown), and their bacon cheese fries are gigantic!
Open daily but hours vary, check their website.
Lost River Grill website
8079 State Route 259
Lost City, WV 26812
Guesthouse Lost River
The Guesthouse serves a great seasonal weekend lunch and dinner menu, and Gary and Jesse are wonderful hosts. The building is lovely and has a lot of artwork and beautiful views. As a bonus they are very close to Trout Pond!
Guesthouse Lost River website
288 Settlers Valley Way
Lost River, WV 26810