Articles Tagged "Bridgewater"

Many birds reside in our region during all or part of the year, and local lakes, parks, and trails provide unparalleled opportunities to cross rare and unique birds off your checklist. Our real estate agents are excited to share their favorite birding spots in Rockingham County.

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• Lake Shenandoah - Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  A 36-acre reservoir managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, Lake Shenandoah is known far and wide for its excellent bird-watching opportunities. It's a major waterfowl stopover in winter, but during the summer visitors will see indigo bunting, gray catbird, song sparrow, and many other species in the bushes and vines around the lake. Meanwhile, green and great blue herons wade in the shallows, and mallards and wood ducks paddle along the shoreline. A footpath encircles Lake Shenandoah, providing access mere minutes from these Harrisonburg homes for sale. 
  
  
• Silver Lake - 2328 Silver Lake Rd, Dayton, VA 22821
  Rockingham County's Silver Lake—not to be confused with the lake of the same name in Haymarket, VA—is a small roadside lake that would be easy to overlook. Located just a few minutes from these Dayton homes for sale, the 10-acre lake could justifiably be called a pond, but because it's surrounded by open farmland, it essentially serves as an oasis for birds. During summer, various swallow species can be seen skimming just above the surface looking for a meal. Barn, tree, bank, and northern Rough-winged swallows are all likely to be in attendance, as well as chimney swifts and belted kingfishers. 
  
  
• Paul State Forest - Ottobine Rd, Dayton, VA 22821
  Spanning 173 acres, Paul State Forest is a picturesque woodland of black birch and American hornbeam, as well as groves of American holly grove and a scattering of bigtooth aspen. Numerous bird species are right at home here, and it's a particularly great place to spot woodpeckers. Red-bellied, downy and hairy woodpeckers are common, while pileated and red-headed woodpeckers are occasionally seen. A variety of thrushes, tanagers, warblers, and vireos also call these woods home, and raptors are also a common sight. Paul State Forest has 2 miles of gated forest roads that are closed to motorized vehicles but open to hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. 
  
  
• Switzer Lake Area - Switzer Lake Rd, Hinton, VA 22831
  Switzer Lake (also known as Skidmore Lake) is a 112-acre reservoir located not far from these Rockingham County homes for sale. It's an outstanding destination for bird watching near Hinton homes for sale. Osprey and bald eagles may sometimes be seen swooping low above the lake to grab a fish for dinner while herons stalk the shoreline. The surrounding wooded hillsides are home to an array of woodland birds, and you might see wild turkeys and ruffled grouse in grassy areas along the roadsides. Switzer Lake Area provides access, and the lake is also great for kayaking and fishing. 

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• Wildwood Park - 648 W Bank St, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  Eastern wood-peewee, mourning dove, blue jay, chimney swift, ruby-throated hummingbird, red-bellied and downy woodpeckers, Carolina chickadee, red-eyed vireo, and American goldfinch are just a few of the birds that you may hear or see at Bridgewater's Wildwood Park. And with its mix of woods and meadows, this 10-acre park is also a haven for over 70 species of butterflies. Wildwood Park is located toward the western edge of town, a stone's throw from numerous Bridgewater homes for sale. The community of Bridgewater also has some additional birding locations, including a bird sanctuary and the Cooks Creek Arboretum. 

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If you're looking for more information on bird watching in Rockingham County, check-in with the Rockingham Bird Club. It's a great local organization that can provide a wealth of insights, along with a chance to connect with your fellow birding enthusiasts in our little corner of Virginia!

Contact us today to learn more about bird watching and other outdoor adventures in Rockingham County. If you're looking for your dream home in Harrisonburg and the surrounding areas, our real estate agents are here to help every step of the way. 

Having a pool in your own backyard sounds idyllic; on a hot, muggy summer day, you can cool off with a refreshing swim within minutes. Or, instead of the traditional cookout, pool parties are on the itinerary for your friends and family members.

Before you decide to install a pool, our real estate agents recommend considering the following factors that could potentially affect your decision. 

• The Zoning Laws in Your Area
  Zoning laws aren't typically your first concern when you envision having your own pool, but they can impact your ability to install a pool on your property. Many towns have strict laws concerning fencing and safety precautions for residential pools. These laws can affect your budget and plans for your pool. Or, you may need to apply for a permit to add certain types of pools. If you install a pool without the right permits, you'll have trouble selling your home if you decide to add it to the inventory of Rockingham homes for sale. 

• How You Plan to Use Your Pool
  Spend a few minutes envisioning how you will use your pool. Do you want to add a daily swim to your exercise regime? Or, are you more interested in having a fun spot for summer parties and gatherings? Your purpose for the pool will impact the best design and materials for your pool, as well as the surrounding area. For example, if you want to use your pool for entertaining, you'll likely want to add a large patio to accommodate chairs and pool toys for your guests. Or, if your pool plans involve lots of lap swimming, an endless pool gives you the aquatic area you need without taking up as much of your yard. 

• Whether You Plan to Remain in Your Home Long Term
  While you might not know your exact plans for your future, consider if your current home is a place that you want to stay for years or indefinitely. Adding a pool is a significant expense, and it usually doesn't provide a stellar return for your investment when you add your home to the list of Bridgewater homes for sale. Some potential homebuyers may even view a pool as a negative when shopping for potential homes. If you only plan to remain in your home for another couple of years, installing a pool may not be the best use of your funds. However, if you plan to remain in your home for a decade or more, the expense seems a bit more reasonable to ensure your home is suited to your needs and preferences. 

• Your Budget
  There are a lot of costs associated with installing a pool, and you want to make sure that your budget can handle the expense. In addition to the cost of the pool itself, you have to factor in expenses for preparing your yard or, if you're installing an in-ground pool, the costs associated with excavating your property. There are also a seemingly endless number of features you can add to your pool, like ambient lighting, jets, and waterfalls. These extras will quickly cause the price of your pool to balloon. Another detail to think about is whether you prefer a chlorine or saltwater pool. Chlorine pools are usually initially cheaper, but they're difficult and more expensive to maintain. Saltwater pools have a higher upfront cost, but the maintenance is less cumbersome, and they're cheaper to operate. A pool also has ongoing costs that you'll need to account for. You'll likely pay a higher homeowner's insurance premium due to the liability of owning a pool, and you'll spend more on utilities to keep your pool running. Pools also need maintenance and periodic repairs to keep them running smoothly. 

• How Quickly You Want to Start Using Your Pool
  Unfortunately, a pool is a home improvement project that can potentially take months to complete. If you want access to a pool immediately to improve your personal fitness, this isn't realistic. Plan on joining a local gym with an aquatic center to get your training done while your pool is being installed. Or, perhaps you're hosting an event and want to make sure your pool won't disrupt the aesthetic. If you're in a situation where a yard undergoing construction isn't acceptable, it may be best to delay your pool's installation. It's best to install a pool with minimal expectations about how long the installation process will take. Materials may be delayed, or the project just might take longer than expected. 

A pool sounds like a fantastic outside addition, but there are a lot of factors to think about that will influence your final decision. Want a home with more outside space? Contact us today!

The Rockingham County area features some fantastic golf courses. And when summer returns to the Shenandoah Valley, you can bet that our real estate agents will be out on the links every chance they get. 

With that in mind, we're excited to share some of our favorite golf courses in Harrisonburg, VA, and the surrounding areas. We hope to see you out there this summer!

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• Heritage Oaks Golf Course - 680 Garbers Church Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Voted 'Best in the Valley' many times over, Heritage Oaks Golf Course is a beautiful course designed by William Love. It's owned by the city of Harrisonburg and is located just minutes from many Harrisonburg homes for sale. When you visit Heritage Oaks, you can expect beautiful, well-manicured greens and healthy creeping bentgrass fairways. You can also expect a fair number of challenging shots on this 18-hole, par 40 course. There's also a well-stocked pro shop on-site, and staff pros offer golf lessons and clinics. 
  
  
• Spotswood Country Club - 1980 Country Club Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  Opened in 1926, Spotswood Country Club is the only private club within 40 miles of Harrisonburg and offers a splendid 18 holes of golf. Featuring 6,340 yards of golf from the longest tees, the par 71 course at Spotswood is eminently playable and is routinely ranked among the best in the area. The ryegrass surface is welcoming and offers just the right amount of challenges while still being fun for all skill levels. There are also some great amenities on-site, including a swimming pool and clay tennis courts. 
  
  

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• Woodstone Meadows Golf Course - 300 Silverstone Ln, McGaheysville, VA 22840
  One of two gold courses at Massanutten Resort, Woodstone Meadows Golf Course is an 18-hole executive course that offers 5,065 yards of golf for a par of 65. It's arguably the easier and more beginner-friendly of the resort's two golf offerings, though it can still be a lot of fun for more advanced players looking to play a leisurely 18 holes. The fairways are open, and the greens are gently sloping. Woodstone Meadows Golf Course is a short drive from many Mcgaheysville homes for sale and is surrounded by some incredible mountain scenery. 
  
  
• Mountain Greens Golf Course - 1822 Resort Dr, McGaheysville, VA 22840
  The Mountain Greens Golf Course is the more challenging of the two golf courses at Massanutten Resort. This 18-hole beauty offers mountain golf at its finest, with rolling terrain that constantly tests one's abilities. The course is known most for its steeply-terraced tees and fairways, but it's also a truly beautiful course with spectacular views of the densely wooded Shenandoah Mountains. It plays 6,443 yards to a par 72 and was designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer. 
  
  
• Packsaddle Ridge Golf Club - 3067 Pack Saddle Trail, Keezletown, VA 22832
  With a par of 72, the 18-hole course at Packsaddle Ridge Golf Club boasts 7,024 yards of golf from the longest tees. It's a playable yet challenging course for all skill levels, with fairways bordered by trees and some very enjoyable water hazards. There's a driving range on site as well. This golf club is open to members and walk-ins alike, making it one of the great public courses in Rockingham County. Plus, with a convenient location near these Keezletown homes for sale, this is a course you'll want to revisit again and again. 
  
  

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• Lakeview Golf Club - 4101 Shen Lake Dr, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  An outstanding 27-hole facility in Harrisonburg, Lakeview Golf Club offers some of the most exciting golf opportunities in the region. It's made up of three 9-hole courses, and each one (Lake, Peak, and Mountain) offers a unique set of challenges and characteristics. It's a great layout that can be played in multiple configurations, offering plenty of challenges and dynamic play. The 27-hole layout also helps keep the course uncrowded, making it an excellent public course for anyone who wants to have the greens all to themselves. 
  
  
• Sandy Bottom Golf Course - 610 E College St, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  Located within Sandy Bottom Park in the Village of Bridgewater, Sandy Bottom Golf Course is a charming, par 3, 9-hole course. It's perfect for practice, for relaxed weekend play, and for getting a quick 9 holes in during your lunch break on a busy workday. There's also a practice green and an 18-hole miniature golf course in the park, along with picnic areas and gazebos, making this a great spot for a family outing not too far from these Rockingham County homes for sale.

Contact us to learn more about life in the Harrisonburg and Rockingham County area. When you're ready to find your dream home in Virginia's beautiful Shenandoah Valley, our real estate agents are here to help every step of the way. 

Our real estate agents know fresh flowers are a "can't miss" Mother's Day tradition!

Mom will be delighted with the thoughtful designs you can get from these hard-working and creative florists, many of whom have been around for decades.

Mother's Day was created in 1908 by Anna Jarvis and became an official U.S. holiday in 1914 under President Woodrow Wilson. Mother's Day is the #2 day of the year to purchase fresh flowers and accounts for about 26% of annual flower purchases.

That's a whole lot of roses!

Let's take a closer look at some of your options for Mother's Day flowers in the Shenandoah Valley:

• Blakemore's Flowers – 4080 Evelyn Byrd Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  If you need fresh flowers near Harrisonburg homes for sale, come on down to Blakemore's Flowers. Known for its collections by lead designer Abby Chick, it offers Mother's Day selections using only the highest quality blooms in palettes and shapes that are sure to start a conversation. You can even get a handcrafted luxury flower subscription that runs in three-month increments up to a full year.
  
  

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• Sparrow's Floral Design – 91 North Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  Sparrow's Floral Design specializes in making your weddings and other special events the best they can be with unique bouquets, arrangements, house plants, and terrariums. Visit in person, and you can also see the delightful shop filled with books, candles, and artworks from local artists. Sparrow's has a strong reputation in the community for its environmental care, offering credit to "recycle" your pots and vases.
  
  
• Staunton Rask Florist – 835 Springhill Road, Staunton, VA 24401
  Staunton homes for sale are just minutes from Staunton Rask Florist, where you can order the Premium Mother Day's "Designer's Choice" bouquet to make this a truly memorable holiday. With all sorts of arrangements running from elaborate to classy, this is one local florist that doesn't disappoint! It's open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the week, so you can see the flowers in person while you buy.
  
  

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• Cristy's Floral Designs – 610-G North Main Street, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  Bridgewater homes for sale will benefit from their proximity to Cristy's Floral Designs, which delivers its handcrafted bouquets and other products throughout the local area. From the "Basket Full of Happy" to the "Sweet Hummingbird Bouquet," there's something to suit the taste of every mother. Highly safe "No Contact" delivery is available, and morning orders can be delivered the same day in the local area.
  
  
• Vivian's Flower Shop – 47 West Main Street, Luray, VA 22835
  Want flowers near Luray homes for sale? Just check out Vivian's Flower Shop, a local mainstay that has Mother's Day arrangements with a vibrant spectrum of roses. From the Classic Dozen Red Roses to your own custom rose arrangement using yellow, hot pink, white, or lavender, you can truly express yourself. It's one of the region's oldest flower shops, with a storied history that dates all the way back to 1945.
  
  

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• Wild Buds Boutique – 5968 Main Street, Mount Jackson, VA 22842
  Mount Jackson homes for sale are near Wild Buds Boutique, a haven for the flower lover in your home. There are special flowers for everything you'll find on the calendar, from Mother's Day to Administrative Professionals Day and much more. Don't forget to take a peek at the lovely corsages. For the bestseller, try the "Floral Spectacular Flower Vase," which combines all kinds of lively colors, shapes, and textures.
  
  
• Valley Flower Shop and Greenhouse, Inc. – 127 North Main Street, Woodstock, VA 22664
  From Woodstock homes for sale, you can practically smell the blossoms from Valley Flower Shop and Greenhouse, Inc. – a top Woodstock, VA florist for years. With more than 100 striking Mother's Day arrangements to choose from (including rare orange roses!) Mom is sure to be pleased. The business is family-owned and backs everything it offers with a 100% satisfaction guarantee for your peace of mind.

Contact us to find out more about Shenandoah Valley real estate.

Cradled in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, Rockingham County is one of the best places in Virginia to experience spectacular scenery and outdoor adventure. It's also a perfect area to sit back and simply relax. Our real estate agents are proud to call it home. 

With a new year upon us, we're excited for everything 2022 has to offer. If your travels bring you to Rockingham County and the Harrisonburg, VA area this year, be sure to check out some of our favorite local attractions. 

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1. Family Adventure Park - 3827 Massanutten Dr, Massanutten, VA 22840
   Massanutten's Family Adventure Park offers thrills in every season, with rock climbing excursions and 2-hour canopy tours complete with bridges, hanging vines, and zip lines 470 feet long. In winter, the focus shifts to snowy adventures, with 16 snow tubing lanes on slopes up to 900 feet. Located conveniently to many Rockingham County homes for sale, Family Adventure Park is connected to Massanutten Resort, which is a perfect family destination that offers outstanding accommodations and dining options. 
   
   
2. Bluestone Vineyard - 4828 Spring Creek Rd, Bridgewater, VA 22812
   Bluestone Vineyard gets its name from the blue limestone that's a major component of the soil in the Shenandoah Valley. That soil, along with the valley's unique climate, makes it a perfect place for growing wine grapes, and Bluestone Vineyard produces some of the best award-winning wines in Virginia. With its beautiful tasting room overlooking the rolling hills of the Allegheny Mountains, this is one of eight unique vineyards that make up the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail. 

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3. Edith J. Carrier Arboretum - 780 University Blvd, Harrisonburg, VA 22807
   A 125-acre woodland sanctuary in the heart of Harrisonburg, the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum offers an experience that feels very much like getting lost in another world. With 3 trails that explore 16 unique exhibit gardens, the arboretum displays nature's splendor at its best, no matter the season. That being said, it's especially beautiful when adorned in spring wildflowers or during the brilliant fall foliage season. The arboretum is located on the campus of James Madison University, not far from these Harrisonburg homes for sale. It's open to the public every day from dawn until dusk, free of charge. 
   
   
4. Explore More Discovery Museum - 150 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
   Formerly known as the Harrisonburg Children's Museum, the Explore More Discovery Museum is one of Harrisonburg's great, family-friendly attractions. Featuring 18 distinct exhibits and themed play areas, the museum offers unmatched opportunities for kids to grow, learn, explore, and have fun. Highlights include CK's Kitchen & Farmer's Market, where kids can select produce, dig up vegetables and prepare a healthy lunch, to the Super Service Garage, where youngsters can learn to service and repair kid-sized cars. 
   
   
5. Shenandoah National Park - 3655 US Highway 211 East, Luray, VA 22835
   One of Virginia's most visited parks, Shenandoah National park, straddles the Rockingham County line, and the Swift Run Entrance to the park is just 30 minutes from Harrisonburg. Entering the park here, at its midpoint, allows you to explore it both north and south along the iconic Skyline Drive. Nearby points of interest include the Hensley Hollow Overlook, with its sweeping views across the valley, and the South River Falls Trail, with its dramatic waterfall. Shenandoah National park also includes several campgrounds and hundreds of miles of hiking trails

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6. Endless Caverns - 1800 Endless Caverns Rd, New Market, VA 22844
   Thanks to its karst topography, in which the limestone and dolomite bedrock is worn away by slightly acidic water over millions of years, the Shenandoah Valley has one of America's largest concentrations of caves. Among the most famous is Endless Caverns, which was discovered in 1879 and is currently open to 75-minute guided tours. The caverns are only seemingly endless—the actual length of its mapped passages is about 6 miles—but still offer fascinating cave formations and awe-inspiring chambers. 
   
   
7. Shenandoah River South Fork - VA-649, Elkton, VA 22827
   Traversing the length of Rockingham County from north to south, the South Fork of the Shenandoah River is a reliable respite on hot summer days. The river is a beloved local destination for canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and float tubing. The Island Ford Bridge is a popular put-in for float trips. Depending on the flow rate, it typically takes 3 to 5 hours to float from here down to the next major take-out spot in Elkton, VA. Island Ford is a popular fishing spot as well, and anglers are often rewarded with catches of smallmouth bass, channel catfish, rock bass, and sunfish. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Shenandoah Valley. Our real estate agents are dedicated to helping you find your dream home in Rockingham County and the Harrisonburg area. 

Gardening is a fun pastime that can be done in a large backyard or even in containers on a deck or porch. It adds beauty and value to your home along with color, visual interest, and - depending on what you plant - can produce delicious veggies.
  
Our real estate agents suggest visiting the following Rockingham County greenhouses that our local gardeners love:

• Grass Roots Landscaping - 1084 Virginia Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 22802 
  With a visit to Grass Roots Landscaping, located just around the corner from Harrisonburg homes for sale, you're likely to find what you need to start and maintain a beautiful garden. They'll have what you need whether you're just starting your garden or would like to make some additions or improvements to an existing garden. The company sells plants, shrubs, and trees that are well established and, when possible, native to the area. This increases their chances of thriving in local conditions. And if you're looking for tropicals, the greenhouse carries one of the largest selections in the area. You'll also find what you need to spruce up your garden, including mulches, soils, and landscape stones. And if you need help deciding how to design your garden, Grass Roots Landscaping offers these services as well.
  
  

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• Mistimorne Plants - 723 Pike Church Rd., Rockingham, VA 22801  
  Mistimorne Plants, a family-owned plant supplier, grows most of the plants they sell on their own farm using little or no growth regulators, which are chemicals that control the growth of plants. Their selection is very large, with over 60 varieties of tomato plants alone available to help you find just the right type to thrive in your garden. You'll also find plenty of flowering plants and hanging baskets to help beautify your garden and porch. Reviewers have praised the nursery's prices and customer service, so you should expect to get the help you need and pay reasonable prices.
  
  
• Evergrowin' Greenhouses - 6263 Thomas Spring Rd., Bridgewater, VA 22812  
  Family-owned Evergrowin' Greenhouses has been a go-to destination for plants and other gardening needs for decades. It's a local landmark that's even a popular location for school field trips. Situated just around the corner from Bridgewater homes for sale, the nursery has over 150 varieties of perennials you can choose from, as well as plenty of annuals, vegetable plants, and hanging baskets. As your garden grows each season and year, you'll be able to find some wonderful new plants or other improvements to add to it. And when it comes time to give your plants the best environment to thrive in, head to Evergrowin' Greenhouses for dyed or bark mulch as well as mushroom compost, topsoil, and potting soil.
  
  

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• Massanutten Produce - 5375 Spotswood Trail, Penn Laird, VA 22846  
  You can buy hanging baskets and flowers such as mums at Massanutten Produce, located close to Rockingham County homes for sale. And you'll find gardening inspiration in some of the family-owned business' other products for sale, including locally grown fresh fruits and veggies like peaches and beans. Start with the fruit and veggies and complete your shopping with some homemade bread and fresh local milk, cheese, and honey, and you'll have some deliciously healthy additions to your meals.
  
  
• Overlook Produce and Farm Adventures - 609 Friedens Church Rd., Mount Crawford, VA 22841
  Overlook Produce and Farm Adventures has four greenhouses located minutes away from Mount Crawford homes for sale, which allows them to extend their growing season to offer even more plants and produce. You can buy mums and annuals for your garden at their open-air retail market or pick your own strawberries, blackberries, or other fruits when they're in season. If you'd rather not pick your own, you can buy them already picked to save yourself some effort. Many veggies and plants are grown and sold from the farm, where you can also buy meat from animals raised without antibiotics. Overlook is also an entertainment destination since it has a corn maze that you can navigate your way through as you work with your family to find your way out.

Contact us to see Rockingham County homes for sale. Our agents can help you find just the right home, whether you're looking for one with plenty of space for a large, thriving garden or would like a smaller home and yard with a patio for container gardens. 

Valentine's Day is coming, and our real estate agents know how important it is to celebrate right.

When our team is out and about showing off Rockingham homes for sale or other Virginia homes for sale, we often hear from our clients how delighted they are with the local dining scene. Our area is known for its diversity and quantity of enjoyable restaurants, especially when it comes to steak and seafood.

Local restaurateurs have worked hard over the last year to keep their doors open, and many of them are now offering curbside pickup and delivery during regular hours. That means you will have all the options you need when you want to treat your special someone to a memorable meal.

Some of the delightful dining options you can try out this Valentine's Day include:

• Goodfellas Pizzeria – 100 South Stuart Avenue, Elkton, VA 22827
  Goodfellas Pizzeria provides some of the best pizza around, right within driving distance of Elkton homes for sale. With a full collection of pizza, pasta, and subs, it is maintaining its normal business hours for both carryout and delivery orders. Goodfellas is known for its ever-changing "Pizza Showcase" that features premium, limited-time pizza creations, and other confections. Lasagna, stuffed shells, and manicotti are some top Italian classics.

• Romano's Italian Bistro – 40 New Hope Road, McGaheysville, VA 22840
  Romano's Italian Bistro is one of the leading names in fresh Italian food in McGaheysville. It provides you with a wide range of sophisticated and flavorful dishes, including some of the best fresh salads in town. Pizza, pasta, seafood, chicken, and subs are among the entrees, with the chicken parmigiana a true favorite. There's also a special children's menu. All that and just a few blocks away from McGaheysville homes for sale.

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• Crossroads Cafe and Catering – 4549 Spotswood Trail #9, Penn Laird, VA 22846
  Crossroads Cafe and Catering offers sandwiches, salads, and sides, focusing on local and organic ingredients. It is now operating on reduced hours but still offers curbside takeout and limited cafe dining. It has become famous in the area for its delectable meal prep ordering, where fully prepared meals like grilled chicken, pulled pork, and chicken tetrazzini can be picked up twice weekly. You'll find it all only a short journey from some great Penn Laird homes for sale.

• El Charro – 300 North Main Street, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  El Charro is a beloved local choice for fresh, flavorful, and spicy Mexican food. Open since 1990, it recently overhauled its menu – some of the new specialties are only available at particular locations, so you'll want to visit them all if you're in the area. In Bridgewater, you can enjoy fiesta entrees like the taquitos, taco salad, and chimichangas. What could be better for a tasty "south of the border" meal near Bridgewater homes for sale?

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• Urgie's Cheesesteaks – 418 North Main Street, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  Urgie's Cheesesteaks will tantalize your tastebuds with an all-new take on an American classic that's never tasted this good. Urgie's cheesesteaks are made from premium 100% Angus beef aged at least 21 days and then slow grilled, served up piping hot on a genuine Italian roll shipped straight from Philadelphia, PA. You get your choice of onions – "wiz" or without. You can accompany your meal with hearty fries, wings, and all the rest.

• Dayton Tavern and Catering Co. – 245 Main Street, Dayton, VA 22821
  Dayton Tavern and Catering Co. is open for business at its restaurant location and the iconic Mama's Caboose food truck. It also offers event catering. With a reputation for delicious steaks and seafood, it prides itself on fresh ingredients and a rustic, relaxed environment. Dayton homes for sale are within easy reach of this local favorite you'll want to visit regularly.

• Thomas House Dining & Lodging – 222 Main Street, Dayton, VA 22821
  Thomas House Dining & Lodging offers a daily menu where seafood and American comfort food meet in a harmonious combination. Fried chicken or shrimp, ribs, meatloaf, and oysters make up common mains, and there is a full selection of sandwiches, soups, sides, and salads. For a satisfying dessert, dozens of scrumptious pies and cakes are baked fresh every morning.

Valentine's Day comes but once a year, but any meal can be a special one when you share it in your own home. The experts at Old Dominion Realty will help you find the home you want and get to closing day. To learn more or get started, simply contact us today.

On a chilly day, our real estate agents love to warm up with a mug of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows and whipped cream. Enjoy this comforting classic with a visit to one of these wonderful coffee shops and restaurants.

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• Merge Coffee Company - 425 N. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  Local caffeine lovers of all ages find common "grounds" at the appropriately-named Merge Coffee Company in downtown Harrisonburg. The shop was founded by two families of diverse backgrounds as a way of sharing their philosophy of coming together. Stop by downtown or their Mt. Clinton location for a hot or cold drink paired with a delicious pastry. Hours are 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. every day but Sunday.
  
  
• Bridgewater Coffee - 610 N. Main St., Bridgewater, VA 22812
  Between them, the Matthews and Foster couples have four careers and eight kids, yet still found the time and energy to open Bridgewater Coffee. Coincidentally, both families relocated from North Carolina in 2016 and recognized the need for a locally-owned coffee shop near Bridgewater homes for sale. Kids love the hot cocoa made with premium Hollander Chocolate. Bridgewater Coffee is open 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
  
  

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• The Kaffee Klatsch - 3105 John Wayland Hwy., Dayton, VA 22821
  While the Kaffee Klatsch began as a dessert shop, espresso and hot chocolate were added to the menu in the 1990s when the coffee trend spread across the country. Today, the family-owned shop's focus is on making the best coffee and hot chocolate around. Want a snack to go with your drink? Try some homemade biscotti, scones, or soft pretzels. Located in the popular Farmers Market, right down the street from Dayton homes for sale, the Kaffee Klatsch is open 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.
  
  
• J-Petal - 1645 Reservoir St. #135, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Hot chocolate may be a classic, but you probably won't find it in a more non-traditional spot than J-Petal.  This unique fusion restaurant serves sweet and savory Japanese crêpes, Thai ice cream, and an eclectic assortment of beverages, ranging from hot chocolate and bubble tea to non-alcoholic mojitos and coladas served in light-bulb glasses. Try one of their signature seafood, veggie, and teriyaki bowls, or build your own. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. seven days a week. 
  
  

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• Black Sheep Coffee - 217 S. Liberty St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  After 20 years of experience in the coffee industry, Chance Ebersold knew exactly what he wanted when it came time to open his own shop. Black Sheep Coffee is such a personal vision that Chance used reclaimed wood from tables he built for his own wedding reception in creating the space. The extensive beverage menu is accompanied by a breakfast and lunch selection, including sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. Black Sheep is open daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  
  
• The Galley - 2430 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Get some comfort food to go with your comfort hot chocolate at The Galley. Traditional favorites such as pizza, pasta, and burgers are made in-house with locally-sourced ingredients wherever possible. For those lazy days, The Galley offers delivery within a five-mile radius for just a $15 minimum order. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
  
  
• Heritage Bakery & Café - 212 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  You won't be able to resist picking up one of the French-inspired pastries at Heritage Bakery & Café to go with your hot chocolate. But you might find that these delicacies, such as cardamom cream cheese macarons or chocolate princess cakes, are almost too pretty to eat. If you're looking for something more substantial, Heritage also serves breakfast all day as well as sandwiches, salads, and a quiche of the day. Hours are 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
  
  
• Grace+Main Coffee Shop - 710 S. Main St., Suite 149-A, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Nestled in the Hotel Madison on the campus of James Madison University, Grace+Main Coffee Shop is a great place to start off a weekend tour of Harrisonburg homes for sale. Check out their grab-and-go case of yogurt parfaits, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and other tasty treats. Grace+Main is open Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. - 11 a.m. 

What's more comforting than a home of your own in Harrisonburg? Contact us at Old Dominion Realty and let our friendly real estate agents provide expert guidance in buying or selling your home.

The holidays are upon us, and there's a good chance you have at least one hard-to-shop-for individual left on your list. As always, our real estate agents are all about lending a helping hand. And if we get to give a shout-out to some great local businesses in the Shenandoah Valley region, so much the better! 

These locally-owned Shenandoah wineries are great places to find a gift for someone special. You may even be tempted to pick up an extra one for yourself!

• Bluestone Vineyard - 4828 Spring Creek Rd, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  A beautiful family-run vineyard in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Bluestone Vineyard produces wines that have been nationally recognized for their quality, including their award-winning Chardonnay. Founded in 2008, they credit their success, at least in part, to the unique bluestone (a type of limestone) soil beneath their feet. Indoor and outdoor seating areas are currently open at the vineyard, and masks are required when not seated. Online ordering and curbside pickup are also available for bottles. Bluestone Vineyard is a short drive from Harrisonburg and a stone's throw from these Bridgewater homes for sale. 
  
  

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• The Winery at Kindred Pointe - 3575 Conicville Rd, Mt Jackson, VA 22842
  You'll find an incredible variety of excellent wines at The Winery at Kindred Pointe, a picturesque winery nestled among 58 rolling acres of vineyard and farmland. The winery was founded in 2005 and offers a varied and ever-changing selection. Favorites include their 2013 Chardonnay, which is crisp and unusually complex for a Chardonnay, and their light red, fruit-forward 2015 Malbec. The Winery at Kindred Pointe is just minutes from these Mount Jackson homes for sale and is currently open with limited seating for small groups. You can also call ahead to order wine for pick up or order online and have your wine shipped almost anywhere in the U.S. 
  
  

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• Ox-Eye Vineyards - 44 Middlebrook Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
  Ox-Eye Vineyards spans 100 acres in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and takes its name from the ox-eye daisies that abound on the surrounding hilly meadows. Everything about the vineyard, from its 1,830-foot elevation and southeast-facing slopes to its deep limestone soils, is perfect for growing wine grapes. Their wines are 100% estate-grown, including white wines like their dry, citrusy Traminette, and reds like their peppery, full-bodied Lemberger. You'll find the Ox-Eye Vineyards tasting room in the Downtown Staunton Historic Wharf District, convenient to many beautiful Staunton homes for sale. 
  
  
• Little Washington Winery - 65 Clark Ln, Washington, VA 22747
  Little Washington Winery has earned a reputation as one of the very best wineries in the Shenandoah region. Ranked among the 40 Hidden Gems of American Wineries in 2020, this winery focuses on handcrafted Old World wines of the highest quality. Little Washington's award-winning Meritage—similar to a Bordeaux—has specially been singled out as one of Virginia's finest red wines. Their vineyard and tasting rooms are located in Washington, VA, near Shenandoah National Park and minutes from these Washington homes for sale. 
  
  

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• The Purple WOLF Vineyard - 2644 Cross Keys Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  The Purple WOLF Vineyard at White Oak Lavender Farm is a cozy, welcoming winery that sits at the heart of a beautiful family-owned farm. Starting as a modest lavender farm, the farm and vineyard has been open to the public since 2008 and now grow more than 8,000 lavender plants and produce 10 distinct vine varieties. You'll find many unique offerings hare, including red and white wines as well as a Royale Velvet port-style wine, and even wines infused with lavender. The Purple WOLF Vineyard is a short drive from these Harrisonburg homes for sale. 
  
  
• Castle Vineyards - 2150 Mims Rd, Luray, VA 22835
  With a warm, welcoming tasting room that sits amid many acres of splendid farmland, Castle Vineyards exudes hospitality and Southern Charm. It's a working cattle farm and a vineyard, with deep roots in the local community. It's a great spot to spend an afternoon sampling some amazing wines, and you're sure to find a bottle or two worth talking home. Located just minutes from these Luray homes for sale, Castle Vineyards operates in partnership with Barren Ridge Vineyards in the nearby community of Fishersville, VA. At present, the wines served at Castle Vineyards are exclusively from Barren Ridge.

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Shenandoah Valley. It's a special place to call home in any season, but it really comes to life during the holidays, which makes this the perfect time of year to find your dream home.