As if Luray Caverns and Shenandoah National Park weren’t enough, there is now an additional incentive to visit Page County, in the central Shenandoah Valley—free lodging.
A new program called “Pay for your Stay,” launched by the Page County Economic Development and Tourism Office, focuses on increasing tourism in the winter months. Through the program, participating Page County lodging partners will extend free midweek stays to guests from December through March.
“We want to see you this winter and will sponsor your stay up to $300,” said Liz Lewis, Page County Economic Development and Tourism Coordinator. “Many think that there is nothing to do in Page County during the winter months but we have the same attractions offering the same activities as in the summer. You just need to bundle up and bring a hat and gloves!”
The participating lodging partners will be expected to promote winter events, county dining options and other activities. “They will be encouraged to reach out and build relationships with the eateries open during winter and work with the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce to promote local events to the “Pay for your Stay” guest, Lewis told the Page News and Courier.
To qualify for the free stay, visitors must book a midweek trip in summer 2019 as well. Of course, midweek is the best time to avoid crowds at major attractions. The following accommodations are participating in the program:
Viewpoint River Cabins 540-244-2224
Garnerland 540-270-4309
Shadow Mountain Escape
Overlook Cabin, Rileyville 804-839-0770
Shenandoah Woods 540-999-1-LOG
Riverfront Pioneer Cabins 804-698-0496.
Shenandoah Canoe Company
Restful Pines 703-565-4916
The Mimslyn Inn /Manor House and Cottage Collection
Mayneview B&B 540-669-5105
Cardinal Cottage 301-524-5143
River Dell Bed and Breakfast 540-843-0860
A Bucks Run
Tree Top Cabin 540-742-7151
Winter attractions in Page County start with Luray Caverns—the temperature inside the cave stays about 54 degrees all year round. General Admission includes the entrance fee and Luray Caverns tour, a self-guided tour of the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum, Toy Town Junction, and the Luray Valley Museum.
Other indoor pursuits might include a wine tasting at Wisteria Farm and Vineyard. The regular tasting fee is $8 for eight wines and includes a souvenir glass. They were closed Christmas week but were scheduled to re-open January 3rd, 2019. Hours: daily from 12 noon until 6 p.m., including holiday Mondays. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
For something a bit livelier, take a day to explore Cooter’s Place in Luray. While their packed musical entertainment schedule slows a bit in winter, this landmark honoring the “Dukes of Hazzard” and its culture has fast worked its way into one of the area’s most popular venues.
Something else to look forward to this winter in Page County is the Polar Bear Plunge, February 16, 2019 at Lake Arrowhead. Advance registration is $35 and proceeds will benefit the Page Alliance for Community Action’s efforts to keep our youth drug-free. Call 540-742-9386 for more information.
Whether you take advantage of the county’s “Pay for your Stay” deal or not, be aware that Page County is the Cabin Capital of Virginia, and many rental options are listed here. Or search this site’s page on “Cabins, Cottages and B&Bs” to find many more located in Page, as well as other breathtaking spots in the Shenandoah Valley.
While there is still plenty to do in winter, don’t underestimate the lure of a quiet, secluded cabin, a cozy fireplace and whatever else your imagination can picture. For more information on everything in the Page County realm, contact the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce. Phone: 540-743-3915.
Photo courtesy The Mimslyn Inn