The Shenandoah Valley in northeastern Virginia is packed with scenic sights and fascinating American history. And there’s no better place to explore that history than the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley.
Located in the town of Winchester, the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley offers attractions for all ages and interests. Whether you’re traveling with art aficionados, history buffs, or even aspiring horticulturalists, there’s something for everyone at this unique landmark.
To make the most of your visit, book your stay at Blue Maple and read on to learn what to know about visiting the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley.
Getting to Know the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley
- 901 Amherst St, Winchester, VA
- themsv.org
- Tickets required for ages 5 and up
The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley opened in 2005, but the history of the property goes back much further. The founder of Winchester, James Wood, laid claim to the land back in 1735. He and his descendants passed the property down from generation to generation, and when Julian Wood Glass Jr. inherited the land and Glen Burnie House in the 1950s, he saw the potential for a country retreat.
Glass and his partner R. Lee Taylor furnished the property with fine art and furniture collections and installed the famed Glen Burnie Gardens around the house. Glass passed away in 1992, and shortly thereafter, the house and gardens were opened to the public for the first time in honor of his wishes. The 50,000-square-foot museum opened a few years later.
Today, visitors can marvel at Glass’ diverse art collections, walk the trails that surround the property, or simply rest in the gardens and soak up the views. During your time at the museum, you’ll learn more about Glass and his family, as well as the one-of-a-kind heritage of the valley.
When to Go
Winter at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley
In the winter, temperatures in Winchester typically range between the 20s and 40s. Snow is also a very common sight at this time of year, blanketing the Appalachian peaks that surround the Shenandoah Valley.
Though the weather outside may be frightful, you can always warm up indoors by visiting the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley. Tour the galleries and rotating exhibits, and make sure to drop by for these exciting seasonal events:
- Holiday Tea
- Winchester Old Town Winter Village (in Winchester)
Spring at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley
As temperatures warm into the 50s, 60s, and 70s, visitors often head to the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley for a peek at the incredible gardens. At 214 acres across, the museum boasts the largest green space in Winchester, and there’s no better place to spot wildflowers or new leaves shooting up through the soil. Just make sure to bring a light coat for unexpected cold snaps or afternoon showers.
As you celebrate spring at the museum, save time to check out the workshops and other events, such as Yoga in the Gardens, that take place at this time of year.
Summer at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley
Summer brings soaring temperatures to the Shenandoah Valley, with highs in the 80s and lows in the 60s. Though that’s more temperate than much of the surrounding region at this time of year, you might want to spend your time indoors amid the museum’s exhibits (while enjoying the air conditioning, of course). Wait until temperatures cool down in the evening to swing by the gardens.
Speaking of, certain events at this time of year allow you to experience the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley after dark. Add these to your calendar:
- Gardens at Night concert series
- Juneteenth Celebration
- Shenandoah Valley Wine Festival
- Antique and Modified Car Show
Fall at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley
Fall brings a brilliant show of changing leaves to the Shenandoah Valley. Temperatures are cool but not too cold, ranging between the 40s and 70s for much of the season. You’re also likely to see plenty of sunny days, perfect for a scenic cruise along Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive.
Of course, you could also take in the sights at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley. Set aside some time for these seasonal events:
- Pride at the MSV
- Garden Lights
- Holiday Wreath Sale
Things to Do at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley
Between its gorgeous gardens, galleries, and much more, the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley is unlike any stuffy museum you may have visited before. You’ll need at least a few hours (but ideally more) to fully explore this regional cultural center, so without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks:
Participate in a Workshop
Hands-on workshops incorporate visitors into the living legacy of the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, allowing guests to better experience the museum. Offerings vary throughout the year and might include pottery, sewing, and printing—to find out what’s happening during your visit, check the events calendar. Prices are relatively affordable, encouraging all visitors to participate.
Tour the Glen Burnie Gardens
The Glen Burnie Gardens comprise seven acres of green space surrounding the Glen Burnie House. Take a self-guided tour through the beautiful displays of flora, which include a variety of annuals and perennials. The Water Garden is a must-see, featuring a natural cascade and a pond stocked with golden trout. As the Glen Burnie Gardens change with the seasons, visitors will be able to see something new all year round.
For a moment of peaceful reflection, stop by the Wood and Glass Family Cemetery, maintained as part of the gardens today.
Admire the Art Galleries
The four different galleries at the main museum showcase a wide range of multimedia artwork. European paintings, miniature houses, decorative arts, or one of the rotating exhibits; guests can and should take their time perusing these spaces to make sure they don’t miss anything.
You never know what will be on display, so check the calendar before you arrive to see what you can expect. Then again, the exhibits always enthrall guests, no matter what the theme may be.
Trek the Trails
Open year-round with free admission, the trails surrounding the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley allow visitors to take in the scenery, including the museum itself. The art park encompasses 90 pet-friendly acres of fields, woods, and marshlands.
As you meander down the trails, several constructed with accessibility in mind, keep an eye out for outdoor art installations and other landmarks. The trails encourage active participation in the landscape, so make sure to slow down and appreciate every step.
Visit the Glen Burnie Historic House
Renovated in the 1950s and again in 2014, this 18th-century house has survived the Civil War and more than two hundred years of different uses. These days, guests go to the Glen Burnie House to learn more about the home’s former occupants and the intriguing history of the region. The Glen Burnie has interpretive panels as well as various artifacts from Glass’ collections, presenting a fuller picture of the property’s storied history.
Stay in the Shenandoah Valley
Regardless of when you visit the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley and what you choose to do when you arrive, this exciting attraction will help you learn more about the Shenandoah area and its inhabitants. You’ll find a variety of both indoor and outdoor wonders here, so plan to take your time as you visit.
To stay close to all the excitement at the museum, book your stay with Blue Maple. Our comfortable rental properties will put you in close proximity to the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, as well as everything else this amazing area has to offer.