Front Royal Virginia Tourism

We invite you to come out and experience our small town charm. While here you can explore historical sites, hike through the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Appalachian Trail and paddle the tranquil waters of the Shenandoah.

Search for the perfect gift on Main Street in historic downtown, then take a break for a taste of Virginia wine and enjoy a meal at one of our delightful restaurants.

The origin of the name “Front Royal” remains uncertain. There are currently two versions as to its source of origin. One being that, in early decades of European settlement, the area was referred to in French as “le front royal,” meaning the British frontier.

However, the more colorful and legendary origin has it that during colonial days, a giant oak tree - the “Royal” Tree of England - stood in the public square where Chester and Main Streets now join. It was there that the local militia, composed of raw recruits slow to learn military commands and maneuvers, were drilled. On one occasion, the sorely tired drill sergeant became so exasperated by the clumsy efforts of his troops and their failure to follow his command that he hit upon a phrase that all could understand and shouted, “front the Royal Oak!” Among the spectators was a Mr. Forsythe who had been a professional soldier. He was so amused by the officer’s coined order that he and his friends found much sport in telling the story, repeating “front the Royal Oak” until Front Royal was the resulting derivation.

Whether you are a resident or guest, stop by the Front Royal-Warren County Visitor’s Center located in the old train station at 414 East Main Street in historical downtown Front Royal.