Nestled in the foothills of the Shenandoah Valley, the independent city of Winchester belongs to a region that locals refer to as the "Top of Virginia." With a charming historical downtown area and quaint small-town atmosphere, many Virginia residents are drawn to Winchester apartments for rent because of the city's high quality of life. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Winchester has seen a sharp increase in population with more than 26,000 residents, based on 2010 data. Great local colleges like Shenandoah University and Lord Fairfax Community College make Winchester a diverse college town as well.
The beginnings of Winchester were in Shawnee Native American roots for thousands of years. European settlers did not come into the area until 1744, making Winchester the oldest city in the commonwealth west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Just eight short years later, the city's charter was formed and a community began to take shape. Over the years, Winchester became a major wheat producer; after the Winchester and Potomac Railroad was completed, the town had direct access to the major areas of Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, bringing in economic growth. Many famous politicians, musicians, and writers have all hailed from Winchester, making it one of the most culturally significant cities in Virginia.
The city has become famous over the years due to the Apple Blossom Festival, attracting celebrities like Lucille Ball, Dan Aykroyd, Mary Tyler Moore, Willie Mays, Bob Hope, and Ed Sullivan to be grand marshals in this popular community event. Dubbed a "springtime extravaganza in the Shenandoah Valley," this two-day festival has featured wine tastings, pageants, parades, fairgrounds, a golf tournament, a 10K race, antique car show, and other community activities since 1924.
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