Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a charming historic town that offers the perfect combination of culture, nature, and small-town warmth.
As one of the oldest towns in the region, Staunton – also known as Virginia’s “Queen City” welcomes visitors with its walkable downtown area, trendy restaurants, and easy access to scenic drives and nature trails.
Whether you’re spending your days exploring local galleries and historic sites or trekking the many hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park, there’s something here to inspire every kind of traveler.
It’s easy to fall in love with this hidden gem, and after spending the last six years here, I’ve discovered it’s not just a beautiful place to explore for the weekend but a truly incredible place to live.
Discover the best places to eat, stay, and explore with my ultimate weekend guide to Staunton Virginia.
Come and explore America’s Favorite Mountain Town!
Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie fan, or big-time history buff you’ll be instantly smitten by Staunton’s small-town vibes and array of culture.
BEST TIME TO VISIT STAUNTON
While Staunton is beautiful to visit year-round, I do enjoy the weather in Staunton the most during spring (April – June) and fall (September – November).
These seasons offer the most enjoyable weather, stunning natural scenery, and a full calendar of local events and festivals.
If I had to pick just one season to experience Staunton at its best, it would be fall. The fiery autumn foliage, cooler temperatures, and the cozy atmosphere of the town make it such a magical time to visit.
Whether you’re hiking in the mountains or exploring downtown, Staunton during the fall season is truly unforgettable. See below for fun things to do in Staunton, Virginia during the fall.
Unforgettable Fall Experiences in Staunton
1. Pick fresh apples and pumpkins at Chilies Peach Orchard.
2. Embrace your inner witch or wizard at Staunton’s “Harry Potter” inspired Queen City Mischief and Magic Event.
3. Enjoy a spooky afternoon stroll through Staunton’s Thornrose Cemetery.
4. Explore the downtown historic district and listen to real scary stories on the Ghosts of Staunton Tour
5. Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to experience the vibrant fall foliage.
6. Visit the Frontier Culture Museum and enjoy fall activities like pumpkin carving and harvest festivals.
7. Visit Staunton’s local Farmers Market, for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and fall decorations.
8. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at one of the many local breweries or coffee shops like Devil’s Backbone Brewery and Crucible Coffee Roasters.
BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Browse the shops on Staunton’s Main Street
Explore the many antique shops and local artisan galleries that line Staunton’s Main Street.
Spend the day finding unique gifts, from handmade jewelry to vintage treasures, at places like Judes Fine Emporium, Made; by the People for the People, Latitudes Fair Trade Store, Nana Junes Vintage Clothing, and Staunton’s Antiques Center.
Experience a live performance at the Blackfriars Playhouse
Staunton is home to the Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s only recreation of Shakespeare’s original indoor theater.
Operated by the American Shakespeare Center, this intimate venue offers outstanding live performances of classic Shakespeare plays and other contemporary performances.
Enjoy wine tastings at the Ox-Eye Vineyards Tasting Room
Located in the heart of downtown Staunton, the Ox-Eye Vineyards Tasting Room is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
Housed in a beautifully restored 1904 limestone building, this rustic tasting room offers a warm, relaxed atmosphere where you can sip award-winning wines sourced directly from their vineyard in nearby Augusta County.
Experience live glass blowing at Sunspots Studios
Experience art come to life at Sunspots Studios. Watch talented glassblowers create stunning glass pieces right before your eyes, and take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir from their gift shop.
Enjoy afternoon drinks at the Blackburn Inn Hotel
The historic Blackburn Inn and Conference Center is not only a beautiful place to stay but also the perfect place to relax with an afternoon drink.
After a long day of exploring, why not grab a cocktail or a glass of wine on the picturesque patio, overlooking the manicured grounds? (My top-rated)
Visit the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum
Learn about the life and legacy of the 28th President of the United States at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum.
Explore exhibits detailing his presidency, as well as his childhood home, set amidst the beauty of Staunton’s historic district.
Stroll Through The Frontier Culture Museum
The Frontier Culture Museum is one of Staunton’s most unique and immersive attractions – a living history museum that brings the past to life.
Spread across 200 acres, this self-guided tour of the museum brings to life the story of early settlers through living history exhibits, including replicas of colonial farms and pioneer settlements.
Take a Scenic Drive Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
Known for its scenic beauty and breathtaking fall foliage, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers an unforgettable scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The views are breathtaking, and there are plenty of places to stop for a picnic along the way.
WHERE TO STAY IN STAUNTON
Many of the hotels and small inns in downtown Staunton are well-established and tell a unique back story with stunning architectural designs mixed with Victorian charm.
Staunton offers quite a range of lodging for every traveler no matter the budget. Check out below my top recommendations on where to stay.
Blackburn Inn and Conference Center
One of Staunton’s most iconic boutique hotels. The inn offers luxury with a touch of Southern appeal. (My top-rated)
Hotel 24 South
Originally built in 1924, Hotel 24 South (originally known as the Stonewall Jackson) boasts real beauty and historic charm. Located in the heart of downtown Staunton.
Gibson’s Warehouse
Formally owned by Right Reverend R. A. Gibson, this beautiful rustic warehouse was built in the early 1900s.
Fredrick House
A small boutique bed and breakfast located amid Staunton, dating far back as the early 1800s.
What I love most about the Blackburn Inn is its unique history. It was built in 1825 and operated as an insane asylum until late 1976, it then operated as a prison facility until 2002.
As of today, many of its surrounding buildings have been remodeled into apartment complexes called The Villages at Staunton.
PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK
Discover Staunton’s diverse food scene where award-winning restaurants serve up everything from authentic Italian and Southern comfort food to Indian, New American, Salvadoran cuisine, and more.
Below, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite local restaurants and coffee shops – all located right in the heart of downtown Staunton.
Reunion Bakery and Espresso
Right across from the Staunton Visitors Center is a super quaint bakery that offers quite a selection of French pastries and espresso. You can never go wrong with a traditional French croissant.
Remedy Burger
For the ultimate burger experience, Remedy Burger is a must. Each burger is made to crispy perfection, and stacked with unique toppings. My go-to is the Beverley Blue burger!
Taste of India
My go-to restaurant in Staunton. I love this place, they offer such a good selection of traditional Indian dishes.
Just be sure to save room for dessert, as you won’t want to pass up trying their traditional Indian sweets, such as their ras malai cheese balls, so delicious. (My top-rated)
Chicano Boy Taco
Best tacos in town, hands down! Chicano Boy Taco is a Mexican-American taqueria serving up delicious handmade tacos and burritos. My go-to fillings are sweet potato black bean and chicken Americana. (My top-rated)
Crucible Coffee Roasters
My favorite coffee spot! Crucible has such a good selection of daily roasts. They also sell their daily roasts by the bag, so now you can take your favorite blend home with you.
Wright’s Dairy-Rite
Locally owned since 1952, this retro old-school drive-in and diner does the best burgers and shakes in town. The grilled cheese sandwiches are a fan favorite. I also love the club sandwich with a side of onion rings and a Wright’s flurry. So good!
Gloria’s Pupuseria
Another favorite to try is Gloria’s Pupuseria, a local treasure serving authentic Salvadoran comfort food. There Their hand-pressed pupusas, stuffed with cheese, beans, pork, or vegetables are always served hot and fresh and are packed full of flavor.
Depot Grille
Set inside a beautifully restored historic train station, the Depot Grille is a staple lunch and dinner spot in Staunton, known not only for its alluring ambiance but also for crowd favorites like their signature hot crab dip.
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The old railroad bridge in downtown Staunton
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
This weekend guide to Staunton, Virginia wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t include some exciting outdoor adventures in the surrounding areas.
Staunton is surrounded by some of Virginia’s best hiking trails, craft breweries, and breathtaking national parks.
From mountain views to tranquil waterfalls, the charming town of Staunton offers the perfect gateway to explore the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and all the natural beauty that makes this area truly unforgettable.
Day Trips from Staunton VA
Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail
This self-guided brewery trail showcases some of the best craft breweries in the Shenandoah Valley, with more than 15 breweries located across Staunton, Waynesboro, Harrisonburg, Lexington, and the surrounding mountain towns.
Don’t miss places like the Devil’s Backbone Brewery Company, Bold Rock Mills River Cidery, and Blue Mountian Brewery.
Skyline Drive
Take a scenic drive along Skyline Drive, one of the most iconic routes in the Shenandoah National Park. This breathtaking drive offers panoramic overlooks and incredible mountain views around every bend.
Just 21 minutes from historic Staunton, it’s the perfect day trip for leaf-peeping in the fall or a relaxing afternoon amongst nature. One of my top-rated scenic experiences.
Appalachian Trail
Hiking the Appalachian Trail is a lifelong dream for many outdoor enthusiasts. Stretching over 2,000 miles across 14 states, this world-famous trail is easily accessible near Staunton, with entry points along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park.
Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
Tour the house and grounds that once belonged to former president Thomas Jefferson. Admire the architectural designs that took him more than 40 years to build including his great wall clock which still functions today.
It’s a fascinating glimpse into American history and one of the region’s most iconic landmarks. A 45-minute drive from Staunton.
Laury Caverns
Hidden beneath the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll find the eerie sounds of the world’s only stalacpipe organ. Laury Caverns is the largest and most popular underground caverns in Eastern America featuring large stalagmite and stalactite formations and crystal clear rock pools. (Top-rated day trip).
In addition to the caverns, your ticket includes access to the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum, Shenandoah Heritage Village, and Toy Town Junction, making this a full-day adventure that’s well worth the one-hour drive from Staunton.
Natural Bridge
Prepare to be wowed by the awe-inspiring Natural Bridge, a 215-foot natural limestone arch once owned by Thomas Jefferson himself. Carved over centuries by Cedar Creek, this towering geological formation is one of Virginia’s most stunning natural landmarks.
Just a 47-minute drive from Staunton VA. (Top-rated day trip).
BEST HIKES AND WALKING TRAILS
Crabtree Falls
11581 Crabtree falls Hwy, Montebello, VA 24464
Located in the George Washington National Forest, Crabtree Falls features a 60-foot rock cliff with cascading waters.
Distance: 2.5 miles
Time: 2.5hrs there and back
Level: Moderate
St. Mary’s Falls Trail
Saint Mary’s Wilderness, Raphine, VA 24472
St. Mary’s Trail is located in Saint Mary’s Wilderness, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trail is relatively moderate, featuring a beautiful waterfall.
Distance: 4.3 miles
Time: 3hrs there and back
Level: Moderate
Humpback Rocks
Humpback Rock, Rockfish, VA 22920
Located just off I64 near Afton, Humpback Rock is a popular hiking trail featuring a large greenstone rock formation with incredible views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. (My top-rated)
Distance: 3.8 miles
Time: 2.5hrs there and back
Level: Easy
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I hope you enjoyed my ultimate weekend guide to Staunton, Virginia. This cute little town is bursting with energy and small-town character.
With so many incredible things to do, see, and explore, it’s easy to turn a quick visit into a full long weekend getaway. Staunton has truly become one of my favorite destinations in Virginia, and I hope it captures your heart just as it has mine.
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You will not pay more when you buy through these links. All opinions are my own, and I would never recommend anything I don’t personally love.
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