How to Visit Staunton, Virginia

Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton, Virginia, is steeped in history, yet offers plenty of activities for everyone in the family. Planning a trip to Staunton can prove to be both fun and a challenge, especially with all the historic city has to offer.

Instructions

1. Start your trip in downtown Staunton, where you can hop on a free trolley and tour the city. The tour lasts approximately a half an hour, making it the ideal way to start your visit. Or join a free guided walking tour of Staunton, which lasts two hours and runs every Saturday, from May to October, from 10 a.m. to noon.

2. Catch one of Shakespeare’s famous plays at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, located in the heart of the city. You can also take a guided tour of the Blackfriars Playhouse; tours are offered daily.

3. Head to Gypsy Hill Park, the ideal way to spend a day with the family. Gypsy Hill Park offers rides on the Gypsy Express Mini Train and the park itself features a swimming pool, a lake, a golf course, baseball fields, horseshoe pits and plenty of picnic tables for those who want to have a barbeque.

4. Stay outdoors by visiting Grand Caverns Regional Park where you can take a guided tour of what has been labeled “America’s Oldest Show Cave.” After touring the caverns, enjoy the park itself by playing a round or two of miniature golf, taking a swim or hiking.

5. Learn about winemaking by visiting the many vineyards in Staunton, including the Rockbridge Vineyard and the Veritas Vineyard and Winery.

6. Stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers by stopping by the Staunton/Augusta Farmers’ Market, which runs every Saturday morning from 7 a.m. to noon from April to Thanksgiving.

7. Dine at one of Staunton’s many restaurants and cafes. Top off lunch or dinner with a hearty dessert of homemade ice cream or custard at The Split Banana Company or Kline’s Dairy Bar & Hog Wild BBQ.

8. Shop in downtown Staunton, where you’ll find an eclectic array of shops, including antique shops. Staunton is also home to a mall and countless strip malls.

9. Staunton is home to Visulite Cinemas, an old-fashioned movie theater featuring current releases and foreign films. If you're a baseball fan visiting Staunton during baseball season, catch a Staunton Braves baseball game at John Moxie Stadium at Gypsy Hill Park.

Tips & Warnings

• Staunton is ideally located less than an hour from both Charlottesville and Lexington, both perfect for day trips from Staunton.

Resources

• Visit Staunton, Virginia
• Staunton Visitor and Convention Bureau