With the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains as the backdrop, Staunton is often named one of the most celebrated “Main Streets” in the United States. Staunton’s historic downtown delights visitors with its distinctive architecture, historic sites and vibrant arts scene. Its compact and walkable downtown make it ideal for exploring with a wide array of independent shops, art galleries, antique shops and restaurants. You won’t find any big box stores or chain restaurants here!
Just outside of historic downtown Staunton, surrounding Augusta County provides gorgeous scenery and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Offering the best of mountains to main street, Staunton and Augusta County are the perfect choice for a getaway to Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley.
Visit Staunton
Sheryl Wagner, director of tourism
540-332-3865
wagnerss@ci.staunton.va.us
VisitStaunton.com
TAKE IN THE FALL FOLIAGE
Photo: Josh Steele Photography
Just miles from downtown Staunton lies the entrance to both the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive. These scenic byways make for a great driving tour offering scenic overlooks with breathtaking mountain views ideal for photo ops and picnics. They also provide access to a number of the area’s most popular hiking destinations for all ages and abilities.
EXPLORE DOWNTOWN
Photo: Ian Bradshaw
Take a FREE tour of downtown Staunton from the comfort of your bus with a step-on guide or do a walking tour! Learn about the history and architecture of this award-winning “Main Street” touring four of the six neighborhoods with stops at Trinity Episcopal Church to see the original Tiffany-stained glass windows; Sunspots Studios to watch live glass blowing demonstrations; and finally, the R.R. Smith Center to visit the visual art and history galleries.
SAVOR FALL FLAVORS
Discover the home-grown side of the Shenandoah Valley with a visit to one of our working farms along the Fields of Gold Farm Trail. Pick-your-own apples or other seasonal favorites like mums, pansies, gourds and pumpkins; tour the greenhouses; and meet the animals. Wind down your day with a stop at Ciders from Mars, Staunton’s newest addition to the craft beverage scene, where you can sample a variety of ciders featuring locally sourced apples.
SEE LIVING HISTORY
Step back in time at the Frontier Culture Museum. Be immersed in the daily life of the Shenandoah Valley’s earliest settlers as you explore this living history museum visiting farmsteads from Africa, America, England Germany and Ireland. Next, discover the life and legacy of the country’s 28th president in the city where he was born. Get a behind-the-scenes look at Wilson’ birthplace, historic gardens and interactive exhibits at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum.
