Where History & Culture Meet the Mountains: Staunton, Virginia

There’s a little something for everyone in Staunton, Virginia, and a whole lot of outdoor activities in every direction across the Shenandoah Valley and into the Blue Ridge Mountains. The downtown historic district is a gem, preserving dozens of Victorian style buildings and welcoming travelers to peruse the boutique stops, experience the culinary scene, and grab a seat at one of the performing arts venues for a top-notch theatrical production or some local live music. Get off the beaten path and explore a few of the many parks and green spaces around town— a must-see is the Betsy Bell and Mary Gray Wilderness Park that includes 70 acres of recreation area and a birds-eye view from 1,959 feet above town.

Photo Credit: Staunton Convention & Visitors Bureau

For the history enthusiast, start your day at the Frontier Culture Museum and then squeeze in a tour of the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum in the afternoon. The galleries and exhibit spaces around town are perfect for those looking for some art and culture, but the major attraction for many is an evening at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Theater. To continue the performing arts theme, coordinate your trip to attend the annual Staunton Music Festival. The world-class classical music festival takes place over 10 days and nights in August and features talented musicians and composers performing to sold-out audiences.

Travel Tip: Staunton has long been one of our favorite small towns on the East Coast, providing a comfortable overnight on road trips throughout the Appalachian Mountains. Don’t be fooled, there’s as much to do here as there is in the surrounding national parks, forests, and wilderness areas. From Spring through Fall, the small town can be busy, especially if there are annual events and festivals on the calendar. If you don’t see it all on your first trip, Staunton is one of those places that you find yourself revisiting on future travels to continue where you left off.

Featured Photo: Warren Faught