VISITOR’S GUIDE
“With a downtown energized by locally owned shops and restaurants, the Shenandoah Valley town is one of the prettiest and most progressive in the South.” – Southern Living
One of “America’s Greatest Main Streets” – Travel+Leisure
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VisitStaunton.com
PHOTO BY PETER AASLESTAD
Recently named one of the “Best Small Towns in America,” Staunton offers a vibrant cultural scene, great food, and friendly faces. Enjoy a night of theater at the American Shakespeare Center, with the world's only authentic recreation of the Blackfriars Theater. Step back in time at the Frontier Culture Museum, an outdoor living history museum illustrating the daily lives of Shenandoah Valley's earliest settlers. Discover the life and legacy of Woodrow Wilson at the only presidential library in Virginia. Known for its historic architecture packed into six National Register Historic Districts, Staunton is best explored by foot. Its compact downtown
features over 100 unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Music festivals beckon with worldrenowned performers all summer long. Staunton's vibrant dining scene and local food ethos is supported by wine bars, coffee houses, vineyard tasting rooms and small-batch breweries — all of which round out the local flavor. Staunton is the perfect place to base your stay in the Shenandoah Valley. And, if it's the mountains that are calling you, we're just a few miles from both Shenandoah National Park's Skyline Drive and The Blue Ridge Parkway.
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VISITOR CENTERS DOWNTOWN STAUNTON 35 South New Street 540-332-3971 APRIL-OCTOBER Open Daily 9am-6pm NOVEMBER-MARCH Open Daily 9:30am-5:30pm
TRAVEL INFORMATION CENTER AT FRONTIER CULTURE MUSEUM 1290 Richmond Road 800-332-5219; 540-332-3972 Open Daily 9am-5pm
Learn more at VisitStaunton.com Follow us for the latest information. Tag your posts and photos with #LOVEstaunton to share your Staunton experience.
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Š Staunton Convention and Visitors Bureau (SCVB) 1-800-342-7982. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part in any form or by any means requires prior written permission from the SCVB. The information contained in this travel guide is for general information purposes only. Inclusion in this brochure does not constitute an endorsement by the SCVB. Although every reasonable effort is made to present current and accurate information, neither SCVB, the City of Staunton, nor its partners, can guarantee the reliability of the information provided herein. COVER PHOTO BY PETER AASLESTAD | AERIAL EVENING PHOTO BY VIRGINIA AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY
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20 Arts & Entertainment
Eat & Drink PHOTO BY WOODS PIERCE
PHOTO COURTESY OF STAUNTON MUSIC FESTIVAL
Attractions & Museums
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The Outdoors
Lodging
Getting Around
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COURTESY OF WOODROW WILSON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM
tes, circ on, Virginia, United Sta Bird's-eye view of Staunt inia. Virg on, unt Sta re, Sto Cigar published by Beverley
Few places in the nation can boast of a community heritage as rich, deep, and varied as that of Staunton and Augusta County.
an original postcard a 1910. Reproduced from
Thornrose Cemetery, which dates from 1849, is a beautiful and historic cemetery with a monument to the 1,700 Confederate troops who are buried there.
Staunton is one of the oldest cities west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The first settlers arrived in the 1720s from Pennsylvania, Maryland, and eastern Virginia. Many were German-born or the Pennsylvania-born children of German-speaking Protestant immigrants, or came from the province of Ulster in the north of Ireland. English and African-Americans were also among the early settlers. In the 1730s, the popular Virginia Governor William Gooch hoped to protect his colony from possible French or Indian incursions by planting settlements west of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Shenandoah Valley. In 1736, Colonel William Beverley, an enterprising and wealthy planter from Essex County, Virginia, successfully petitioned the Governor for land and secured a patent for 118,491 acres, an area that embraced a large part of today’s Staunton and Augusta County. Soon thereafter, in 1741, Staunton was named after Lady Rebecca Staunton, the wife of Governor Gooch. By the mid 1700s, Augusta County stretched westwards to the Mississippi River and encompassed much of what now makes up the states of Kentucky, Ohio,
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Bird’s eye view of Staunton, drawn by Edward Beyer in 1857.
By the late 19th century, Staunton was a flourishing market center at the gateway to the frontier. Pioneers returning from newly developed areas poured wealth into the city. Local citizens proudly reinvested this economic windfall into Staunton’s infrastructure — building architectural monuments, opera houses, fancy hotels, and impressive homes. During these boom years, Staunton became one of the most prosperous, beautiful, and prestigious cities in the Commonwealth — hence its nickname, the Queen City of the Shenandoah.
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In 1856, the 28th President of the United States, Woodrow Wilson, was born in Staunton. Wilson served as President from 1913 to 1921.
Meet the Queen
Union troops burned Staunton’s first railroad station to the ground during the Civil War (they spared the city.) The second station, built post-Civil War, was destroyed in 1890 by a runaway C&O train. Pictured here is the third station in this location, built in 1902 by noted architect T.J. Collins. It was used until the 1960s, when rail operations moved to the nearby signal house building.
Indiana, Illinois, most of West Virginia, and a portion of western Pennsylvania (including present-day Pittsburgh). Staunton served as the county seat, the government center, and the hub of business for this large land area. Strategically located at the intersection of the Great Wagon Road and early thoroughfares to the west, Staunton continued to develop as a major center for trade. This commercial growth was greatly enhanced with the arrival of the Virginia Central Railroad in 1854. During this period, the Augusta Female Seminary (now Mary Baldwin College), the Virginia Female Institute (now Stuart Hall), and the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind were founded in Staunton. Staunton played a pivotal role during the Civil War years when the Shenandoah Valley served as the “Breadbasket of
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the Confederacy.” While most of the battles were being fought north or west of the town, it was the presence of the railroad that provided a vital link between the Valley and eastern Virginia, making Staunton an important supply depot for the Confederacy. When Union troops, under the command of General Philip Sheridan, laid waste to the Valley of Virginia, Staunton escaped the brunt of destruction. The reconstruction period that followed was less difficult for Staunton than it was for other areas in the South. Only months after Lee’s surrender, Staunton’s railroads had been repaired and postal service restored. With the growth of the Virginia Central Railroad, Staunton transformed into a thriving center of commerce and wealth. Most buildings in the downtown area date from these “boom” years, of 1870 through 1920.
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“In Staunton, the ethic of preservation has been integrated throughout the community. New ideas and traditions are blended in a way that points to a rich future for all.” – David Brown, Chief Preservation Officer, National Trust for Historic Preservation
THE HISTORIC STAUNTON FOUNDATION was established in 1971 to promote the preservation and revitalization of the rich architectural and historic resources in Staunton. Every Saturday from May through October, at 10am, they offer FREE guided architectural walking tours.
Learn more at historicstaunton.org
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“...an architectural gem in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley...” — Washingtonian
Opposite page: Staunton’s main street is characterized by a well-preserved collection of 19th-century buildings (Ian Bradshaw) Architectural styles this page, clockwise: Greek Revival at Mary Baldwin College; Italian Renaissance Revival at the Dixie Theater; Beaux Arts at the National Valley Bank Building (Queen City Creative); Beaux Arts at the Augusta County Courthouse (Ian Bradshaw); English Gothic at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church (Woods Pierce); Second Empire at the R.R. Smith Center for History & Art (Kathy Frazier)
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Staunton has an architectural advantage over most of other small towns in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia: it escaped the Civil War unscathed. Many of its 18th- and early 19th-century homes and buildings still stand and are wonderfully preserved.
If you stroll into the neighborhoods adjacent to downtown, you will discover the early 19th-century Classical Revival buildings of some of Staunton’s great educational institutions — Mary Baldwin College, Stuart Hall, and The Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind.
The city has six historic districts listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Look closely and you’ll see buildings designed in an interesting array of architectural styles — all perched side by side. You’ll see Greek Revival, French Second Empire, Romanesque Revival, Colonial Revival, Neo-Classical, Federal, Beaux-Arts, Gothic Revival, and more.
Staunton’s downtown district is a compact 19th-century “Main Street,” with buildings that date from Staunton’s boom years. Beverley Street is often cited as one of the most celebrated and honored Main Streets in the United States. Last year, the American Planning Association named Staunton one of the “Great Places in America.”
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Architect T.J. Collins greatly influenced Staunton’s architectural legacy. After moving to Staunton in 1891 to work for the Staunton Development Company, Collins later established his own firm – where he designed more than 200 building in Staunton alone, including courthouses, schools, churches, theaters, commercial buildings and private residences.
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PHOTO BY WOODS PIERCE
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Frontier Culture Museum
Staunton is buzzing with arts and culture offerings such as the renowned American Shakespeare Center and the Heifetz International Music Institute. If history is your passion, make time to explore living history at the Frontier Culture Museum. Staunton is also the birthplace of Woodrow Wilson, and the The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum (the only presidential library in Virginia) pays homage to our nation's 28th president. Photography lovers will enjoy the Camera Heritage Museum, which features more than 2,000 specialty cameras and lenses.
American Shakespeare Center
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1 West Beverley Street, Staunton 540-886-8535 cameraheritagemuseum.com Largest free camera museum on the East Coast, privately owned. Includes daguerreotypes, view cameras, spy cameras, large Leica collection and area historical photos.
Frontier Culture Museum 1290 Richmond Road, Staunton 540-332-7850 frontiermuseum.org An outdoor, living history museum with exhibits and programs that explore the diverse old world origins of the earliest immigrants to America and the culture they created together.
R. R. Smith Center for History and Art
Staunton, an award-winning Virginia Main Street community, features over 100 independently owned shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Offering a wide mix of antiques, arts, and distinctive gifts, Staunton is made for exploring and shopping.
227 Kable Street, Staunton 540-885-1309 sma-alumni.org The SMA/VWIL Museum is a combination of the past history of Staunton Military Academy and the present history of the Virginia Woman’s Institute for Leadership.
Sunspots Studios and Glassblowing 202 South Lewis Street, Staunton 540-885-0678 sunspots.com See live glassblowing daily. Visit our gallery of copper and art glass gifts made in our studios.
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Camera Heritage Museum
< Shopping
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10 South Market Street, Staunton 1-877-MUCH-ADO; 540-851-1733 ASCstaunton.com Get a behind-the-scenes tour of the 300-seat Blackfriars Playhouse -- the world's only re-creation of Shakespeare's original indoor theatre.
Staunton Military Academy/VWIL Museum at Mary Baldwin College
Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum 20 North Coalter Street, Staunton 540-885-0897 woodrowwilson.org The nation’s 28th president comes to life as you enjoy an engaging tour of Woodrow Wilson’s Birthplace. Immerse yourself in the state-of-the-art World War I trench exhibit, discover Wilson’s Pierce-Arrow limousine, and stroll through beautiful historic gardens. A National Historic Landmark.
20 South New Street, Staunton 540-885-2028 rrsmithcenter.org Headquarters to three non-profit organizations – Augusta County Historical Society, Staunton Augusta Art Center and Historic Staunton Foundation. Art and history galleries, research archives, historic preservation resource center, museum store.
PHOTO BY LAUREN D. ROGERS.
Blackfriars Playhouse at the American Shakespeare Center
The Blackfriars Playhouse at The American Shakespeare Center, with John Harrell and Greg Phelps in The Merchant of Venice.
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PHOTO BY IAN BRADSHAW
Public Art > Willy Ferguson is a Staunton-based welder and sculptor. He is best known for his oversized metal sculptures of carbon steel, such as Staunton’s giant watering can (18 ft. tall and 20 ft. wide) and flower pots at the intersection of US 250 and US 11 and the huge book outside the Public library.
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t’s hard not to love this place. Sure, Staunton's setting provides a gorgeous backdrop — but it’s the people who really shine. We rounded up just a few of our many multi-talented locals. Check out their take on Staunton as a great place to visit, play, live and work.
RENE THORNTON, JR. ACTOR/ SHAKESPEAREAN SCHOLAR
Working at the American Shakespeare Center is a dream job for me, and the fact that it's here in Staunton is icing on a delicious cake. Staunton is a beautiful, charming, blossoming town that captures the hearts of all who come here. Many friends from NYC and beyond come to visit, and are immediately enamored. ____________________ americanshakespearecenter.com
HANNAH KRZASTEK CHRIS CAIN NONPROFIT DIRECTOR / SOCIAL CHANGE AGENT
Stauntonians inspire each other every day. I am so thankful to be living and working in such an innovative and supportive community. ____________________
ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN / EXERCISE ENTHUSIAST / SNOWBOARDER
I love Staunton’s gracious southern hospitality, its air of cultural sophistication, and the thriving “local“ scene. ____________________
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MIA KIVLIGHAN
BRYAN ELIJAH SMITH SINGER / SONGWRITER / PRODUCER
Staunton is a vibrant artistic hub - for music and art lovers alike. ____________________ bryanelijahsmith.com
SCHOOL ADMISSIONS DIRECTOR / GRAPHIC DESIGNER / HALF MARATHONER
The thing I really love about Staunton is that, for a small city, it attracts intellectually and artistically minded people who aren't afraid to be open to new or different things and who appreciate unique perspectives and personalities. ____________________
* NOT JUST A PRETTY FACE The bar looks cool and the food is even better — check out the award-winning fare at zynodoa restaurant.
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The Staunton Music Festival, one of the mid-Atlantic’s most innovative and accomplished chamber music festivals, runs for 10 days each August, and features acclaimed musicians from across Europe and the United States. Pictured here is Carsten Schmidt, the festival’s Artistic Director, with one of his period harpsichords.
PHOTO BY PAT JARRETT
In addition to performing arts, Staunton is home to a wide selection of artists and craftsmen — many of whom display their art at local shops and museums, as well as at local art fairs throughout the region.
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Staunton on Tap Staunton’s rich history of arts and culture goes back to its days as a nineteenth-century rail junction and a center for travelers to stop over and enjoy opera, vaudeville, and rollicking nightlife. That tradition lives on today as the city offers a profusion of performing arts options.
Want to keep up with special events, performances, music, and festivals in Staunton? For weekly e-mail updates on what’s going on, sign up for Staunton on Tap at VisitStaunton.com
American Shakespeare Center
Heifetz International Music Institute
Mary Baldwin College Theatre
10 South Market Street, Staunton 1-877-MUCH-ADO; 540-851-1733 ASCstaunton.com Shakespeare is wicked good at the Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s only re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theater. Performing year-round. “Shamelessly entertaining” — Washington Post.
230 East Frederick Street, Staunton 540-907-4446 heifetzinstitute.org The Heifetz International Music Institute is an intense six-week musical experience for advanced students from all over the world in violin, viola, and cello. Designed to develop the expressive potential of every performer while encouraging technical growth, the program includes a rigorous schedule of lessons, practicing, solo performance, chamber music, and classes. Student and celebrity performances take place June through August.
Fletcher Collins Theatre, Deming Hall, Mary Baldwin College, Staunton 540-887-7192 mbc.edu/arts/theatre.php Five show season with a broad range of comedy, drama, and classical performances in an intimate black box setting.
1200 North Coalter Street, Staunton 540-886-2825 centerstagestaunton.org CenterStage! is the Staunton community’s performing arts series presenting international professional artists in concert. Offering a familyfriendly series of five events each season, the programs include a wide variety of classical, jazz, folk and ethnic music and dance. Instrumental performers have ranged from Glenn Miller Orchestra to the New John Philip Sousa Band to the Dukes of Dixieland.
“Staunton is overflowing with culture”
Oak Grove Theater 845 Quick’s Mill Road, Verona 540-248-5005 oakgrovetheater.org More than 50 years of live theater under the stars. Summer outdoor theater. Season runs late May through August
ShenanArts at the nTelos Theatre 300 Churchville Avenue, Staunton 540-712-0001 shenanarts.org ShenanArts is a non-profit theatre whose mission continues to be using theatre to build bridges within the community.
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CenterStage!
Staunton Music Festival Performing at historic venues in downtown Staunton 540-569-0267 stauntonmusicfestival.com Rethink classical at one of Virginia’s most exciting summer music festivals. Each August, the Staunton Music Festival brings over 60 renowned musicians from around the world to perform programs that are consistently innovative — spanning music from the Renaissance to the present. Multiple performances daily during festival season. Also spring and winter concerts.
The Heifetz International Music Institute attracts some of the most talented and promising young musicians in the world to Staunton. During the summer season, the Institute presents 36 concerts in six weeks.
— ABC News
Stonewall Brigade Band
PHOTO BY MICHAEL BAILEY
Performing at Gypsy Hill Park, Staunton 540-213-3880 stonewallbrigadeband.com Oldest continuous community band in the nation. Free concerts every Monday, June–August at 8:00 pm in Gypsy Hill Park. Lawn chairs suggested, as permanent seating is limited.
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< The American Shakespeare Center hosts an internationally acclaimed theatre company that performs Shakespeare's works under their original staging conditions. Pictured here are Stephanie Holladay Earl and Fernando Lamberty in Othello.
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Many people know that Staunton is home to Statler Brothers, the legendary country vocal quartet. But did you also know that Staunton is home to a vibrant roots music scene? Check out the Tuesday night bluegrass jam at Marinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, which draws old-timers and college students alike. In the summer, look for the Red Wing Roots Music Festival at nearby Natural Chimneys Park, as well as jazz and blues music festivals around town. Classical music fans will love Staunton Music Festival, a 10-day summer celebration of chamber music as well as celebrity and student appearances from the renowned Heifetz International Music Institute, which is based in Staunton. Buskers entertain on the streets of Staunton every weekend, and most of the eateries along Main Street feature a steady stream of live music options.
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The Music Scene
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NEWS LEADER
FREE THINGS n
ANNUAL FESTIVALS & EVENTS SHENANDOAH VALLEY WINE AND JAZZ FESTIVAL Frontier Culture Museum shenandoahconcerts.com
JULY
APRIL HISTORIC GARDEN WEEK Select homes in Staunton vagardenweek.org SHAKESPEARE’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Blackfriars Playhouse ASCstaunton.com EARTH DAY CELEBRATION Sunspots Studios sunspots.com VIRGINIA HOT GLASS FESTIVAL Sunspots Studios sunspots.com
MAY ART IN THE PARK Gypsy Hill Park saartcenter.org MAY DAY FESTIVAL Frontier Culture Museum frontiermuseum.org STAUNTON JAMS Downtown Staunton stauntondowntown.org
HEIFETZ INTERNATIONAL MUSIC INSTITUTE CONCERTS July through August Various venues, select dates heifetzinstitute.org AMERICA’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Gypsy Hill Park americasbirthdaycelebration.com RED WING ROOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL Natural Chimneys - Mount Solon redwingroots.com
Live Music in Gypsy Hill Park Stonewall Brigade Band Concerts June through August Mon. 8pm stonewallbrigadeband.com Praise in the Park July through August Tues. 7pm Bluegrass in the Park July through August Wed. 7pm
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SUMMER BLUES AND BREWS FESTIVAL Frontier Culture Museum shenandoahconcerts.com
FALL FOLIAGE BIKE FESTIVAL Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta County shenandoahbike.org
STAUNTON MUSIC FESTIVAL Various venues, select dates stauntonmusicfestival.com
OKTOBERFEST Frontier Culture Museum frontiermuseum.org
SEPTEMBER
CREEPY TALES Frontier Culture Museum frontiermuseum.org
DECEMBER
SHAKIN’ SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Mid-May through August (Thursdays) Wharf Parking Lot stauntondowntown.org
AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL Gypsy Hill Park visitstaunton.com/events.htm
*HOLIDAY PARADE
JUNE
GOOD TIMES, TASTES AND TRADITIONS Frontier Culture Museum frontiermuseum.org
HISTORIC STAUNTON HOLIDAY HOUSE TOURS Select homes in Staunton historicstaunton.org
STAUNTON JAMS Downtown Staunton stauntondowntown.org
HOLIDAY LANTERN TOURS Frontier Culture Museum frontiermuseum.org
STAUNTON BRAVES BASEBALL June through July Moxie Stadium stauntonbravesbaseball.com
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Jazz in the Park July through August Thur. 7pm
AUGUST
PAC’N THE STREETS Downtown Staunton stauntonperformingarts.org
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first Monday after Thanksgiving
Downtown Staunton stauntondowntown.org
Tiffany Windows at Trinity Episcopal Church – Twelve of the historic church’s stained glass windows, including the triptych that is installed over the altar, were created by the studios of Louis Comfort Tiffany in New York. Camera Heritage Museum – Collection includes daguerreotypes, wooden cameras, spy cameras and 100+ Leicas and Zeiss cameras. Over 2000 cameras and lenses. The Staunton/Augusta Farmers’ Market is a “producer-only” market featuring local, Shenandoah Valley products. Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7am - noon (April – November)
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WINTER WINE FESTIVAL Stonewall Jackson Hotel stonewalljacksonhotel.com
Saturday Morning Architectural Walking Tours – Led by Historic Staunton Foundation. Tours begin at 10 am the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, 24 North Coalter Street and end at the Visitor Information Center. (May – October.)
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FEBRUARY
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Sunspots Studios – See live glassblowing demonstrations until 4pm daily.
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Staunton is home to a fascinating community of people who believe dreams are worth chasing. Every day, we see new ideas taking root, shared by folks like these who share their talents, passions, and interests.
JOHNNIE HUGGINS
CORRIE PARK RETAIL SHOP OWNER/EDUCATOR/ ARTIST
When we moved here to open our business, it felt like coming home. Between the history, the people, and the creative energy that flows through this city — Staunton is simply magical. ____________________ facebook.com/MadeByThe PeopleForThePeople
BEER AFICIONADO / RESTAURANT OWNER / MUSIC PROMOTER
DAN MALCOLM FARMER / MUSICIAN /LOCAL FOOD ENTHUSIAST
Staunton is where I tapped into my family's roots and put down some of my own. I farm on land that has been in my family for four generations. ____________________
A cool combination of small town flavor with big city charm – that’s why we are proud to call Staunton our home. ____________________ shenandoahhops.com shenandoahpizza.com shenandoahconcerts.com
malcolmsmarketgarden.com
“Friendliest Town” in the Shenandoah Valley 18
– Virginia Living
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JUDD BANKERT CLARE HARPER ENTREPRENEUR / BARISTA
I love Staunton because it is the modern storybook America. Safe, beautiful, friendly. And everyone knows your name, like at Cheers. ____________________
ACCOUNTANT / FORMER OLYMPIAN/ACTOR/ WOODROW WILSON IMPERSONATOR
Woodrow Wilson was 18 months old when his family left Staunton, but for the rest of his life he proudly called Staunton home. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to spend much time here to see why. ____________________ WoodrowWilsonInPerson.com
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COURTESY OF JOEL SALATIN
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Left to right, Chef Ian Boden at The Shack; beer garden at Coffee on the Corner; Joel Salatin of Polyface Farm, one of America’s most famous farms; and the entrance to Mill Street Grill.
PHOTO BY SERA PETRAS
PHOTO BY SERA PETRAS
Dining at zynodoa restaurant
Staunton’s restaurant scene is lively with an eclectic vibe. All kinds of dining establishments co-exist cheerfully — from authentic Americana to haute cuisine. Epicureans will enjoy innovative, award-winning chefs and excellent wine lists. Locavores will delight in the city’s burgeoning farm-to-table movement, fueled by the region’s rich agricultural heritage and the seasonal Farmers Market. Whether it is southern-style comfort food, delicious ribs, or even artisanal pizza — you’ll find it in Staunton. If you are looking for something casual, turn to bakeries, small grocers, and coffee shops that serve up fresh soup and sandwiches — or visit one of the local lunch spots (make sure you ask about the daily special.) A fun selection of wine bars, coffee houses, vineyard-tasting rooms, and small-batch breweries round out the local flavor.
» VisitStaunton.com/dining for the freshest list of dining options. 20
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“Who knew that Staunton is one of the country’s best-kept foodie secrets?” – Baltimore Magazine
< Staunton/Augusta Farmers’ Market Johnson Street Parking Lot, Staunton 540-448-1937 safarmersmarket.com Flowers, farm-fresh produce, herbs, snacks, fresh-baked goodies and more. Live entertainment select mornings. Check website for estimated produce availability. Hours: 7am-12 pm, Wednesday and Saturday (April through Thanksgiving).
COURTESY OF QUEEN CITY BREWING PHOTO BY WOODS PIERCE
PHOTO BY WOODS PIERCE
COURTESY OF THE BISTRO
VINEYARDS AND BREWERIES Barren Ridge Vineyards 984 Barren Ridge Road, Fishersville 540-248-3300 barrenridgevineyards.com Located on the grounds of a former apple orchard, Barren Ridge Vineyards features a diverse selection of handcrafted wines. A converted historic apple barn now houses the winery. Ox-Eye Vineyards Tasting Room 44 Middlebrook Avenue, Staunton 540-849-7926 oxeyevineyards.com Our focus is crafting high quality, food-friendly wines from grapes best suited to the soil and climate of our Shenandoah Valley farm. Visit our tasting room, located in the Historic Wharf district.
COURTESY OF MALCOLMS MARKET GARDEN
Queen City Brewing 834 Springhill Road, Staunton 540-213-8014 QCbrewing.com Brew your own beer, vint your own wine, or make your own soda. Beer to go – over 12 styles on tap. Redbeard Brewing Co. 120 South Lewis Street, Staunton 804-641-9340 redbeardbrews.com Specializing in small batches of big beers, Red Beard Brewing Company offers a wide selection of craft beers brewed on the premise. With taproom seating for 40+ in the heart of historic downtown Staunton. Selection of beers available on draft.
Rockbridge Vineyard 35 Hill View Lane, Raphine 540-377-6204 rockbridgevineyard.com Visit year-round and sample a taste of Rockbridge. 21 wines available including Riesling, Pinot Noir and famous Vd’Or Dessert Wine. Shenandoah Valley Brewing Co. 17 Middlebrook Avenue, Staunton 540-887-2337 shenvalbrew.com Shenandoah Valley Brewing Company is committed to the growing craft beer culture in the Shenandoah Valley. As a brewer and a supplier of home brew supplies, they offer a wide variety of grains, hops, yeast, brew-kits, and kegging equipment. Sampling offered in the taproom. Veritas Vineyard and Winery 151 Veritas Lane, Afton 540-456-8000 veritaswines.com Our philosophy is to make wine with the classic, old-style principles of Viticulture and Vinification, at the same time using state-of-the-art technology to capture varietal and regional character.
Clockwise from the top, Byers Street Bistro, Ox-Eye Tasting Room, Queen City Brewing, Malcolms Market Garden, The Split Banana Co.
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Blue Ridge Parkway Outstanding scenery and recreational opportunities make the Blue Ridge Parkway one of the most popular components of the National Park System. Split-rail fences, old farmsteads and historic structures complement spectacular views of distant mountains and neighboring valleys. blueridgeparkway.org
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Crabtree Falls The Crabtree Falls Trail features a series of five cascades and a number of smaller ones that fall a total distance of 1,200 feet. The trail provides views of the falls from overlooks constructed to accent the beauty of the Valley. The first overlook is just 700 feet from the lower parking lot, making it an excellent stopover for travelers. The more adventuresome hiker may continue to Crabtree Meadows where the trail ends, or to the Appalachian Trail, which is just one half mile beyond Crabtree Meadows. 11581 Crabtree Falls Hwy. (Rt. 56), Montebello
George Washington and Jefferson National Forests These two National Forests stretch from one end of Virginia to the other, as well as extending into West Virginia, along the ruggedly beautiful Appalachians. Virtually every type of outdoor recreation activity you can imagine is available. Of course hiking, fishing, mountain bicycling and camping lead the way, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget hawk watching, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, nature photography, and orienteering.
Humpback Rocks Visitors can tour a collection of 19th-century farm buildings. The area also houses a visitor center with exhibits, a picnic area, and trails. Interpretive programs during the summer months, staffed with costumed rangers who demonstrate mountain crafts and skills. Milepost 5.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
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Shenandoah National Park provides more than 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Some hikes will lead you to spectacular waterfalls or viewpoints while others penetrate deep into Shenandoah's wilderness areas. Car access is provided by Skyline Drive. nps.gov/shen
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One of “America’s Favorite Mountain Towns” — Travel+Leisure STAUNTON DEPARTMENT OF PARKS & RECREATION Betsy Bell Wilderness Park This park offers a magnificent view of the Shenandoah Valley from its observation platform (elev. 1,959 feet), which looks due east toward the Blue Ridge Mountains. The summit has picnic facilities and an observation area. Mountain bikers may wish to test their endurance by tackling the entire length of the access road. It offers a difficult climb, a breathtaking view, and an exciting downhill run. PHOTO BY KARI WATSON
COURTESY OF NATURAL BRIDGE
Gypsy Hill Park A sprawling 214-acre park that includes a public golf course, football and baseball stadiums, a gymnasium, a lake, a skate-boarding park, two playgrounds, three youth baseball fields, a public swimming pool, a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, tennis courts, the Gypsy Express Mini Train, the Duck Pond, and a bandstand. The Park’s 1.3-mile circular loop is a designated play street and is suitable for pedestrians and bicyclists of all ages.
Montgomery Hall Park 148 acres of rolling hills offers quiet woodlands and hiking, fitness, and birding trails. The park also has softball fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, a disc-golf course, soccer complex and a public swimming pool.
Once included on the “Seven Natural Wonders of the World,” Natural Bridge is located 45 minutes south of Staunton.
Sherando Lake
This Virginia Landmark, once owned by Thomas Jefferson, is a 215-foot limestone arch. Natural Bridge, along with the surrounding 1,500 acres is slated to become Virginia’s newest state park.
Known locally as the jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sherando’s beauty and history are part of the lives of several generations of Virginians. Families bring their children to Sherando and relive memories of their own parents bringing them. Swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, hiking, and camping are among the activities you can enjoy.
Natural Chimneys It’s hard to imagine, but the Shenandoah Valley was once the floor of a great inland sea. Centuries ago, as that sea receded, the forces of nature carefully etched out an unusual formation of solid rock. The seven Natural Chimneys tower as much as 120 feet above the pastoral terrain of the Shenandoah Valley.
Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness Area Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness is a rugged and steep piece of land on the eastern side of Shenandoah Mountain, a region redolent with memories of America’s Civil War. One of the largest tracts of virgin forest left in the eastern United States has been preserved here. Among the variety of plants you may see are some virgin hardwoods and hemlocks standing in the upper elevations and a more typical Appalachian forest of tulip poplar, red oak, and basswood.
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Skyline Drive Located along the crest of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Skyline Drive is a 105-mile scenic byway that traverses the entire length of Shenandoah National Park. Skyline Drive is considered one of America’s best drives. Plan to stop for a picnic at one of 75 overlooks and relax with breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Virginia Piedmont. visitskylinedrive.org
St. Mary’s Wilderness Congress designated the Saint Mary’s Wilderness in 1984 and it now has a total of 9,835 acres. The largest Virginia Wilderness on national forest land, it has elevations ranging from 1,700 feet to 3,400 feet, and includes 17 miles of trails. Along the Saint Mary’s River Gorge you can fish for native trout, walk through rhododendron and mountain laurel, and discover a lovely waterfall.
LET’S RIDE Many of our region’s best bicycling trails are located just outside Staunton in Augusta County. For a full list of on and off road biking options, from five to fifty miles in length, visit bikethevalley.org
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Natural Bridge
Local area cycling enthusiasts often meet at Black Dog Bikes for the following fast-paced road rides: • Tuesday Evenings — Medium-Paced Road Ride. Brisk ride through the scenic Shenandoah Valley countryside. Get a good workout without going hardcore. 15-20 miles. • Thursday Evenings — Fast Road Ride. The highly acclaimed weekly World Championship Road Ride of Augusta County! This is a fast-paced ride with regroups. KOMs and sprints will have you digging deep into your suitcase of courage. Or not. 25-30 miles. Riders gather at 5:30pm. Call 540-887-8700 before you show up. (April to October)
FALL FOLIAGE BIKE FESTIVAL (Every October)
Shenandoahbike.org
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Staunton has plenty of choices to match your style, location preference, and budget. With nearly 700 rooms available in our hotels, inns, guesthouses, and bed-andbreakfasts, Staunton is sure to please. Select from our many award-winning properties for an amazing night's rest and wake up refreshed and ready to explore.
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PHOTO BY WOODS PIERCE
For Meeting Planners
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The Staunton Convention & Visitors Bureau is happy to assist you in your planning efforts. We can help you find the right meeting space or conference location and we can also help plan leisure time activities and spousal programs. We aim to please - we want your Staunton experience to be a successful and profitable one! Call 1-800-342-7982 and start planning your visit today.
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PHOTO BY WOODS PIERCE
Staunton is centrally located in the historic Shenandoah Valley of Virginia at the intersection of I-64 and I-81, exits 220 through 225.
VISITOR CENTERS DOWNTOWN STAUNTON 35 South New Street Staunton, VA 24401 540-332-3971 APRIL-OCTOBER Open Daily 9am-6pm NOVEMBER-MARCH Open Daily 9:30am-5:30pm
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TRAVEL INFORMATION CENTER AT FRONTIER CULTURE MUSEUM 1290 Richmond Road Staunton, VA 24401 800-332-5219; 540-332-3972 Open Daily 9am-5pm
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DOWNTOWN STAUNTON MAP
CAR Driving directions from points north/south Take Interstate 81 to Exit 222. Follow Rt. 250 West (Richmond Road) for approximately 2 1/2 miles toward Historic Downtown Staunton. You will begin to see signs to the Visitor Center. When Rt. 250 ends at a "T" intersection - turn right onto Rt. 11 Business. Immediately turn left onto Greenville Avenue after you go under the train tracks. Proceed to your first stoplight and turn right onto New Street. The Visitor Center is on the right in the New Street parking garage. Driving directions from points east Take 64 West to Interstate 81 to Exit 222. Follow Rt. 250 West (Richmond Road) for approximately 2 1/2 miles toward Historic Downtown Staunton. You will begin to see signs to the Visitor Center. When Rt. 250 ends at a "T" - intersection turn right onto Rt. 11 Business. Immediately turn left onto Greenville Avenue after you go under the train tracks. Proceed to your first stoplight and turn right onto New Street. The Visitor Center is on the right in the New Street parking garage.
AIR Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (SHD) 77 Aviation Circle, Weyers Cave 540-234-8304 The Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport provides the quickest, most convenient access to the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. With well-timed departures and arrivals, SHD makes it easy and affordable to fly local. flyshd.com
RAIL Staunton Train Station (STA) 1 Middlebrook Avenue, Staunton 800-872-7245 The Cardinal offers unforgettable views of the Southeast's stunning natural beauty. You'll see gently rolling horse country, the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley as the Cardinal stops in Staunton. This is an unmanned station. For tickets or long-term parking information, call 1-800-USA-RAIL or visit online.amtrak.com.
TROLLEY The Green Route includes the downtown area, the Wharf Historic District and Gypsy Hill Park. The trolley makes a continuous loop around downtown, and stops at the Visitors Center every 30 minutes. There is a 25-cent charge to ride the trolley.
“One of America’s Best Main Streets” — Fodors
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PHOTO BY IAN BRADSHAW
TROLLEY SERVICE MAP
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GUIDED TOURS GHOSTS OF STAUNTON 540-448-2743 Hours: Weekends, April through October ghostsofstaunton.com
HISTORIC STAUNTON FOUNDATION’S FREE GUIDED ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOURS 18 North Coalter Street, Staunton 540-885-7676 Tours meet in front of Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and last 1½ hrs. Hours: 10am Saturday (May-October) historicstaunton.org
STAUNTON GUIDED TOURS 35 South New Street, Staunton 540-208-1741 Guided trolley and walking tours. Car tours of Historic Staunton, Augusta County, and Civil War battlefields, or step-on guide service. Tours meet at Staunton Visitor Center. stauntonguidedtours.com
PHOTO BY PETER AASLESTAD
“the most quintessentially American town… culturally rich and impossibly charming...” — Go Magazine
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VISITOR’S GUIDE VisitStaunton.com 800.342.7982 VISITOR CENTERS DOWNTOWN STAUNTON 35 South New Street Staunton, VA 24401 540-332-3971 APRIL-OCTOBER Open Daily 9am-6pm
Staunton Convention and Visitors Bureau City of Staunton PO Box 58 Staunton, Virginia 24402-0058
NOVEMBER-MARCH Open Daily 9:30am-5:30pm
TRAVEL INFORMATION CENTER AT FRONTIER CULTURE MUSEUM 1290 Richmond Road Staunton, VA 24401 800-332-5219; 540-332-3972 Open Daily 9am-5pm
VISITOR’S GUIDE “One of the Best Small Towns in America” – Smithsonian