This Laid-Back Virginia Town Offers Cute Shops, Restaurants, & Shenandoah Valley Views

Virginia has numerous charming destinations, but there is something special about Staunton. Hidden in the Shenandoah Valley, this small town has mountain views, a rich legacy, and a walkable downtown. Often ranked among the most charming small towns to visit in Virginia, this gem has an impressive art scene and views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You'll also find streets with beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, restaurants serving delicious dishes, and an array of cute shops selling everything from antiques to handmade crafts. Whether you are planning a shopping getaway, a sightseeing trip, or you have a craving for Virginia treats, you will feel at home in Staunton.

Staunton is 40 miles west of Charlottesville and a 45-minute drive from Shenandoah National Park's Skyline Drive, which means you can pair urban exploration with an outdoor adventure. If you are flying in, the nearest airport is Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport, 20 miles northeast of the town. Staunton dates back to the mid-1700s and is famous for being the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson. The town flourished during the railroad boom of the 19th century, which is visible in the preserved historic districts, especially along Beverly Street. Despite its history, Staunton isn't stuck in the past, but alive with creativity, including live performances at the American Shakespeare Center as well as local art galleries.

Staunton boasts some of the most underrated destinations in all of Virginia, from boutique shops to fine dining spots and beautiful surroundings. You can start your shopping adventure along Beverly Street at Made: By the People, For the People, which showcases locally crafted jewelry, art prints, and quirky gifts for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. If you are an avid reader, the many Staunton bookstores promise diverse reads from amazing local authors. Stop by The Book Dragon along Beverly Street to browse your favorite authors or discover intriguing reads as you appreciate the local art.

Dive into the town's food scene and savor delicious Southern dishes at the local restaurants. Housed in a historic building on Beverly Street, Zynodoa offers an elevated dining experience with Southern hospitality. It's a farm-to-table restaurant that showcases Virginia's ingredients through its seasonal menu. For a more relaxed dining experience, visit The Shack. The Chef Ian Boden-owned restaurant has an ever-changing menu with locally sourced ingredients. You can enjoy delicious dishes like smoked trout dip or crispy pork belly with seasonal vegetables. Got a sweet tooth? The Split Banana eatery is known for gelato in tasty flavors like Guinness Extra Stout. Don't miss a chance to visit Staunton Olive Oil Company where you can taste and bottle fresh olive oils and balsamic vinegars in unique flavors.

Staunton's charm extends beyond the cute shops and menus. You can enjoy beautiful views of the Shenandoah Valley from Skyline Drive, 17 miles northeast of downtown. Running through Shenandoah National Park, the Skyline Drive has beautiful overlooks where you can stop and soak in sweeping vistas.

Your vacation in Staunton isn't complete without visiting Shenandoah National Park. Here, you can follow the Shenandoah National Park Trail which ends in a stunning waterfall (specifically, the Rose River Loop Trail). This moderate, 4-mile hike passes through lush forests and rewards you with stunning views of the 67-foot Rose River Falls. If you are a wine buff, follow the Shenandoah Valley Trail which passes by Barren Ridge Vineyards where you can taste fine wines while enjoying panoramic mountain views. Craft beer enthusiasts can visit Waynesboro (12 miles south of Staunton), home to the popular Basic City Beer Co. Sample the diverse lineup of creative brews paired with flavorful dishes.

Looking for a fun day trip destination? You can spend the day at Luray Caverns, an hour's drive northeast of Staunton. Here you can explore spectacular cave systems as you walk through cathedral-sized chambers filled with towering stalactites and pools. You can also catch a glimpse of the Great Stalacpipe Organ, which produces music when you tap the natural formations. If you still have some juice left, explore the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum, toy museum, and garden maze which are included in your ticket to Luray Cavern.