· US

Staunton

Staunton, Virginia, United States

Staunton, nestled in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, is a charming and historic city that offers a delightful mix of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant community spirit. Known for its …

#Historic town#Shenandoah Valley#Cultural attractions#Small town charm#Blue Ridge Mountains

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Staunton.

Top Hotels in Staunton

Top Flights to Staunton

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Staunton.

Tours

Explore the Staunton Historic District

Walk through the charming streets of the Staunton Historic District, featuring beautiful architecture and notable landmarks from the 19th century.

Shopping

Shopping at the Staunton Mall

Visit the Staunton Mall for a variety of shops and dining options.

Outdoor

Hiking in the Shenandoah National Park

Enjoy a day of hiking in the beautiful Shenandoah National Park, featuring miles of trails with stunning views.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Staunton.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Staunton, Virginia is around 25,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Staunton

Jan

5°-5°

Feb

7°-4°

Mar

12°0°

Apr

18°5°

May

23°10°

Jun

27°15°

Jul

30°18°

Aug

29°17°

Sep

25°13°

Oct

19°7°

Nov

12°2°

Dec

7°-2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Staunton.

What people love

Staunton, Virginia, located in the United States, offers several advantages for travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Staunton:

Historic Architecture: Staunton boasts a beautiful historic downtown with well-preserved architecture from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets lined with historic buildings.
Arts and Culture: Staunton is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. The city is home to the American Shakespeare Center's Blackfriars Playhouse, the world's only re-creation of Shakespeare's indoor theater.
Outdoor Recreation: The Staunton area offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The nearby Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest provide ample opportunities for exploring the great outdoors.
Local Cuisine: Staunton has a burgeoning food scene, with diverse dining options ranging from farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes and breweries. Visitors can savor locally sourced ingredients and unique culinary creations.
Quaint Small-Town Charm: Travelers to Staunton can experience the charm of a small Southern town with friendly locals, quaint shops, and a relaxed pace of life. The city's welcoming atmosphere makes it a pleasant destination for a leisurely getaway.

Overall, Staunton, Virginia, offers a blend of history, culture, outdoor recreation, and culinary delights that make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking a unique and enriching experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Staunton, Virginia, United States may include:

Limited public transportation options: Staunton is a relatively small city, and public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. This could make it more challenging to get around without a car.
Seasonal weather extremes: Staunton experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Travelers should be prepared for potential weather extremes depending on the time of year they visit.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: While Staunton offers a charming small-town atmosphere, the city may not have as many nightlife and entertainment options as larger cities. Travelers looking for a vibrant nightlife scene may find Staunton lacking in this aspect.
Limited dining options: While Staunton has some great local restaurants and eateries, the dining scene may be limited compared to larger cities with more diverse culinary offerings.
Limited shopping opportunities: Staunton may have fewer shopping options compared to larger cities, which could be a drawback for travelers looking for a variety of shopping experiences.

Overall, these cons should be considered in the context of the overall travel experience and individual preferences.

Staunton, Virginia, is a city with a rich historical background and significant contributions to American history. Located in the Shenandoah Valley, it serves as the county seat of Augusta County. Here are some key points in the history of Staunton, Virginia:

Early History and Founding

Settlement and Establishment: Staunton was first settled in the 1730s and became an official town in 1747. It was named after Lady Rebecca Staunton, the wife of colonial lieutenant governor Sir William Gooch.
Frontier Town: In its early years, Staunton served as a frontier town and a hub for westward expansion.

Revolutionary War Era

Revolutionary War Contributions: During the American Revolution, the city played a role as a supply depot for the Continental Army. It was strategically important due to its location in the Valley of Virginia.

19th Century Developments

Birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson: Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, was born in Staunton on December 28, 1856. His birthplace is now the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum.
County Seat: Staunton became the county seat of Augusta County, further solidifying its importance in the region.
Virginia Central Railroad: The arrival of the Virginia Central Railroad in the mid-19th century spurred economic growth and increased accessibility.

Civil War

Civil War Impact: Staunton was a significant supply base for the Confederacy during the Civil War. Its strategic position made it a target, and Union forces occupied the city in June 1864 during the Valley Campaigns.

Post-Civil War and 20th Century

Growth and Development: Following the Civil War, Staunton continued to grow. It was known for its educational institutions, including the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind.
Staunton's Architectural Heritage: The city is noted for its historic architecture, with many buildings dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Beverley Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Mary Baldwin University: Founded in 1842, Mary Baldwin University is an important educational institution in Staunton, known for its programs and historic campus.

Modern Era

Preservation and Tourism: Staunton has gained recognition for its preservation efforts and its vibrant arts and culture scene. The American Shakespeare Center's Blackfriars Playhouse, a re-creation of Shakespeare's indoor theater, is a notable cultural landmark.
Economic and Cultural Revival: The city has seen a revival in recent years, with a focus on tourism, arts, and heritage conservation, making it a popular destination for visitors interested in history and culture.

Staunton, Virginia, with its rich history, notable historical figures, and preservation of historic landmarks, continues to be an important cultural and historical center in the Shenandoah Valley.