Every January, Virginia Living Magazine asks its readers to name their favorite businesses and attractions in a write-in poll. The magazine features them in its Best of Virginia issue, which is designed to guide readers to all the best places in five different Virginia regions. Locals and visitors voted for favorites, and Staunton really shines as a place to visit and do business. Read on to find out who of your favorites are award winners in various categories. If you haven’t yet visited, what are you waiting for? Best of Food & Drink Breakfast/Brunch Restaurant – 2nd Place: Kathy’s Resta ..read more

Are babysitters just too expensive or are you just too tired to go out after work? Take advantage of free childcare (school) and one of those days off you never use by planning a day date in Staunton. There’s plenty of stuff to do, you’ll have more energy, and many things are cheaper during the day. Here’s how to spend a memorable day with the love of your life and get home in time to meet the bus. Shop and Sitesee Like a Grownup It’s no fun taking kids places where their curious fingers can break stuff. Take advantage of your kid-free afternoon to indulge in Staunton’s most delicate offerings ..read more

Late spring is an ideal time of year to get out and about with the family. Staunton has a lot to offer before summer camps start, and it’s just too hot to do anything besides tan by the pool. Our town has a delightful blend of history, culture, and outdoor fun for families. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or tweens, there’s something for everyone. Here’s how to spend a kids’ day out in Staunton. Museums Combine your family’s love of history with your love of the outdoors. Part museum, part park, the Frontier Culture Museum uses costumed interpreters to bring history to life. The museum ..read more

Many of us rely on sight when we experience the world, but if you slow down and pay attention, Staunton offers many chances to enjoy the community with your other senses, too. Whether you’re sipping coffee in cozy cafes, marveling at historic buildings, or immersing yourself in theatrical magic, Staunton promises an unforgettable sensory journey. Make plans to visit Staunton, where every sight, sound, taste, touch, and scent will delight your senses. Taste  Staunton has many wonderful places to eat and drink, but you’ll really enjoy the food and wine pairings that you’ll get when you vis ..read more

Staunton might be easy to visit, but it’s nearly impossible to forget. Here you’ll step back in time to experience living history, historic architecture, and delicious treats at a retro ice cream shop. You’ll see the creation and display of art forged from molten materials, ride the same mini-train your grand folks loved as kids, and be mesmerized by theatrical productions. Staunton is a charming town with a rich history, and these are just a few of the many icons that make it so special. So, come on down and experience everything the Queen City has to offer! Wright’s Dairy Rite Crave a taste ..read more

Do you have a free weekend coming up but have no idea how to fill it? Do you want to learn a new outdoor skill, but don’t know where to start? If you’re excited about outdoor adventure but struggling with the details, let someone else take charge. Here are some Staunton spring outdoor adventures where experienced guides have gathered the equipment, mapped the route, and planned the activities. All you need to do is show up and have fun! And don’t forget to use Staunton places to stay as your home base for all these great guided adventures! Horseback Riding Choose your adven ..read more

Spring is here, and it’s time to get outside and enjoy it! Staunton’s Shop and Dine Out in Downtown weekend program will resume on Friday, April 5th and continue through October 27th. The popular program started during the pandemic but has become a permanent warm-weather Staunton tradition showcasing the best of the city’s vibrant food scene, culture, and community. Each week, Beverley Street closes on Fridays at 4:00 pm and remains closed until Monday mornings at 7:30 am. This allows restaurants and businesses to set up al fresco dining areas and merchandise displays. Shop in unique and local ..read more

Before the 1850s, the only way to get anywhere in the Shenandoah Valley was to travel by horseback or stagecoach along the Valley Pike (today’s Route 11), which connected Staunton to Winchester and beyond. When the Virginia Central Railroad arrived in 1854, Staunton became a hub for commerce and travel. Today, Staunton is a vibrant city brimming with culture, history, beautiful architecture, and scenery. It makes perfect sense that people would want to live here if they can and visit if they can’t, especially since they don’t have to bounce along in a stuffy stagecoach. Here are all the ways t ..read more

With the arrival of spring, it’s time to welcome some new local businesses to the Staunton community. Looking for a new favorite place to eat, drink, shop, or create? Here are the businesses that have recently opened their doors. Take a walk downtown to enjoy the spring flowers and celebrate Staunton’s newest small businesses. Foxtails / 105 E Beverley St  The charming gifts and home decor you’ll find in Foxtails are inspired by nature. Many are handmade and unique, and some celebrate Staunton or Virginia. Shoppers will find whimsical greeting cards, hand-poured candles, flower presses, j ..read more

Technically, your bucket list is the list of important things you want to do before you kick the bucket. But if thoughts of your demise are too macabre for you, just think of it as a list of things that will help you live your best life and enjoy interesting experiences. If you’re looking for inspiration for bucket-worthy springtime activities near Staunton, here are ideas to get you started. Make Staunton your home base as you check these off! Commune with Nature We all say we want to get outside for relaxation, fitness, and learning about the environment. Celebrate National Park Week on Apri ..read more