31 Best & Fun Things To Do In Staunton, VA
Are you thinking about going to Staunton, Virginia, and want to find fun things to do there? Don’t look any further! You’re in the right place. We’re going to talk about the 31 best and most fun things to do in Staunton, VA, so you can have the time of your life.
Staunton, Virginia, is a lovely town in the middle of the Shenandoah Valley. It is full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Woodrow Wilson, the 28th president of the United States, was born in this town. It is also home to Mary Baldwin University, a historic women’s college.
There is something for everyone to do in Staunton, Virginia. There are outdoor activities, cultural events, shopping, eating, and a lot more. Visit the American Shakespeare Center, the Frontier Culture Museum, and the Thornrose Cemetery to learn about history and pay your respects.
31 Best & Fun Things To Do In Staunton, VA (2024)
1. Frontier Culture Museum
The Frontier Culture Museum is the largest live history museum in the Shenandoah Valley. It’s a great place to start your trip in Staunton.
The Frontier Culture Museum is spread out over 200 acres and tells the story of early American residents and the many cultures that helped shape the country. This living museum has eight different places that show how people lived in the early American frontier and in West Africa, England, Germany, Ireland, and the United States.
In each part of the museum, there are reconstructed historic houses and farmsteads, as well as costumed interpreters who show how to do everyday tasks, traditional crafts, and farming methods.
It also has educational programs and exhibits that you can connect with, so people of all ages can enjoy their time there.
Address: 1290 Richmond Road, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
2. American Shakespeare Center
The Blackfriars Playhouse at the American Shakespeare Center (ASC) is the only indoor recreation of Shakespeare’s theater. Seeing a show there at night is a fun thing to do in Staunton, VA.
This neighborhood theater puts on plays that are staged in a way that is true to Shakespeare’s time. People in the audience are urged to take part, which makes the atmosphere cozy and lively.
Besides that, the ASC also has many training events like summer camps, workshops, and lectures. Whether you’ve been to the theater before or this is your first time, a trip to the ASC is sure to be an amazing experience.
Address: 10 S Market Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
3. Gypsy Hill Park
In Staunton, Virginia, one family-friendly thing to do is to look around Gypsy Hill Park. There are lots of fun things to do in this 214-acre urban park.
This park can be used for many different activities. It has a lake, walking and biking paths, sports facilities, and a cute duck pond.
Families can enjoy the parks, picnic areas, and swimming pools during certain times of the year. Sports fans can use the golf course, tennis courts, and athletic fields.
You can also find the Gypsy Hill Bandstand, where free concerts are held during the summer, and the Gypsy Express Mini Train, which is a favorite place for kids to play.
Address: 600 Churchville Avenue, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
4. Trinity Episcopal Church
Trinity Episcopal Church, which was built in 1855 and is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival design, is one of the most important places to see in Staunton, Virginia.
The church is on 9.9 acres, and the thing that makes it stand out are its beautiful stained glass windows, many of which were made by the famous Tiffany Studios.Another interesting thing is the church’s old graveyard, which has graves from the 18th century.
People can go on guided tours that teach them more about the church’s past and architectural importance.Trinity Episcopal Church is still used for worship, and people are welcome to come and enjoy its spiritual and historical richness.
Address: 214 W Beverley Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
5. R.R. Smith Center For History & Art
One of the best things for history and art fans to do in Staunton, VA, is to check out the R.R. Smith Center for History & Art.
The Staunton Augusta Art Center, the Augusta County Historical Society, and the old Staunton Foundation are all housed in this old building.
The art center has workshops, classes, and special events, as well as changing shows of modern art by local and area artists.
The museum of the historical society, on the other hand, shows off the rich past of Staunton and Augusta County through permanent and changing displays of artifacts, photographs, and papers.
The center also has educational programs and talks, which makes it a place where people can learn about history and culture.
Address: 20 S New Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
6. Gypsy Hill Golf Course
This weekend, one fun thing to do in Staunton, VA, is to make a tee time at Gypsy Hill Golf Course, a public course with lots of big trees for shade.
This beautiful course is in Gypsy Hill Park. It has great views and is difficult for golfers of all levels. The title course has 19 holes, is 5,899 yards long, and has a par of 71. It’s fun for both experienced and new golfers.
There is also a golf pavilion, a fully stocked golf shop, cart rentals, individual golf lessons, summer tennis clinics, and a full schedule of tournaments at the course.
Address: 1 Deaver Drive, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
7. Beverley Historic District
Today, one of the many free things to do in Staunton, VA is to walk around the Beverley Historic District. This historic area is Staunton’s main street, and it has a great mix of old-fashioned charm and modern conveniences.
There are a lot of shops, art galleries, cafes, and boutiques in the well-kept 19th-century buildings that line the neighborhood.
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Since this historic area isn’t very big, take your time and look around the one-of-a-kind shops. You can find handmade goods, vintage clothes, fine art, and gourmet treats. There are also a number of restaurants and bars in the area, ranging from casual coffee shops to high-end places.
Address: Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
8. Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library And Museum
The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum is one of the most important places to see in Staunton. It is in the house where the 28th President of the United States was born.
There are many exhibits at the museum that cover many aspects of Woodrow Wilson’s life and presidency. These include personal items, official papers, and hands-on displays.The beautifully renovated birthplace has furniture and decorations from Wilson’s childhood that give visitors a look into his early life.
The library also holds talks, special events, and educational programs, which makes it a useful place for historians and people who are interested in learning.
Address: 20 N Coalter Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
9. Montgomery Hall Park
Montgomery Hall Park is a family-friendly place to visit in Staunton, Virginia. It is in a quiet residential area.
This lovely park covers 148 acres and has many fun things to do outside and beautiful views. There are sports areas, playgrounds, picnic shelters, trails, a public swimming pool, and rolling hills in the park.
The trails are not all the same level of difficult, so they can be used by both casual walkers and expert hikers. There is also a disc golf course, sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic spots in the park. There are lots of great places to enjoy the outdoors and see Staunton’s natural beauty.
Address: 1000 Montgomery Avenue, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
10. Augusta Military Academy Museum
One of the best ways to learn about the past of the prestigious Augusta Military Academy is to go to the Augusta Military Academy Museum.
There are many displays in the museum that tell the story of the school and its cadets. These include uniforms, photos, papers, and artifacts.
People can learn about how the school has changed military education and how it has affected the community. The museum is a great place for history buffs and researchers because it has educational programs and guided trips.
Address: 1640 Lee Hwy, Fort Defiance, VA 24437, United States.
11. Star B Stables
At Star B Stables, riding a horse into the country is one of the best things to do outside in Staunton today. Star B Stables has a lot of horse lessons and practice areas for riders of all skill levels.
Visitors can learn about natural horsemanship, how to train horses, how to ride properly, how to imprint foals, and how to do daily ranch tasks like feeding, cleaning, and care for horses. At Star B Stables, you can work with cattle on horseback and feel the thrill of gathering and sorting them.
Address: 2926 Barterbrook Road, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
12. Massanutten Resort
The Massanutten Resort is in Massanutten, VA, which is less than an hour’s drive from Staunton. It’s a fun place to visit with family and friends.
This stunning resort is spread out over 6,000 acres and has a lot of great services and condo and hotel rooms. The building has an indoor and outdoor water park, a ski and adventure park, two golf courses, a farm-to-table restaurant, and places to shop and play.
The resort also has world-class wineries and craft breweries, as well as nature trails, caves, and river rafting, which makes it a great place to start your weekend.
Address: 1822 Resort Drive, Massanutten, VA 22840, United States.
13. Mary Baldwin University
One of the many free things to do in Staunton, Virginia is to check out Mary Baldwin University, which has been around since 1842. The university is the oldest college or university in the country for women.
There are also many interesting things to see at the institution, such as the SMA-VWIL Museum and the Hunt Gallery, which shows modern art by professional artists as well as art by Mary Baldwin University students and staff.
When you go, you can be amazed by the beautiful architecture, learn about the past at the museum, and look at art at the Hunt Gallery.
Address: 101 E Frederick Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
14. Staunton Music Festival
The Staunton Music Festival is one of the best summer things to do in Staunton, VA. It takes place in August. Every year, this event brings over 90 of the best musicians in the world to town for a week of shows that are both unique and captivating.
A lot of different kinds of music are played at the event, from jazz and folk to classical and modern. Concerts happen in many places in Staunton, such as outdoor areas, old churches, and theaters.
Besides performances, the festival also has workshops, lectures, and masterclasses where musicians and music lovers can learn more about the art form and improve their respect for it.
Address: 214 W Beverley Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
15. Gypsy Express Mini Train
The Gypsy Express Mini Train is a fun thing for kids to do in Staunton, VA. It is in Gypsy Hill Park and circles a beautiful part of the park.
Kids and grandkids of people who rode the mini train for the first time more than 50 years ago can enjoy a short, fun ride on it. Take the train to Gypsy Hill Park and enjoy its beauty.
Address: 600 Churchville Avenue, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
16. Crack The Code Escape Room
Want to do something fun with your family and friends in Staunton, VA? Then, visit Crack the Code Escape Room for an exciting journey full of puzzles and other challenges.
There are hard puzzles, scary moments, and an exciting plot in the escape room that are perfect for adding some excitement. It’s also a one-of-a-kind and exciting event that’s great for groups seeking something fun and different.
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Because there are four rooms, each with a different theme, it’s a great experience. You can go to Written in the Subway NYC, Crazy Cat Lady, The Dark Mage’s Rise, and Seance: Family Secrets, among other escape rooms.
Address: 300 Church St Bldg. B, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
17. Shenandoah National Park
One of the best things to do outside near Staunton, Virginia, is to visit Shenandoah National Park, which is only a 37-minute drive away.
The Shenandoah National Park covers 199,173 acres and is full of beautiful views, blooming fields, waterfalls, and quiet wooded hollows. Lands that are protected in Shenandoah National Park are a safe home for black deer, deer, and songbirds.
The popular Skyline Drive has 105 miles of scenic overlooks, trailheads, picnic spots, and campgrounds that people can use for hiking.
Address: Virginia, United States.
18. Staunton Farmers’ Market
From April to November, the Staunton Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday. This weekend, one of the interesting things to do in Staunton is to shop for fresh food there.
There is a lot of fresh, locally grown food, handmade crafts, and tasty baked goods at the market. There are also a lot of people there, and you can meet farmers and artists, try seasonal fruits and veggies, and buy one-of-a-kind items made by hand.
There’s often live music and other fun events, which make the mood even livelier and more festive. Shopping at the farmers’ market is a great way to support the community and enjoy fresh, local food.
Address: Byers Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
19. Augusta Archers
The Augusta Archers have been around since the 1950s and offer some of the most exciting things to do in Staunton, VA.
This park is 90 acres big and has an indoor 9-target range, bathrooms, showers, and a kitchen with everything you need.
Archery gear, like bows, treestands, and extras, is available to make your fun even more exciting. Visitors can look at and play with this gear in a safe and controlled setting.
Address: 33 Archery Lane, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
20. Sunspots Studios Glassblowing
Sunspots Studios Glassblowing is a gift shop and glassblowing workshop in the historic downtown area of Staunton.
People can go to this family-run business and watch skilled glassblowers make beautiful works of art right in front of them.
A lot of different kinds of glass art, like vases, ornaments, and jewelry, are for sale at the store. You can also try your hand at glassblowing and make your own one-of-a-kind piece of art at Sunspots Studios’ classes. Visitors of all ages will find it interesting and informative.
Address: 202 S Lewis Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
21. Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway, which is often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” is not far from Staunton and has stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains.
There are many scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic places along the parkway, which is the longest linear park in the U.S. It is 469 miles long.
As part of your plans in Staunton, take a slow drive and enjoy the beautiful views, or stop at one of the many trailheads to go hiking through the beautiful mountains. When the leaves change bright shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall, the road is especially beautiful.
Address: Virginia, United States.
22. Thornrose Cemetery
Thornrose Cemetery is one of the most beautiful places in the country to visit today. It’s one of the strangest things to do in Staunton, VA.
Thornrose Cemetery was founded in 1849 and is a beautifully landscaped historic cemetery with some very impressive statues and mausoleums. The cemetery is where many important people from Staunton’s history are buried, including Civil War soldiers and important local citizens.
The cemetery’s winding roads and lots of trees and plants make it a peaceful spot for a walk to think. Guided tours tell you about the cemetery’s past and the people who are buried there.
Address: 1041 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
23. Staunton Lanes
Want to do something fun tonight in Staunton, VA? After that, go to Staunton Lanes, an activity center where families can have fun together.
This family-run business has a lot of bowling lanes for people who like to play. PJ’s Snack Bar also serves tasty food and drinks so that bowling fans can stay energized for more games.
Address: 831 Greenville Ave, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
24. Staunton Ghost Tours
Tonight, another exciting thing to do in Staunton, VA is to take a tour of the town’s historic street with Staunton Ghost Tours.
The tour is led by knowledgeable people who will show you some of Staunton’s most eerie spots and tell you scary stories about ghosts and other strange things that have happened.
Based on historical study and local stories, the tours mix historical mystery with supernatural intrigue. Whether you believe in ghosts or just like a good story, Staunton Ghost Tours will make you laugh and feel scared.
Address: Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
25. Ox-Eye Vineyards
Ox-Eye Vineyards has a lovely tasting room in downtown Staunton where both tourists and locals can try their delicious wines.
The farm has been around since 1996 and makes many kinds of wine, such as Chardonnay, Riesling, and Cabernet Franc. The tasting room is in a nicely restored historic building that makes for a comfortable and friendly space.
There are also trained professionals at Ox-Eye Vineyards who can help you with the tasting and tell you about the wine-making process. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon and enjoy some of Virginia’s best wines by going to this farm.
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Address: 44 Middlebrook Avenue, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
26. Camera Heritage Museum
The Camera Heritage Museum is the biggest public camera museum in the United States. It is another interesting thing to do in Staunton.
The museum takes care of and shows off a huge collection of more than 6,500 cameras, from old box cameras to new digital ones.
The museum’s displays show how photography has changed over time and include rare and historically important cameras, such as those used by famous shooters and in important events in history.
History and photography buffs will both find the museum’s displays and hands-on exhibits interesting. The museum also has educational events and tours with a guide.
Address: 1 W Beverley Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
27. Visulite Cinemas
If you’re with someone sweet in Staunton, VA, you can watch your favorite movie at Visulite Cinemas, a movie theater from the 1930s right in the middle of downtown Staunton.
This small theater shows both popular and independent movies and has a comfortable atmosphere with wide aisles and high-back rocker seats. It also has a digital projector that is very clear and great sound.
Visulite Cinemas has movie times that you can check out. Plan to spend a few hours with your partner and family watching the newest big hit.
Address: 12 N Augusta Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
28. Virginia Scenic Railway
The Virginia Scenic Railway offers viewing trips through some of Virginia’s most beautiful scenery, such as the Blue Ridge Mountains and the famous Shenandoah Valley. This is one of many fun things to do in Staunton today.
The Virginia Scenic Railway gives fun tours of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley. The Alleghany Special and the Blue Ridge Flyer are the two trips that the ride currently offers. The historic Amtrak Staunton stop in Staunton, Virginia, is where these round-trip trains leave from.
Interestingly, each trip ticket comes with a choice of a meal or dessert, as well as a drink served in a free souvenir glass. Plan your trip ahead of time as part of your Staunton plan.
Address: STA, 12 Middlebrook Avenue, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
29. Staunton Jams Music Festival
The Staunton Jams Music Festival is a free event that everyone can enjoy in Staunton, VA. It happens every other year in the middle of downtown Staunton and presents live music.
At this free event, a variety of local bands and artists play on stages set up outside along Beverley Street. There are also food vendors, craft booths, and activities that are good for the whole family at the event, which makes it feel lively and happy.
You can enjoy a fun-filled day with friends and family at Staunton Jams while taking in the town’s lively music scene.
Address: Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
30. Antique Fire Engine Museum
The Antique Fire Engine Museum is another historic thing to do in Staunton today. It tells you about the past of firefighting.
This museum is in Staunton’s old firehouse and has a collection of old fire trucks and other firefighting gear.
With its displays of old fire trucks, uniforms, and tools, the museum gives a fascinating look into the past of fighting fires. It is also home to Jumbo, the oldest motorized fire truck in Virginia and the only 1911 Robinson fire truck that is still in use.
When you go, you can learn about how firefighting equipment has changed over the years and the brave work that firefighters have done over the years. The museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the past of the fire service or old weapons.
Address: 500 N Augusta Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
31. Staunton Augusta Art Center
If you like art, the Staunton Augusta Art Center is one of the best things to do in Staunton, VA.
This art school, which is in the R.R. Smith school, helps and promotes artists and gives everyone in the community access to arts education and experiences.
The center has changing exhibits of modern art by local and regional artists, giving both new and known artists a chance to show their work.
The center also holds many art classes, workshops, and other events so that people in the neighborhood can get involved with the arts. There is a lot to see and do at the Staunton Augusta Art Center, whether you are an artist or just like art.
Address: 20 S New Street, Staunton, VA 24401, United States.
32. Day Trip To The Grand Caverns
The Grand Caverns are one of the best things to do near Staunton today. They are in Grottoes, which is only a short drive away.
The Grand Caverns is the oldest regularly running show cave in the United States. It has been open since 1806.The caves have beautiful stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations made of limestone.
Visitors can go on guided tours that show them the well-lit passageways of the caverns and talk about the cave’s past and geology. Grand Caverns has hiking trails, picnic areas, and a mini-golf course in addition to the cave tours. It’s a fun and interesting day trip for the whole family.
Address: 5 Grand Cavern Road, Grottoes, VA 24441, United States.