Explore the Best Things to Do in Staunton, VA

While staying at By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages, take a day trip to some of the other beautiful towns in the Shenandoah Valley. You’ll find tons of things to do in Staunton, VA, located just 30 minutes north of Harrisonburg. You can explore museums, dine in excellent restaurants, and learn about the arts scene.

As you begin planning your getaway, be sure to request a complimentary copy of our Shenandoah Valley Vacation Guide! You’ll get access to insider tips on the best places to eat and visit while in town. Plus, learn more about the great things to do in Staunton, VA!

Top 3 Things to Do in Staunton, VA

Museums & Historic Sites

The quaint town of Staunton is best known as the birthplace of the 28th U.S. president, Woodrow Wilson. Because of its close tie to a former president and its involvement in the Civil War, Staunton offers tons of museums and historic places to visit. Take a trip to the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library to explore the museum and learn about Wilson’s contributions to prohibition and WWI.

If you’re interested in learning about colonial times, the Frontier Culture Museum tells the in-depth story of the American colonies. With exhibits ranging from the 1600s through the 1850s, the facility explains English, German, West African, and American farming techniques. Each exhibit reveals an interesting insight into how individual cultures shaped American values and institutions.

Outdoor Activities

The Shenandoah Valley is arguably one of the best beautiful mountainous destinations on the East Coast. Naturally, there are plenty of outdoor activities in an area because of the stunning scenery. A visit to the Betsy Bell Wilderness Park is one of the most rewarding things to do in Staunton, VA. Pack a lunch and have a picnic in the park. Then, climb to the 1,959-foot summit for breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Horseback riding in VA is another exciting, and romantic, activity. Star B Stables in Staunton offers guided trail tours through the beautiful countryside. Breath in the fresh, open air while trotting through the wilderness and basking in the magnificent mountain views.

Arts & Culture

Have you ever witnessed the amazing art of glassblowing in action? Every day until 4 p.m. head to Sunspots Studios for a live demonstration! Watch the artists heat a slab of glass until it’s almost a liquid consistency, then shape it into a beautiful creation within seconds. After the demonstration, try your hand at the art and create your own ornament.

Spend the evening at the American Shakespeare Center to attend a performance of one of Shakespeare’s classic plays. Immerse yourself in the age of the Renaissance in this theater that re-creates the atmosphere of the playwright’s original indoor playhouse.

Book a Room at By the Side of the Road 

After an adventurous day exploring the town, be sure to check out other great things to do in Staunton, VA. At By the Side of the Road, you’ll have access to tons of Harrisonburg restaurants and attractions, too. Book a stay in one of our rooms or cottages to stay close to the best activities in the area. With a gourmet breakfast delivered to your door each morning, By the Side of the Road is the perfect place to stay in the Shenandoah Valley.

If you’re looking to take a getaway to VA as a couple, you should consider a stay in our romantic luxury cabins and cottages. Complete with a fireplace, king-sized feather bed, and a half spiral staircase, the Fitzgerald Cottage is a circa-1840 limestone structure. Enjoy your daily breakfast in the separate dining area and relax in the whirlpool tub.

Browse the complete catalog of our available rooms and cottages and start planning your Shenandoah Valley getaway today!