Staunton and Waynesboro are part of Augusta County , beautiful scenic farmland graces the landscape here. Augusta is one of Virginia’s largest counties. Activities abound in the Central Shenandoah Valley The scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive are close for cycling, hiking, wildlife viewing and outstanding vistas. The Appalachian Trail is always a popular spot to experience one of America’s most famous lineal hiking parks.

Historical tours fine restaurants, wine tasting and relaxing with mountain backdrops make the area special. Antique lovers will find lots of opportunities including a large mall in Verona. Another area shop has lots for collectors of military memorabilia to consider. A glass blowing shop offers original copper and glass art and also gives visitors a chance to observe glass blowing daily in Staunton.

The American Shakespeare Center downtown is the only re-creation of Shakespeare’s original indoor theatre. Also home of the Statler Brothers, the area celebrates with seasonal events such as the Virginia Fall Foliage Festival, Daylily and Wine Festival, the Blue Ridge Soap Derby and the Victorian Spring Festival.There are several recreational lakes nearby for fishing and outdoor enjoyment. Ramsey’s Draft and St. Mary Wilderness areas offer splendid hiking opportunities.

Staunton began as a small village in 1761, it was later incorporated in 1801. One unusual fact about the city of Stanton is that the town’s older houses and buildings escaped the destruction of the Civil War. It’s 18th and 19th century architecture is still on display. The location of the railroad in 1854 in Staunton made it a hub for all of Western Virginia. The town was an important supply depot for the Confederates during the war.

There are several historic neighborhoods there including the Historic Wharf District, a National Historic Landmark. This unique area has several restaurants, train station and other shopping opportunities. The Historic Downtown area has over 60 shops and 20 restaurants. Gypsy Hill Park has a public golf course and there are lots of activities there for the whole family. Downtown walking tours start with a detailed brochure from the Visitor Center.

Staunton is known as the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson , a museum honors him. The American Frontier Museum is an outdoor, living history museum and educational institution. The Museum features six permanent outdoor exhibits comprised of original farm buildings from Britain, Germany and Virginia. Mary Baldwin College is located in town.

Waynesboro began as a small village sometime about 1750. It was not until 1801 that a town was created, and not until 1833 that the General Assembly granted a charter for the town. It is named after Pennsylvania general, Anthony Wayne. In 1923 it merged with the town of Basic, which was located across the river. On March 2, 1865 Waynesboro was the site of the final battle of the Civil War for Confederate General Jubal Early. He surrendered the Valley to Union General Sheridan.

Waynesboro offers the closest entry point to both Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway. With easy access three miles east of Waynesboro at Rockfish Gap, Skyline Drive proceeds north and the Blue Ridge Parkway proceeds south. Winding along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, both roadways offer breathtaking panoramic vistas and access to miles of hiking trails through forested hills, hollows and slopes that often encounter pristine waterfalls descending from ancient granite summits.

A special regulation trout stream offers anglers a chance to match wits with the fish right in town. A yearly Flyfishing Festival is held in April.

The P. Buckley Moss Museum in town is a tribute to the life, art and philosophy of one of our nation’s most popular contemporary artists. In addition to retail displays of prints and paintings, the museum follows Ms. Moss’ life and the factors that influenced it. Bi-plane rides from nearby Eagles Nest Airport offer breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley. The well known Andre Viette farm & nursery has plenty for garden lovers to enjoy and purchase.

Visitors can access over 20 vineyards just over the mountain. Interesting daytrips from our member inns include Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello , James Madison’s Montpelier and James Monroe's Ash Lawn. Hot air balloon rides are always fun at Monticello Ballooning. The Allegheny Highlands are a short drive to the West.

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