Staunton Vacation Rentals

You're already falling in love with Satunton Va, but you haven't even tried the local cuisine. A stroll to Réunion Bakery & Espresso is a good start to the day. Stop in for some organic groceries and a bite at Cranberry's Grocery & Eatery, or have lunch at Lundch. Cafes and coffee shops are plentiful downtown and close to any lodging.

You'll find it hard to decide where to dine. The Mill Street Grill is famous for its ribs. Another New American cuisine favorite is Zynodoa, near the Blackfriars Playhouse. For Mediterranean specialties get a table at Alioli. Looking for authentic Sicilian cooking, then head over to Emilio's Italian Restaurant.

The region is also big on vineyards and wineries like Barren Ridge Vineyards in Fisherville or Ox-Eye Vineyards, with a tasting room in Staunton. Downtown, the Yelping Dog is a quaint wine bar, and The Wine Seller is another fine spot.

Even sauntering the streets of Staunton is a cultural tour-and most everything is within walking distance from house rentals or reached on the Downtown Trolley. The town's finely restored architecture reflects a rich history with period buildings and homes throughout.

The region looks back on 300 years of history. Visit the birthplace of the 28th president at The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum. Experience the settler days in a recreated village on the outskirts of town at the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia. Explore Civil War trails and African-American heritage sites in and around Staunton.

The American Shakespeare Center's Blackfriars Playhouse is an actual recreation of the London playhouse that burned down in 1666. Open year-round, the playhouse shows great Shakespearean performances as well as other classic and modern pieces.

In the summer months, the Heifetz International Music Institute features classical music performances, or watch an outdoor play at the Oak Grove Theater. Along with the R.R. Smith Center for History and Art, a number of art galleries dot Staunton, which is also on the Virginia Artisan's Trail Network.

Staunton is not only charming, but it's hip too. Downtown and close to most house rentals is also flowing with local micro-breweries. Queen City Brewery has a tasty selection and live-music nights. Redbeard Brewing Company also does live-music and karaoke.

The Pompeii Lounge above Emilio's stays open late and has a roof terrace. Brick's Pub and Byers Street Bistro are also great eateries and feature live events on weekends. Try the By & By beer garden or The Green Room-a cozy cafe-bar run by Shakespeare theater players.

As mentioned, a night at the playhouse or a classical concert can also be had in Staunton. At the end of the night, head back to your lovely vacation home in Staunton VA.

Staunton and the Shenandoah Valley boast beautiful natural surroundings that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Outdoor adventure, rustic locations, parks, and national forests offer a plethora of things to do in the region beneath and on top of the Appalachian peaks.

Skyline Drive, starting 30 minutes east of Staunton, takes you north through the breathtaking scenery of Shenandoah National Park. Head south and the mountain ridge road is called Blue Ridge Parkway. Along either route you can stop off for hikes of varying levels, visit waterfalls, and camp. If you prefer just a scenic drive, the mountain-top routes offer plenty of incredible lookouts, and stop-offs with wildlife sightings guaranteed.

Closer to home, try a hike in Betsy Bell Wilderness Park on the outskirts of Staunton, or a picnic at Gypsy Hill Park. Stop by the Wilderness Adventure outdoor store in town for any insider tips.