Downtown Staunton Historic District - Reloj de la antigua Estación del Norta, actual Príncipe Pío en Madrid.
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Downtown Staunton Historic District

4.9
·28 reviews·Staunton, United States

Step back in time in Staunton's stunning historic district, a treasure trove of Victorian architecture and charming streets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesday afternoons

Wing specials & happy hour!

CrowdMedium
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Downtown Staunton Historic District - Reloj de la antigua Estación del Norta, actual Príncipe Pío en Madrid.

Downtown Staunton Historic District

Best Time

Wednesday afternoons

Wing specials & happy hour!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time in Staunton's stunning historic district, a treasure trove of Victorian architecture and charming streets.

4.9
(28 reviews)

"A beautiful and cozy town with delightful architecture and friendly locals."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Downtown

Beverly Street is often closed to cars, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and window shopping. :walking:

💰 Trolley Tours

Hop on the local trolley for an affordable and informative way to see the historic district. :bus:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Victorian Architecture

Victorian Architecture

Marvel at stunning, well-preserved Victorian homes and buildings that tell stories of Staunton's past.

TikTok
Beverly Street Shops & Restaurants

Beverly Street Shops & Restaurants

Explore a vibrant street with unique boutiques, eateries, and often pedestrian-only zones for easy browsing.

Reddit
The Wharf District

The Wharf District

Discover a charming area with diverse dining options and a lively atmosphere, perfect for an evening out.

Instagram
Mary Baldwin University Grounds

Mary Baldwin University Grounds

Stroll through the beautiful campus grounds, offering a peaceful escape and scenic views.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Architecture

Staunton's historic district is a treasure trove of Victorian and early 20th-century architecture. Wander through streets lined with beautifully preserved homes and buildings to truly appreciate the town's rich past. TikTok

Pedestrian-Friendly Exploration

Beverly Street in downtown Staunton often features pedestrian-only sections, making it a breeze to explore shops and restaurants. Plan to spend ample time strolling and soaking in the atmosphere. Reddit

Best Times

When
Wednesday afternoons
Why
Wing specials & happy hour!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere & events
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

PROPERTY PREVIEW / 25 S Washington St, Staunton This c. 1912 brick home in the Newtown Historic District of Staunton is only 2 blocks from downtown, has double balconies and an incredible porch. Not to mention some of the best views in town. 3 bd, 2.5 ba Presented by David Metz, Premier Properties Listed at $489,000 #visitstauntonva #staunton #shenandoahvalley #augustacountyrealestate #reale...
sophieb_homes
18 likes • 224 views

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Downtown

Beverly Street is often closed to cars, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and window shopping. Reddit :walking:

💰 Trolley Tours

Hop on the local trolley for an affordable and informative way to see the historic district. Reddit :bus:

Loving this time of year. And loving our little corner of the world. Visit us (at the end of this path) in the Historic Wharf District here in beautiful Downtown Staunton. #downtownstaunton #stauntonva #visitstaunton #lovestaunton #sdda #exploresaw #shenandoahvalley #stauntonwharf #visitvirginia #loveva #fallinvirginia #youbelonghere #shopstaunton #shoplocal
findyourzenshop
77 likes • 590 views
reddit.com

Best downtown walking route for first-time visitors?

🍽️ Vegetarian Eats

Staunton offers vegetarian-friendly options, especially at places like Giancarlo's and Reunion Bakery. Reddit :leafy_green:

🏡 Architectural Gems

Don't miss the stunning Victorian homes, especially in the Newtown Historic District. TikTok :housewithgarden:

reddit.com

Cant miss in Staunton?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Downtown

Beverly Street is often closed to cars, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and window shopping. Reddit :walking:

💰 Trolley Tours

Hop on the local trolley for an affordable and informative way to see the historic district. Reddit :bus:

🍽️ Vegetarian Eats

Staunton offers vegetarian-friendly options, especially at places like Giancarlo's and Reunion Bakery. Reddit :leafy_green:

🏡 Architectural Gems

Don't miss the stunning Victorian homes, especially in the Newtown Historic District. TikTok :housewithgarden:

👋 Friendly Locals

Expect warm welcomes; locals like Karen are known for their helpfulness and local knowledge. Reddit :wave:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(28 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Staunton's beautiful historic architecture and the charming, walkable downtown area. The friendly locals and diverse dining options, especially in the Wharf District, are frequently highlighted as positives. Some visitors wish they had more time to explore the town's many offerings.

"Beautiful small town, we took the trolley for $0.25. We walked around downtown and ate at the Clocktower restaurant, on Wednesdays you have wings for $0.50 and happy hour starting at 3.00pm. You cannot leave without visiting St Francis of Assisi Catholic, it is beautiful, you also cannot miss the ground of Mary Baldwin University, The Wharf where there are a variety of restaurants. It is a very beautiful and cozy town"

Wendy K

"We passed through Staunton on a road trip and were delighted to visit such a nice historic district.

Beverly street has a section blocked off for pedestrians allowing easy access to the many restaurants and shops. To our regret we could only visit for a limited time.

Definitely an enjoyable place to visit."

Cathie Bales

"It's a wonderful historical place.
Nice place."

Kaushik Reza

What People Like

Beautiful historic architecture
Walkable downtown
Friendly locals

What People Dislike

Limited time to explore

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The district is easily accessible by car, with parking available in designated lots and on streets. It's also a pleasant drive from major cities like Richmond and Washington D.C. TikTok

While Staunton has local bus services, most visitors arrive by car. The historic district itself is very walkable once you're there. Reddit

Walking is highly recommended to fully appreciate the architecture and atmosphere. Consider the local trolley for a guided overview. Reddit

Yes, the surrounding Shenandoah Valley offers beautiful scenic drives, especially during the fall. Instagram

Biking is a great way to see the area, especially on days when Beverly Street is closed to traffic. Be mindful of pedestrian areas. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the historic district itself is a public area and free to explore. Specific attractions within the district may have admission fees. Reddit

The district is always accessible, but individual shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically closing in the early evening. Instagram

Yes, you can often find guided walking tours or take the local trolley for a narrated tour of the historic sites. Reddit

Generally, exploring the exteriors of historic buildings is free. Tours or entry into specific museums or private homes may have a fee. TikTok

It's advisable to check with local tour operators or the visitor center for advance booking options, especially during peak season. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Staunton is renowned for its well-preserved Victorian, Queen Anne, and Italianate architectural styles. TikTok

Absolutely! The charming streets, unique architecture, and colorful storefronts offer endless photo opportunities. Instagram

You'll discover a variety of boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and specialty stores along Beverly Street. Instagram

Look for historical markers throughout the district that provide details about significant buildings and events. Reddit

Families can enjoy exploring the shops, parks, and the unique architecture. The trolley tour is also a hit with kids. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Wharf District and Beverly Street offer a range of dining, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants. Clocktower restaurant is known for wing specials. Reddit

Yes, several restaurants offer vegetarian choices, and some are known for accommodating dietary needs. Reunion Bakery and Giancarlo's are good starting points. Reddit

Bakeries like Reunion Bakery and Giancarlo's are popular for breakfast and baked goods. Reddit

Many restaurants and bars in the area feature local Virginia craft beers and wines. Instagram

Yes, some restaurants, like the Clocktower, offer happy hour specials, particularly on Wednesdays. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on the intricate details of Victorian homes, the charming storefronts on Beverly Street, and the picturesque Wharf District. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for capturing the architecture. Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds. Reddit

Look for homes with unique features like turrets, balconies, and ornate trim. The historic courthouse and older commercial buildings are also photogenic. TikTok

Drone photography regulations vary. It's essential to check local ordinances and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing building facades, while a prime lens can be great for detail shots. A smartphone camera is also excellent for casual shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Downtown Staunton Historic District will find a charming and engaging environment. The pedestrian-friendly nature of Beverly Street makes it safe and easy for kids to explore shops and enjoy the atmosphere. Consider taking the local trolley tour for an entertaining and informative ride that kids often enjoy. Reddit The variety of restaurants in the Wharf District means you can likely find something to please even picky eaters. Instagram

Encourage kids to spot different architectural details on the historic homes, turning a walk into a fun scavenger hunt. The grounds of Mary Baldwin University also offer open spaces for children to stretch their legs. Overall, Staunton provides a relaxed and enjoyable experience for families looking to explore a historic small town. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Downtown Staunton Historic District is very budget-friendly, as much of the exploration is free. Simply walking the streets and admiring the architecture costs nothing. TikTok Look for Wednesday wing specials and happy hour deals at restaurants like the Clocktower for affordable dining options. Reddit The trolley tour is also very inexpensive, offering a lot of value for its low cost. Reddit

Pack your own snacks and water to save on small purchases. Many shops offer unique finds at reasonable prices, so you can still enjoy some retail therapy without overspending. Enjoying the ambiance and the historical sights is the main draw, and that's entirely free!

couples

Staunton's historic district offers a romantic backdrop for couples. Enjoy leisurely strolls hand-in-hand through the charming streets, admiring the beautiful Victorian architecture. TikTok The Wharf District provides a perfect setting for a romantic dinner, with a variety of restaurants to choose from. Instagram Consider a wine tasting at a local establishment or enjoying a quiet drink at a cozy bar. Reddit

For a unique experience, take the historic trolley tour together to learn about the town's past. The relaxed pace and picturesque scenery make Staunton an ideal destination for a quiet, romantic getaway. Don't forget to explore the unique boutiques for a special souvenir.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Wonders of Staunton

Staunton's Downtown Historic District is a living museum of architectural styles, primarily showcasing the grandeur of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors are captivated by the Victorian era's influence, evident in the intricate gingerbread trim, steep gables, wrap-around porches, and ornate detailing found on many residential homes. The Newtown Historic District, in particular, features stunning examples of these homes, with some boasting double balconies and impressive street presence. TikTok

Beyond residential architecture, the district also features significant examples of commercial and civic buildings. These structures often display a blend of styles, reflecting the town's growth and prosperity. Walking through the streets, you'll encounter buildings with Romanesque Revival, Queen Anne, and Italianate influences, each telling a part of Staunton's story. The Beverly Street corridor, often pedestrian-friendly, highlights these commercial facades, inviting exploration of the shops and businesses housed within. Reddit

For those interested in a deeper dive, consider seeking out local historical tours or resources that detail the specific architects and historical context behind these magnificent structures. The Mary Baldwin University grounds also offer a glimpse into historical campus architecture, adding another layer to the town's aesthetic appeal. Reddit

Experiencing Downtown Staunton's Charm

The heart of Staunton's charm lies in its walkable downtown, particularly along Beverly Street. This area frequently transforms into a pedestrian haven, encouraging visitors to leisurely explore the array of independent boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and specialty stores. The Wharf District adds to this appeal with its diverse culinary scene, offering everything from casual cafes to more upscale dining experiences, making it a popular spot for evening outings. InstagramReddit

Beyond shopping and dining, Staunton offers unique experiences that enhance its appeal. The local trolley tours are a highly recommended way to get an overview of the historic district, providing insights into its past and pointing out key landmarks. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, simply strolling through the streets, admiring the architecture, and perhaps enjoying a coffee at a local cafe, is a rewarding experience. The town's friendly atmosphere, often highlighted by the helpfulness of locals, further contributes to its welcoming ambiance. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to experience Staunton's community spirit, whether through local events, farmers' markets, or simply engaging with the shop owners. The town's commitment to preserving its history while fostering a vibrant present makes it a delightful destination for a weekend getaway or a day trip. Reddit

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