
Mary Baldwin University
A historic university in charming Staunton, VA, known for its strong community and unique programs like the Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air & autumn colors

Mary Baldwin University
Best Time
Crisp air & autumn colors

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic university in charming Staunton, VA, known for its strong community and unique programs like the Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership.
"As a photographer, I can say this is one of my favorite locations to be at! The historic charm and elegance combined with the natural beauty leads to the best of all the photos!"

📸 Photographer's Paradise
Historic charm meets natural beauty for stunning photos. Ideal for portraits and campus exploration.
🚶♀️ Walkable Downtown
Staunton is very walkable with shops & eateries. Great for students without cars.

Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 83 reviews
Type
University
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Campus Architecture
Throughout the campus
Wander through beautiful, historic buildings that whisper tales of the past. A photographer's dream!

Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership
Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership building
Experience the nation's only all-female corps of cadets, a unique single-sex educational environment.

Secret Benches
Various hidden spots on campus
Discover the campus's charming, semi-hidden benches – perfect for quiet contemplation or a romantic moment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm of Staunton
Campus Life & Community
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Historic charm meets natural beauty for stunning photos. Ideal for portraits and campus exploration.
🚶♀️ Walkable Downtown
Staunton is very walkable with shops & eateries. Great for students without cars.
🏡 Find Your 'Home'
Many students feel at home on campus, praising the strong community vibe.
💡 Explore Unique Programs
Consider programs like the Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership for a distinct educational path.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Historic charm meets natural beauty for stunning photos. Ideal for portraits and campus exploration.
🚶♀️ Walkable Downtown
Staunton is very walkable with shops & eateries. Great for students without cars.
🏡 Find Your 'Home'
Many students feel at home on campus, praising the strong community vibe.
💡 Explore Unique Programs
Consider programs like the Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership for a distinct educational path.
🤫 Seek Out Secret Spots
Discover hidden gems like the campus's 'secret benches' for peaceful moments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mary Baldwin University is praised for its beautiful, historic campus and strong sense of community, making students feel at home. Visitors and photographers love the charming architecture and scenic beauty. However, some prospective students find the cost of attendance less transparent.
"As a photographer, I can say this is one of my favorite locations to be at! The historic charm and elegance combined with the natural beauty leads to the best of all the photos! It's always a pleasure to bring my clients here for beautiful photos!!
- Rebecca Crosby Photography"
Rebecca Crosby
"Didn't go, but hiding the overall cost to attend is the only red flag and enough to leave a review.
It's about 20k a year. Your welcome for figuring that out to the other prospecting students trying to figure out what 300 dollars per credit means."
George Hennen
"Love. Laughter. Community. Feeling at home on the hill 💛🖤💛"
Kay Shirey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mary Baldwin University is located in Staunton, Virginia. If arriving by car, it's accessible via major highways like I-64 and I-81. For those using public transport, Amtrak service is available in Staunton, with the university being a short distance from the station.
Yes, Staunton is considered walkable, especially its downtown area, which is close to campus. Students can easily access shops and restaurants on foot. For destinations further out, like Walmart, the city offers a bus system.
Parking is available on campus. Hotel 24 South, located downtown, offers a convenient on-site parking garage, which can be beneficial for visitors.
The closest major airport is Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (CHO), about an hour's drive away. Other options include Richmond International Airport (RIC) or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), both further but offering more flight options.
Getting around Staunton without a car is manageable, especially for campus-related activities and downtown exploration due to walkability. The city's bus system can help with longer distances, though it's advisable to check routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Campus visits and tours are generally free for prospective students and visitors. Special events may require tickets or registration, so it's best to check the university's official website for specific event details.
The campus is generally accessible for exploration during daylight hours. For official tours or specific department visits, it's recommended to schedule in advance through the admissions office.
Yes, Mary Baldwin University hosts various events, including tours for specific programs like the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. Prospective students should monitor the university's events calendar for open houses and information sessions.
While specific tuition figures can vary, some reviews suggest that the overall cost to attend might not be immediately transparent. Prospective students are advised to thoroughly research tuition, fees, and financial aid options on the official Mary Baldwin University website.
Prospective students can get a feel for student life through campus tours, virtual information sessions, and by following MBU's social media channels, which often feature student activities and campus events.
🎫 🏛️ Campus Experience
Mary Baldwin University is known for fostering a strong sense of community, with students often describing it as feeling like 'home.' It offers a supportive environment with unique programs like the Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership.
Students often seek out the campus's 'secret benches,' which are semi-hidden spots perfect for quiet moments. The university also has a rich history, having previously been an all-women's college.
MBU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the Murphy Deming College of Health Sciences, and Master's degrees in fields like Applied Behavior Analysis.
Students can engage in various activities, including sports like volleyball, and join organizations such as sororities. The university also captures moments of campus life through initiatives like '#1secondaday' videos.
The campus is vibrant throughout the year, with students sharing moments from Halloween celebrations to everyday college life. The fall semester often features captured memories in '#1secondaday' videos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information on specific dining halls or meal plans is not extensively detailed in the provided content. However, the proximity to downtown Staunton suggests that students have access to various local eateries and cafes.
Downtown Staunton, which is walkable from campus, offers several dining options. TikTok videos mention places like 'Mill Street Grill' and 'Taste of India,' indicating a variety of culinary choices available to students.
While specific healthy options aren't highlighted, the variety of restaurants in downtown Staunton likely includes places that cater to different dietary preferences. Exploring local cafes and restaurants would be the best approach.
The price range for food in Staunton can vary depending on the establishment. Casual dining spots like Mill Street Grill might offer moderate pricing, while other eateries could range from budget-friendly to more upscale.
Yes, downtown Staunton offers several dining spots. TikTok creators have highlighted places like Mill Street Grill and Taste of India, suggesting a good mix of local flavors and cuisines to explore.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire campus is a photographer's delight, with its historic architecture and natural beauty. The 'secret benches' offer unique, intimate shots, while the general campus grounds provide a picturesque backdrop.
Absolutely. Reviewers and photographers consistently praise MBU for its 'historic charm and elegance combined with the natural beauty,' making it an ideal location for portraits.
The Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership, as the nation's only all-female corps of cadets, offers unique photographic opportunities related to military traditions and disciplined environments.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, will likely offer the most flattering light for the historic buildings and natural landscapes. Early mornings can also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Yes, action photography is possible, as seen with behind-the-scenes shots of the Mary Baldwin University Volleyball Team. Capturing dynamic moments during games can be very rewarding.







Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit