
Staunton Station and Depot
Historic Staunton Station, a charming gateway to scenic train rides and a beautifully preserved Victorian town.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Scenic railway departures

Staunton Station and Depot
Best Time
Scenic railway departures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Staunton Station, a charming gateway to scenic train rides and a beautifully preserved Victorian town.
"Awesome historic station with Bullet Train from the early 1900's."

🚂 Book Train Tickets Early
The Virginia Scenic Railway is popular; secure your seats well in advance!
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking makes for a stress-free arrival at the station. [^Review]

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Virginia Scenic Railway
Staunton Station
Experience the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley on a scenic train ride. Book tickets in advance!

Historic Architecture
Downtown Staunton
Wander through charming streets lined with beautifully preserved historic buildings.

NW 611 Steam Locomotive
Staunton Station
Catch a glimpse of the magnificent 'Queen of Steam' if you're lucky!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Staunton Station
Embrace the Historic Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚂 Book Train Tickets Early
The Virginia Scenic Railway is popular; secure your seats well in advance!
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking makes for a stress-free arrival at the station. [^Review]
☕ Explore Downtown
Don't miss the charming shops and cafes surrounding the station.
📸 Capture the History
The historic station and surrounding architecture are very photogenic.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚂 Book Train Tickets Early
The Virginia Scenic Railway is popular; secure your seats well in advance!
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking makes for a stress-free arrival at the station. [^Review]
☕ Explore Downtown
Don't miss the charming shops and cafes surrounding the station.
📸 Capture the History
The historic station and surrounding architecture are very photogenic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Staunton Station is a beautiful, clean, and historic train depot that serves as a charming gateway to the Virginia Scenic Railway. Visitors praise the friendly staff, good seating, and available amenities, making train rides a great experience. While the station itself is small, its historical significance and role in local tourism are highly valued.
"Beautiful historic railroad station in downtown Staunton, you can catch the Virginia Scenic Railway from here, if you are lucky they sometimes have the NW 611 steam locomotive. Also a restaurant at the station."
Barbara Thompson
"Awesome historic station with Bullet Train from the early 1900's."
James Merrell-Thomas
"A nice and clean but small train station that serves this little town well."
Matt McLean
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Staunton Station is located in downtown Staunton, Virginia. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. For those coming from further afield, it's approximately a 2-hour drive from Washington D.C. [^Review]
While specific public transit routes directly to the station might be limited, the station is centrally located within Staunton, making it walkable from many downtown areas.
The best way to explore is on foot! The downtown area, particularly Beverley Street, is very walkable and filled with shops and restaurants.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Virginia Scenic Railway should be booked in advance through their official website or by contacting the station directly. Popular routes can sell out.
Staunton Station is a historic depot and generally does not have an entrance fee to access the public areas. However, specific events or train rides will require separate ticketing. [^Review]
Operating hours can vary, especially depending on train schedules. It's best to check the Virginia Scenic Railway's schedule for specific departure and arrival times. [^Review]
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
The station offers restrooms, good seating areas, and often has food and beverage services available, especially for train passengers. [^Review]
Staunton Station primarily serves as the departure point for the Virginia Scenic Railway. It's a historic depot, not a major Amtrak hub. [^Review]
Absolutely! The historic architecture of the station and the potential presence of steam locomotives make it a fantastic spot for photographers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is often a restaurant or cafe at the station, and food and drinks are available for purchase, especially for train passengers. [^Review]
The surrounding downtown area offers various dining options, from cafes like Blackbird Bakery to classic diners.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the train, the historic downtown provides a visually engaging environment with its unique architecture. Consider visiting during local events like the Queen City Mischief & Magic festival, which often has activities that appeal to younger visitors. Remember to check for any age restrictions or specific family packages offered by the railway or local attractions.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
Even if not taking a ride, the station itself is a historic depot worth admiring. The surrounding town also has a rich history, and exploring the area can provide context to the railway's past. Keep an eye on the railway's schedule for special steam engine excursions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Virginia Scenic Railway Experience
Onboard, passengers can expect comfortable seating and amenities. Some reviews mention good customer service and the availability of food and drinks, with specific praise for the catering by 'Little Gus's' on certain trips. [^Review] The railway provides a relaxing and scenic journey, making it a highlight for many visitors to Staunton. [^Review]
Keep an eye out for special events or the rare appearance of the NW 611 J Class Locomotive, often referred to as the 'Queen of Steam.' Seeing this historic engine in action is a treat for train enthusiasts and a memorable experience for all.
Exploring Historic Staunton
Beyond the main street, Staunton boasts a rich history that extends to unique landmarks. While the station itself is a historical gem, the town also has sites like the DeJarnette Sanatorium, which has a reputation for being haunted, adding a layer of intrigue for those interested in local lore. The town's charm is further amplified by annual events like the Queen City Mischief & Magic festival, which celebrates themes like Harry Potter.
For those with dogs, exploring the downtown area on a Sunday is a pleasant experience, with most shops and restaurants being dog-friendly. The combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and vibrant community events makes Staunton a delightful destination.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit