Southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia Road Trip: Staunton to Lexington

Updated on March 22, 2024 by Julie McCool

Discover fun things to do in Southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia on a road trip to Staunton, Waynesboro, and Lexington with scenic country roads and unique stops. Experience small-town charm, tasty food and drink, impressive nature, and relaxing places to stay.

Blue Ridge Parkway view southern Shenandoah Valley VA
Blue Ridge Parkway view, Southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia

Southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia is perfect for a leisurely road trip on country roads that offer beautiful scenery and unique town and country finds. These quaint towns are just a few hours from Washington DC. But you'll feel a world away when you leave the highway and explore roads less traveled.

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We recommend three to five days to explore the scenic southern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Spend a night in Staunton, Waynesboro, and Lexington so you can visit scenic stops in town and nearby. If you have more time, add more stops in northern Shenandoah Valley from Winchester to Harrisonburg.

Shakespeare and History in Staunton Virginia

Staunton is full of surprises. Visitors enjoy a wide range of activities, dining, and history—including a world-renowned Shakespeare theater—in the compact downtown. The historic main street is lined with beautiful architecture and modern shops, making for a fascinating, walkable city.

Where to Stay in Staunton

Stay in the downtown area and you can walk to many Staunton restaurants and activities. Hotel 24 has a great location right next to the Shakespeare Center. The nearby Blackburn Inn is another good option, but it's a little further from downtown.

Lodging can be difficult to find when Charlottesville is hosting large events, as the bookings spill over into nearby areas. The Sleep Inn, Staunton, on the Jefferson Highway, offers clean, attractive, and comfortable rooms a short drive to the downtown area.

Read traveler reviews of Staunton hotels.

Sleep Inn Staunton Virginia
Sleep Inn Staunton Virginia

Fun Things to Do in Staunton VA

Explore the downtown area on a free Historic Staunton Foundation Architectural Walking Tour (wear comfortable shoes.) Our tour began near the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and took a leisurely path to the other end of Main Street. Be sure to stop at Trinity Church to see its 12 Tiffany windows.

Downtown Staunton southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia
Downtown Staunton Virginia

There are plenty of unique shops to visit in Staunton including Sunspots Studio. Here you can watch live, narrated glassblowing demonstrations. You can even join in and help blow your own glass masterpiece like pumpkins and ornaments. Pick up your creation the next day or have it mailed to your home. The shop offers a beautiful collection of glass creations that make great gifts.

Blowing glass Sun Spots Studio Staunton Virginia
Blowing glass Sun Spots Studio Staunton Virginia

The American Shakespeare Center should be high on your to-do list. Productions are staged in the world's only authentic recreation of the Blackfriars Theater. The center draws audiences from around the globe to its excellent productions.

The company's clever motto is “we do it with the lights on.” This reflects the authentic productions which skip modern props and staging for an intimate and interactive experience. There are even a few seats on stage! Arrive a little early to enjoy music by the actors and to shop for unique shirts and souvenirs.

American Shakespeare Theater Company, Staunton Virginia
American Shakespeare Theater Company, Staunton Virginia

Eat and Drink Local in Staunton

There are many options for a drink and a bite in downtown Staunton. Yelping Dog Wine Bar is a nice spot for a glass of wine, a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich, or a cheese and charcuterie board featuring local cheese.

Try the rich #9 with swiss, gruyere, and wine-braised onions or the Triple M with mozzarella, meatballs, and marinara. Both will warm you up on a chilly day. The house Yelping Dog white from Saint Michel and the red from Livingston, are great choices if you want to sample local Virginia wines.

Yelping Dog Wine Bar Staunton Virginia
Yelping Dog Wine Bar Staunton Virginia

Many restaurants were packed during our busy weekend visit, and we weren't able to get a table at the highly recommended Mill St Grill or ZYNODOA. Instead, we had pizza at Byers Bistro and tasty pasta at Emilio's (now closed).

You'll find excellent local craft beer in a casual space at Redbeard Brewing Company. Sweet Potato Pie, a nod to the season and a break from the ubiquitous pumpkin beer, was delicious. Also, try the two Moriartys with rye or bourbon.

Redbeard Brewing Company Staunton Virginia
Redbeard Brewing Company Staunton Virginia

Waynesboro and Augusta County: Explore Blue Ridge Country

Another good base for exploring the Shenandoah Valley is just a few miles east of Staunton. Waynesboro Virginia sits between Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway, so it's an excellent starting point for a scenic drive. Waynesboro is also a nice midpoint between Charlottesville and Staunton, so it is a good base for events in either town.

Where to Stay in Waynesboro and Augusta County

The Best Western Waynesboro is a good choice for a spacious, comfortable room at a good rate with breakfast included. The location next to route 64 allows easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Read traveler reviews of Waynesboro Hotels.

Best Western Waynesboro Virginia
Best Western Waynesboro Virginia

Things to Do in Waynesboro and Augusta County

Start your Blue Ridge drive at the Humpback Rocks Visitor Center at mile 5.8. Here you can enjoy a collection of 1890s farm buildings, a picnic area, and trail access. During the summer, you may see musicians and artisans performing period activities. Drive south on the Parkway to enjoy the views from the road and overlooks.

Humpback Rocks Visitor Center Blue Ridge VA
Humpback Rocks Visitor Center Blue Ridge VA

Several popular hiking trails leave from a parking area across from the Visitor Center. The John Albright Loop Trail is a moderate 3.5-mile loop hike that includes a spur trail to Glass Hollow Overlook. Alternatively, you can follow the AT to the overlook, reducing it to a 3 mile out and back hike.

Glass Hollow Overlook Blue Ridge Parkway VA
Glass Hollow Overlook Blue Ridge Parkway VA

Finally, you can make the more challenging climb to Humpback Rocks overlook and summit, to enjoy gorgeous westward views of the Shenandoah Valley.

Sunset on Humpback Rocks, Virginia, photo credit: Katherine McCool
Sunset on Humpback Rocks, Virginia, photo credit: Katherine McCool

Back in town, be sure to stop at Constitution Park for pictures of the fishing-inspired LOVEwork. The park also offers a picnic spot, a short riverside hike, and river access for fishing and paddling.

LOVEwork Waynesboro Virginia
LOVEwork Waynesboro Virginia

Eat and Drink Local in Waynesboro and Augusta County

Basic City Beer Company occupies a former iron foundry renovated by brother/owners Bart and Chris. They even created tables using reclaimed wood and pipes from the building's sprinkler system.

Every Basic City craft beer we tried was wonderful, but we particularly liked the Oopsprach Lager and the N & W Porter. Food trucks are often on hand and there's a spacious game room with a giant movie screen. Showers are available for AT through-hikers taking a break from the trail.

Basic City Beer Company Waynesboro Virginia
Basic City Beer Company Waynesboro Virginia

A short drive into the country leads to one of the prettiest Virginia farm breweries we've visited. Craig Nargi opened Stable Craft Brewery in 2016 after years as a chef and horse farmer. The tasting room occupies a pretty barn, with hints of the stalls still visible.

A delicious beer-inspired menu pairs perfectly with the wide range of beers on tap. We particularly liked the Appalachian Divide Ale and the Night Latch American Stout.

Outside there are fire pits, games, and gorgeous views all around. You can even book a beautiful suite and spend a night in the countryside. Note that Stable Craft is a working horse farm. Dogs are allowed on the property but take care to keep them away from horses and donkeys.

Stable Craft Brewery Waynesboro Virginia
Stable Craft Brewery Waynesboro Virginia

Lexington and Rockbridge County Hikes and History

There are several fun roads for the drive south to Lexington, perfect for avoiding the highway and exploring the countryside. You could drive south on the Blue Ridge Parkway, exiting at Snowden, or follow historic route 11 as it parallels 81.

If time allows, we recommend a scenic drive on route 252, with a short side trip to Wade's Mill. The beautiful, working mill produces and sells flour, grits, and cornmeal made with local grains. They also sell jams and the southernmost maple syrup, produced in Bolar Virginia.

Wades Mill Raphine Virginia
Wades Mill Raphine Virginia

Where to Stay in Lexington and Rockbridge County

The Hampton Inn Lexington is not your typical chain hotel property. Housed in a manor house known as the Col Alto Mansion, you’ll find historic touches, comfortable rooms, and a convenient location on the seven-acre property. Most rooms have a contemporary design, but there are 10 restored manor rooms available, some with period decor.

Hampton Inn Historic Lexington Virginia
Hampton Inn Historic Downtown Lexington, Virginia

Natural Bridge Historic Hotel is right next to the entrance to the state park, offering a unique spot to overnight when you visit Natural Bridge.

Read traveler reviews of Lexington Hotels.

Things to Do in Lexington VA and Rockbridge County

Lexington's downtown is a lovely, walkable area full of unique shops, tasty dining, and interesting history.

Tour the Stonewall Jackson House to learn about Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson before his commanding role in the US Civil War. Jackson lived two critical years of his private life in the Lexington home. Original and period furnishings help docents tell the story of Jackson’s dedication and industry, and of the lives of his family and the enslaved people who worked in his house.

Stonewall Jackson House Lexington Virginia
Stonewall Jackson House Lexington Virginia

The nearby Stonewall Jackson Cemetery includes a monument to the general, Jackson's family plot, and other historic markers.

Stonewall Jackson Cemetery Lexington VA
Stonewall Jackson Cemetery Lexington Virginia

Lee Chapel and Museum, on the grounds of Washington and Lee University, honors the life of Robert E. Lee, who became the school's President after the Civil War. At the back of the beautiful chapel is Lee's tomb. Exhibits in the museum downstairs highlight George Washington and Robert E. Lee's dedication to education as a key to building and growing the nation.

Lee Chapel and Museum Lexington Virginia
Lee Chapel and Museum Lexington Virginia

Just 15 miles south of Lexington you'll find Natural Bridge State Park, which changed from private ownership to become the newest Virginia State Park. The highlight of any visit is the 500 million-year-old bridge—215 feet high, 40 feet thick, and 100 yards wide. The natural formation is so large and sturdy that route 11 actually passes across its top (sorry, no viewpoint from the road). Visitors can reach the bridge via a long series of steps or by shuttle bus.

Natural Bridge State Park Virginia
Natural Bridge State Park Virginia

Allow time to walk under and beyond the bridge to visit the excellent Monacan Indian Living History Exhibit. The Cedar Creek Trail continues to a saltpeter mine and Lost River and ends with a pretty view of Lace Falls, about .8 miles one way. There are 6 miles of trails in the park if you want to do more hiking.

Monacan Living History Natural Bridge VA
Monacan Living History Natural Bridge Virginia

Once you've seen the geological wonders above ground, it's time to head below on a tour of the Caverns at Natural Bridge. The fascinating 45-minute tours guide visitors along tunnels, rooms, ponds, and formations that continue to develop and change today. Bring a jacket—the temperature remains a constant 54 degrees in the caverns. If you visit the Caverns first, you can purchase a discounted combination ticket with Natural Bridge State Park.

Natural Bridge Caverns entrance Virginia
Natural Bridge Caverns entrance Virginia

If you're looking for a more challenging hike, we highly recommend climbing the Belfast Trail to Devil’s Marbleyard. The trail is part of the James River Face Wilderness. A steep 1.4-mile climb leads to an area strewn with huge rocks that are fun to explore and offer beautiful mountain views.

Devils Marbleyard view Natural Bridge VA
Devils Marbleyard view Natural Bridge Virginia

Eat and Drink Local in Lexington and Rockbridge County

Like most college towns, Lexington offers a nice range of dining options. Sadly, the popular Southern Inn Restaurant has closed permanently. The Bistro on Main is a good pick for lunch featuring delicious salads, soups, and sandwiches. 

After your meal, stop at Sweet Things Ice Cream Shoppe for rich, tasty homemade ice creams and sherbets.

Bistro on Main Lexington Virginia
Bistro on Main Lexington Virginia

Lexington is on the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail, and beer lovers can sample Virginia craft brews at several locations in and near town. North of town, Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery & Tap Room, offers their flagship Vienna Lager along with a nice range of their other brews. If the weather is good, enjoy your pint with lovely mountain views on the back patio.

Devils Backbone Outpost view Lexington Virginia
Devils Backbone Outpost view Lexington Virginia

In Natural Bridge, the Great Valley Farm Brewery serves local beer with a view. Natty B’s General Store and Cafe, is a good stop for sandwiches and snacks near the state park.

Southern Shenandoah Valley Road Trip Tips

Southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia road trip
Southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia road trip

Many people travel through the southern Shenandoah Valley on busy highway 81. Allow time to stop and enjoy all that the region has to offer. To make the most of your visit:

  • Get off the highway. Route 11 is the obvious alternative since it parallels the highway, but there are plenty of smaller, beautiful country roads that take you into the heart of the valley. Make time to explore a road less traveled
  • Take it slow. The beauty of a road trip through southern Shenandoah Valley is the change to see and experience something new. Enjoy the country roads; stop at a farm stand; visit a brewery; poke around a small town.
  • Extend the fun. If you allow the extra time you can extend your road trip into northern Shenandoah Valley or east onto Skyline Drive.
  • Check the Visit Shenandoah Valley website for more information about the region.

Find more southern Shenandoah Valley area tips and things to do in these related articles:

Portions of our Southern Shenandoah Valley road trip were hosted by Waynesboro Tourism, Rockbridge County Virginia, Visit Staunton, and Visit Lexington

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Fun things to do in Southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia on a road trip to Staunton, Waynesboro, and Lexington with scenic country roads and unique stops.
Southern Shenandoah Valley VA

5 thoughts on “Southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia Road Trip: Staunton to Lexington”

  1. I’ve not yet been to Virginia, but would love to go! Thx so much for this post. I would be very interested in tasting the local wine and beer. And of course … any chocolate I could find! 🙂

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