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A Winter Wine Festival Weekend in Staunton

For six years the Winter Wine Festival has drawn couples seeking a reprieve from the doldrums of the season to Staunton. This year is no different, but the offerings may be. One dozen wineries, a cidery, and four artisan food makers will make February 25 a tasty and memorable day in the Queen City. About … Continue reading A Winter Wine Festival Weekend in Staunton

For six years the Winter Wine Festival has drawn couples seeking a reprieve from the doldrums of the season to Staunton. This year is no different, but the offerings may be. One dozen wineries, a cidery, and four artisan food makers will make February 25 a tasty and memorable day in the Queen City.

About the Tastes

Of the 12 wineries bringing their best bottles to the Winter Wine Festival, half are recent medal winners in the 2017 Virginia Governor’s Cup Competition.

Thanks so much to Eric Parker for sharing with us this beautiful photo he took at the vineyard on Saturday! We're…

Posted by Barren Ridge Vineyards on Monday, March 10, 2014

Barren Ridge Vineyards (Fishersville): Six silvers and two bronze medals
Chateau Morrisette Winery (Floyd): Two silvers and one bronze medal
Horton Vineyards (Gordonsville): One gold, five silvers, and seven bronze medals
Rockbridge Vineyards (Raphine): Seven silvers and three bronze medals
Stanburn Winery (Stuart): Four silver medals
Whitebarrel Winery (Christiansburg): Two bronze medals

While the wineries are impressive, the foodies of the festival are no slackers. Wait until you taste these delights.

Staunton Olive Oil Company is almost two years old and folks have been flocking to score some of the finest oils and vinegars available in the Shenandoah Valley.
Cocoa Mill Chocolatier‘s flagship store is in Lexington, but Staunton is elated to have a shop of its own. Cocoa Mill has been crafting wonderful delights for nearly 25 years, and their truffles are what dreams are made of. Just ask The Wall Street Journal, which ranked Cocoa Mill head and shoulders above national names you know (cough cough, Godiva, cough cough).
Near Charlottesville, Caromont Farms’ cheeses are handcrafted from goat’s milk. Chef and cheesemaker Gail Hobbs Page was one of Virginia’s “Women in Food” for the Southern Foodways Alliance in 2013. Caromont has received national attention from The Washington Post and CBS Evening News, among others, and their Esmontonian cheese came in second place in the 2013 American Cheese Society’s American Made/International Style Goat’s Milk category.

Where to Stay

The Winter Wine Festival is hosted at the Stonewall Jackson Hotel, therefore, a package is available to you. It includes two tickets for the festival, breakfast for two, and your room, of course. The rates start at $229. Book Now

– Other Lodging Options

Buy Tickets

Tickets for Winter Wine Festival are available for online purchase through February 17. After that, please plan to purchase at the door or in person at the following retailers. Those who book the Stonewall Jackson Hotel package will have their tickets included. Tickets are non-refundable.

Staunton’s Top Four Places for Barbecue

Oh and😀 A photo posted by Travis Taylor (@travclimb) on Apr 25, 2016 at 5:23pm PDT According to author Joe Haynes, barbecue originated in Virginia. And why not? Virginia is the birthplace of America. Haynes released Virginia Barbecue: A History in September 2016. Only time will tell if it becomes the definitive guide to juicy … Continue reading Staunton’s Top Four Places for Barbecue

Oh and😀

A photo posted by Travis Taylor (@travclimb) on Apr 25, 2016 at 5:23pm PDT

According to author Joe Haynes, barbecue originated in Virginia. And why not? Virginia is the birthplace of America. Haynes released Virginia Barbecue: A History in September 2016. Only time will tell if it becomes the definitive guide to juicy smoked meats in the Commonwealth, but we do owe thanks to Haynes for successfully lobbying to make Virginia Barbecue Season a thing. The season begins in May and ends in October, but we want you to be ready. Bookmark this page or print it for reference when you travel the Shenandoah Valley.

According to Yelpers, Staunton has four places rated four stars where the barbecue is worth the drive. Do give each a try yourself and review, if you like.

Peck’s Bar-B-Que | 477 Lee Jackson Highway

Peck’s was a long-time barbecue staple in nearby Waynesboro, but their relocation to Staunton has been a real gain for the locals who love smoked pork Virginia style. As it turns out, passers-through love Peck’s, too!

“This is a down home Virginia BBQ … if you are in Staunton, make it a foodie stop.” – Linda F., Pinson, AL
“Highly recommend the chopped BBQ sandwich special. Worth the drive!” – Matt R., Andover, KS
“It’s a total dive, and I hope they never change a thing! Food was delicious, and portions were huge. Best thing was the 1/2 rack of ribs platter – it was one of those meals where you’re SO full but you can’t stop eating.” – Amy G., Burke, VA

Kline’s Hog Wild BBQ | 906 Greeville Avenue

If you’re familiar with the name Kline’s, it’s likely for Kline’s Dairy Bar, one of our favorite ice cream parlors. However, Kline’s also has Hog Wild BBQ and you’re missing out if you don’t give it a try, too. Actually, you can do both at once!

“Yum, yum, yum! Love the BBQ, ice cream and coleslaw!” – Teri B., Waynesboro, VA
“Great tasting barbecue. The Cole Slaw (sic) was really good.” – Steve M., Madison, WI

😍😍😍 got to speak to my very first #bosslady when I stopped in @klinesdairybar what a treat! ❤ I actually dream about this #bbq and #icecream when I stay away too long. #stauntonvirginia

A photo posted by Laurel Murray (@laurelmurrays) on Jan 24, 2017 at 9:08am PST

Mill Street Grille | 1 Mill Street

Mill Street Grille is not a barbecue joint by any stretch, but their slow-cooked ribs and homemade barbecue sauce are one of the top draws.

“I chose the best BBQ in the south, even if the Mill isn’t a bbq restaurant technically. The ribs were literally fall-off-the-bone … Totally tender, absolutely delicious … and the sweet bbq sauce was to-die-for: I was only disappointed to learn that the Mill does not sell its own BBQ sauce …” – Colin M., Newmarket, NH
“I’ve had BBQ Ribs in many places in my life, but none as good as these!” – John M., White Stone, VA
“If you are in the area, and a bbq rib fan, give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.” – John C., Cranford, NJ

The Depot Grille | 42 Middlebrook Avenue

The housemade barbecue sauce and rub are key to a great rack of ribs at The Depot Grille. Like Mill Street, The Depot offers a diverse menu and the ribs are pretty popular.

“The best ribs I’ve ever tried.” – Sergiy M., Manassas, VA
“The dry rubbed ribs were great, ordered with sauce on the side as well.” – Christie P., Avon, IN
“Baby back ribs – among meatiest and tenderest we’ve tried anywhere. A delicious prelude to our evening at Blackfriars!” – Elizabeth M., Mountain View, CA

Eat well and often with us in Staunton, Virginia.

REASON #17: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #17: red wing roots festival And last but not least…#17 is the Red Wing Roots Festival. With the beautiful backdrop of the towering limestone formations, known as The Natural Chimneys, this family-friendly music festival features the best of both worlds: great music in the great outdoors. Spend the weekend listening to the music stylings … Continue reading REASON #17: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #17: red wing roots festival

And last but not least…#17 is the Red Wing Roots Festival. With the beautiful backdrop of the towering limestone formations, known as The Natural Chimneys, this family-friendly music festival features the best of both worlds: great music in the great outdoors. Spend the weekend listening to the music stylings of The Steel Wheels, who call Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains home, while immersed in outdoor activities including daily hikes, morning yoga, fun runs and more. Set-up camp for the weekend or come for the day—either way you’re guaranteed to have fun! For the entire 2017 line-up click here.

For the complete list see:
REASON #1 – Queen City Potter Party
REASON #2 – Polyface Farm’s Lunatic Tours
REASON #3 – Staunton Music Festival’s 20th Anniversary Season
REASON #4 – Staunton: Your Gateway to Shenandoah National Park
REASON #5 – ASC’s 2017/18 Season Announcement
REASSON #6 – The Shack Makeover
REASON #7 – More Brew
REASON #8 – An Elegantly English Tea
REASON #9 – Fall Foliage Bike Festival
REASON #10 – Virginia Hot Glass Festival
REASON #11 – Winter Wine Festival
REASON #12 – Heifetz Institute’s Festival of Concerts
REASON #13 – Crack the Code Escape Room
REASON #14 – July 4th with Wilson Fairchild
REASON #15 – Family Fun at NatureRidge
REASON #16 – Food Truck Battle

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Presidents Day in a President’s City

Presidents Day is February 20. Staunton is a presidential city as the birthplace of the 28th President of the United States, Woodrow Wilson. His Presidential Library and Museum is celebrating the day with free admission for children and students when accompanied by a parent. Visitors on the 20th will be able to tour the Presbyterian Manse … Continue reading Presidents Day in a President’s City

President Woodrow Wilson’s visit to Staunton

Presidents Day is February 20. Staunton is a presidential city as the birthplace of the 28th President of the United States, Woodrow Wilson.

His Presidential Library and Museum is celebrating the day with free admission for children and students when accompanied by a parent. Visitors on the 20th will be able to tour the Presbyterian Manse (Wilson’s birthplace) with a guide. Interpreters representing 1856 will bring the time period to life and share their knowledge of the Wilson family.

Self-guided tours of the museum include galleries, his 1919 Pierce-Arrow limousine, and an interactive re-creation of a World War I trench.

An additional treat for Presidents Day is a free lecture at 2 p.m. by Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library CEO Robin von Seldeneck. The event is part of an ongoing series commemorating the 100th anniversary of World War I.

Around Staunton

After you’ve toured the Presidential Library and Museum, head to Lewis Creek Market on Church Street for some “Presidential Favorites.” It’s a happy hour, of sorts, that includes wine, beer, and cider to please any president’s palate. The educational tasting is free, and occurs from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

WWWWD?

What Would Woodrow Wilson Drink on Presidents Day? Or would he drink at all?

Wilson was president when the Eighteenth Amendment was ratified in 1919. If you’re rusty on the Constitution, this is the entry involving alcohol. Specifically, the prohibition of it. The Prohibition Era lasted until the Eighteenth Amendment was repealed in 1933. That’s 14 years of homemade white lightnin’ and hooch for the citizens of the good ol’ US of A, but what did President Wilson do? Did the dude abide?

According to Mark Will-Weber’s 2014 NYPost.com article, Wilson’s drink of choice was Scotch. Simon Ford, in his article for Liquor.com, suggests Wilson “stashed away supplies so that he could mix his favorite libations in secret.” Fact or fiction? Visit the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum to pose the question to the pros. Presidents Day seems like a perfect time to do so.

>> Learn More About Woodrow Wilson

REASON #16: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #16: food truck battle and beer competition Whose food (and beer) will reign supreme? Food trucks—and craft breweries—go head-to-head in the annual food truck battle hosted by the Frontier Culture Museum. Fans taste, sip, and vote for their favorites during this festive event which features live music and children’s activities. Bring your chairs and blankets … Continue reading REASON #16: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #16: food truck battle and beer competition

Whose food (and beer) will reign supreme? Food trucks—and craft breweries—go head-to-head in the annual food truck battle hosted by the Frontier Culture Museum. Fans taste, sip, and vote for their favorites during this festive event which features live music and children’s activities. Bring your chairs and blankets and spend the afternoon enjoying the best food and beer from across the state. For foodie and craft beer lovers this event is a MUST, so save the date for Sunday, September 3, 2017.

For the complete list see:
REASON #1 – Queen City Potter Party
REASON #2 – Polyface Farm’s Lunatic Tours
REASON #3 – Staunton Music Festival’s 20th Anniversary Season
REASON #4 – Staunton: Your Gateway to Shenandoah National Park
REASON #5 – ASC’s 2017/18 Season Announcement
REASSON #6 – The Shack Makeover
REASON #7 – More Brew
REASON #8 – An Elegantly English Tea
REASON #9 – Fall Foliage Bike Festival
REASON #10 – Virginia Hot Glass Festival
REASON #11 – Winter Wine Festival
REASON #12 – Heifetz Institute’s Festival of Concerts
REASON #13 – Crack the Code Escape Room
REASON #14 – July 4th with Wilson Fairchild
REASON #15 – Family Fun at NatureRidge

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REASON #15: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #15 family fun at natureridge For families looking to visit, Staunton has no shortage of family-friendly outdoor activities. From playgrounds to hiking trails, swimming pools to disc golf, Staunton’s parks offer families an opportunity to unwind and unplug. And now families can immerse themselves in creative, outdoor play at NatureRidge, Staunton’s first natural playground located at … Continue reading REASON #15: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #15 family fun at natureridge

For families looking to visit, Staunton has no shortage of family-friendly outdoor activities. From playgrounds to hiking trails, swimming pools to disc golf, Staunton’s parks offer families an opportunity to unwind and unplug. And now families can immerse themselves in creative, outdoor play at NatureRidge, Staunton’s first natural playground located at Montgomery Hall Park. Using mostly natural elements and materials, the new playground features an elevated zig zag, stump steps and rock quarry, mud kitchen, wooden ship and elevated sandbox allowing kids of all ages and abilities to explore, build and experiment. NatureRidge is still a work in progress and there are plans to construct a playhouse; a willow dome as well as a grass covered tunnel; and a small amphitheater for impromptu performances. Though April 2017 is the projected timeframe for completion, the park is OPEN to all for exploration and fun!

For the complete list see:
REASON #1 – Queen City Potter Party
REASON #2 – Polyface Farm’s Lunatic Tours
REASON #3 – Staunton Music Festival’s 20th Anniversary Season
REASON #4 – Staunton: Your Gateway to Shenandoah National Park
REASON #5 – ASC’s 2017/18 Season Announcement
REASSON #6 – The Shack Makeover
REASON #7 – More Brew
REASON #8 – An Elegantly English Tea
REASON #9 – Fall Foliage Bike Festival
REASON #10 – Virginia Hot Glass Festival
REASON #11 – Winter Wine Festival
REASON #12 – Heifetz Institute’s Festival of Concerts
REASON #13 – Crack the Code Escape Room
REASON #14 – July 4th with Wilson Fairchild

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Celebrate Love in Staunton, Virginia

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and we invite you to come celebrate love in Staunton. Our downtown is quite magical in every season with interesting architecture, renowned dining, nationally-acclaimed performing arts, and a variety of restful, romantic accommodations. Make a memory or two with Staunton as your backdrop. Get a Room YOU LOVE This could … Continue reading Celebrate Love in Staunton, Virginia

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and we invite you to come celebrate love in Staunton. Our downtown is quite magical in every season with interesting architecture, renowned dining, nationally-acclaimed performing arts, and a variety of restful, romantic accommodations. Make a memory or two with Staunton as your backdrop.

Get a Room YOU LOVE

This could be worse i guess!

A post shared by Travis Taylor (@travclimb) on May 2, 2016 at 6:17pm PDT

The Stonewall Jackson Hotel is downtown next door to the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse. In fact, the hotel offers a package that includes tickets to the Playhouse. If the arts aren’t your thing, perhaps opting for the Bed & Breakfast package is the way to go. It’s the package that doesn’t fill your time, but says, “here’s your room and we’ll see you for breakfast in the morning.” You can find ways to fill the time, right?

At Frederick House: A Small Hotel, just about anything you want to add to your Staunton experience is fair game. Roses and chocolates? Done. Strolls through history? Done. A picnic lunch to enjoy from a Blue Ridge Parkway overlook? Done. For your stay, we recommend the romantic Patrick-27, a romantic suite with a four-poster canopy king bed and an abundance of natural light.

For those couples who have no plans of leaving their abode away from home, check out the hibernation option at Inn at Old Virginia. Book two nights in a Barn Bedroom Suite complete with king bed, hot tub, gas fireplace, and wet bar. This package also includes a $100 gift card for downtown merchants and restaurants, as well as a delectable Michael G. Harman Gift Basket loaded with goodies. The best part about this romantic getaway is that it’s half-off the second night.

More Accommodations

Special Valentine’s Events & Dinners

Zynodoa is one of Staunton’s top destination restaurants, so of course they’re rolling out a delectable prix fixe menu just for Valentine’s Day weekend. The special four-course dinner is an additional option to their incredible daily menu, and will be available February 10 through 14.

Byers Street Bistro invites you to enjoy a special romance-inducing menu created specifically for Valentine’s Day by Chef Stephen Thacker. Pair your dinner with a tasty his-and-hers drink special!

Get creative with an interactive cupcake decorating class with Paris Cake Company and hosted by Lewis Creek Market. Enjoy wine and snacks while you learn decorating tips from Pastry Chef Erinn Paris as you create a Valentine’s Day cupcake bouquet. Take home your newly decorated cupcakes and a Paris Cake Company apron! For tickets contact Paris Cake Company.

Make a keepsake together at Sunspots Studios! For a limited time, two people are welcome to blow their own glass Valentine’s ornament together. Make an appointment to create something special between now and February 19.

The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library is hosting “A Very Valentine Tea” on Saturday, February 4 from 2 to 4 p.m. It’s a children’s event, so share some love with your smallest sweethearts (ages 6 to 11) for crafts, games, and a scavenger hunt, too.

Want the perfect wine? Lewis Creek Market is hosting “Romantic Wines to Fall in Love With” on Monday, February 13 from 4 to 6 p.m. The educational wine tasting experience is free of charge for those 21 and older with a valid ID.

Make a plan for your great romantic escape and #LOVEStaunton.

– Dining
– Wine & Beer Tastings
– Arts & Culture

REASON #14: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #14: America’s birthday celebration with Wilson Fairchild Wil and Langdon Reid, sons of Harold and Don Reid of the Statler Brothers, will revive the country groups’ famous “Happy Birthday USA” celebration. The free concert started in 1970 and drew nearly 100,000 people to Staunton each Fourth of July. America’s Birthday Celebration includes a parade, … Continue reading REASON #14: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #14: America’s birthday celebration with Wilson Fairchild

Wil and Langdon Reid, sons of Harold and Don Reid of the Statler Brothers, will revive the country groups’ famous “Happy Birthday USA” celebration. The free concert started in 1970 and drew nearly 100,000 people to Staunton each Fourth of July. America’s Birthday Celebration includes a parade, concessions and entertainment throughout the day. Wil and Langdon’s country group, Wilson Fairchild, will headline the event which will take place at Gypsy Hill Park. For more details check out: America’s Birthday Celebration’s website.

For the complete list see:
REASON #1 – Queen City Potter Party
REASON #2 – Polyface Farm’s Lunatic Tours
REASON #3 – Staunton Music Festival’s 20th Anniversary Season
REASON #4 – Staunton: Your Gateway to Shenandoah National Park
REASON #5 – ASC’s 2017/18 Season Announcement
REASSON #6 – The Shack Makeover
REASON #7 – More Brew
REASON #8 – An Elegantly English Tea
REASON #9 – Fall Foliage Bike Festival
REASON #10 – Virginia Hot Glass Festival
REASON #11 – Winter Wine Festival
REASON #12 – Heifetz Institute’s Festival of Concerts
REASON #13 – Crack the Code Escape Room

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REASON #13: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #13: crack the code Escape room Enter the Escape Room. An interactive real life escape game in which you must solve the puzzles in order to escape the room. You have 60 minutes to find the clues, solve the puzzles and make your way to freedom. Choose from two different themed rooms, DaVinci’s Office … Continue reading REASON #13: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #13: crack the code Escape room

Enter the Escape Room. An interactive real life escape game in which you must solve the puzzles in order to escape the room. You have 60 minutes to find the clues, solve the puzzles and make your way to freedom. Choose from two different themed rooms, DaVinci’s Office and The Bunker; with a third room, Asylum, opening in a few weeks. See if you are up to the challenge and crack the code—a fun alternative to the same old birthday party and family gathering. Now taking reservations!

For the complete list see:
REASON #1 – Queen City Potter Party
REASON #2 – Polyface Farm’s Lunatic Tours
REASON #3 – Staunton Music Festival’s 20th Anniversary Season
REASON #4 – Staunton: Your Gateway to Shenandoah National Park
REASON #5 – ASC’s 2017/18 Season Announcement
REASSON #6 – The Shack Makeover
REASON #7 – More Brew
REASON #8 – An Elegantly English Tea
REASON #9 – Fall Foliage Bike Festival
REASON #10 – Virginia Hot Glass Festival
REASON #11 – Winter Wine Festival
REASON #12 – Heifetz Institute’s Festival of Concerts

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REASON #12: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #12: Heifetz Institute’s Festival of concerts June 24-August 4, 2017 During the summer months, Staunton abounds with the sounds of music! The Heifetz Institute’s Festival of Concerts kicks off a summer of music making starting with their Opening Concert and Convocation on June 24 and the music doesn’t stop until August 4. The six-week … Continue reading REASON #12: NOT TO MISS STAUNTON IN ’17

REASON #12: Heifetz Institute’s Festival of concerts

June 24-August 4, 2017

During the summer months, Staunton abounds with the sounds of music! The Heifetz Institute’s Festival of Concerts kicks off a summer of music making starting with their Opening Concert and Convocation on June 24 and the music doesn’t stop until August 4. The six-week festival consists of over 40 events including daily concerts, a speaker series and special performances featuring their world-renowned faculty and guest artists. The Institute serves as a training ground for outstanding string players, ages 13-25, who study alongside faculty from top universities, conservatories and performance groups from around the globe. Stay tuned as they announce their season programming on their website. And if you don’t want to miss a moment of outstanding music, all summer long, get your 2017 Season Pass online which will guarantee you a seat at every show!

For the complete list see:
REASON #1 – Queen City Potter Party
REASON #2 – Polyface Farm’s Lunatic Tours
REASON #3 – Staunton Music Festival’s 20th Anniversary Season
REASON #4 – Staunton: Your Gateway to Shenandoah National Park
REASON #5 – ASC’s 2017/18 Season Announcement
REASSON #6 – The Shack Makeover
REASON #7 – More Brew
REASON #8 – An Elegantly English Tea
REASON #9 – Fall Foliage Bike Festival
REASON #10 – Virginia Hot Glass Festival
REASON #11 – Winter Wine Festival

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