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The five antebellum structures at Western State are recognized as one of the best-preserved and original assemblages of early institutional architecture in the United States. First known as Western Lunatic Asylum, this institution was founded in 1825 to serve Virginia’s western region. Architect Thomas Blackburn, master builder William B. Phillips,…

The weather is just starting to warm up and everything outside our window is looking bright green and lush. It’s one of the best times to head outside and enjoy walks through our historic downtown an on our nearby trails. Celebrate the end of the spring season and enjoy all…

In the 1840s, Staunton grew from a sleepy town to a thriving center of commerce with the construction of  the Staunton-Parkersburg Turnpike. The town’s growth accelerated again when the Virginia Central Railroad arrived in 1854. The Wharf Historic District grew up around the train depot to handle merchandise and house…

Hazelnut Marketing Board Announces Chef Recipe Contest Winner   Aurora, Ore. (April 24, 2020) – The Hazelnut Marketing Board (HMB) has selected a winning recipe as a result of a three-month long chef recipe contest. The nationwide contest, which ran January 1-March 9, encouraged foodservice professionals to submit unique recipes featuring…

If you’re looking to add some excitement to your life in quarantine,  try your hand at creating these signature cocktails from some of your favorite Staunton establishments. These tasty drinks will certainly up your happy hour game and your mixology skills. You’ll certainly be ready to impress at your next…

It’s common knowledge that Staunton boasts the Woodrow Wilson birthplace, but did you know that other important public figures – from movie stars to a leader of the National Institute of Health – spent formative years here?  Read on to learn how these impressive Staunton natives walked our streets and…

We scoured Instagram to find the best photo spots in Staunton, and we hope you visit them while you explore our city. Make sure to tag your shot with #LoveStaunton! You Belong Here Mural Celebrate your trip to Staunton with a photo in front of the “You Belong Here” Staunton…

This diverse, older neighborhood adjoins the campus of Mary Baldwin University and the former Staunton Military Academy. Rich in historical associations, it boasts numerous buildings listed in the National Register and some of the steepest hills in town. Deeded to the City in 1803 by Judge Archibald Stuart, Stuart Addition…

Feed your sense of adventure and mystery on a scavenger hunt through Staunton. Whether you’re geocaching, traipsing, or going on a ‘hunt,” these interactive puzzles are perfect for keeping boredom and isolation at bay. For little explorers, try geocaching through Staunton City Parks. Learn more about the process and fun…

Looking for some much-needed entertainment while we are all sheltering-in-place, but tired of Netflix, TikTok, and YouTube?  Staunton has lots of options for virtual entertainment and education to keep you busy from the comfort of your own home this spring. Bring American Shakespeare Center home with BlkFrsTV “Thrilling…These webcasts effortlessly…

Named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983, Newtown Historic District is Staunton’s oldest distinctly residential neighborhood. The name Newtown set it apart from the area once known as Oldtown. This district is Staunton’s largest and consists of over 400 buildings. Many of the homes in Newtown emerged…

With the kids out of school, we’re all looking for fun ways to keep the entire family occupied. Biking is a great reason to get outside and enjoy the sunshine and get some exercise. Fortunately, we have a number of kid-friendly spots to ride. Just remember to practice some social…