Many of us are probably planning to stick close to home this spring. Fortunately, there’s plenty to keep you and the family busy in the Staunton area. From hiking to biking to hot-air ballooning, here are our local picks for springtime fun!

Step 1: Dust off Your Hiking Boots

It’s been a long, cold winter, and you’ve probably spent too much of it inside. How about a nice, easy hike to stretch your legs and break in your boots? A family-appropriate 2.5-mile hike that you’ll love is Hidden Rocks Trail. The gently rolling terrain has several creek crossings, so wear your water shoes. You’ll see a pretty waterfall and climb up to the aptly named cliffs, where you might get to see rock climbers. Looking for something longer, without creek crossings? Check out the wooded loop trail at Trimble Mountain. Hike clockwise to leave the steepest part for the descent, and make sure to follow the short path to look at Todd Lake when you finish.

Want more? Visit Shenandoah National Park or read our recommendations for more Hikes for Beginners.

If you enjoy studying the migration patterns of our feathered friends, see Plan Your “Nest” Adventure: Birdwatching in Staunton.

Step 2: Level Up Your Biking Skills

This is the year you’re finally going to get into mountain biking, right? Test your trail readiness on the singletrack at Montgomery Hall Park. You’ll get to explore miles of trail that will prove an appropriate challenge to beginners, but will entertain more advanced riders as well. Once you have some experience under your belt, head out and pedal the trails in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest. 

Families seeking easy, scenic, and mostly flat rides should pedal the 1.3-mile loop at Gypsy Hill Park. Wind down after your ride with some time on the playground or a stroll around the duck pond. While a bit further afield, Lexington’s Chessie Trail, Waynesboro’s South River Greenway, or the trail system that starts in Mountain View Park in Grottoes also offer gentle rides that are safe from traffic. 

Here are some additional Staunton area biking ideas. 

Step 3: Dine Alfresco

Nothing feels better when warm weather arrives than eating alfresco. Pack a picnic and climb to somewhere with a view. Check out the peaceful, open space on Mary Baldwin University’s Cannon Hill or lounge on a blanket in Woodrow Park to view the city from above. There’s also plenty of room to spread out with wine and a sunset at Barren Ridge Vineyard, just a short drive from town. For more picnic ideas, see Eat Your Heart out at Staunton’s Best Picnic Spots. 

Is actually packing the picnic too much trouble? Grab takeout from one of our downtown restaurants. Many let you order online! If you’re looking for something especially portable, check out Hot dogs: Staunton’s Top Dogs Are off the Leash or Wanna Get Cheesy: 9 Pizza Paradises.

Nobody will forgive you if you forget dessert, so make plans to scoop up some cold gelato at The Split Banana. Load a waffle cone with one of their signature flavors like matcha (green tea), Virginia peanut butter, or white chocolate grisbi. If you’d rather eat soft serve, Wright’s Dairy Rite has been serving up frozen treats since the 1950s. You can even cruise up in your car and have your treat delivered to your window, old-school style!

Step 4: Try Something New

We bet you’ve never ridden in a basket through the sky, or walked under a mountain, or watched people blow bubbles in molten glass. Start checking off that bucket list with a hot air balloon ride from Bridgewater’s Star Ballooning, which specializes in sunrise and sunset views.

You won’t be able to see anything without a headlamp as you explore the 2.25-mile Claudius Crozet Blue Ridge Tunnel trail, which has just opened for foot and bike traffic. The tunnel is spooky fun mixed with exercise and history. Finally, head to downtown Staunton to tour the gallery at Sunspots Studios. Make sure to attend a live glass blowing exhibition in the studio where you’ll see masters manipulate the glass like wax!

Click here for more Staunton-area bucket list ideas and area gems within a one-hour’s drive.

Step 5: Treat Yourself to Something Special

Whether you’re a history buff, or you love bonding over games, or you want to bring home the perfect piece of unique artwork, Staunton is the place to find your next favorite thing. History lovers should visit the Frontier Culture Museum or the Woodrow Wilson Birthplace and Presidential Library for unique views of the past and souvenirs from the gift shops!

Gamers will love the selection of table games and accessories at The Dragon’s Hoard. And if family games are what you seek, Pufferbellies Toys and Books has a curated selection of award-winning games for all ages.

Staunton has a number of galleries featuring original work by local and regional artists. Tour a gallery to find inspiration or a focal point for your wall. The Staunton Augusta Art Center regularly hosts exhibits, and art can be purchased in the gallery or online. The CoArt Gallery displays the work of over 40 local artists working in a variety of media. The space features different artists each month. 

For more on Staunton’s shopping scene, check out Where to Get Your Shopping Fix in Staunton.

It’s time to brighten up the shortest days of the year with a frosty mix of tequila, triple sec, lime, and more. Since the 1940s, bartenders have been putting their secret twists into this classic. Whether you enjoy yours frozen or on the rocks, there’s a sweet, tangy, salty burst of flavor waiting for you in Staunton!

Baja Bean / 9 W. Beverley St.

Baja Bean is the place for delicious Tex-Mex food. They also have a well stocked bar that includes beers on tap and by the bottle, wines, and mixed drinks like margaritas. You’ll definitely want to try the pomegranate margarita, which includes Espolon Silver, pomegranate juice, lime juice, and pomegranate arils, all served in a Baja pint glass for $11. This pairs perfectly with chili lime tacos, fish tacos, or chopped salad.

Can’t get enough? Baja was kind enough to include the recipe:

Pomegranate Margarita

• 1.5 oz Espolon Silver Tequila 
• equal parts pomegranate juice and sweetened lime juice 
• ice 
• Shake and top with pomegranate arils, a lime wheel and your choice of salt or no salt!

Byers Street Bistro / 18 Byers St.

A round of margaritas at cozy and casual Byers Street Bistro is the perfect way to celebrate. Choose from the house margarita, the raspberry margarita, the pineapple-melon margarita, or the spicy grapefruit margarita. Plan to share some Nashville chicken bites or pub pretzels with your drinks and then stick around for handhelds or personal pizzas for dinner.

The Green Room / 130 W. Beverley St.

The Green Room is a comfortable, hip place run by Blackfriar’s Playhouse actors. The space offers room to relax and connect over drinks and snacks as well as shop the shelves for “funky, and fresh finds.” You’ll enjoy drinks from the curated wine, craft beer, and cider lists paired with sandwiches or a cheese board. You do not want to miss the clementine’s margarita, which is made with Mattei blanc quinquina, lime, clementine soda, with a smoked salt rim.

El Puerto / 830 Greenville Ave.

El Puerto’s extensive menu runs ten pages long and includes all your Mexican favorites, plus more to try if you’re feeling adventurous. While you’re deciding, order up a frosty margarita, which comes in two sizes: regular and jumbo. Anything on the menu will complement this treat, but you might try a camarones a la diabla, which is pan-seared jumbo shrimp cooked with sweet and spicy chipotle sauce and served over rice and avocado salad.

Mi Rancho / 2116 W Beverley St

If you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican food off an extensive menu head to Mi Rancho. Order your meal and then dream of next summer over a variety of refreshing mixed drinks, like pina coladas and tequila sunrises. Mi Rancho’s showcase drink, however, is the great big and delicious margarita, which comes in strawberry, lime, mango, or peach flavors, and is good enough you’ll want to order the jumbo size. The Staunton location has happy hours Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-9 p.m.

The Book Dragon / 102 W. Beverley St.

How about a ready-made party for your home? Grab your copy of Drinking with Chickens at The Book Dragon. This hilarious book is full of recipes for margaritas as well as many other cocktail recipes. Pair it with an InBooze Cocktail Kit, which is designed to help you create 6-8 cocktails at home. You’ll love the classic margarita kit.

The Well Balanced Paw / 29 Byers St.

Who says people should get to have all the fun? Visit The Well Balanced Paw and buy your fur baby a plush, squeaky Muttgarita chew toy. Enjoy happy hour with your dog !

Medieval Fantasies Gyfte Shoppe / 10 S. New St.

The margarita love doesn’t need to end with drinks. Medieval Fantasies Gyfte Shoppe offers a margarita salt scrub skin exfoliant. Check out the catalogue for more medieval and fantasy-themed gifts.

More Places to Score a Margarita

The Depot Grille / 42 Middlebrook Ave.

The Depot Grille features a gracefully mirrored and carved 40-foot bar that was repurposed from Albany, New York’s luxurious Ten Eyck Hotel. The Depot specializes in steak and seafood. Relax and have a drink and an appetizer like wings or fried oysters before your meal.

Zynodoa / 115 E. Beverley St.

Zynodoa specializes in “inspired Southern cuisine,” and the ever-changing menu is always full of delicious and seasonal meals that feature locally sourced ingredients. You’ll want to start your evening with a cocktail (or two!) at the bar, which has the feel and tastes of the big city.

Thai Staunton Restaurant / 1000 Greenville Ave.

Thai Staunton Restaurant serves up any cocktail you can think of, including margaritas, which are guaranteed to compliment your spicy curry!

The 1924 / 24 S. Market St.

The 1924 a casual dining area and lounge just off the lobby of the historic Hotel 24 South. Enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail with a light meal on a Friday or Saturday night. Sit by the fire with your margarita and a plate of wings or a delicious angus burger.

Mill Street Grill / 1 Mill St.

Belly up to the bar at Mill Street Grill for a drink before your meal. A margarita would sure pair nicely with your gourmet burger or steak!

The Clocktower / 27 W. Beverley St.

Clocktower Food and Spirits serves a great menu with modern versions of classic pastas and desserts as well as a large sandwich and panini selection. Stop in for a cocktail and an appetizer or a full meal

Now that there’s a vaccine, the end is (almost) in sight. We’ve been busy planning how to welcome you back to Staunton. Our lodging providers have also been planning and putting measures in place to keep you safe. Cleanliness initiatives include new and enhanced cleaning methods, reduced contact and social distancing, sanitizer stations, and cleanliness amenity kits. Things might look a little different when you return to Staunton, but it’s still the same great town with lodging just steps away from shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.

Hotel 24 South / 24 S. Market St.

Guest rooms at Hotel 24 South boast immaculate rooms with plush pillowtop mattresses and extensive in-house services. The hotel received extensive renovates in 2005 and 2018, and the rooms and suites are luxurious and modernized. However, the hotel’s historic charm remains. On-site amenities include a business center, a fitness center, and a heated indoor pool. Located in Staunton’s walkable downtown, Hotel 24 South is close to a number of fine dining and entertainment opportunities. 

To keep you safe, Hotel 24 South has increased cleaning frequency and is using EPA and CDC-approved cleaning products. They’re also washing linens and towels according to CDC guidelines. Guests and staff are practicing social distancing, and public areas are arranged to encourage it. High-touch surfaces in both rooms and public spaces get extra cleaning. These include door handles, elevator buttons, remotes, and light switches. Hotel 24 South has set up hand sanitizer stations.  “We will continue to seek out new technologies, innovations and training for our staff for how we can continue to make our hotel a cleaner and safer environment for all of our guests and associates.”

Blackburn Inn & Conference Center /  301 Greenville Ave.

The Blackburn Inn sits on 80 landscaped acres on the edge of downtown Staunton. This upscale boutique hotel is in a historic building and combines character and charming details like original wood floors and tall windows with crisp, modern amenities. Updated touches include marble bathrooms with rain showers, soaker tubs, and luxury linens. You can also book a manicure or massage at the new onsite spa.

The Blackburn Inn takes additional precautions for its guests’ safety and comfort. The inn has joined AHLA’s SafeStay initiative, which works to enhance “hotel cleaning practices and workplace protocols to help guests and employees feel confident during post-pandemic travel.” Among the steps being taken to ensure guest safety is commercial laundering of linen. Room surfaces including bathrooms, coffee makers, refrigerators, remotes, and floors are thoroughly cleaned with disinfectant cleaner between guests. Guests can also take advantage of contactless check-in and check-out using the OpenKey phone app.

Staunton Stays / 208 Kalorama St

Staunton Stays is putting your health and safety first when you stay in one of their four beautiful suites. Rooms in this boutique Victorian hotel offer queen-sized beds and a sofa bed. You’ll also find full kitchens, modern bathrooms, living quarters, and laundry room access. Each plush suite is decorated according to a different theme, including the Shenandoah Valley, France, dreams, and the artist’s imagination.

Staunton Stays is monitoring and following the Covid guidelines carefully. The hotel is certified to be in compliance with the Virginia Department of Health’s Sanitary Regulations for Hotels. Staunton Stays performs deep cleanings between all bookings and provides hand sanitizer for all guests. They have placed two commercial-grade air purifiers in the lobby, which are also used in the rooms between bookings.  Finally, Staunton Stays maintains a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate you and meet your needs.

The Berkeley House Bed and Breakfast / 303 Berkeley Place

The 1897 Berkeley House Bed and Breakfast sits across the street from the Woodrow Wilson Birthplace. Keep walking to access all the restaurants and shops downtown Staunton offers. The innkeepers recently modernized the 8,000 square-foot Queen Anne Victorian mansion and retained many original details. You’ll love the many tasty dishes served at breakfast. These include praline pecan French toast, spinach quiche, stuffed Dutch baby pancakes, and more. Make your stay even better by taking advantage of the American Shakespeare Center package, the craft beer package, or the champagne package.

To keep visitors safe and to continue to serve breakfast and social distance in the dining room, the Berkeley House is limiting occupancy to two guest rooms per night. The bed and breakfast has also increased cleaning and disinfecting procedures between guests and will not enter the guest rooms during guests’ stays. The innkeepers will remain masked and gloved while in guest presence.

Holiday Inn Express and Suites / 47 Rolling Thunder Ln

The new Holiday Inn Express & Suites offers easy access to both downtown Staunton and the highway. Relax in the comfort of your home away from home. Rooms have comfortable beds, safes, mini fridges, blackout shades, and more. Bathrooms feature both tubs and separate walk-in showers. Amenities at the hotel include a business center, a complimentary hot breakfast from the breakfast bar, and access to a fitness center and an indoor pool. 

For your safety, Holiday Inn Express & Suites adheres to the IHG Way of Clean and promises “that when you’re ready to travel again, your stay will meet our high standards of cleanliness.” These standards include new and enhanced cleanliness initiatives and technologies. They also include frequent deep cleaning and disinfecting, especially of high-touch areas. Along with reduced contact at the front desk, guests may use the IHG Studio app, which allows content streaming as well as service requests and review of room charges. Guests and staff are expected to social distance. Spaces in common areas have been cleared and opened up and sanitizer stations have been placed for guests to use. 

Fairfield Inn and Suites, by Marriott / 114 Crossing Way, Staunton, VA

Visitors to Marriott’s 98-room Fairfield Inn and Suites will know you’ve come to a good place when you enter the spacious lobby, which is bright with natural light. Guests can choose rooms with king-sized beds, queens, or suites designed to provide separate working and sleeping zones. If you want to catch up on work, you’ll enjoy setting up your workspace with the free Wi-Fi, ergonomic chair, and moveable desk. The lobby’s Corner Market stocks goodies 24 hours a day. There is also a fitness center and an indoor swimming pool. 

Marriott hotels subscribe to a “multi-pronged approach to meet the health and safety requirements of [their] “Commitment to Clean” standards.” You can expect guests and hotel workers to wear masks, social distance, and respect posted occupancy limits, including in pool and fitness areas. Partitions have been installed at the desk, or you can use the Marriott Bonvoy™ app for contactless check-in, keyed entry, and service requests. Breakfast and coffee are served in to-go bags. Rooms and public spaces will be cleaned with enhanced cleaning practices, including electrostatic sprayers and hospital-grade disinfectants.

Tru By Hilton Staunton / 120 Crossing Way, Staunton, Virginia

Tru, Hilton’s newest hotel chain opened in Staunton in late 2019. Tru focuses on building community. Ask the friendly staff for recommendations for taking advantage of the local culture and dining scene. Also check out the mural in the lobby featuring Staunton landmarks,  the real-time social media wall, and the 24/7 convenience kiosk stocking local products. Tru’s  rooms feature great mattresses, lots of towels, and large TVs. Included in your stay is a complementary breakfast and access to the fitness room.

Tru is keeping you safe with the Hilton CleanStay program. They have amped up their already rigorous cleaning standards by using hospital-grade cleaners from trusted companies like Lysol. After the room is thoroughly cleaned,  inspects and verifies the room meets the CleanStay standards and places the Hilton CleanStay Room Seal with Lysol protection over the door. They are adding additional disinfecting steps to high-touch surfaces. During their stays, guests can adapt their housekeeping preferences to their comfort level. Additional requested items will be delivered to the rooms in protective wrappings. Face coverings are required at Tru. Dining and lobby areas have been changed to provide proper social distance between tables and chairs. Ask about biodegradable dishware and pre-plated meals for breakfast. Tru has also set up contactless food delivery spots for guest ordering from outside restaurants.

What a year! If you found love during quarantine or stayed in love during lockdown, you must be doing something right. You and your special someone have exercised patience and kindness toward each other, and you deserve a special Valentine’s Day to celebrate your love. Here are some ideas that are unique to Staunton that will help make your day memorable and romantic.

Zynodoa Valentine’s Day Menu

Zynodoa offers a delicious modern twist on classic Southern cuisine. You’ll always be able to find something delightful that emphasizes local and seasonal ingredients, but you won’t want to miss the special Valentine’s Day 4-course chefs tasting menu!  And if you want to make it a really special night, roses will be available to order ahead of time for your table. And for the couples that prefer to stay at home, Zynodoa is offering a takeout/pickup option that includes a bottle of bubbly,  Dibon Cava from Spain and a 12-piece box of Santiago Chocolates (local Staunton chocolatier) for $45.

Clocktower Eats & Sweets Valentine’s Day

The Clocktower restaurant serves a great menu with modern versions of classic pastas and desserts as well as a large sandwich and panini selection. You can get amazing crab cakes and even seven different kinds of mac and cheese any day of the year, but they’re really going all out for Valentine’s Day with their special Eats & Sweets menu. Treat your sweetie to great food and a special night out in this historic building in downtown Staunton.

Guests spending the Valentine’s weekend at the Holiday Inn Express will receive 20% off all orders at the Clocktower, along with a complimentary dessert. Pick up your voucher at the front desk!

Emilio’s Valentine Specials

Emilio’s will be open on Sunday, Feb 14th. Specials for Valentine’s weekend (February 12-14) include a lobster bisque soup selection. The entrée special will be grilled blackened salmon over wilted spinach in a white wine lemon butter sauce served with side lobster ravioli in our homemade Alfredo sauce. Plan to enjoy items from the regular menu as well as half-off bottles of  2013 Barbaresco.

Heart-Shaped Pizza at Shenandoah Pizza & Tap House

So, you’ve decided that you’d rather stay in with your sweetheart this year? No worries, we’ve got you covered! Order a heart-shaped pizza from Shenandoah Pizza & Tap House and it will surely make your beloved’s heart flutter.

Blu Point Seafood Company – Love Is In Air, And In The Sea

We’re in the mood for love! Blu Point has put together a great Valentine’s Day Take Out Package that includes one dozen unshucked oysters and 6 chocolate covered strawberries for $42. The deadline for placing orders is Wednesday February 10th, and they can be picked up between 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on Saturday February 13th. Don’t miss out! Call (540) 712-0291 to order. 

Or dine in…

Byers Street Bistro

Valentine’s Day weekend has the Bistro serving up three different cocktails that are filled with “love”. Mardi Gras specials will be going on during this time as well, so make sure to stop in and celebrate!

Baja Bean Meal for Two

Baja Bean wants you to enjoy a $44 meal for two (vegetarian available), valid February 11th -14th, dine in or take out. Add a special cocktail for two that comes with two pint sized Baja keepsake glasses for $11. Limited availability, so order early! 

The Green Room

The Green Room has sparkling wines and charcuterie board specials for your Galentine OR your Valentine!

Stable Craft Brewing

Stable Craft Brewing has a few surprises for you! Introducing a Valentine’s Chocolate Covered Strawberry Stout and a Steak & Crab Cake for Two for Valentine’s weekend. They also are offering their Igloos for enjoying the great outdoors, while keeping you warm and toasty. Strawberry Cider will also be on tap while you enjoy listening to Kevin Chisnell and Crystal Armentrout.

Stelle Rose at Staunton Station

Stelle Rose has set the stage for a romantic dining experience for just you and your love. Enjoy the historic elegance of the station and order in your favorite Depot Grille meal for two! Reserve today by contacting Stelle Rose, then pre-order your food from the Depot Grille, as they feature their Valentines Dinner for two again this year. You can also order anything on their menu. They’ll even go pick it up for you! One hour table rental is $100. Meal total will depend on your food order from the Depot.

The Blackburn Inn – Valentine Sweetheart Package

Make reservations for a night of luxury at The Blackburn Inn with the Valentine Sweetheart Package. Imagine opening the door to your room and being greeted with chocolate-covered strawberries, a bottle of prosecco, and a bed sprinkled with rose petals. After a night of romance, a hearty breakfast for two will be delivered to your room.

Hotel 24 South – Date Night Getaway

Schedule a Friday or Saturday night getaway at Hotel 24 South. Not only will you get to relax in your stylish room, but you’ll also get chocolate-covered strawberries, drinks credit in The 1924 Lounge, and a delicious breakfast for two. Even your parking is included in this special.

Frederick House Valentine’s Tea

Frederick House is having a Valentine’s Tea from 12:00 pm-4:00 pm on Saturday, February 13th . Reservations recommended due to limited capacity seating/social distancing. 

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Rest and relax at Staunton’s newest hotel property, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites. With an extended check out time of 12 pm, sleep in late and enjoy your complimentary champagne and chocolates. You don’t even have to leave your modern and sleek room as breakfast will be delivered right to your door. This special offer is available February 12-14 and can be booked by calling 540-609-5700.

The Book Dragon

The Book Dragon has books for all ages, new and used, and if you’re looking for a special book for your little love, look no further!

Artist Paula Hurley’s Exhibit, Love Staunton

Just in time for V-Day, stop by Co-Art Gallery to take a look at everything Staunton, in mixed media. Paula says ““Love Staunton” expresses the delight I feel in sketching, or painting parts of the city. Whether I use watercolor, acrylic, oil paint or ink I respond with the joy I feel while in the midst of a beautiful area to spend time and create art.”

Meditation in Motion

Meditation In Motion is offering a Valentine’s Gift Certificate for massage for that special someone in your world.  Align your chakras with Reiki, ground your energy with hot stones from the James River, synchronize your sweetness with Swedish massage strokes, and be treated to the passionate pampering of aromatic essential oils. 

Mill Street Body & Soul Day

Mill Street Body & Soul Day Spa and Salon tends to all your spa needs, including massage, hair, nails, and waxing. This Valentine’s Day, indulge in a sole-relaxing treatment for couples and your partner (and your feet) will love you for it! Want even more relaxation? Stick around for a 30, 60, or 90-minute massage.

Ali&Co.

Ali&Co. has heart shaped bath bombs and soaps, as well as “Make Your Own Signature Scent” perfume. Couples love making this together.

Chocolates from Cocoa Mill

Chocolates are another old Valentine’s standby that we shouldn’t mess with because they’re just so perfect. Cocoa Mill has heart-shaped boxes filled with artisan truffles. You can also get kind of crazy with boozy truffles and order a side of spice-it-up bark! 

Pufferbellies Valentine Care Packages

Pufferbellies Toys and Books is offering themed Valentine care packages of love for the little ones, or the not-so-little ones in your life.  Think baby sloths, toads, fairies and dragons!

Made; By the People, For the People

Pick up a pre-ordered beautiful bouquet or floral arrangement by Leslie Greer Designs at Made.  Place your order by February 8th! While you’re at it, shop for Virginia’s finest and American made gifts, some handmade, some quirky, some DIY, but all fabulous!

Barren Ridge Vineyards

Barren Ridge Vineyards welcomes you to experience their Four Chocolates and Wine Flight packages, made with love!  There will be special music on Saturday, February 13th from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm from Boxcar Speakeasy, and a virtual wine tasting, live at 5:00 pm on Saturday, February 14th. 

Champagne from Yelping Dog

You can choose from Staunton’s widest selection of local and international wines at Yelping Dog Wine. From over 1,500 bottles, you’ll be sure to find a delicious red, white, or sparkling wine to stoke the romantic fires. You might even select an insulated wine and cheese carrier, packed with deliciousness, and take advantage of the next temperate day for a romantic picnic. Check out Staunton’s best picnic spots.

Bath Treats from Essentially Zen

Treat your loved one to a relaxing and therapeutic bath with wonderful smelling supplies from Essentially Zen. You’ll find soy candles, artisan soaps, body frostings, and more. If you can’t make up your mind, try a gift of monthly Find-Your-Zen subscription boxes that include seasonal candles, bath bombs, scrubs, and lotions. 

Pupcakes from the Well Balanced Paw

The Well Balanced Paw is celebrating Valentine’s Day with special cookies and “pup”cakes. We also have Valentine’s day themed treats and toys. Also, on Valentine’s weekend, we will have special Valentine ice cream for you to treat your special furry Valentine! 

Flowers from Brin’s Posy

There’s a reason flowers are a traditional Valentine’s Day gift. They lift us up during the gloomiest days of the year and make us anticipate the spring that is coming. Brin’s Posy in downtown Staunton seeks to create unique designs inspired by the Shenandoah Valley to celebrate your special occasions. Order a Valentine’s Day arrangement, or better yet, treat your love to a subscription service for a weekly or monthly delivery of seasonal flowers.  Bonus!! Molly Rose Murphy with Queen City Music Studios will be doing singing telegrams, and Clocktower Eats & Sweets will be providing heart shaped cookies

Medieval Fantasies Gyfte Shoppe

From February 1-14, Medieval Fantasies Gyfte Shoppe will post Valentine’s specialty items on social media. Be on the lookout for all kinds of fun gifts including handmade Victorian Valentine’s day cards, chocolate strawberry loose tea, tea infusers with heart-shaped key charms, cherry chocolate welsh cakes, and more. Medieval Fantasies also sells bath items, candles, and even bows and arrows (if you want to play cupid or take your Valentine out for a bit of target shooting).

Meeting of the Minds at Crack The Code

You might not immediately think of an escape room when you’re planning a romantic Valentine’s Day activity, but there’s something thrilling about pooling your brainpower against a ticking clock at Crack the Code Escape Room. From cat ladies to weather gods, to missing FBI agents, five games are available right now, including two specially designed around Staunton. There’s no better way to spend Valentine’s Day than being locked in a room with the one you love. On February 14th, get 10% off your game and a free sweet from Giancarlo Fine European Pastries.