If you’re anything like us, the day doesn’t really start until you’ve had that first glorious sip of coffee. And lucky for you, we’re going to get into Waynesboro’s impressive coffee culture to uncover all the local spots to get your caffeine fix.

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Waynesboro isn’t just a pretty face with scenic views – it’s also home to some seriously awesome coffee joints. Whether you’re on the hunt for a cozy nook to curl up with a book or a cool spot to catch up with friends over a latte, Waynesboro’s got just the place for you.

Join us as we spill the beans on the local coffee scene, from mom-and-pop joints serving up heartwarming brews to hipster-approved roasteries pushing the boundaries of flavor. Grab your favorite mug, and let’s have some coffee talk!

First up, is The French Press. Perfectly placed right on bustling North Wayne Avenue in downtown Waynesboro, it’s the kind of place where you can kick back on a comfy couch, soak up the vibes, and read a good book. They take their coffee seriously here, so you know you’re getting the good stuff every time. And, if you’re looking for some lunch, they have delicious paninis and salads too. As an added bonus, The French Press is open every day!

Happ Coffee Roasters is next on the list. Not only do they sell signature bevvies and tasty noms in their industrial-chic space, but they also have an in-house roastery, meticulously sourcing the finest beans and employing artful roasting techniques. Open Monday – Saturday, Happ is a THE place to meet in Waynesboro and check them out downtown at the Waynesboro Farmers Market on Saturdays May through October.

Bec’s Coffee Shop is probably the most unique on the list. Not only do they open at 5 am every day for the early birds to grab a cup of joe and breakfast, but they also do lunch from 11:30 – 2. They have different specials like chicken noodle soup and pulled pork BBQ sandwiches and classics like all beef hotdogs on the menu. It’s a local favorite and a hidden gem that you need to check out!

Tucked in downtown Waynesboro’s newest building is Mission Coffee. On the first floor of the Bookkeeping & Managements Systems building, Mission Coffee features thoughtfully sourced beans, monthly specials like lavender cold brew, light fare, and other drinks and they’ll bring your order out to you if you’re in a hurry or having trouble finding parking! Mission is open at 6 am Monday – Saturday.

OPENING SOON

You might have heard of Kline’s Dairy Bar, but get ready for Kline’s Espresso Bar! Opening in early fall right behind the ice cream shop, Kline’s Espresso Bar plans on serving coffee, espresso, energy drinks, and small bites. We’re excited!

And that’s a wrap on our tour around Waynesboro’s unique local coffee scene! Whether you’re a local looking for a new go-to or a visitor in need of a morning caffeine fix before you start exploring, keep spreading those good coffee vibes. Cheers to the next brew-filled adventure!

Ready to pack the car full of kids, gear, and snacks, and get out of town for the weekend? Load up the playlists and head north along the 1-81 corridor. Explore the sites and towns along the way, making sure to include a leisurely drive along a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Finally, make Waynesboro your home base for a few days of fun before heading home.

Route section #1: I-81 to Blue Ridge Parkway

Start your adventure by heading north on I-81 through the beautiful Shenandoah Valley to Lexington. Follow Route 11 and then Route 56 west to the Blue Ridge Parkway at Tye River Gap, Milepost 27.2. The magnificent Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 569 miles along the Blue Ridge Mountains. Refer to the interactive map for info about trails, campgrounds, waystops, road closures, and overlooks.

Where to Eat

Theyre hungry already? Fill up on comfort food and 50s-themed nostalgia at Natural Bridges Pink Cadillac Diner. Another great place to feed the crew before traveling on the Parkway is Whites Travel Center in Raphine. Whites is designed for travelers on the long haul, and youll find numerous fast food options if you’re in a hurry.We suggest grabbing some takeout to make a picnic at one of the Parkways fantastic overlooks.

Must-See Sights

There are many great places to pause along this stretch of your journey, but keep an eye out for a few of our favorites…

Buchanan Swinging Bridge: Just a quick hop off the highway, your family will thrill to see this 366-foot long, 57.5-foot high pedestrian bridge that spans the James River and dates back to 1851.

Natural Bridge: Stop to gawk at Natural Bridge State Parks 215-foot limestone arch, discover living history at the Monocan Indian settlement, and hike the seven miles of trails. Kids will also get a kick out of feeding the animals in the drive-through habitats at Virginia Safari Park.

Parkway and nearby: Two short but wonderful hikes are Crabtree Falls and White Rock Falls, which travel along or to waterfalls. The Parkway has numerous opportunities to pull over and admire the scenery.

Outdoor Options

Numerous hiking trails in the Glenwood and Pedlar districts of George Washington and Jefferson National Forest can be accessed from the Blue Ridge Parkway. If your family is into fishing or paddle sports, the portions of the James and Maury Rivers that make up the Upper James River Water Trail meander for 74 miles. Bikers should pedal the 7-mile Chessie Trail that stretches along a former railroad bed hugging the Maury River and connecting Lexington and Buena Vista.

Where to Stay

If your family likes camping, make reservations at the Natural Bridge/Lexington KOA, where you can camp or rent a cabin. Camping cabins are barebones, but deluxe cabins include room for six, kitchenettes, and cable TV. Another good bet is the Montebello Camping and Fishing Resort, which has camping, cabins, and fun amenities like trout fishing, a playground, and a 4-acre lake for paddling.

Route section #2: Blue Ridge Parkway to Waynesboro

Waynesboro is called the Gateway to Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway, and at just four miles away from the entrances, its an ideal place to rest and replenish after a long day of driving and outdoor fun. Waynesboro has much to offer the road-tripping family, including family-friendly places to eat, a wealth of outdoor experiences, and a downtown filled with shopping, dining, and culture.

Where to Eat

Waynesboro is home to many restaurants with amenities like outdoor seating and kid-friendly menus. Take everyone for BBQ or fried catfish at The Fishin Pig where kids eat free on Wednesdays, and there is live music in the outdoor “Pig Pen every weekend. Benny Stivales in downtown serves up 28-inch pizzas that require two plates for a slice! And if your entire party enjoys burgers, try Tailgate Grill for classic beef burgers and shareable portions of crispy french fries.Dont forget to round out your meal with fresh, custard-style ice cream at Kline’s Dairy Bar or delicious soft serve atWillys Ice Cream.

For craft beer fans, Basic City Beer Co. issure to please. This kid-friendly microbrewery offers taproom or outside seating for sipping cold brews and enjoyingbrick oven pizza, shareable small plates, and “fancy-full” hot sandwiches,while the younger set stays occupied with games like corn hole and skeeball. Stable Craft Brewing is another solid option with a beach volleyball court, corn hole golf (yes, you read that right), and horses for the kids to pet.

Must-See Sights

Nurture the budding artist in your family with a trip to the Shenandoah Valley Art Center, a working studio and gallery with a gift shop all in one, and the P. Buckley Moss Downtown Gallery. For educational and stimulating activities for both the older generation and kids, check out at the Waynesboro Heritage Museum which features timely, pop-up exhibits throughout the year. Or try the Plumb House Museum, a site along the Civil War Trail, and the Russell Museum which houses the astounding art legacy of Walter and Lao Russell.

Download the Traipse app for an adventure thats part walking tour, part scavenger hunt and discover the thriving mural scene in Waynesboro, which has been nourished in recent years by the annual Virginia Street Art Festival.

Treat the family to the wholesome experience (and photo opps) of picking pumpkins together at Troyer’s Fruit Produce Farm. The farm is offering their ten-acre corn maze again this year, plus seventeen acres from which to pick your perfect pumpkin!Another nearby place to catch shots of the family solving a corn maze and enjoying other outdoor activities is Skeeters Maze Adventure.

Outdoor Options

The South River Greenway stretches 1.2 level miles along the South River and is perfect for a family stroll or bike ride. Take in views of the city, the Blue Ridge Mountains, our river-themed LOVEworks, and the water, which is habitat to many species of fish and birds.

Waynesboro boasts a robust park system with walking trails, playgrounds, and a 9-hole, par 31 Frisbee golf course at Coyner Springs Park. Additional golfing options can be found at Waynesboro Golf and Games, which has a par 3 course for both traditional golf and soccer golf, as well as a mini golf course. If fast cars are more your speed, cheer for your favorites during the drag racing at Eastside Speedway on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Let the kids get some energy out on a short hike! Visit Shenandoah National Park for the Blackrock Summit hike, which is a 1-mile addition to the Track Trails for Kids program and includes an activity to go along with the hike. Nearby Humpback Rocks can be accessed at Mile Post 5.8 along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The steep mile up to the overlook pays off with heartstopping views of the Shenandoah and Rockfish Valleys. For an easier stroll that gives a look at the geology of the area, try Greenstone Overlook at MP 8.8.

Where to Stay

Your whole family will be happy staying at the locally-owned and newly renovated Best Western PLUS. This pet-friendly hotel has an indoor heated saltwater pool and is close to downtown Waynesboro, shopping, and dining. If youd rather camp, try the North 340 Campground with its sports fields, basketball court, and playgrounds, or Sherando Lake, which has a sandy beach, swimming area, and miles of hiking trails.

What Next?

Waynesboro is fun in all seasons. Make sure you plan your next road trip for when the leaves are full of fall colors and the local farms are selling pumpkins. Consider other Virginia road trips at Virginia.org/WanderLove.

If you love traveling with your four-legged children, you have to plan ahead to make sure you stop at places where they are welcome. Good thing we’ve done the planning for you! Read on for a roundup of businesses and places of interest that welcome fur babies as well as people.

Basic City Beer Co.

Basic City Beer Co. offers a chance to kick back and have a beer with Fido, as long as he’s on a leash. You’ll enjoy a range of tasty craft beers as well as bistro-style sandwiches and Billy Pie brick oven pizza. Basic City has lots of room to spread out, both inside and out, and the tap room is close to downtown Waynesboro, Constitution Park, and the Greenway, all nice places to stroll with your dog.

Seven Arrows Brewing

Another good spot to taste craft beer is the taproom or deck at Seven Arrows Brewing. Select from 12 beers on tap and enjoy upscale pub fare from onsite Nobos Kitchen. Dogs are welcome inside and out.

Barren Ridge

Take a short drive into Augusta County to find Barren Ridge Vineyards. As long as there are no ticketed events happening, leashed dogs are welcome to check out the incredible view of the vineyards and distant mountains while their owners enjoy their favorite wine by the glass or bottle or sample a flight of different varietals.

Ice Cream

Do you and your pooch enjoy sharing a cold treat? Both Kline’s Dairy Bar and Willy’s Ice Cream have pet-friendly outdoor tables where you can share a cone and a pup cup with your furry pal. Kline’s makes fresh and delicious custard-style ice cream every morning using a time-consuming (but worth it!) production method called “continuous freeze,” which reduces the air incorporated into the ice cream and results in a denser, creamier product. Chocolate and vanilla are always on the menu as well as a weekly special flavor (or two). Willy’s is known for their delicious, classic soft serve, as well as specialty desserts such as a banana split or brownie supreme. Check out their Facebook page on Fridays to see the weekly “Friday Favorite,” then head to Willy’s to receive 10% off of that special treat.

Dog Friendly Hotels

Making your dog stay in the kennel when you travel can be really sad for both of you. Why not spare the heartbreak and bring Fido along? While many hotels allow pets, they may charge additional fees and limit the size of your pack. Waynesboro’s pet-friendly accommodations are all within easy driving access of downtown and other attractions. They include Best Western Plus, which allows dogs up to 80 pounds in its pet-friendly rooms and features an outside area with baggies ($15/day). The Comfort Inn also allows dogs, but limits them to 25 pounds ($20/pet fee); the Days Inn allows dogs (two-pet limit, $15/pet); and for extended stays, the Residence Inn allows dogs, cats, or birds (two-pet limit, $100/stay, 50 pound maximum).

Waynesboro Parks

Leashed dogs are welcome in the Waynesboro parks, and the trails in Ridgeview Park as well as the Greenway offer lots of distance to stretch your legs. The crown jewel for the off-leash crowd, however, is Coyner Springs Park, which includes a large, dedicated area for dogs to romp off leash. This 145-acre park features a large open area for off-leash fun. It should be noted, however, that this area is not fenced. There’s also a large section of the park that is wooded with trails (dogs must remain leashed here) and lots of water (and mud) for romping.

National Parks and Forests

Shenandoah National Park is one of the few national parks allowing pets on most of its trails. In fact, as long as Rex is up-to-date on his shots, stays on a leash, and you stay responsible, he is allowed to hike nearly 500 miles of trail as well as in campgrounds! Make sure you provide drinking water, pack out his waste, and check him for ticks when you finish. Dogs must be leashed in George Washington and Jefferson National Forest while on the hiking trails, but may be released in undeveloped areas.

If you’re thinking of getting a pet (or fostering one!), check out the Augusta Regional SPCA, Shenandoah Valley Animal Services Center, or Augusta Dog Adoptions.
Always make sure your dog is leashed and well-behaved when you take it in public. Dogs must be vaccinated and licensed.

Tucked away in Virginia’s picturesque Shenandoah Valley, right off the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive, Waynesboro has an unexpected music scene for a city of under 25,000. From a laid-back acoustic open mic night to outdoor pavilions with live music every weekend, local music festivals, and an 800 person venue that hosts national acts, Waynesboro truly has something for fans of every genre. Dive in with us as we cover all the music venues that makes Waynesboro a top-notch destination for live tunes!

 

 

Groovin’ at the Greenway

Thursday nights from May to the end of July enjoy a free concert at Constitution Park! This season starts May 23rd with Little Walter & the Convictions and hosts local favorites all season long with bands like Who Shot John and Sundried Opossum. There is also a food truck for the evening and kid’s activities hosted by Blue Ridge Children’s Museum. So grab your lawn chair and get ready for live music all summer long!

Wayne on Main

The last Wednesday of the month from May until August you can dance on the street in front of the Wayne Theatre’s marquee while enjoying concessions from the Wayne and local food trucks. Enjoy Jack and Davis Reid on May 29th, which caps off the annual Tour the Town in downtown Waynesboro! The Wayne also hosts national acts and produces their own musicals all throughout the year, as well as offering classic movies every Monday and lots of pay-what-you-will programming. Check out their calendar for a complete list of events!

The Foundry

Waynesboro’s newest and largest live music venue, The Foundry hosts nationally known and local acts in the renovated Virginia Metalcrafters factory. Grab a Basic City beer, a cocktail, and some delicious food and watch your favorite bands! Check out their upcoming shows!

Plaza Antigua

Enjoy live music most weeks Thursday through Sunday at Plaza’s fantastic outdoor concert pavilion. Savor elevated Mexican cuisine, homemade margaritas and the best guac in the Valley while listening to live music under the starts. Save the date for Plaza’s huge Cinco de Mayo celebration and the annual Reggae Fest on July 29th.

The Fishin’ Pig

The Pig Pen is open for concerts! Enjoy live music Fridays and Saturdays with an outdoor bar, special Pig Pen menu including delicious BBQ, and plenty of seating. Be sure to keep up with their band line up here!

3rd Generations Grill

3rd Generations Grill hosts popular local bands and soloists every Friday and Saturday while serving great cocktails and delicious pub food.

Green Leaf Grill

For soothing acoustic tunes while enjoying delicious dinner and drinks, head to Green Leaf every weekend.

Bottles

Bottles hosts a dance party every Friday night with DJ Groovematic, but they have on demand karaoke anytime they’re open. Click here for hours and info.

Seven Arrows Brewing

Along with hosting live music every Saturday, Seven Arrows also hosts open mic the first Tuesday of every month. They are also the home of Nobos Kitchen and excellent craft beer.

Barren Ridge Vineyards

Barren Ridge offers free live music Saturdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays on their patio overlooking acres of grape vines with the perfect view of the sunset.

Stable Craft Brewing

Visit this destination farm brewery for live music most Fridays and Saturdays and lots of fun and unique events throughout the year.

Waynesboro Music

Waynesboro Music is the go-to for all of your instrument needs! If you need a new guitar or banjo, want to learn how to play, or want to jam out on a Saturday this is definitely the place for you.

 

View Waynesboro’s complete calendar of events here.

Destination Downtown Waynesboro (DDW) is the nonprofit organization that promotes and supports downtown businesses and events.

Events

Prism, Waynesboro’s first Pride event is September 14th from 12-4:00 pm. We will have live music by Shagwüf, vendors, an interactive game of BINGO, and it’s a DORA event so grab a drink from your favorite spot downtown and come party! We’ll be on the 500 block of W Main Street in front of City Hall!

If you’re interested in volunteering or sponsoring, please email SwansonME@ci.Waynesboro.va.us.

See you there!

 

Thank you to our sponsors!

Delly Up - Eat & Drink - Dining       

 

Where to Eat

Downtown Waynesboro has a diverse and gratifying dining scene, try all of our local restaurants!

The River Burger Bar

Features awesome burgers and a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options.137 N Wayne Avenue, closed Wednesday

Sam’s Hot Dog Stand

Virginia’s best hot dog stand featuring famous chili sauce and pork BBQ sandwiches.416 1/2 W Main Street, closed Sunday

C.C. Soul Bistro

Sandwiches, and local artisan goods.414 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Delly Up

Sandwich and drink shop serving up great food and local beer, wine, and cider for dine-in or take-out.421 W Main Street, closed Tuesday

Stella, Bella, Lucy’s

Excellent option for breakfast and lunch featuring a fresh, flavorful menu.327 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Benny Stivale’s

Stop in for a fresh slice or a gigantic 28″ pizza. Home to Waynesboro’s secret beer garden.328 W Main Street

Heritage on Main

A contemporary menu with something for everyone and a fine dining flair.309 W Main Street, closed Monday

The French Press

Gourmet coffee, pastries, and homemade paninis all served in a cozy, quaint atmosphere.134 N Wayne Avenue, open daily

The Gumbo Hut

Authentic Cajun and Creole gumbo, étouffée, and more. Dinner only.403 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Wednesday

The Green Leaf Grill

Weekly specials, fresh seafood, a wide variety of vegetarian options, and craft cocktails. Dinner only.415 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Crack O’ Dawn

Dedicated gluten free bakery and bistro that specializes in breakfast and lunch.908 W Main Street, closed Wednesday

Kline’s Dairy Bar

Sweet treats including ice cream, sundaes, milkshakes, and more.1235 W Main Street, open daily

Where to Shop

Waynesboro has plenty of unique shops located right Downtown

South River Fly Shop

Full-service fly fishing shop and guide service.309 W Main Street, open daily

adorn.

Upscale boutique specializing in women’s clothes and accessories.141 N Wayne Avenue, closed Sunday-Monday *Check link for Holiday hours

Luke’s Hobbies

R/C, scale model, slot car, paint, accessories, on-site dragstrip and more!400 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Alpha and Omega Antique Mall

Antique shop offering a variety of vintage treasures.232 Arch Avenue, open daily

Initial Inspiration

Gift shop featuring embroidery, monograms, and personalized jewelry.412 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Pyramid: Appalachian Magick + Remedy

Unique shopping experience with everything from handcrafted incense to loose herbs and teas.139 N Wayne Avenue, closed Monday

Boutique in the Boro

Boutique offering a wide array of women’s fashion and accessories including Judy Blue jeans.108 S Wayne Avenue, closed Sunday-Monday

Under the Roof

High quality furniture store carrying the best brands and offering free design consultations.406 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Waynesboro Florist

Florist and gift shop offering delivery.325 W Main Street, closed Sunday

Stone Soup Books at the South River

Community bookseller and book rescue on the banks of the South River.150 Race Avenue, open Thursday-Sunday

Waynesboro Music

Full service instrument store featuring lessons, setup, and jam sessions.520 W Broad Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Cross Stitch Station

Cute shop with plenty of cross stitch supplies and home goods.520 W Broad Street, closed Sunday Monday

Rusticae

Vintage and new home décor and fashionable attire.326 W Main Street, closed Sunday Monday

Healthy Habits

Vitamin supplement shop empowering healthier lives.510 B W Broad Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Museums

Explore Waynesboro’s rich history and amazing art at one of Waynesboro’s museums

Waynesboro Heritage Museum

Learn the history of Waynesboro through permanent and revolving exhibits. Donations welcome. 420 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

The Plumb House Museum

Visit the oldest frame structure in Waynesboro and part of the Civil War’s Battle of Waynesboro.1012 W Main Street, by appointment 540-943-3943

The Russell Museum

Experience the artwork of Walter Russell through both painting and sculpture.518 W Main Street, open house 2nd Saturday of the month, call 1-800-882-LOVE to schedule a tour

Blue Ridge Children’s Museum and Natural Playground

Natural playground where children can play and enjoy nature simultaneously.201 Short Street, open daily from dawn to dusk

The Arts

Waynesboro has a vibrant arts scene! Check out all we have to offer:

Shenandoah Valley Art Center

A place to look at, learn about, and talk about ART! Gallery, gift shop, and working artists.122 S Wayne Avenue and 416 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday. *Discover quality handmade gifts at the Winter Market now through January 13th at both locations

Wayne Theatre and Performing Arts Center and Exhibit Hall

Waynesboro’s premier performance venue and exhibit hall.521 W Main Street, visit WayneTheatre.org for a full schedule of events. *Live performances of ELF begin

P Buckley Moss Gallery

Come see the work of famed artist P. Buckley Moss in this downtown Gallery.329 W Main Street, closed Monday

Trails

This City loves trails! Downtown features two unique trails for you to explore.

Street Arts Trail

One-of-a-kind mural trail with almost two dozen stops featuring eye-catching art and murals. Downtown Waynesboro and beyond, stop by 301 W Main for a rack card, or go to WaynesboroStreetArtsTrail.com for a fun scavenger hunt style tour and more information about the art installations.

Waynesboro Water Trail

Four miles of scenic river perfect for all levels of paddlers winding right through downtown Waynesboro. Click the link for map of put-ins and let-outs.

Green Spaces

The South River Greenway

Constitution Park

DORA: Waynesboro is a DORA community

DORA stands for Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area and allows visitors to downtown Waynesboro to take their drinks while shopping and enjoying downtown art and museums during designated DORA events. Look for the boundary signs and read over the ABC guidelines. And be sure to have fun!