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.

History adds to our understanding of our area and culture, and gives context and structure to our lives. It sparks the imagination and allows us to dream of other times and places and come to comprehend the complex relationships people have to the land and each other.

Heritage Museum
Its hard to imagine that the line of the Blue Ridge Mountains was once considered the frontier by pioneers moving westward. The mountains created a formidable obstacle for horses and wagons, even in places like Rockfish Gap where the land flattened between peaks. One of the reasons for Waynesboro’s early growth was because it was a logical resting place after successful crossings. The Waynesboro Heritage Museum, located in a restored 1908 bank building, includes artifacts, photographs, maps, furniture, textiles, and more in its exhibits on the city’s history. The museum houses both permanent and rotating galleries that feature the history of various eras and subjects like the railroad, Brigadier General Anthony Wayne, industry, and education. There’s even an exhibit in a bank vault! The nTelos audio visual room provides space for programming, and some collection items may be viewed online. If you want to learn your history digitally, the Waynesboro Heritage Foundation maintains a large, searchable database of images and local documents ranging from advertisements and brochures to tickets and telegrams. Pick up your Waynesboro souvenirs at the Heritage Gift Shop.

Plumb House
The Plumb House Museum is a second space operated by the Waynesboro Heritage Foundation. Built in the early 1800s, this home survived the 1865 Battle of Waynesboro and the original log section of the home is thought to be the oldest surviving building in town. The museum exhibits battle-related artifacts and documents, as well as items of interest from the lives of the five generations of the Plumb family, who lived in the house from 1838-1994.

Waynesboro’s African American Heritage Museum

Celebrating Black history in Waynesboro, this by-appointment-only museum houses a small but rich collection that weaves a tapestry of revered figures in the community. Waynesboro’s Rosenwald School was one of many built across the south through a partnership between Julius and Booker T. Washington in what has been called the most important initiative to advance black education in the early 20th century. Be sure to call to get a first hand look at the historical significance Waynesboro’s African American community had in shaping the city.

Please call (540) 942-6735 to make a reservation.

Blue Ridge Tunnel
Part hiking trail, part history exhibit, the Claudius Crozet Blue Ridge Tunnel allows visitors to access the past by walking through a restored (and stabilized) 1850s railroad tunnel. Named for its designer, the tunnel was once the longest of its kind in North America. It remained in service until 1944 when it was replaced by a nearby tunnel that could accommodate larger locomotives. The trail stretches 2.25 miles between trailheads on either side of the mountain, and the near-mile-long tunnel is at roughly the halfway point. Bring a strong flashlight and marvel at the feat of engineering that enabled trains to cross the Blue Ridge. Signage along the trail provides historical background.

Swannanoa Palace
The hauntingly beautiful pre-restoration Swannanoa Palace was built out of Italian and Georgian marble in 1912 by railroad magnate James Dooley as a summer respite from his year-round house in Richmond. The 23,000 square foot, towered, ornately landscaped structure also boasts an original Tiffany window depicting Mrs. Dooley. This is the largest Tiffany to be found in a private home. The building has been a home and the headquarters of the University of Science and Philosophy (which now shares its home with the Russell Museum)over its 100+ year history. It is now open on select weekends for events, photoshoots, and private tours.

Russell Museum
Walter Russell was an artist, musician, author, architect, and thinker, who lived at Swannanoa Palace with his wife from 1948-1963. There they created the Walter Russell Foundation and the University of Science and Philosophy, a correspondence school. Russell’s paintings, music, scientific drawings, and over 40 tons of sculpture are now on display at the Russell Museum in downtown Waynesboro. Russell’s celebrated 1902 illustrations of the “Worlds 12 Most Beautiful Children, which he completed for Ladies Home Journal are on display as well as a memorial to Mark Twain. This space is also the current headquarters of the University of Science and Philosophy and visitors may view the collections and take advantage of classes and speaking events.

Keep Adventuring…
Waynesboro is home to 15 historical markers, which cover topics ranging from the Civil War to the ecology of the South River to general history of the town. Find them all!

 

Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s picturesque landscape lies the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail, an emblem of engineering marvel and natural beauty. This trail promises a unique hike for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Unveiling History:

Originally constructed as a rail passage in the mid-19th century, the Blue Ridge Tunnel was the longest tunnel in the United States at the time of completion. Carved through the Blue Ridge Mountains at Rockfish Gap, this tunnel’s creation was an engineering feat, constructed by 800 Irishmen and 40 enslaved African Americans. Watch The Tunnel for a compelling and well-produced 35 minute documentary about the construction and people of Blue Ridge Tunnel or stop by the Waynesboro Heritage Museum for more information and a free booklet about the Tunnel’s storied history. Its conversion into a hiking trail offers a unique journey through time and nature.

Trail Details:

Spanning approximately 3.7 miles, the trail traverses through the refurbished train tunnel which is .81 miles. With entrances at both east and west sides, visitors can choose their starting point. The eastern trailhead, located at 215 Afton Depot Lane, is a flat access, ADA accessible entrance with plenty of parking only .63 miles from the trail. The western trailhead, located at 483 Three Notched Mtn Hwy, is a steeply graded intermediate hike and is .81 miles from the parking lot to the tunnel entrance. The trail’s moderate difficulty level ensures an enjoyable hike for most skill levels.

Pre-Hike Options in Waynebsoro:

Start your adventure in Waynesboro at Happ Coffee Roasters located in the Virginia Metalcrafters Marketplace. Grab an artisanal coffee and pastry in the industrial-chic vibes of the roastery. If you need something a more substantial, Weasie’s Kitchen is a local favorite for a classic diner breakfast. Stock up on some kombucha from Blue Ridge Bucha on your way up to the trail. Blue Ridge Bucha is Virginia’s first full-service kombucha taproom and on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays you can taste some flights or kombucha by the glass and pick up growlers, bottles, or cans to-go.

Post-Hike Bliss:

After your trek, unwind by exploring Waynesboro’s vibrant downtown arts scene or doing the interactive outdoor Street Arts Trail. Waynesboro also has plenty of boutiques, museums, and local dining options in the charming downtown. Check out the Wayne Theatre’s calendar for local productions as well as renowned national acts year-round.
The Virginia Metalcrafters Marketplace is another spot in Waynesboro to unwind after the Bule Ridge Tunnel Trail. Grab some delicious Italian inspired cuisine at Patina, catch a show at the Foundry or try local wines at Common Wealth Crush, a custom crush and wine incubator co-op. Basic City Beer Co. and The Showroom are also in VMM where you can have some craft beer or a speak-easy inspired cocktail while catching a free show and playing some arcade games.

Nearby Adventures:

For avid explorers, the proximity of the Shenandoah National Park offers a perfect extension to your trip. Discover the park’s numerous hiking trails, breathtaking vistas, and the scenic Skyline Drive less than 2 miles away from the Tunnel.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, renowned for its stunning views, starts right at the terminus of the Skyline Drive. In just the first five miles of the 469-mile drive, you can stop at a scenic overview, hike the famously rewarding Humpback Rocks Trail, and visit the Humpback Rocks Visitor Center and Mountain Farm Trail where you can take an easy .25 mile hike through an outdoor museum that is reminiscent of an 1890s mountain farm.

Connection to Appalachian Trail:

Waynesboro serves as an ideal gateway to the Appalachian Trail, drawing hikers seeking an iconic long-distance trek or a quick day hike on the world famous trail. Only 2 miles from the city’s limit, the AT fosters a deep-rooted connection of nature enthusiasts, hikers, volunteers, and those who share a love for the outdoors. Learn more about the AT and the trail towns that support it from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

The Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail not only offers a glimpse into history but also serves as a springboard to a multitude of nearby adventures. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, art lover, or an avid or casual hiker, Waynesboro’s charm and its proximity to these iconic attractions make it the perfect basecamp for an unforgettable exploration of Virginia’s beauty.
Plan your visit to Waynesboro and the Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail for an enriching journey through time and nature, connecting with history and embracing the splendor of the outdoors.

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!