If you are like me, you probably first heard about Waynesboro, Virginia when researching day trips from DC (a 2 hour and 30 minute drive) or Richmond (1.5 hours). Once you start exploring this area in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, you will want to keep coming back. I've already written about Staunton which is another favorite spot of mine.
But lets dive it.
If you are flying, the closest airport is Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport (CHO), about 40 minutes away.
If you are traveling by car, Waynesboro is located at the intersection of I-64 and US-250. It's about 30 minutes from Charlottesville and 1 hour from Harrisonburg or Staunton.
I like staying at Best Western Plus Waynesboro Inn & Suites because it has a pool. Two romantic options, if you are planning a romantic getaway, are Iris Inn & Cabins or Heritage Hill Bed & Breakfast.
Best Things to Do in Waynesboro, VA
1. Explore local artwork at the Shenandoah Valley Art Center
Rating: ★★★★★
A great place to start your visit is the Shenandoah Valley Art Center, a full-time art gallery and the only community arts center in the area.
The staff is very approachable and you can not only learn about art here but ask about the town in generay.
See the exhibits, sign up for an art class or even rent studio space if you are in town for a while.
Where you'll find it: 126 S. Wayne Avenue, Waynesboro, Virginia, 22980, Phone: 540-949-7662
2. See live performances at the Wayne Theatre
Next head to the Wayne Theatre and check out its Exhibit Gallery that features rotating and traveling exhibitions related to the arts and pop culture.
You can take a look at the schedule while you are there and plan to see a play, musical, or concert in the evening, depending on what's available.
521 West Main Street, Waynesboro, Virginia, 22980, Phone: 540-943-9999
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
3. Walk along riverside trails in Ridgeview Park
My favorite place to spend time outdoors was the Ridgeview Park. It covers 85 acres along the banks of the South River so unless you are in town for a while, it's too big to see in just a day.
You can be as busy or as relaxed as you wish – there are shady benches along the river to just sit and appreciate nature. I loved spending time in the Serenity Garden, a perfect spot for garden enthusiasts.
If you want a little more action you can try your luck at fishing from the pier.
There is also a large outdoor swimming pool and the Woodland Shelter where you can enjoy a picnic or barbecue.
Ridgeview Park, 413 Port Republic Road, Waynesboro, VA 22980, 540 942 6735
4. Watch animal rehab in action at the Wildlife Center of Virginia
You need to keep an eye out for open house days at the Wildlife Center of Virginia if you want to visit this place because it's not generally open to the public.
If you do get in, you'll have a chance to see wildlife including reptiles, mammals, amphibians, and birds who are being treated there.
If you are a teacher, they welcome school groups but be sure to get in touch first.
1800 South Delphine Ave, Waynesboro, Virginia, 22980, Phone: 540-942-9453
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
5. Discover town history at the Waynesboro Heritage Foundation Museum
Take a self-guided tour of the Waynesboro Heritage Foundation Museum and admire an extensive collection of thousands of textiles, photos, documents, maps and railroad artifacts.
You can watch a short orientation video in the nTelos audio-visual room before moving on to view the galleries.
Waynesboro Heritage Foundation Museum, 420 W. Main Street, Waynesboro, VA 22980, 540 943 3943
6. Savor craft beers at Stable Craft Brewing
Order craft beers and farm to table style pub food where most ingredients are grown right there at Hermitage Farm. I really enjoyed their mac n cheese.
You can enjoy the outdoor courtyard, a fire-pit and sand volleyball court.
375 Madrid Road, Waynesboro, Virginia, 22980, Phone: 540-490-2609
7. Stop for lunch at New Ming Garden Buffet and Grill
Pop into New Ming Garden Buffet and Grill to choose from 100 menu items at their buffet.
You'll find it open seven days a week for lunch and dinner at this address:
316 Federal Street, Waynesboro, Virginia, 22980, Phone: 540-942-8800
8. Admire folk-style paintings at P. Buckley Moss Gallery
I enjoy browsing unique art I can purchase for my home so I like visiting local galleries like the P. Buckley Moss Gallery.
You can admire beautiful paintings and perhaps add one to your collection.
329 West Main Street, Waynesboro, Virginia 22980, Phone: 540-949-6473
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