Staunton

Located in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is renowned for its beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture and rich cultural heritage. This charming city in Virginia, USA, offers tourists a unique combination of history, art, and natural beauty.

You can get here in various ways: the region is served by several airports and has direct rail connections, while a developed network of highways makes traveling by car or bus convenient and exciting.

Since Staunton itself does not have its own civil airport, travelers usually fly into neighboring aviation hubs. The nearest and most convenient option is the airport in the city of Charlottesville (CHO), located approximately 54 km from the city.

Other available options include flights via Lynchburg (LYH), located 82 km away, or Roanoke (ROA), situated 124 km away. All these airports are connected to the city by roads, so reaching the final destination of your route by rental car or transfer will not be difficult.

Traveling by train is one of the most scenic ways to get to Staunton. A historic railway station is located in the city center, served by Amtrak (the Cardinal route), providing direct connections to major metropolises such as Washington, New York, and Chicago.

If a direct connection does not suit you, you can travel to the station in the city of Charlottesville (54 km) or use the stations in Lynchburg and Roanoke, from where it is easy to continue the journey by ground transport.

Intercity buses provide connections between the city and neighboring regions, although travel time may vary depending on the route. The trip from the city of Charlottesville (a distance of about 62 km) takes approximately 2.5 hours, which is worth considering when planning your schedule.

Routes from more distant points, such as Lynchburg (171 km) and Roanoke (243 km), take approximately 4.3 and 4.8 hours respectively. This is an accessible option for those who prefer budget travel and are not in a hurry.

A car remains the fastest and most flexible way to reach Staunton. The shortest and most convenient route leads from the city of Charlottesville: you can cover 64 km along a scenic road in just 50 minutes.

A trip from Lynchburg (120 km) will take about 1.4 hours, and the journey from Roanoke (140 km) will require approximately 1.5 hours. Traveling by car or taxi will allow you to enjoy views of the Shenandoah Valley and make stops at your discretion.

To ensure your trip to Staunton goes smoothly and leaves only positive emotions, make use of these practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather in Virginia is changeable. It is best to dress in layers to easily adapt to temperature changes throughout the day. Comfortable shoes are mandatory for walking on the hilly streets.
2. Transport: Although the historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, it is highly recommended to rent a car for trips around the surrounding areas and the Shenandoah Valley.
3. Finances: The currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but having small cash is useful for tips and purchases in small shops.
4. Health and Safety: The city is safe for tourists. In case of emergency, dial 911. Medical services are expensive, so be sure to arrange insurance before your trip.
5. Communication: The main language is English. Locals are known for their hospitality and will willingly assist you if you have questions.
6. Local Etiquette: Tipping is an important part of the service culture. In restaurants, it is customary to leave 15–20% of the bill; it is also customary to thank taxi drivers and porters.
7. What to Avoid: Do not exceed speed limits on highways — the police strictly monitor compliance with rules. Also, avoid loud discussions of controversial political topics in public places.
8. Extra Tip: Be sure to visit the Blackfriars Playhouse — the world's only exact replica of Shakespeare's indoor theater, where performances take place with the lights on, just as in Shakespeare's time.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city and avoid common tourist difficulties.