About the Port
Tucked into the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton preserves a well-kept downtown of 19th-century architecture, its brick facades and hillside streets reflecting a history that predates the Civil War. The town serves as a convenient overnight stop for travelers exploring central Virginia, offering an easy pace after a day spent among grander landmarks. Its historic core rewards a slow walk, with independent shops and eateries set along streets little changed in character over the decades.
Staunton's location makes it a practical base for visiting Richmond's Civil War sites and Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, both within a manageable drive. Travelers based here find lodging and dining close together in the compact downtown, making evening arrivals simple after a full day of sightseeing. The town itself, birthplace of Woodrow Wilson, adds a quieter historical note to a region layered with American history.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Staunton.
Tour the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library
Explore the restored birthplace home and adjoining museum of the 28th president, complete with a Pierce-Arrow limousine on display; located right in downtown Staunton, easily walkable from most lodging.
Explore Monticello
Tour Thomas Jefferson's iconic mountaintop estate, a short drive from Staunton, with guided house tours and gardens that reward at least two hours on site.
Stroll Historic Downtown
Wander brick-lined streets past Victorian and Greek Revival facades, ducking into independent boutiques and cafes that fill the compact, walkable core.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Staunton
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 3, 2026 | Princess | Majestic Princess | 14 | $6,499 | |
| Oct 10, 2026 | Princess | Majestic Princess | 14 | $6,329 | |
| Oct 17, 2026 | Princess | Majestic Princess | 14 | $5,969 | |
| Oct 24, 2026 | Princess | Majestic Princess | 14 | $6,069 | |
| Aug 28, 2027 | Princess | Regal Princess | 14 | $5,954 | |
| Sep 4, 2027 | Princess | Regal Princess | 14 | $5,984 | |
| Sep 11, 2027 | Princess | Regal Princess | 14 | $5,994 | |
| Sep 18, 2027 | Princess | Regal Princess | 14 | $5,834 | |
| Sep 25, 2027 | Princess | Regal Princess | 14 | $6,369 | |
| Oct 2, 2027 | Princess | Regal Princess | 14 | $6,024 | |
| Oct 9, 2027 | Princess | Regal Princess | 14 | $6,184 | |
| Oct 16, 2027 | Princess | Regal Princess | 14 | $6,114 | |
| Oct 23, 2027 | Princess | Regal Princess | 14 | $6,184 |