Waynesboro is home to several annual events and festivals, such as the Wayne Theatre Summer Film Series, which features classic and independent films, and the Virginia Wine Festival, which celebrates the state’s wine industry.
Waynesboro is located in the western part of Virginia, about 135 miles northwest of Richmond and 130 miles west of Washington, D.C.
The Blue Ridge Mountains surround the city, which provides a beautiful backdrop for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
The city has a rich history, with several historical sites and buildings. One of them is the Plumb House Museum, a restored 18th-century home that provides a glimpse into the lives of early Waynesboro residents.
The city also has a strong industrial heritage, with several factories and mills operational in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The city is also home to the P. Buckley Moss Museum, which features the artworks of the famous artist P. Buckley Moss, and the Best Cellars Wine Shop, which offers a wide variety of wines from around the world.
In recent years, Waynesboro has been focusing on revitalizing its downtown area, with new restaurants, shops, and businesses opening up. Why not take a trip to this amazing city with our checklist of things to do in Waynesboro (VA) as your guide?
Fun Things to Do in Waynesboro (VA)
1. Ride Your Bike Down the Blue Ridge Tunnel West Trailhead
The Blue Ridge Tunnel West Trailhead in Waynesboro is a great place to explore the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The trailhead provides access to the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel, a 4,311-foot-long railroad tunnel built in the 1850s. The trail to the tunnel is a moderate 2.5 miles one way, with a total elevation gain of around 600 feet.
The trail is well-maintained and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels. You will see beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys along the trail.
The trail is also home to various wildlife and plants, making it a great place for nature enthusiasts.
The Blue Ridge Tunnel is an engineering marvel built by hand in the 1850s, and it is now closed to train traffic. It is considered one of the most significant engineering feats of the 19th century and a National Historic Landmark.
The tunnel is a popular spot for hikers, bikers, history buffs, and photography enthusiasts. The trailhead has parking and restroom facilities and is open year-round. It is a great place to spend a day outdoors and experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
2. Experience the Wildlife at the Wildlife Center of Virginia
The Wildlife Centre is a hospital for wild animals that provides care for more than 3,000 patients each year. They treat various species, including birds of prey, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
The center’s staff includes licensed veterinarians, wildlife rehabilitators, and support staff.
The center’s mission is to provide medical care and rehabilitation to native wildlife and promote the well-being of wildlife and their habitats through conservation, education, and research.
They also offer educational programs for schools, community groups, and other organizations to promote understanding and stewardship of native wildlife.
Visitors can take tours of the facility and learn about the animals and the center’s work. The center is open to the public during certain hours, with reservations required.
Things to Do in Waynesboro (VA) at Night
1. Grab a Drink at Basic City Beer Co.
Basic City Beer Co. is a craft brewery located in Waynesboro, Virginia. They specialize in producing a variety of beer styles, including ales, lagers, and sours.
They have a taproom open to the public where patrons can sample and purchase their beers. They also host events such as live music, trivia nights, and food trucks.
They are known for using locally sourced ingredients and their unique approach to brewing. They have a wide range of beers on their menu, from light to dark beers, IPAs to Sours.
2. Take an Evening Stroll Down The Farmer’s Market
The Waynesboro Farmer’s Market (WFM), located along the river at Constitution Park, strives to maintain an active and innovative market that continues to support local farmers while spreading the benefits of local food to the larger community.
Visitors to the WFM will find a diverse selection of local fruits and vegetables, baked goods, honey, eggs, and meat while enjoying the cheerful ambiance and smiling faces of dedicated vendors committed to serving the community.
3. Watch the Sunset at Blue Ridge Mountain
The Blue Ridge Mountains are a mountain range in the eastern United States.
They are part of the Appalachian Mountains and extend from southern Pennsylvania through Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia.
The Blue Ridge Mountains are known for their scenic beauty, with many popular hiking and camping destinations, such as the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The view from the Blue Ridge Mountains can include rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque vistas.
Things to Do in Waynesboro (VA) For Couples
1. Visit Barren Ridge Vineyard
Barren Ridge Vineyard is a winery located in Fishersville, Virginia.
The winery offers a variety of activities that would appeal to couples looking for a romantic getaway. The winery has a tasting room where couples can sample wines and learn about wine-making.
They also have a beautiful outdoor seating area where couples can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the views of the surrounding countryside.
The winery also offers vineyard tours, where couples can learn about the vineyard’s history and see the grapes grown and harvested.
Additionally, Barren Ridge Vineyard often hosts live music, wine tastings, and food and wine pairings that couples can enjoy.
2. Explore The Plumb House Museum
The Plumb House Museum is a two-story brick house built in 1807 by James Plumb, a prominent businessman and landowner in Waynesboro.
The house is an excellent example of Federal-style architecture and features original mantels, flooring, and architectural details.
The house’s interior has been restored and furnished to reflect the lifestyle of the Plumb family during the mid-19th century, including period furnishings, wallpaper, and household items.
Visitors can go on a guided tour of the house and learn about the history of the Plumb family and Waynesboro during the 19th century.
The museum also has a collection of artifacts and documents related to the area’s history. The museum is open for tours from April through November and also hosts special events throughout the year, such as lectures, workshops, and living history demonstrations.
3. Spend the Afternoon Together at Sherando Lake
Sherando Lake is a popular spot for couples looking for a romantic getaway.
The lake offers a variety of activities for couples to enjoy together, such as swimming, fishing, boating, and picnicking.
The lake also offers hiking trails that can be enjoyed together, such as the popular Sherando Lake Trail, which offers scenic views of the lake and the surrounding area.
The campground also offers a beautiful setting for couples looking to spend some time in nature together.
Additionally, the lake is a great spot for couples who enjoy fishing and boating, with rental facilities available.
The lake also offers a picnic area where couples can enjoy a quiet and romantic picnic together.
Things to Do in Waynesboro (VA) For Kids
1. Go Swimming at Ridgeview Park
Ridgeview Park is located in the city of Ridgeview; it is a great place for kids to play and have fun.
The park features playground equipment, swings, slides, and a sandbox. There is also a large open field for sports and games and picnic tables and benches for families to enjoy.
Additionally, there may be amenities like walking/jogging trails, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and other recreational areas.
This is a great place for families to spend time together and enjoy the outdoors.
2. Visit Waynes Hill Alpaca Farm
Waynes Hill Alpaca Farm offers educational programs and activities for children to learn about alpacas and farm life. These programs include guided tours of the farm, hands-on activities, and interactive learning experiences.
Children can meet and interact with the alpacas and learn about the different breeds and their characteristics. They learn about how alpacas are raised, fed, and groomed and how the fiber is processed and used to make clothing and other products.
The farm also offers special activities such as birthday parties, school field trips, and summer camps. Such activities may include craft projects, games, and other fun activities designed to teach children about alpacas and farming in a fun and interactive way.
3. Play Family Golf at Waynesboro Golf and Games
Waynesboro Golf and Games is a family-friendly recreational center that offers a variety of activities for kids and adults to enjoy. It is located in Waynesboro, VA.
The center has an 18-hole miniature golf course, a great activity for kids of all ages. The driving range and batting cages are also suitable for kids as long as an adult accompanies them. Go-karts and laser tag are popular activities for kids and usually require specific age and height.
Additionally, the center may offer special deals and packages for families and kids, such as discounted rates or combo deals. It’s recommended to check their website or call ahead for more information on hours of operation, pricing, and age or height restrictions.
It’s a great place to spend a fun day with the family, enjoy the fresh air, and have an active day.
Indoor Activities to Do in Waynesboro (VA) For Adults
1. Visit Rosenwald Community Center
Rosenwald Community Center is a public facility in Waynesboro, Virginia.
It is a community center that provides recreational and educational programs for youth, adults, and senior citizens. It also provides a meeting space, a gymnasium, a playground, and a computer lab.
The center is named after Julius Rosenwald, a philanthropist known for funding the construction of community centers and schools in the Southern United States for African American communities during the early 20th century.
The center is operated by the Waynesboro Parks and Recreation Department and is open to the public.
2. Spend Time at Shenandoah Valley Art Center
The Shenandoah Valley Art Center was established in 1962 and has been dedicated to promoting and supporting the visual arts in the Shenandoah Valley region.
The center has a gallery that features rotating exhibitions of regional and national artists. It also offers a wide range of classes and workshops for children and adults, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and printmaking.
Additionally, the center provides studio space for artists and opportunities to show and sell their work in the gift shop and at special events. It also offers a wide range of lectures, tours, and special events for the public.
2. Visit P. Buckley Museum
The P. Buckley Moss Museum, also known as the Moss Museum, is a must-see destination for art lovers and fans of Patricia Buckley Moss, considered one of America’s most popular living artists.
The museum is located in a restored historic building in Waynesboro, Virginia, and features a permanent collection of her paintings and prints and rotating exhibits of her work.
The museum has a store where visitors can purchase reproductions of Moss’s art, books, and other merchandise.
The museum offers individual and group tours, classes, and workshops for adults and children. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, such as artist demonstrations, lectures, and book signings.
The museum is open to the public year-round, with seasonal hours. An admission fee is charged, but it’s free for members, children, and students.
Romantic Things to Do in Waynesboro (VA)
1. Go Winetasting at Veritas Vineyard and Winery
Veritas Vineyard and Winery is a family-owned winery located in Afton, Virginia. Afton is a ten minutes drive from Waynesboro, VA.
It offers a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The winery also has a tasting room where couples can sample the wines and purchase bottles to take home.
In addition to the wine tastings, Veritas Vineyard and Winery also offers winery and vineyard tours, where couples can learn about the wine-making process and see the grapes grown.
They also have a picnic area where you can bring your food and enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The winery also has a variety of events throughout the year, including live music, food and wine pairings, and festivals. They also offer private events and tours for couples, such as a romantic sunset tour or a private wine tasting.
Veritas Vineyard and Winery is open to the public year-round, but hours may vary depending on the season and events. It’s recommendable to check the winery’s website for up-to-date information on hours and events.
2. Have a Picnic at Serenity Garden
Serenity Garden in Waynesboro, Virginia, is a peaceful and tranquil outdoor space designed to provide visitors with a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
It is a perfect place for couples to visit, offering a secluded and romantic setting for a picnic or a stroll.
The garden features a variety of plants and flowers, including native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees.
It also has several walking paths and a pond, perfect for exploring and enjoying the area’s natural beauty.
Serenity Garden is a great place for couples to spend quality time together and enjoy the beauty of nature. It’s also a great spot for taking romantic photographs and for those couples who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Free Things to Do in Waynesboro (VA)
1. Go Downtown Waynesboro
Downtown Waynesboro is the central business district of Waynesboro, a city located in the Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia, United States.
The downtown area is known for its historic architecture, including many buildings that date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
A variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses are located in the downtown area, as well as a farmers’ market that takes place on weekends.
The downtown area hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, including the “Music on Main” concert series, the “Waynesboro Heritage Festival,” and the “Virginia Fly Fishing Festival.”
3. Spend Christmas in Waynesboro
Waynesboro, Virginia, celebrates Christmas with various events and activities throughout December. Some popular events include the Christmas parade, tree lighting ceremony, and holiday markets.
The Christmas parade usually features floats decorated by local businesses and organizations, marching bands, and Santa Claus.
The tree lighting ceremony is a community event where the Christmas tree located in the downtown area is lit up, and visitors can enjoy hot cocoa and carols.
Many local businesses and vendors set up holiday markets where visitors can purchase gifts, crafts, and food. There may also be other events, such as a Christmas concert, ice skating, a gingerbread house competition, and a visit from Santa Claus.
Cheap Things to Do in Waynesboro (VA)
1. Attend the Annual Virginia Wine and Garlic Festival
The Annual Virginia Wine and Garlic Festival is an annual event in various locations in Virginia, including Waynesboro, VA.
The event typically features a variety of Virginia wines, local garlic, and other food and craft vendors.
Attendees can sample and purchase wines from various Virginia wineries, garlic, and other local products from farmers and vendors. The festival also features live music, cooking demonstrations, and other activities.
The festival is a great opportunity for visitors to taste some of Virginia’s best wines and learn about the state’s rich wine-making tradition.
Additionally, the festival highlights the use of garlic in cuisine and provides an opportunity to learn about its cultivation and use in cooking.
It’s best to check the specific location and date of the festival, as the details may vary from year to year.
2. Go Fishing in the South River
The South River is a tributary from the Shenandoah River located in the state of Virginia in the United States. It rises in the Blue Ridge Mountains and flows for approximately 140 miles before joining the Shenandoah River.
The river is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and tubing.
The South River is home to several species of fish, including smallmouth bass, rock bass, and sunfish, making it a popular spot for anglers.
The river is also home to various bird species, including the Osprey, Bald Eagle, and Great Blue Heron.
The South River is also known for its historical significance, it played an important role in the early settlement and development of the region, and several historic sites can be found along its banks.
The river is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, with plenty of hiking, camping, and picnicking opportunities.
It’s important to note that some river stretches might have specific fishing and boating regulations, so check with the local authorities before planning your visit.
3. Go Bike Riding on the Virginia Creeper Trail
The Virginia Creeper Trail in Waynesboro, Virginia, is a section of the 34.3-mile recreational rail trail that runs through the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwestern Virginia.
The trailhead in Waynesboro is located at 305 South Wayne Avenue and is a popular starting point for visitors to begin their hike or bike ride.
The trail in Waynesboro offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and is also home to various plant and animal life.
Several points of interest and amenities include restrooms, picnic areas, and parking along the trail. Visitors can also rent bikes and shuttle services to the trailhead from local outfitters.
Cool Things to Do in Waynesboro (VA)
1. Visit Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park is a protected area in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, United States.
The park covers an area of nearly 200,000 acres and stretches along the Blue Ridge Mountains for over 100 miles. It is known for its scenic beauty, rolling hills, rocky peaks, and dense forest.
The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, deer, wild turkeys, and over 200 species of birds. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails, which range from easy nature walks to strenuous backcountry treks.
The most famous trail is the Appalachian Trail which runs for about 105 miles through the park.
Shenandoah National Park also has several campgrounds and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. The park also has several scenic drives, including the famous Skyline Drive, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The park also has several historic sites, including the ruins of an old homestead, a historic district, and the remains of a Civilian Conservation Corps camp.
Additionally, the park offers Ranger-led programs that include guided hikes, campfire talks, and other educational activities.
2. Slide Down the Waynesboro Water Trail
The Waynesboro Water Trail is a system of water access points and recreational trails along the South River in Waynesboro, VA. It provides opportunities for activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
The trail includes several access points suitable for different skill levels, including natural and paved launches, fishing, and picnic areas. The trail also allows visitors to view local wildlife and natural landscapes.
The Waynesboro Water Trail is a cooperative effort between the City of Waynesboro, the Waynesboro Parks and Recreation Department, and local organizations, such as Friends of the South River, who promote and protect the natural resources of the river.
It’s important to note that the water trail is intended for non-motorized boats, meaning you can use kayaks, canoes, and similar boats, but not motorized boats.
It’s also recommended to check the water level and weather conditions before starting your journey and have the necessary safety equipment.
Conclusion
Waynesboro promises a lot of fun activities and entertainment regardless of the reason for visiting, from cinemas to recreational parks to pubs. However, it is easy to miss all of these if you don’t know the best things to do in Waynesboro (VA).
Make our checklist your chauffeur, and be sure to have a memorable trip. Happy travels!
