Sulen Subramaniam, Author at VIsit Waynesboro (2024)

This may be one of lifes greatest mysteries, but luckily Waynesboro always has the answer.If you’re a local foodie looking for your next go-to or a visitor on their way to somewhere slightly less exciting were about to break down all the local restaurants Waynesboro has to offer. Did we miss any? Let us know! Have a pic of your favorite restaurant you want to share? Tag us @VisitWaynesboro!

BBQ

The Fishin Pig

Not only does The Fishin Pig have excellent BBQ, seafood, and chicken, they have a huge selection of craft beers with a great local atmosphere. Check out the ‘Pig Pen outdoor venue for live music every weekend in the summer with an outdoor bar and special Pig Pen menu featuring their famous BBQ!

C C Soul Bistro

This one-of-a-kind BBQ joint is tucked right in Downtown Waynesboro filling the streets with the sweet and savory smells of delicious smoked meat at various times of the day. Keep up with them on Instagram @c.csoulbistro so youll always know when fresh ribs are coming out of the smoker. You can also eat family style in their cozy dining room.

Breakfast (and lunch)

Weasies Kitchen

If you live in Waynesboro, theres no need to say more. If youre visiting and looking for an old school diner with a tag line like ‘Where Friends Meet to Eat!, and comfort food served with a smile, then you need to check out Weasies. Try out the Hungry Boy if you are, in fact, a hungry boy (or girl) for eggs, pancakes, breakfast potatoes, toast, and bacon or sausage. If youre not THAT hungry, they have a full menu of breakfast and lunch faves.

Jos Place

Jos place looks pretty unassuming from the outside, kind of like a place where you need to be a regular to venture inside, but dont let that deter you. Jos cooks breakfast just like youre a guest in their home. Theyre only open Tuesday – Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. but, even if you need to adjust your schedule, you need to find the time to pull up a stool at the counter and enjoy a homecooked breakfast or lunch special like grilled leg quarters.

Stella, Bella, and Lucys

Walking into Stella, Bella, and Lucys, named after the owners three dogs, is almost like walking into a well-appointed antique store. It is filled with beautiful furniture, wall hangings, and tea sets (some of which actually is for sale!) among the tables which stay full Tuesday Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. They have weekly quiche specials, build your own omelet, French toast, croissants and lots more to choose from. Be sure a get a reservation so youll be able to enjoy their fabulous breakfast and tasty lunch. Its right downtown on Main Street, but youll know youre there when you see the crowd waiting outside.

Crack O Dawn

The newest addition to Waynesboros breakfast club, Crack O Dawn already had an established and thriving Farmers Market following when they decided to give their dedicated gluten free bakery a permanent home (dont worry, they still do the Farmers Market in Waynesboro and Charlottesville on Saturdays). Serving up delicious, and I mean DELICIOUS even if youre not gluten free, breakfast and lunch out of a cute-as-a-button farmhouse, Crack O Dawn also takes custom orders for breads, cakes, and anything else you might fancy for a special occasion or just ‘because.

Coffee (and breakfast…and sometimes lunch)

Happ Coffee Roasters

Happ is a pretty HAPPening place (thats the only HAPP pun well use, but there are LOTS, trust us) in Waynesboros East Main Corridor. Sharing a former brass foundry, factory, and showroom with a bunch of other really cool operations like Common Wealth Crush and the Foundry, Happ made their corner of the Virginia Metalcrafters Marketplace an industrial-chic oasis for even the most discerning hipster. You can get your caffeine fix from meticulously sourced in-house roasted beans and fill up with delish breakfast sandos and burritos with vegetarian and vegan options.

The French Press

The French Press has been a coffee staple in downtown Waynesboro since 2015. They have a super cozy store front where most of the time there are several people enjoying their cup of joe and pastries in the huge front window, just like a movie. Head inside to get your coffee or tea just the way you like it. They have biscuits and sausage gravy for breakfast and lots of yummy paninis and salads for a light lunch. The French Press is the perfect spot to settle in and work or meet with some friends over coffee.

Becs Coffee Shop

Becs is definitely one of the more unique spots on our list. Tucked in between a used furniture store and a memorial monuments shop, Becs is open at 5:00 a.m. every day for the early birds to grab their coffee. In addition to their coffee bar they also have donuts, pastries, bagels, ice cream, and daily lunch specials from 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. You can take your coffee to-go, dine in, or set on the porch and watch the world go by.

Mission Coffee

Bookkeeping and Management Systems opened in Waynesboro in 1987 and after an impressive 37 years decided to build a new, modern building right on Wayne Avenue in downtown Waynesboro (right beside the original). All of that to say, they put a cute little coffee shop right in the lobby! They feature thoughtfully sourced beans, monthly specials like lavender cold brew, light fare, and other drinks and theyll bring your order out to you if youre in a hurry or having trouble finding parking.

Burgers and Sandwiches (and Hot Dogs!)

Broad Street Grill

Most Waynesboro natives know the Broad Street Grill as Tailgate Grill, but whatever you call it (the website is literally tailgategrillbroadstreetgrill.com) its known for the burgers and fries. Broad Street Grill has a super laid-back atmosphere with staff that will treat you like youre a regular even if its your first time. Choose a spot in the dining room and watch your order be prepared behind the counter or head out onto the covered patio. Hungry? Get a huge double cheeseburger served on a tiny Styrofoam plate and side of fries that can serve the whole family. Dont forget the famous tailgate ranch, it goes with anything on the menu.

The River Burger Bar

Mandi Smack took a chance and opened The River Burger Bar in downtown Waynesboro in 2020, right in the middle of covid. And that chance, thankfully, paid off. The River is one of the most popular hang outs in Waynesboro for locals, Appalachian Trail thru hikers, and tourists from all over the world. Have a seat at the bar, you never know who you might strike up a conversation with. Aside from their super popular burgers, The River also has giant pretzels that are soft and perfectly salted, sandwiches, salads, and more. And the best part? You can sub any burger for chicken breast, a turkey burger, a vegan Beyond Burger, or a garden burger.

The Barn Restaurant

The Barn doesnt necessarily belong in the burger and sandwich category because there is no shortage of cuisine that has been perfected by Trey, owner and chef at The Barn. While their burgers are a staple on the menu and always fresh, never frozen, The Barn also serves the best fried chicken in town for just one or the family, foot long hot dogs, hoagies, Carolina style BBQ, hot dogs, gyros, salads, and specials. From the street it looks like your favorite TV show diner with neon signs advertising hot coffee, and, actually, the interior looks that way too with red vinyl booths and friendly service. This is one you have to try!

Delly Up

Delly Up is as unique a restaurant as its name suggests. ‘Belly up to the huge, stainless steel bar with comfy old school bar stools and get a drink from the bartender or wander over to the cooler for a look at dozens of craft beer options from all over the world. After you have the beverage situation all squared away, move on to the menu for lots of delicious sandwich options. Curried Chicken Salad, Pastrami Rueben, and the Phantom are just a few that come to mind (and make my mouth water). Delly Up also has fun events like karaoke every Thursday and Shakedown Saturdays (IYKYK).

Sams Hot Dog Stand

Located in what has to be the smallest restaurant east of the Mississippi, Sams Hot Dog Stand is a tiny but mighty institution tucked right in between Shenandoah Valley Art Center and the Waynesboro Heritage Museum. With just a counter and a couple of stools, Sams churns out tons of good food including their famous hotdogs, every day. Stop in and grab a sack full of hotdogs with chili sauce or a pulled pork sandwich with fries at a really great price. *To note: there are lots of Sam’s locations, however, the headquarters is located in downtown Waynesboro and the owners of the downtown location are local as it is a franchise. We apologize for the oversite.

3^rd Generations Grill

One of Waynesboros only ‘old school bar style restaurants, 3^rd Generations Grill has a reputation for FUN in Waynesboro. While youre there be sure to try a burger with fresh ground beef cooked to order, a turkey pesto sandwich, or some of their popular steamed shrimp, but then grab a craft brew and hang out. With engaging friendly competition activities like corn hole and quiz nights, 3^rd Generations Grill also has live music every Friday and Saturday night from 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Oh, and I dont know how you can forget the rubber ducky claw machine, it has something of a cult following around here.

The Creek

The Creek has all of the above: burgers, sandwiches, and hotdogs! Now open to the public, The Creek is the restaurant at Orchard Creek Country Club and offers weekly specials, live music, mixology classes, and paint and sip events, and serves Sunday Brunch weekly. Their beef hotdogs and Smashburger Sliders are perfect after playing 18 holes or if youre in the mood for something a little fancier try their seared Scotties Salmon or the cast iron Ribeye.

Asian

Silk Road

Silk Road did such a transformation on a Shoneys right off I64 you cant even tell it used to be one of Americas favorite roadside restaurants. Open the substantially ornate doors and youll find yourself in opulence. With no detail spared, Silk Road is a beautiful place to celebrate, enjoy a date, watch a game at the bar, or even pick up a to-go order. Their sushi is super fresh and rolled in an open kitchen. The Asian fusion menu promises there is something that will satisfy anyone. The staff is super friendly and accommodating. Hands down a great place for delicious food in a great atmosphere.

New Ming Garden Buffet and Grill

Ming Garden (as its affectionately referred to) is an internationally known Chinese buffet. Famous on the Appalachian Trail for serving up the most amount of calories for the least damage to your pocketbook, Ming Garden has carved out a niche fan club that sings its praises wherever there is a place to leave a review about food on the Appalachian Trail. Ming Garden is also popular with locals looking to take a picky family out so everyone is happy. Hibachi, unlimited buffet with all the Chinese staples along with pizza, chicken, and kid friendly items, and all you can eat crab legs for special occasions, means Ming Garden is definitely worth a try.

Dragons Chinese Grill

Located in an unassuming strip mall alongside an Ollies and a furniture store, Dragons Chinese Grill is excellent for Chinese takeout. With Chinese classics along with Lo Mein, seafood, a section for ‘Fussy Outside eaters, and family style entrees, Dragons is quick, has ample parking, and is centrally located in Waynesboro. They also have a small buffet if youre dining in.

King Garden

Another Chinese takeout place in an unassuming strip mall, but alongside a nail place this time. But, just like Dragons Chinese Grill, people swear this is THE BEST Chinese food in Waynesboro. They have a few exciting and different menu items like spare ribs, moo shu, chop suey, and curry. Its quick and fresh!

Osaka

I honestly didn’t know Osaka was amazing as it is or that it was local. I was corrected my many, but specifically by a friend that goes there often. Osaka has amazing hibatchi, the best in the area, and is a great spot for celebrations or just a casual night out. The sushi is fresh and could compete for bes in Waynesboro. All around a great, local eatery and I stand corrected!

Restaurants Inside Breweries

FO Kit(chen) at Basic City Beer Co.

Basic City is more than a brewery with food, its more like an expandable water toy that started as a tiny capsule but seems to grow every time you visit. Basic City beer is well known in its own right as a solid craft beer with a gold medal from the World Beer Cup while Basic City campus now houses the Foundry, Waynesboros largest concert venue that hosts local and international artist and everyone in between; the Showroom, a prohibition era/speakeasy style bar, a beercade with some nostalgic games from an arcade from the 80s; and, now, FO Kit(chen). This isnt just an average bar menu. FO Kit(chen) has a pretty elevated menu with brick fired Neapolitan pizza, different balls like falafel and risotto, charcuterie boards, and panini pressed sandwiches like the Redneck Reuben and French Hipster.

Nobos Kitchen at Seven Arrows Brewing

While these next two breweries arent technically in Waynesboro, we like to claim them anyway. Seven Arrows, literally a hop, skip, and jump over the City limits, is home to Nobos Kitchen. Nobos serves up some mean burgers and sandwiches along with specials and a robust brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays. Grab a board game from Seven Arrows extensive collection or come out for open mic night, trivia, comedy night, or one of Seven Arrows other events and make a night out of it with dinner from Nobos.

Stable Craft Brewing

Easily one of the most beautiful properties on this list, Stable Craft lives among the rolling hills and rural farmland in Augusta County. An actual, working horse farm, Stable Craft is definitely a destination brewery. While lounging in one of their outdoor spaces be sure to grab a menu and a beer. Their full menu offers everything from Beer Cheese Dip (our fave) to Filet Mignon. Stable Craft also offers lots of events and live music.

Pizza

Ciros

The Waynesboro Ciros (there is also a location in Stuarts Draft) is an institution. While there are two distinct camps Ciros or Scottos, both family owned and operated for best pizza in Waynesboro, Ciros might win with a narrow margin. One of the few businesses left in Willow Oak Shopping Center, Ciros has been successfully serving pizza out of that location since 1976. Ciros does a huge carryout business but also has a dining room if you want to eat in. The menu is relatively small with no frills, but theyre obviously doing something right to have such a dedicated following of Waynesboro natives.

Scottos

If you were born before 1990, walking into Scottos is going to bring back some memories. A converted old-school Pizza Hut, Scottos has been open since 1989 and all we can say is – thank god its not a Pizza Hut anymore. Scottos has pizza parlor basics but also a dining room and a menu nice enough to take a first date to. Stuffed mushrooms, veal saltimbocca, and scallops carbonara are just some of the things on the extensive menu. Whether you need quick carryout to feed the busy family or want to sit down and enjoy a multi-course Italian feast, Scottos has you covered!

New York Flying Pizza

New York Flying Pizza is the youngest local pizza place we’ve got in Waynesboro, opening in 2015. It’s a pretty typical pizza parlor with a large dining room and an even larger menu with everything from chicken marsala to tortilla salad and anything that comes in between. New York Flying Pizza also does delivery which is definitely a plus and is super family friendly if you’re dining in. Solid place to grab a pie on a night when you don’t feel like cooking.

Soup to Nuts

Heritage on Main

Heritage on Main has had a few different identities over the last dozen years theyve been in downtown Waynesboro, but they are definitely in their success era right now. The atmosphere is elevated with muted complimentary colors highlighted by natural light from oversized windows in the high-ceilinged dining room and a bar right beyond that looks like a place you could get a great Manhattan. You can do brunch at Heritage on the weekends, and lunch and dinner service Tuesday Sunday. Their menu is delightfully fresh and well thought out with attentive service in an upscale atmosphere. Perfect for VIP visitors or casual lunch with friends.

Green Leaf Grill

A flagship restaurant in the burgeoning downtown, Green Leaf Grill offers comfort food with a twist. Chef/owner Chris Hollinger trained at the famed Commanders Palace Restaurant and brings some New Orleans flair to Waynesboro with menu items like Fried Alligator and Po Boys. The atmosphere is cozy and makes you feel like youre dining in a much bigger city. Green Leaf Grill also has fresh seafood and a great selection of gluten free and vegetarian food and is the perfect spot to grab dinner before or after a night of theater at the Wayne.

Mexican

La Sabrosita

Dubbed the most authentic Mexican theyve ever had in the states by quite a few hungry AT hikers and Waynesboro locals, La Sabrosita is a Mexican restaurant and a convenience store that has been family owned and operated since 2013. While the convenience store offers up a wide variety of hard to come by Latin food and products (like pinatas!), the restaurant is usually buzzing with regulars playing pool and a kitchen serving up ultra-authentic meals like chori pollo and sopa de res. Grab carryout or dine in and become one of the family at this amazing hole in the wall, you know, the kind that has the BEST food.

Plaza Antigua

Plaza, as its commonly referred by the locals, is like the cool, older brother of the average Mexican restaurant. With an impressive outdoor music venue which hosts popular bands every weekend, karaoke every week, country line and salsa dance classes, and festivals like Reggae Fest, Woofstock, and Five Days of Cinco, Plaza still has food and drinks that are on point. Must tries are guac so fresh they make it at the table, authentic street tacos, and jumbo margaritas (pro tip: jumbos are only $5 on Mondays). Plaza is definitely worth a visit and conveniently located near Waynesboros hotel district.

Los Panchos

Los Panchos is definitely elevated Tex Mex with expansive seafood and vegetarian menus. The portions are generous, the service is friendly, and the atmosphere is kind of like the Disney World of Mexican restaurants. Chips and salsa are on the house and they have a guac cart, what more could you ask for?!

El Puerto

El Puerto has been Waynesboros answer to an old school Mexican restaurant since 1999. Just the kind of experience you would expect; the service is swift and amiable with complimentary chips hitting the table before you can even get a drink order, and numbered lunch special combos that are a great deal. You know exactly what youre getting at El Puerto and its a great carryout spot, the food tastes just as good after a quick ride as it does when its brought out of the kitchen. Its the perfect spot to take a large party when the craving for a burrito strikes and the menu offers something for everyone.

The Category for the Restaurants that Dont Fit into a Category

The Gumbo Hut

The Gumbo Hut is another pretty unique spot on the list. Michelle, the chef and owner, makes some mean gumbo, etouffee, creole, and sides. The small restaurant, decorated with a Mardi Gras flair, is on Waynesboros busy Main Street and has a full bar but limited dine-in seating. They do a great business but the hours vary so its always a good idea to give Michelle a call at 434-260-1511 before you head over.

Bottles

Bottles claim to fame actually has nothing to do with food – although it is really good and well get to that later but rather two words. MECHANICAL. BULL. This write up could end right here and thats definitely a good enough reason to check Bottles out, but there is more: on demand karaoke whenever theyre open, tons of games like cornhole and pool tables, fire pits and an absolutely massive outdoor deck/shelter/hangout/game area, and, of course, a menu filled with your favorite bar foods like nachos and wings. They also have a huge list of beer, cider, seltzer, and malts. Bottles is 18+ after 9:00 p.m. there is a nominal entrance fee, and Sunday is Family Day.

A Taste of Cuba

Waynesboro is, unfortunately, lacking in the international food category unless its pizza or Mexican, so when a Taste of Cuba opened up, we were super excited and for good reason. A Taste of Cuba is tucked in a pretty run-of-the-mill shopping center, but the inside is nicely decorated and definitely makes you feel like youve stepped out of Waynesboro and into a Cuban café. Theres also outdoor seating! The food has rave reviews and you have to try the Cuban sandwich (of course) but also the empanadas, Ropa vieja, and all the different types of rice they offer. A Taste of Cuba is a must try.

And Last but Not Least, ICE CREAM

Klines Dairy Bar

Klines iconic bright purple building with a huge, red neon sign makes it a ridiculously insta-worthy spot to grab a cone. Since 1943, this family owned enterprise has taken their handmade ice cream production and ingredients seriously to make one heck of a smooth, delicious ice cream. Pick up a flavor calendar to make sure you always get your favorite, although they do have chocolate and vanilla all the time. They also have milkshakes, flurries, floats, and other favorites.

Willys Ice Cream

Although Willys is only open seasonally, opening day is as akin to the first game of baseball season in Waynesboro. This family owned ice cream institution has been operating out of an unassuming building in a shopping center parking lot since the mid-90s and is still going strong today. They have weekly rotating flavors and floats, wizards, milkshakes, sundaes, and other specialties. Pro tip: ask for a milkshake punch card and after you get 10 you get the 11^th FREE!

There you have it. We hope you get to try everything on the list and if we left anything off, let us know!

Virginia has cautiously entered Phase 3 of its reopening, meaning many Waynesboro businesses and attractions are now open to the public, though following some new guidelines. Social distancing, mask wearing, and heightened sanitization practices are all things you’ll encounter in Waynesboro. Many of our local businesses have used time in quarantine to develop new ways to serve the public, including new procedures, fresh programming, and creative digital content. Here’s how to enjoy Waynesboros best!

Food and Beverages

Dining

Waynesboro’s eateries vary in their offerings, but during Phase 3, they are doing their best to accommodate customers in the safest ways possible. Most restaurants are welcoming diners with a combination of indoor and outdoor seating, and some have even opened new patios and developed new menus for dining in and carryout. Lookin at you, Fishin Pig! Be sure you check with individual restaurants before making plans. You might even be able to catch some live music while you’re out enjoying a meal! Try the new River Burger Bar for happy hour specials and music on Thursdays.

Waynesboro Farmer’s Market

The Waynesboro Farmers Market in Constitution Park welcomes mask-wearing, socially distancing visitors on Saturday mornings from 9 am-12 pm. Customers may also order fruits and veggies, eggs, meat, baked goods, and more online for curbside pickup. Try something new, such as versatile micro greens from Poplar Ridge Farm, or Guatemalan Dark Roast whole bean coffee from 7th Sunrise Coffee.

Vineyards and Breweries

Spread out and enjoy beverages, picnics, and views at Waynesboro-area vineyards and breweries. Barren Ridge Vineyard will be hosting live music, streaming virtual concerts, and sharing educational videos about the winemaking process. Afton Mountain Vineyard offers lawn, patio, and pavilion seating as well as curbside pickup of your favorite wine.

If youd rather sip beer, most breweries along the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail are open for business with both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as beer to-go! In fact, Basic City Beer Co. and Seven Arrows Brewing have both built brand new decks to accommodate more outdoor customers. Get your Beerwerks Passport stamped at eight breweries and earn a new, cool t-shirt!

Entertainment

Wayne Theatre
The historic Wayne Theatre is “safely and cautiously opening up for a few “Curtains Up in-house events. These include Monday Movies and a live benefit concert and auction with music by Jimmy O on August 1. The Wayne will also be continuing its “At Home with the Wayne pay-what-you-will digital programming. Programming includes acting and singing tips, live streams of past performances, behind-the-scenes programs, and much, much more.

Shenandoah Valley Art Center

The gallery at Shenandoah Valley Art Center has opened its doors for socially distanced visits to view the shows. Summer camps have been canceled this year, but the art center is offering weekly “Take It and Make It kids kits for ages 5-10. Past projects have included pet rocks, peg people, and sock monsters. SVAC also plans to host a new exhibit in September that explores Covid-19 and social distancing.

Zeus Digital Theater

2020 might not be the year for new summer blockbusters, but Zeus Digital Theater is showing some of our favorite classics, including The Lord of the Rings, Jaws, E.T., Back to the Future, and The Big Lebowski. All tickets may be purchased online. Want to have the theater all to yourself? Zeus will rent you an entire auditorium to watch whatever you want with your closest friends. You even get bottomless popcorn and fountain drinks.

Waynesboro Golf and Games

Plan some wholesome family fun at Waynesboro Golf and Games, where the procedures and courses for par 3, foot golf, and mini golf allow for plenty of social distancing. You can actually play golf without having to interact with another person when you pay electronically and use the scoring app!

Eastside Speedway

Missing the sound of engines and the smell of racing tires? Spectators can once again watch the action at Eastside Speedway. The 2020 drag season continues through October.

The Great Outdoors

Waynesboro City Parks

Plan to get outside and have fun at Waynesboro City’s wealth of parks and green ways, including athletic fields and playgrounds. The City’s own Waynesboro Water Trail welcomes paddlers of all abilities, and nearby Rockfish Gap Outfitters has plenty of kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards for rent or purchase.

Shenandoah National Park/ Appalachian Trail

Shenandoah National Park is almost fully open now, including trails, campgrounds, picnic areas, overlooks, and the Skyline Drive. Popular destinations like Old Rag and Whiteoak Canyon might be crowded at times. Keep social distancing in mind; if a trailhead seems too busy, consider picking a less populated trail. This is the perfect opportunity to explore lesser-known trails and adventurers!

Wildlife Center of VA

The Wildlife Center of VA‘s mission is to rehabilitate sick and injured wildlife and educate the public about our native species. During the Covid-19 crisis, the center has continued its work with animals, but has been closed to in-person tours. Instead, visitors can take advantage of a full weekly calendar of virtual programs and live-streamed events, including fun for kids, private virtual tours, critter cams, and new episodes of Untamed.

Grand Caverns

Escape the heat underground at Grand Caverns, where you’ll finally learn the difference between stalagmites and stalactites. Though Fountain Cave Adventure Tours and Historic Off Trail Tours are not being held at this time, visitors can learn history and explore the incredible geology of the caverns with guides while maintaining social distance and wearing face masks.

Are you looking for something new to try that combines art, education, brain power, exercise, and fresh air? Check out the street and public art of Waynesboro and the new Traipse adventure designed to explore it. Waynesboros play of industrial architecture and pristine mountain backdrop is a study in contrasts, and the citys mural art adds an additional layer of interest, character, and mystery to the urban downtown. Waynesboros Street Arts Trail embraces and explores art both in and out of the gallery!

Whats the difference between street art and graffiti?

Writing and drawing on the walls as expression dates back to the cavemen, but if youre thinking that street art is the same thing as the tags you see on train cars or in public bathrooms, youll be interested to learn that there are big differences. Both appear all over the world, but street art or urban art is commissioned artwork that considers setting, subject, and surface, and is often influenced by political and social issues. Graffiti artists generally create without the property owners permission. Street art is image based while graffiti is word based, but sometimes theres overlap.

Tell Me About the Street Arts Trail

More than a dozen murals of various sizes and subject matters decorate the Waynesboro cityscape, courtesy of the annual Virginia Street Arts Festival. Nils Westergards large painting, 100-ft. “Kaiya with Tulips gazes down from the seven-story brick ice house building. The haunting portrait stands out in views from all over downtown. Westergards work also appears in several other public spaces in Waynesboro and in cities around the world. Julia Chon, aka Kimchi Juice, has produced several local works, including “Sun, Moon, and Stars, which appears on Race Avenue. A folktale her grandparents told her as a child inspired this mural. Another place to see Chons work is “Small Blue Ridge, next to The Wayne Theatre. Several structures like E-N Computers, Basic City Beer Co., and the Bargain Barn building include the work of multiple artists. Check out these sites along the Street Arts Trail for more work by Westergard and Chon as well as Daniel Ross, Rob Fogle, Ethan Donnelly, Carl Medley III, and more.

Whats Traipse?

Traipse is a free app thats part contactless walking tour and part scavenger hunt. Its designed to show you around and help you engage with a new location (or teach you new things about somewhere you already know!) Traipse connects people and communities, educates, and promotes the arts and small businesses. The Waynesboro Traipse adventure has 13 stops, and each one challenges the explorer with a fun riddle. Correct answers unlock additional challenges.

How Can I See Street Art Being Created?

Waynesboro is home to the annual VA Street Arts Festival, hosted by the E-N Computers in Waynesboro, and supported by individual donors. This years festival will occur on October 11 (noon – 7:00 p.m.) at the Waynesboro Family YMCA (corner of Arch and Wayne Avenues), and showcase returning artists Nils Westergard and Julia Chon. The festival will also feature food trucks and a beer garden. Attendees can watch dance performances, listen to the live music of The Mighty Good Times, join in socially distanced family art activities and a drum circle, and most importantly, watch the artists in action.

Viewing finished art is wonderful and enriching, but seeing arts creation is even more eye opening. The festival gives the public access to the artists, and viewers can learn about tools and techniques and really get a sense of the artists inspiration, preparation, and process, especially when the art ties intimately to place. Each unique mural project has its own challenges, including accessibility and condition of the surface. Artists use different methods to transfer their designs onto the walls, including stencils, projections, or freehand. They might use ladders, lifts, or poles to access hard-to-reach areas.

So, if youre looking for a way to enjoy the crisp autumn weather and see some public art, visit the Waynesboro Street Arts trail and the VA Street Arts Festival.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Tucked in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is an affordable mountain town thats ideally located between Virginias largest and most popular winter resorts, Wintergreen Resort and Massanutten Resort.

Beyond being a central spot for affordable skiing accommodations, local points of interest include historic sites, country stores, breweries, museums, art galleries, and more.

Nearby Resorts To Ski, Snowboard Tube

This is it. The slopes are white and groomed in anticipation of your arrival. The only question is, will you choose Massanutten (31 miles/42 minutes) or Wintergreen (20 miles/35 minutes) for your adrenaline fix? If you stay in Waynesboro, you can do both!

Massanutten Resort offers 14 runs withseven lifts. The trails include three black diamonds with the difficulty tapering all the way down to “Southern Comfort, aka the Slow Zone. Snowboarding, tubing, and ice-skating are also grand ways to experience the mountain. If youve never snow tubed, youre in for a treat! Sixteen 900-foot lanes shoot tubers downhill solo or leashed with others in your party for twice the fun! Try Northern Lights for a glowing nighttime ride. The ever-toasty 84-degree indoor waterpark is a big draw for families. Its consistently included among the best water parks in national round-ups and vote-offs. Measures such as required mask wearing and online ticket purchasing are in place to ensure social distancing and keep visitors to Massanutten safe.

Wintergreen Resort slope fun begins with 26 alleys of powder to conquer as you see fit, a 300-yard snow-tubing center that delivers speeds of up to 30 mph (gasp!), an ever-changing Terrain Park with more than 40 features to trick with your snowboard. Its so much fun that readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine voted it among the best snowboarding parks in the 2021 Best of the Blue Ridge.The family-friendly area known Ridgelys Fun Park is not operating with all of its usual activities, but there is still snow for families with little ones to get out and explore. Wintergreen is also going above and beyond with safety precautions, including required online tickets purchased in advance.

Settle In

Any winter weekend must start with a comfortable place to stay. For those who picture a cabin in the woods, consider the Iris Inn on the edge of Waynesboro. Many of theirprivate cottage andcabins offer cozy fireplaces and decks or porches to admire the wildlife.
If tried and true hotel accommodations are your jam, both Best Western Plus and Residence Inn by Marriott are available with excellent mid-winter packages.

Suit Up

Layering is important when planning a ski trip in higher elevations like Wintergreen Resort and Massanutten Resort. Shop for winter essentials like socks, thermals, beanies, gloves, and of course, outerwear at Rockfish Gap Outfitters. Their knowledgeable staff will also be happy to share information about additional area adventures, like great hiking and biking routes.

Chow Down

After a day full of mountain activities, youll be sure to work up an appetite. Warm up with drinks and dinner in downtown Waynesboro. Throughout Waynesboro, there are a plethora of local and chain restaurants to suit all tastes and pocketbooks, as well as popular craft breweries where you can leisurely recount your days adventures among friends. Popular spots include Basic City Beer Co. for award-winning small batch craft beers or The River Burger Bar for gourmet burgers with all the fixins’.

Stay Active

Depending on weather conditions, you can hike the backcountry in Shenandoah National Park and if there is recent snowfall, you can even cross-country ski along Skyline Drive. (But be sure to bring your own skis.)

With Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway right next door, and the legendary Shenandoah Valley all around, Waynesboro provides easy access to stunning winter views.

Enjoy your next winter weekend in Waynesboro, Virginia, where good nature comes naturally.

Brighten up this dark, cold winter by sharing a special gift or experience with your Valentine. From cozy retreats for lovebirds to tattoos for two, heres how to celebrate your romance in Waynesboro. And be sure to snap a selfie with your love at our new LOVE sign along the South River Greenway, decorated with hearts for the special day.

Weekend Getaway

Slip away from the grind and spend a magical weekend at Heritage Hill BB, a large historic home on eight acres with picture-worthy views of the Blue Ridge. The rooms are large and plush, and youll have your choice of looking at the sunrise or the sunset. Other amenities include fluffy robes, remote controlled candles, sound machines/speakers, and a stocked refreshment station. You wont want to miss one of the BBs packages. The celebration package spoils you with fresh flowers, wine, and artisan chocolates. If youre imagining a romantic picnic, perhaps looking out over the Valley at an overlook along the Skyline Drive, select the personalized, gourmet picnic package.

Tucked away on a private and historic apple orchard farm, Cider House Bed and Breakfast will help you and your partner relax and refresh. The property boasts gorgeous mountain vistas, the perfect location for stargazing, breakfasts guests rave about, and alpacas and donkeys to pet and befriend. Celebrate Valentines Day with the romance package, which includes decadent truffles and a fresh bouquet of flowers.

Get ready for a front-row seat of the sunset from your mountaintop cabin at the Iris Inn. This peaceful, modern retreat provides guests with showstopping views, access to hiking, and amenities like two-person jacuzzies and complimentary wine and cheese. Celebrate Valentines Day with a romantic package like the sweetheart package, which inspires romance with a dozen red roses, hand-dipped chocolate-covered strawberries for two, and a bottle of champagne.

Say I Love You with Food

For a romantic meal, you cant go wrong with a night at Heritage on Main Street. You can order online to enjoy your food at home, or you can take advantage of their socially distanced dining room. Check the website or Facebook for the weekly specials. For Valentine’s weekend, they are serving up a four course masterpiece including options like a beet caprese tower, surf turf entree, limoncello raspberry cake to finish off your meal.

If you want to celebrate the holiday and keep your stretchy pants on, head out for pizza and beer at Benny Stivale’s. You can get a huge 28 heart-shaped pizza to enjoy with your partner.

SweetNanaCakes Bake Shoppe will tickle your sweet tooth every day of the year with cupcakes, cookies, and other sweet treats. For Valentines Day, theyve created heartbreaker boxes, which are 8 chocolate boxes filled with the candy that you get to bust open with a wooden mallet. Another good wintery treat is a cocoa bomb. Heat up some milk and pour it over top for the richest hot chocolate you can imagine.

Connect over co*cktails, Beer, or Wine

Put on your fanciest outfit and order something new. You and your partner will enjoy the deliciously beautiful offerings at Silk Road. Not only can you get sushi and Asian fusion food, but the full bar has many drinks to choose from. Another good spot to get a drink is The River Burger Bar. Come in for sit-down dining and drinks or select from a carry-out menu that includes mimosas, margaritas, and bourbon gingers. And if a little friendly competition stokes your romantic fires, head over to Bottles. You can buy beers by the bucket and there are plenty of games like darts, air hockey, and video games to start a friendly competition with your sweetheart.

If you prefer to sip a nice wine, schedule a tasting at Lightwell Survey to sample the best of their “small batches of lively reds, dense whites and unique combinations of the two and learn about the winemaking process. Alternatively, Barren Ridge Vineyards is romantic at any time of the year, but this years Valentines Day special includes a bottle of their finest rosé paired with chocolates from Giancarlos Fine European Chocolates. Youll also receive a bottle of organic hand lotion, all for $35.

Flowers and Jewelry Make a Wonderful Surprise

Theres a long history of using flowers to express love and Waynesboro Florist has a wonderful selection of bouquets. They have always-popular red roses, but they also create arrangements using a more unique selection of blooms. Either type of bouquet will convey, “I love you.

Visit Lemons Jewelry to pick out something special for your beloved like a watch, bracelet, earrings, or even a ring! This locally owned establishment can provide the personal service you wont find in bigger chain stores. And if traditional jewelry isnt your partners style, take them to Extreme Expressions.Celebrate your love by getting tattoos or piercings together. Extreme Expressions will work with you to find a unique way to make a statement with body art.

Take in a Show

As part of their “Hear It Before You See It series, The Wayne Theatre is showing a Zoom reading of a romantic play adapted from Jane Austens Persuasion that you can enjoy from the comfort of your couch. After the screening of the play, the playwright and some of the actors will participate in a live-stream question and answer session. (February 11-12). If you want to spend an evening at the theater, the Wayne is putting on Sondheim Reimagined, a live concert that includes both original and solo piano reimaginings of Stephen Sondheims beloved works on Saturday, February 13 at 7:30 pm.

Indulge in a Spa Treatment

Get ready to be pampered (or give it as a gift). For the entire month of February, youll receive a complimentary stress-relief foot soak and foot massage with your facial at Freda’s Skin Studio. Fredas also performs waxing, lash extension, and make up services so you can look your best and feel confident for your big date! If you want to get a full massage, make reservations at Détente Spa Salon. They offer Swedish, deep tissue, trigger point, and myofascial massage.

Whether you want to get outside and be active, indulge in a sweet treat, shower your sweetie with gifts, or all of the above, theres no excuse not to make this Valentines Day special.