Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the small town of Waynesboro, Virginia lies at the intersection of Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway and borders Shenandoah National Park. Waynesboro is hundreds of years old but was slow to grow since, during prohibition, it declared itself a dry city. Its neighboring town, Basic City, did not have the same sentiments so most traffic diverted there instead of landing in Waynesboro. Eventually, the two towns combined into present-day Waynesboro, the population grew, and so did the infrastructure.
Rich with history and boasting a lovely, walkable downtown area with lots of dining and shopping options just miles from the mountains, this town has a little bit of everything. Here are some of the best things to do on a day trip to Waynesboro.
Outdoor Adventures
Given its prime real estate in the Blue Ridge Mountains, not only is there plenty of outdoor adventures to have in town, the freedom of the mountains is only miles away. This is truly an adventurer’s paradise. Here are some of the best outdoor places to visit!
South River Greenway
Address: 215 Mc Elroy Street Waynesboro, VA 22980
Running for 1.2 miles along the South River in downtown Waynesboro, this path is easily accessible and highly rewarding. It is flat, asphalt, and multi-use, so you can walk, run, bike, or skate with ease. The route has bathrooms, exercise stations, benches, and lovely trees. The city is currently working on an expansion of the path to give you an even better experience!
Blue Ridge Tunnel
Address: 483 Three Notched Mountain Hwy, Waynesboro, VA
This tunnel built in the 1850s was dug completely by hand and once completed, it was one the longest tunnels in the world. It has recently been restored and people are now able to walk through this historical place with ease. The 4.5 mile out-and-back trail can be accessed from either the west or the east (with the east being closer to the tunnel). Both options have plenty of parking and the hike is rated as easy (though the west side has slightly more elevation). Don’t forget your flashlight!
Humpback Rock
Get Directions: click here
Located off Blue Ridge Parkway, this 2 mile out-and-back strenuous hike takes you up to incredibly cool rock formations that offer beautiful views down into the valley. With 360-degree visibility, the summit is a great spot for sunset or sunrise. Dogs are allowed but may struggle with the rocks at the top.
Raven’s Roost Overlook
Get Directions: click here
If you’re looking for a big reward with little effort, this spot is for you! Located off Blue Ridge Parkway, this iconic overlook is beautiful any time of day, but is renowned for its beautiful sunset views. There is plenty of parking but it does fill up quickly when sunset approaches.
Food & Drinks
One of the best ways to get to know a new city is by sampling their food options. The small but charming area of downtown Waynesboro offers many different food and beverage options. Here are some of the best spots.
Delly Up
- This sandwich shop offers house-made sandwiches as well as salads, appetizers, and alcohol to go! If you want to dine in, they have a bar with great views of downtown.
Blue Ridge Bucha
- This handcrafted kombucha is brewed in Waynesboro using organic and sustainable processes. With lots of delicious flavors to choose from as well as an alcohol-infused line, there’s a little something for everyone
Basic City Beer Co.
- Named after the prohibition-era neighboring town, this establishment is definitely not dry! It offers an endless variety of craft beers as well as delicious pizzas, BBQ, appetizers, and more!
Farmhaus Coffee Co.
- Offering lots of gourmet coffees and teas, as well as toasts, bagels, and sandwiches, this is the perfect spot for an on-the-go meal to start your day!
If you want to extend your trip into an overnight stay, travel to the neighboring city of Staunton and check out my blog post to see what things I recommend doing there!
Waynesboro is a small, charming city that is definitely underrated. I hope you’re able to stop by and see all it has to offer!
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