If you love traveling with your four-legged children, you have to plan ahead to make sure you stop at places where they are welcome. Good thing we’ve done the planning for you! Read on for a roundup of businesses and places of interest that welcome fur babies as well as people.

Basic City Beer Co.

Basic City Beer Co. offers a chance to kick back and have a beer with Fido, as long as he’s on a leash. You’ll enjoy a range of tasty craft beers as well as bistro-style sandwiches and Billy Pie brick oven pizza. Basic City has lots of room to spread out, both inside and out, and the tap room is close to downtown Waynesboro, Constitution Park, and the Greenway, all nice places to stroll with your dog.

Seven Arrows Brewing

Another good spot to taste craft beer is the taproom or deck at Seven Arrows Brewing. Select from 12 beers on tap and enjoy upscale pub fare from onsite Nobos Kitchen. Dogs are welcome inside and out.

Barren Ridge

Take a short drive into Augusta County to find Barren Ridge Vineyards. As long as there are no ticketed events happening, leashed dogs are welcome to check out the incredible view of the vineyards and distant mountains while their owners enjoy their favorite wine by the glass or bottle or sample a flight of different varietals.

Ice Cream

Do you and your pooch enjoy sharing a cold treat? Both Kline’s Dairy Bar and Willy’s Ice Cream have pet-friendly outdoor tables where you can share a cone and a pup cup with your furry pal. Kline’s makes fresh and delicious custard-style ice cream every morning using a time-consuming (but worth it!) production method called “continuous freeze,” which reduces the air incorporated into the ice cream and results in a denser, creamier product. Chocolate and vanilla are always on the menu as well as a weekly special flavor (or two). Willy’s is known for their delicious, classic soft serve, as well as specialty desserts such as a banana split or brownie supreme. Check out their Facebook page on Fridays to see the weekly “Friday Favorite,” then head to Willy’s to receive 10% off of that special treat.

Dog Friendly Hotels

Making your dog stay in the kennel when you travel can be really sad for both of you. Why not spare the heartbreak and bring Fido along? While many hotels allow pets, they may charge additional fees and limit the size of your pack. Waynesboro’s pet-friendly accommodations are all within easy driving access of downtown and other attractions. They include Best Western Plus, which allows dogs up to 80 pounds in its pet-friendly rooms and features an outside area with baggies ($15/day). The Comfort Inn also allows dogs, but limits them to 25 pounds ($20/pet fee); the Days Inn allows dogs (two-pet limit, $15/pet); and for extended stays, the Residence Inn allows dogs, cats, or birds (two-pet limit, $100/stay, 50 pound maximum).

Waynesboro Parks

Leashed dogs are welcome in the Waynesboro parks, and the trails in Ridgeview Park as well as the Greenway offer lots of distance to stretch your legs. The crown jewel for the off-leash crowd, however, is Coyner Springs Park, which includes a large, dedicated area for dogs to romp off leash. This 145-acre park features a large open area for off-leash fun. It should be noted, however, that this area is not fenced. There’s also a large section of the park that is wooded with trails (dogs must remain leashed here) and lots of water (and mud) for romping.

National Parks and Forests

Shenandoah National Park is one of the few national parks allowing pets on most of its trails. In fact, as long as Rex is up-to-date on his shots, stays on a leash, and you stay responsible, he is allowed to hike nearly 500 miles of trail as well as in campgrounds! Make sure you provide drinking water, pack out his waste, and check him for ticks when you finish. Dogs must be leashed in George Washington and Jefferson National Forest while on the hiking trails, but may be released in undeveloped areas.

If you’re thinking of getting a pet (or fostering one!), check out the Augusta Regional SPCA, Shenandoah Valley Animal Services Center, or Augusta Dog Adoptions.
Always make sure your dog is leashed and well-behaved when you take it in public. Dogs must be vaccinated and licensed.

From florists to caterers to planners and more! Here are some tips for building your dream team of vendors to help you pull off the most fabulous wedding for you and your love!

Flowers/Coordination

If you’re dreaming of something beautiful and unique to decorate your wedding, Faded Poppy can create it for you. Their English garden-inspired designs include bouquets, boutonnieres, flower crowns, table decorations, aisle decorations, and arbor arrangements.  The thought of pinning down all the details of your wedding is overwhelming to you? Faded Poppy can help make your vision a reality with a wide selection of coordination services. Packages include everything from determining timelines, seating plans, wedding rehearsal, vendor organization, decoration and bridal assistance, to ceremony and reception coordination.

Allow the experienced ladies at Divine Events to curate your special day to a tee. They offer directing, design, rental, and even floral design services to help make all of your wedding day dreams come true.

Karen + Erin are the team behind Rockfish Valley Events by Design. Their goal is to give you the beautiful, stress free day you’ve always imagined. Whether you need full planning or month-of coordination, they can work with you to meet your needs.

The creative team at C and C Sensations Florist can design ceremony flowers, corsages, and boutonnieres to enhance your big day.

Catering

Admit it: you attend a wedding for the food. Why not make yours one that folks will praise for months? From barbecue to fine dining, here are some of Waynesboro’s best bets.

People rave about both the delicious food and the professional service from Franklins Catering. 40 years of experience shows in the careful, coordinated service and the details. Meet with them ahead of time to plan the menu for your wedding reception or rehearsal dinner. They have a wide variety of items to choose from that range from elegant prime rib to fantastic barbecue.

Country Cupboard Catering has also been in the catering game for nearly 40 years. They provide excellent food and service for your special event. Select your main courses and sides from an extensive menu of breakfast, dinner, and hors d’oeuvre choices. All are prepared with care from the finest ingredients.

Stella, Bella Lucy’s offers “high-quality food and peace of mind.” From cheese plates to shrimp dishes, menu options can be customized for your event. They’ll take care of the cooking and make sure everything runs smoothly.

The Fishin’ Pig offers full catering service featuring restaurant favorites for a wide range of events. You can pick up from the restaurant or have everything delivered. With full buffet, bar, and clean-up service, they can help as little or as much as you’d like. They can even help you coordinate tents and rentals.

Check out the Ricks BBQ Catering trailer at a variety of local events for a taste of what you could serve at your wedding. You’ll enjoy simple, but tasty, savory food, as well as experienced service.

Cake

Love & Flour Virginia‘s lovely desserts can bring your wedding vision to life. They offer specialty cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, cookies, and chocolate covered strawberries. They even have vegan and gluten-free cake options.

Finding THE Dress

Augusta Cleaners Formals is located in the heart of downtown Waynesboro and offers a great selection of wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos, and accessories. Add a special touch to your big day look.

Amandas Touch has been a premier wedding dress boutique in the Valley for more than 20 years. They have a huge collection of gowns, bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos, and more. Their one-on-one appointments with an expert stylist will make you feel like a princess.

Overwhelmed yet? Don’t be! The Waynesboro area has is filled with excellent vendors ready to assist you in planning your happily ever after.

Tucked away in Virginia’s picturesque Shenandoah Valley, right off the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive, Waynesboro has an unexpected music scene for a city of under 25,000. From a laid-back acoustic open mic night to outdoor pavilions with live music every weekend, local music festivals, and an 800 person venue that hosts national acts, Waynesboro truly has something for fans of every genre. Dive in with us as we cover all the music venues that makes Waynesboro a top-notch destination for live tunes!

 

 

Groovin’ at the Greenway

Thursday nights from May to the end of July enjoy a free concert at Constitution Park! This season starts May 23rd with Little Walter & the Convictions and hosts local favorites all season long with bands like Who Shot John and Sundried Opossum. There is also a food truck for the evening and kid’s activities hosted by Blue Ridge Children’s Museum. So grab your lawn chair and get ready for live music all summer long!

Wayne on Main

The last Wednesday of the month from May until August you can dance on the street in front of the Wayne Theatre’s marquee while enjoying concessions from the Wayne and local food trucks. Enjoy Jack and Davis Reid on May 29th, which caps off the annual Tour the Town in downtown Waynesboro! The Wayne also hosts national acts and produces their own musicals all throughout the year, as well as offering classic movies every Monday and lots of pay-what-you-will programming. Check out their calendar for a complete list of events!

The Foundry

Waynesboro’s newest and largest live music venue, The Foundry hosts nationally known and local acts in the renovated Virginia Metalcrafters factory. Grab a Basic City beer, a cocktail, and some delicious food and watch your favorite bands! Check out their upcoming shows!

Plaza Antigua

Enjoy live music most weeks Thursday through Sunday at Plaza’s fantastic outdoor concert pavilion. Savor elevated Mexican cuisine, homemade margaritas and the best guac in the Valley while listening to live music under the starts. Save the date for Plaza’s huge Cinco de Mayo celebration and the annual Reggae Fest on July 29th.

The Fishin’ Pig

The Pig Pen is open for concerts! Enjoy live music Fridays and Saturdays with an outdoor bar, special Pig Pen menu including delicious BBQ, and plenty of seating. Be sure to keep up with their band line up here!

3rd Generations Grill

3rd Generations Grill hosts popular local bands and soloists every Friday and Saturday while serving great cocktails and delicious pub food.

Green Leaf Grill

For soothing acoustic tunes while enjoying delicious dinner and drinks, head to Green Leaf every weekend.

Bottles

Bottles hosts a dance party every Friday night with DJ Groovematic, but they have on demand karaoke anytime they’re open. Click here for hours and info.

Seven Arrows Brewing

Along with hosting live music every Saturday, Seven Arrows also hosts open mic the first Tuesday of every month. They are also the home of Nobos Kitchen and excellent craft beer.

Barren Ridge Vineyards

Barren Ridge offers free live music Saturdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays on their patio overlooking acres of grape vines with the perfect view of the sunset.

Stable Craft Brewing

Visit this destination farm brewery for live music most Fridays and Saturdays and lots of fun and unique events throughout the year.

Waynesboro Music

Waynesboro Music is the go-to for all of your instrument needs! If you need a new guitar or banjo, want to learn how to play, or want to jam out on a Saturday this is definitely the place for you.

 

View Waynesboro’s complete calendar of events here.

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, Waynesboro, Virginia, stands as a haven for outdoor adventurers seeking natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping experiences. Check out Waynesboro’s rankings in the Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine’s ‘Best of the Blue Ridge’ awards, earning a top honor and notable recognition across various categories.

WINNER

Blue Ridge Tunnel: Best Pet-friendly Adventure
The Blue Ridge Tunnel, a historic marvel turned pet-friendly adventure destination, claimed the top spot in this category. Offering a blend of history and scenic exploration, this tunnel is a haven for pet owners and their furry companions seeking an immersive outdoor experience.

Runners-Up

Tour de Valley & Run the Valley: Best Races
Tour de Valley, runner-up for Best Bike Race, celebrated its 35th year in 2023 and is perfect for cyclists of all levels with everything from a century to a 25-miler. Run the Valley, runner-up for Best Running Event, is a popular four-race series in Waynesboro featuring a half marathon and the famous Mad Anthony Mud Run, a fun 3.5 mile course that traverses across fields and wetlands, over obstacles, and through tunnels.

Waynesboro Farmer’s Market: A Bounty of Freshness
The Waynesboro Farmer’s Market, a runner-up for the best farmers market, embodies the essence of community and freshness. Offering locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and a vibrant atmosphere, it stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to supporting local growers and artisans.

South River Fly Shop South River: Fishing Gems
South River Fly Shop and South River secured runner up and nominee positions in the ‘Best Fly Fishing Shop’ and ‘Best Fishing Spot’ categories, respectively. These recognitions underscore Waynesboro’s reputation as a haven for anglers, with excellent shops and pristine waters that beckon fishing enthusiasts.

Wild Pear Kombucha Waynesburger: Culinary Delights
The Wild Pear Kombucha by Blue Ridge Bucha claimed a spot for one of the best drinks in the Blue Ridge, while The River Burger Bar’s Waynesburger was acknowledged as a top dish. These culinary delights add flavorful layers to Waynesboro’s vibrant food scene, showcasing local creations that delight the taste buds.

Waynesboro’s success in the Best of the Blue Ridge awards highlights the city’s diverse offerings, catering to both outdoor thrill-seekers and those with a penchant for culinary exploration. Whether it’s exploring historic tunnels, participating in races amidst stunning landscapes, savoring locally sourced produce, or casting lines in pristine waters, Waynesboro invites visitors and residents alike to immerse themselves in its natural wonders and community spirit. With its rich tapestry of outdoor adventures and culinary delights, Waynesboro, VA, continues to shine as a gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains, beckoning all to explore its bounty.

Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s picturesque landscape lies the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail, an emblem of engineering marvel and natural beauty. This trail promises a unique hike for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Unveiling History:

Originally constructed as a rail passage in the mid-19th century, the Blue Ridge Tunnel was the longest tunnel in the United States at the time of completion. Carved through the Blue Ridge Mountains at Rockfish Gap, this tunnel’s creation was an engineering feat, constructed by 800 Irishmen and 40 enslaved African Americans. Watch The Tunnel for a compelling and well-produced 35 minute documentary about the construction and people of Blue Ridge Tunnel or stop by the Waynesboro Heritage Museum for more information and a free booklet about the Tunnel’s storied history. Its conversion into a hiking trail offers a unique journey through time and nature.

Trail Details:

Spanning approximately 3.7 miles, the trail traverses through the refurbished train tunnel which is .81 miles. With entrances at both east and west sides, visitors can choose their starting point. The eastern trailhead, located at 215 Afton Depot Lane, is a flat access, ADA accessible entrance with plenty of parking only .63 miles from the trail. The western trailhead, located at 483 Three Notched Mtn Hwy, is a steeply graded intermediate hike and is .81 miles from the parking lot to the tunnel entrance. The trail’s moderate difficulty level ensures an enjoyable hike for most skill levels.

Pre-Hike Options in Waynebsoro:

Start your adventure in Waynesboro at Happ Coffee Roasters located in the Virginia Metalcrafters Marketplace. Grab an artisanal coffee and pastry in the industrial-chic vibes of the roastery. If you need something a more substantial, Weasie’s Kitchen is a local favorite for a classic diner breakfast. Stock up on some kombucha from Blue Ridge Bucha on your way up to the trail. Blue Ridge Bucha is Virginia’s first full-service kombucha taproom and on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays you can taste some flights or kombucha by the glass and pick up growlers, bottles, or cans to-go.

Post-Hike Bliss:

After your trek, unwind by exploring Waynesboro’s vibrant downtown arts scene or doing the interactive outdoor Street Arts Trail. Waynesboro also has plenty of boutiques, museums, and local dining options in the charming downtown. Check out the Wayne Theatre’s calendar for local productions as well as renowned national acts year-round.
The Virginia Metalcrafters Marketplace is another spot in Waynesboro to unwind after the Bule Ridge Tunnel Trail. Grab some delicious Italian inspired cuisine at Patina, catch a show at the Foundry or try local wines at Common Wealth Crush, a custom crush and wine incubator co-op. Basic City Beer Co. and The Showroom are also in VMM where you can have some craft beer or a speak-easy inspired cocktail while catching a free show and playing some arcade games.

Nearby Adventures:

For avid explorers, the proximity of the Shenandoah National Park offers a perfect extension to your trip. Discover the park’s numerous hiking trails, breathtaking vistas, and the scenic Skyline Drive less than 2 miles away from the Tunnel.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, renowned for its stunning views, starts right at the terminus of the Skyline Drive. In just the first five miles of the 469-mile drive, you can stop at a scenic overview, hike the famously rewarding Humpback Rocks Trail, and visit the Humpback Rocks Visitor Center and Mountain Farm Trail where you can take an easy .25 mile hike through an outdoor museum that is reminiscent of an 1890s mountain farm.

Connection to Appalachian Trail:

Waynesboro serves as an ideal gateway to the Appalachian Trail, drawing hikers seeking an iconic long-distance trek or a quick day hike on the world famous trail. Only 2 miles from the city’s limit, the AT fosters a deep-rooted connection of nature enthusiasts, hikers, volunteers, and those who share a love for the outdoors. Learn more about the AT and the trail towns that support it from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

The Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail not only offers a glimpse into history but also serves as a springboard to a multitude of nearby adventures. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, art lover, or an avid or casual hiker, Waynesboro’s charm and its proximity to these iconic attractions make it the perfect basecamp for an unforgettable exploration of Virginia’s beauty.
Plan your visit to Waynesboro and the Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail for an enriching journey through time and nature, connecting with history and embracing the splendor of the outdoors.

Destination Downtown Waynesboro (DDW) is the nonprofit organization that promotes and supports downtown businesses and events.

Events

Prism, Waynesboro’s first Pride event is September 14th from 12-4:00 pm. We will have live music by Shagwüf, a DIY tie-dye t-shirt station with PRISM logo t-shirts, face paint and glitter, vendors, an interactive game of BINGO, and it’s a DORA event so grab a drink from your favorite spot downtown and come party! We’ll be on the 500 block of W Main Street beside the Russell Museum!

There is also a wonderful, inclusive exhibit by Jasper Drilling at the Shenandoah Valley Art Center, 126 S Wayne Avenue. Check them out while you’re downtown for the festival!

If you’re interested in volunteering or sponsoring, please email SwansonME@ci.Waynesboro.va.us.

See you there!

 

Thank you to our sponsors!

Delly Up - Eat & Drink - Dining       

 

Where to Eat

Downtown Waynesboro has a diverse and gratifying dining scene, try all of our local restaurants!

The River Burger Bar

Features awesome burgers and a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options.137 N Wayne Avenue, closed Wednesday

Sam’s Hot Dog Stand

Virginia’s best hot dog stand featuring famous chili sauce and pork BBQ sandwiches.416 1/2 W Main Street, closed Sunday

C.C. Soul Bistro

Sandwiches, and local artisan goods.414 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Delly Up

Sandwich and drink shop serving up great food and local beer, wine, and cider for dine-in or take-out.421 W Main Street, closed Tuesday

Stella, Bella, Lucy’s

Excellent option for breakfast and lunch featuring a fresh, flavorful menu.327 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Benny Stivale’s

Stop in for a fresh slice or a gigantic 28″ pizza. Home to Waynesboro’s secret beer garden.328 W Main Street

Heritage on Main

A contemporary menu with something for everyone and a fine dining flair.309 W Main Street, closed Monday

The French Press

Gourmet coffee, pastries, and homemade paninis all served in a cozy, quaint atmosphere.134 N Wayne Avenue, open daily

The Gumbo Hut

Authentic Cajun and Creole gumbo, étouffée, and more. Dinner only.403 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Wednesday

The Green Leaf Grill

Weekly specials, fresh seafood, a wide variety of vegetarian options, and craft cocktails. Dinner only.415 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Crack O’ Dawn

Dedicated gluten free bakery and bistro that specializes in breakfast and lunch.908 W Main Street, closed Wednesday

Kline’s Dairy Bar

Sweet treats including ice cream, sundaes, milkshakes, and more.1235 W Main Street, open daily

Where to Shop

Waynesboro has plenty of unique shops located right Downtown

South River Fly Shop

Full-service fly fishing shop and guide service.309 W Main Street, open daily

adorn.

Upscale boutique specializing in women’s clothes and accessories.141 N Wayne Avenue, closed Sunday-Monday *Check link for Holiday hours

Luke’s Hobbies

R/C, scale model, slot car, paint, accessories, on-site dragstrip and more!400 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Alpha and Omega Antique Mall

Antique shop offering a variety of vintage treasures.232 Arch Avenue, open daily

Initial Inspiration

Gift shop featuring embroidery, monograms, and personalized jewelry.412 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Pyramid: Appalachian Magick + Remedy

Unique shopping experience with everything from handcrafted incense to loose herbs and teas.139 N Wayne Avenue, closed Monday

Boutique in the Boro

Boutique offering a wide array of women’s fashion and accessories including Judy Blue jeans.108 S Wayne Avenue, closed Sunday-Monday

Under the Roof

High quality furniture store carrying the best brands and offering free design consultations.406 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Waynesboro Florist

Florist and gift shop offering delivery.325 W Main Street, closed Sunday

Stone Soup Books at the South River

Community bookseller and book rescue on the banks of the South River.150 Race Avenue, open Thursday-Sunday

Waynesboro Music

Full service instrument store featuring lessons, setup, and jam sessions.520 W Broad Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Cross Stitch Station

Cute shop with plenty of cross stitch supplies and home goods.520 W Broad Street, closed Sunday Monday

Rusticae

Vintage and new home décor and fashionable attire.326 W Main Street, closed Sunday Monday

Healthy Habits

Vitamin supplement shop empowering healthier lives.510 B W Broad Street, closed Sunday-Monday

Museums

Explore Waynesboro’s rich history and amazing art at one of Waynesboro’s museums

Waynesboro Heritage Museum

Learn the history of Waynesboro through permanent and revolving exhibits. Donations welcome. 420 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday

The Plumb House Museum

Visit the oldest frame structure in Waynesboro and part of the Civil War’s Battle of Waynesboro.1012 W Main Street, by appointment 540-943-3943

The Russell Museum

Experience the artwork of Walter Russell through both painting and sculpture.518 W Main Street, open house 2nd Saturday of the month, call 1-800-882-LOVE to schedule a tour

Blue Ridge Children’s Museum and Natural Playground

Natural playground where children can play and enjoy nature simultaneously.201 Short Street, open daily from dawn to dusk

The Arts

Waynesboro has a vibrant arts scene! Check out all we have to offer:

Shenandoah Valley Art Center

A place to look at, learn about, and talk about ART! Gallery, gift shop, and working artists.122 S Wayne Avenue and 416 W Main Street, closed Sunday-Monday. *Discover quality handmade gifts at the Winter Market now through January 13th at both locations

Wayne Theatre and Performing Arts Center and Exhibit Hall

Waynesboro’s premier performance venue and exhibit hall.521 W Main Street, visit WayneTheatre.org for a full schedule of events. *Live performances of ELF begin

P Buckley Moss Gallery

Come see the work of famed artist P. Buckley Moss in this downtown Gallery.329 W Main Street, closed Monday

Trails

This City loves trails! Downtown features two unique trails for you to explore.

Street Arts Trail

One-of-a-kind mural trail with almost two dozen stops featuring eye-catching art and murals. Downtown Waynesboro and beyond, stop by 301 W Main for a rack card, or go to WaynesboroStreetArtsTrail.com for a fun scavenger hunt style tour and more information about the art installations.

Waynesboro Water Trail

Four miles of scenic river perfect for all levels of paddlers winding right through downtown Waynesboro. Click the link for map of put-ins and let-outs.

Green Spaces

The South River Greenway

Constitution Park

DORA: Waynesboro is a DORA community

DORA stands for Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area and allows visitors to downtown Waynesboro to take their drinks while shopping and enjoying downtown art and museums during designated DORA events. Look for the boundary signs and read over the ABC guidelines. And be sure to have fun!