The small mountain city of Waynesboro is located just three miles from the intersection of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Skyline Drive, and Appalachian Trail. In addition, the spring-fed South River flows through downtown, drawing anglers from all over the country looking to catch trophy-sized trout, and providing fun on the water for kids of all ages.

Day 1: Fly Fishing
Kick off your adventure by trying your hand at one of Waynesboro’s specialties: fly fishing. The South River Fly Shop on Main Street offers full-service guiding and instructing for every skill level, as well as a wide selection of gear. In addition to full-day excursions along the Shenandoah, James, and Jackson rivers, they also offer guided trips into Shenandoah National Park. For today you’ll want to schedule a half-day excursion on the South River, which runs through downtown Waynesboro and is one of only two urban trout fisheries in the state. Once Tommy or Kevin lead you to the sweet spots along the river, we think you’ll agree that its stocked waters make it an angler’s playground!
After spending your afternoon on the river, it’s only appropriate to cap off your day with dinner downtown at The River Burger Bar for an elevated burger experience, or a tasty salad or wrap. Pair your meal with your choice of a craft beer or fun cocktail.

Day 2: Discover New Trails
The Waynesboro Water Trail is the newest addition to the city’s park system and allows visitors the chance to see the city from the vantage point of the water. Put in your canoe or kayak at Ridgeview Park and paddle the scenic four-mile stretch of the South River to the convenient take-out at Basic Park. Shorter trips can be taken, if desired, by utilizing other river accesses along the water trail. This stretch of the river is perfect for beginners or those looking for an easy paddle. You’ll encounter class I and class II rapids along the way and glimpse some of the historic homes and bygone industries of the city. If you need gear, talk to the folks at Rockfish Gap Outfitters. Be sure to check the water table of the South River before planning your paddle. A PDF version of the Waynesboro Water Trail, along with maps of popular hiking trails and historical walking tours, is available on our Maps page.
Following your float, you’ll be hungry and a massive “Virginia Slice” of delicious pizzafrom Benny Stivale’sis just the ticket! Eat in, or take your lunch to Constitution Park for a delightful picnic.
After lunch, head to Sherando Lake for swimming, hiking, biking, picnicking, pretty much any outdoor activity you can think of! Relax on the shandy beach of the 25-acre sprind-fed lake, or enjoy a day hike from one of multiple trail heads. Sherando Lake, is, indeed, the Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains,as it is known to the locals!

Day 3: One More Adventure
After you’ve visited Weasie’s, a local favorite for diner-style breakfast, wrap up your time in Waynesboro for a quick visit tothe War Memorialpool at Ridgeview Park. For just $5 for ages 16 and up and $3 for kids under 15, the pool is open everyday during the summer. Bring a picnic lunch or head over to Kline’s Dairy Barto cool off.

Day 1: Swimming and Playground Fun
Take a trip to Ridgeview Park and let out some energy on the playground which offers two sets of age-appropriate equipment as well as plenty of benches for caregivers to sit and watch. Playgrounds aren’t enough? Check out the baseball, soccer fields, and tennis courts for sporty fun at any age. Also found in Ridgeview Park, the 50-meter War Memorial Pool and adjoining baby pool is the perfect place to cool off. All that playing probably worked up an appetite: Why not stop at the Broad Street Grillfor a juicy burger and some fries?

Day 2: Pizza and Thrills
Spend your afternoon at Fastrax, Waynesboro’s fun outdoor go-cart track. In addition to two different go-cart tracks, the facility offers mini-golf, arcade games, and a batting cage. Grab a bite afterwards at Benny Stivale’s, where their famous 28-inch pizza is sure to amaze! Later, catch a movie at Waynesboro’s top-notch Zeus Digital Theater featuring 8 screens, comfy seating, and Dolby Surround Sound.

Day 3: River and Ridgeview
Waynesboro’s Water Trail offers families a four-mile stretch of easy water in which to paddle. Put-in your canoe or kayak at Ridgeview Park and paddle the scenic stretch of the South River through Waynesboro to the convenient take-out at Basic Park. When you’ve completed your river activity, return to Ridgeview Park for a sunset picnic on the steep hill overlooking the park. Kids will enjoy rolling down the grassy banks or meandering through the Serenity Garden.

Day 4: Hole in One
Summer wouldn’t be summer without a family game of mini-golf. Waynesboro Golf & Games offers an 18-hole mini-golf course—complete with kid-pleasing obstacles and water features. During the summer, Saturday nights are also Night Golf on the par-3 course, where balls and glow sticks light up the night. After the scorecards are tallied, treat the winner to dinner at nearby 3rd Generations Grill, where kids’ specials please younger guests, while hearty sandwiches and local brews please the older crowd. If you’ve still got room after dinner, enjoy ice cream at Willy’s, a favorite summertime hangout in the pub’s parking lot.

Waynesboro is a charming community nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at the intersection of Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Appalachian Trail. Full of arts, history, and outdoor recreation, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy!

Fuel up for your adventure in Waynesboro with fresh-brewed coffee from The French Press, located right in the historic downtown. Next, wander through downtown to find the Shenandoah Valley Art Center, P. Buckley Moss Gallery, and the historic Wayne Theatre, which hosts world-class music and drama performances. Be sure to check out the schedule before your visit to see what will be showing.

Get a feel for the city of yesteryear at the Waynesboro Heritage Museum and the pre-Civil War Plumb House Museum. Sample local food and culture at The Green Leaf Grill, Heritage on Main Street, and Stella, Bella, & Lucy’s. After lunch you’ll want to take in some shopping at the unique stores along Main Street and perhaps stroll along the picturesque paved South River Greenway Trail overlooking the South River. Don’t forget to cap off the day with a delicious frozen treat from Kline’s Dairy Bar. Come discover “where good nature comes naturally!”