Washington, D.C., to Staunton, VA: How to Have the Best Trip Ever

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Are you in dire need of an escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city? If you want to embrace the charm and picturesque scenery of an amazing city, then you need to take a trip from Washington, D.C., to Staunton, VA. The distance between Washington and Staunton is only about 160 miles. We’ve outlined the best travel options for you. Plus, some ideas on how to spend your time once you arrive!

How to Get From Washington, D.C., to Staunton, VA

By Car
The cheapest and most convenient way to travel from Washington, D.C., to Staunton is driving on the open road. The drive only takes about two and a half hours and will get you to The Blackburn Inn & Conference Center in no time. You’ll follow I-66 W and I-81 to US-250 W/Richmond Avenue in Virginia. Then, take Exit 222 from I-81 S and follow US-250 W/Richard Avenue to The Blackburn Inn & Conference Center.

Explore Along the Way
Hours of operations for suggested itinerary stops below may vary. Please contact the venue(s) of interest directly in advance of your travel plans.

There’s an array of fascinating pitstops to make along your drive. Some of our favorites include:

  • Route 11 Potato Chip Factory – Make a pit stop at the Route 11 Potato Chip Factory to catch a glimpse of how these yummy snacks are made.
  • Museum of the Shenandoah Valley – This museum in Winchester, VA, is dedicated to preserving and enriching the cultural life and heritage of the Shenandoah Valley. Its fascinating collections feature decorative arts, ceramics, silver, textiles, and more.
  • Factory Antique Mall – Stop at the Factory Antique Mall in Verona, VA, and find a one of a kind treasure. It’s the largest antique mall in America!

By Train
Traveling by train from Washington to Staunton is easily the most relaxing and aesthetically pleasing way to take the trip. You’ll gaze at views of stunning natural beauty, including rolling pastures, Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Shenandoah Valley. Purchase a train ticket from Washington Union Station and head to the Staunton Train Station. The trip will take a little under four hours.

By Bus
Taking a bus from Washington, D.C., to the Blackburn Inn is also affordable and relaxing. We recommend purchasing bus tickets aboard The Virginia Breeze. The Virginia Breeze is an intercity bus service connecting Blacksburg, Virginia, with Union Station in Washington, D.C. The daily route includes several stops throughout the Shenandoah Valley, and the Staunton stop is at Martin’s Foods on Richmond Avenue.

By Air

If you prefer to travel via plane, Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport is conveniently located 23 minutes away from The Blackburn Inn & Conference Center. Purchase your plane ticket to Staunton, hop on a flight at the Dulles International Airport, and you’ll land in Virginia in less than an hour! Once you make your way off the plane, head over to the car rental department and rent a vehicle to help you explore Staunton.

How to Enjoy Your Getaway From Washington, D.C.

Local Wine Tastings
Staunton sits in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, surrounded by agriculturally rich fields, farms, and vineyards. During your visit to this charming city, dive into its culture, and visit a local winery. There are a plethora of wineries in the area, and some of our favorites include Ox-Eye Vineyards and Barren Ridge Vineyards.

Exploring in Shenandoah National Park
Virginia is a magical, outdoor oasis unlike any other. During your stay here, you must visit Shenandoah National Park. There are a plethora of ways to enjoy your day in the park, including driving the iconic Skyline Drive, hiking to unbelievable overlooks, and dining with a view at one of the several impressive dining options in the park. If you ever have to chance to visit Staunton during autumn, a trip to see the remarkable fall foliage at Shenandoah National Park must be on your to-do list.

Go Back in Time at a Museum
Our town boasts a wealth of historically significant things to do and see. The area is pouring with museums, playhouses, art galleries, and unique architecture. Some of our most highly recommended Staunton museums and historical attractions include the American Shakespeare Center and the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum.

Stay in the Heart of Staunton at The Blackburn Inn & Conference Center
As you embark on your getaway from Washington, D.C., to Staunton, VA, experience a beautiful, relaxing slice of paradise at our boutique hotel, The Blackburn Inn & Conference Center. Our hotel’s conveniently central location offers you easy access to the best things to do in Staunton.

The Blackburn Inn & Conference Center features 49 beautifully designed accommodations, merging modern and historic expressions with elegant touches noted throughout the design, such as barn-style doors in oversized bathrooms and intricate architectural features. Our Deluxe Queen Rooms feature a plush queen bed, lounge seats, a writing desk, and a hospitality center with a mini-fridge. Please take a look at our availability and find the room that perfectly suits your needs. We can’t wait to have you!