We’ll be the first to tell you there’s no shortage of things to do in the Shenandoah Valley. From hiking through Shenandoah National Park and driving the Blue Ridge Parkway to enjoying great food and shopping in the charming towns of Staunton and Lexington, there’s something for everyone here—especially if you’re a fan of theater! A must on your summer bucket list should be getting Blackfriars Playhouse tickets at the American Shakespeare Center, the world’s only recreation of Shakespeare’s original indoor theater.
Whether seeing a faithful Shakespeare production or a clever modern adaptation, the intimate space, brilliant acting, and interactive experience you’ll find at the Shakespeare Center make for a memorable night out. Seating sells quickly—especially during festival weekends or when popular plays hit the stage—so buying Blackfriars Playhouse tickets in advance is highly recommended. Of course, there are far more things to do in Staunton than this.
It’s a walkable, historic town with a great mix of art galleries, boutique shops, and locally owned restaurants. It’s one of the best food destinations in the south, with popular Staunton restaurants like Maude and the Bear treating you to a locavore experience that’s to die for. You can visit the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, explore the Frontier Culture Museum, or simply spend an afternoon sampling local wines and ciders from the surrounding countryside. Downtown Staunton also has a lively calendar of festivals, concerts, and food events throughout the year, making it easy to fill a weekend with good food, culture, and a bit of mountain charm.
After a day of exploring and an evening at the theater, unwind at Steeles Tavern Manor, just a short drive from Staunton. This luxury property offers a top-rated Shenandoah Valley Bed and Breakfast experience along with some of the best private cabins in Virginia—perfect if you want a romantic escape or a more secluded retreat. With scenic views, upscale amenities, and easy access to both Staunton and Lexington, it’s the kind of place you’ll return to again and again. Book your stay today!
Why You Should Buy Blackfriars Playhouse Tickets
There are tons of things to do in Staunton, but some of these attractions fly more under the radar than they should. The Blackfriars Playhouse at the American Shakespeare Center is one of them! This one-of-a-kind theater is a historically accurate re-creation of Shakespeare’s original indoor playhouse, offering an immersive and engaging experience that’s hard to find anywhere else. The Blackfriars Playhouse is so much more than a unique or beautiful space—it’s a living, breathing venue where actors perform under full lighting, interact directly with the audience, and bring centuries-old texts to life in surprisingly modern ways.
The actors who grace the stage at the American Shakespeare Center are masters of their craft, often rotating between roles in multiple productions each season. The stripped-down staging and minimal props allow the language and storytelling to shine, while the energetic, fast-paced direction keeps even the densest Shakespearean dialogue accessible and entertaining. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Bard or just curious about live theater, this place draws you in and makes you feel like part of the story.
Keeping true to its authenticity, the venue is intimate, meaning Blackfriars Playhouse tickets can sell out quickly, especially during festival runs or weekends. There are no bad seats in the theater, but to give you the best chance of grabbing prime seats and having access to the full lineup of offerings, which often include a mix of Shakespeare, contemporary works, and original plays inspired by classic themes, we recommend buying Blackfriar Playhouse Tickets early. The summer season kicks off on May 1 and runs through August 2.
However, you don’t have to watch a performance to experience this stunning theater. If you miss the performance you want or don’t have the time to dedicate an evening to the American Shakespeare Center, you can still enjoy a tour of the Blackfriars Playhouse. The tours last about 45 minutes and include an in-depth look at the theater, its construction, its history, and the professional company that takes the modern-day stage.
The Best Places to Stay Near Staunton, Virginia
If you’re looking for great lodging near the Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, look no further than our Shenandoah Valley Bed and Breakfast and luxury cabins. Steeles Tavern Manor offers a refined lodging experience in the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. The historic Manor House features five thoughtfully designed guest rooms, each blending classic charm with modern amenities like king-size beds, fireplaces, and spa-inspired bathrooms. For those seeking a more secluded retreat, the property also boasts five of the best cabins in Virginia, each equipped with a king-sized bed, private outdoor hot tub, full kitchen, and a cozy living room with a fireplace.
Guests at Steeles Tavern Manor can enjoy a range of amenities designed to enhance their stay. The property features walking trails, a seasonal swimming pool, and a fire pit area for evening relaxation. For those interested in local flavors, our Shenandoah Valley Bed and Breakfast offers packages that include locally sourced breakfast and dinner items for cabin guests and options for romantic enhancements like fresh flowers, charcuterie, and sparkling wine. Manor guests will enjoy a delicious, farm-fresh breakfast each morning of their stay.
We also offer an on-site spa to enhance your getaway. Our relaxing spa treatments feature a locally made signature scent, Life in the Valley. We offer various extras that can be added to any treatment, including making your treatment a side-by-side couples massage! Whatever you need during your stay, our attentive staff is here to help. Book your stay with us today!
