Small towns across America are starting to plan for the upcoming holiday season, a time of year filled with twinkling lights, joyous events, and plenty of unique shopping experiences. The season is one filled with wonderment and plenty of magic, and it doesn’t get much better than what you’ll find in downtown Staunton, VA. With twinkling lights lining the streets, festive window displays, and a charming mix of local boutiques and antique shops, downtown Staunton is the perfect destination for anyone looking to soak up the holiday spirit in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley.
Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, exploring the Staunton Antique Center, or simply enjoying the cozy winter atmosphere, downtown Staunton offers an experience that feels warm, inviting, and full of cheer. This vibrant historic district is about so much more than shopping; it’s about delving deep into the region’s history and seeking a genuine sense of community that can only be found in smaller, more authentic places like this.
Staunton is always one of our favorite places to visit in the Shenandoah Valley, but it’s even more worth visiting in the winter. It’s a slower time of year for most, but this season brings a festive Christmas parade, seasonal concerts, and carriage rides through the historic streets. The city’s thriving arts scene also adds an extra layer of magic, with performances at the American Shakespeare Center and holiday exhibits at local galleries. Beyond downtown, explore the scenic North Rockbridge Trail, where small towns, farm markets, and artisan studios offer even more ways to experience local culture.Â
After a full day of shopping and sightseeing, unwind in comfort at Steeles Tavern Manor, a top-rated Bed and Breakfast near Staunton. Located just a short drive from downtown Staunton, our Bed and Breakfast offers elegant guest rooms and private getaway cabins that feel like a true winter retreat. Imagine returning from the festive energy of downtown Staunton to a cozy fire, a glass of wine, and peaceful mountain views. It’s the perfect way to end a day spent exploring Staunton, Virginia. Book your stay today!
The Best of Downtown Staunton This Winter
Downtown Staunton, Virginia, is one of the most charming small cities in the Shenandoah Valley. Founded in the mid-18th century, Staunton has long been a hub for art, culture, and commerce. Today, its beautifully preserved architecture and vibrant downtown make it a favorite destination for visitors from across Virginia.
The city’s compact, walkable layout invites exploration, with brick-lined streets leading to boutique stores, galleries, cafés, and historic landmarks. Whether you’re hunting for antiques, locally made gifts, or a one-of-a-kind piece of art, Staunton’s blend of old-fashioned charm and modern creativity makes it stand out as one of the best shopping destinations in the region.
Best Shops in Downtown Staunton:
- Staunton is known for incredible antiquing, and one of the best places for that is the Staunton Antique Center & Mall. This multi-level antique mall features a mix of vintage furniture, collectibles, art, and curiosities. It’s a treasure trove for those who enjoy exploring hidden gems and pieces of history. Another nearby antiqueing gem is the Factory Antique Mall, the largest antique mall in the country.Â
- Made; By the People, For the People is one of our favorite local boutiques in downtown Staunton. This shop features handmade goods from regional artisans, offering a diverse range of items, including jewelry, pottery, home décor, and stationery. It’s the perfect spot for thoughtful holiday gifts.
- If you have a food or wellness lover in your life, head to Cranberry’s Grocery & Eatery. Part health market, part local café, this Staunton staple sells organic foods, specialty items, and gifts that celebrate Shenandoah Valley producers.
- Latitudes Fair Trade Store is one of the best shops in downtown Staunton. It’s a shop that makes gift giving feel good, as it features ethically sourced goods from around the world, including textiles, jewelry, and art pieces.
- One of our favorite shops in downtown Staunton for unique, handmade gifts is Sunspots Studios. This working glassblowing studio is more than a shop; it lets visitors watch glass artists at work before browsing their collection of colorful, handcrafted glass art.
- The Sparrow’s Nest is a cozy home décor and lifestyle boutique filled with seasonal gifts, kitchenware, candles, and locally inspired pieces that reflect the charm of Staunton, Virginia.
- Bonfire Begonia is the go-to spot for lovers of vintage fashion and retro finds. This shop offers a curated collection of clothing, accessories, and timeless styles.
- Don’t forget about the Downtown Staunton Farmers Market. It’s open on select weekends through December and features local food, handmade crafts, and fresh holiday greenery during the winter months.
Where to Spend Your Holiday Getaways in Virginia
Holiday shopping in downtown Staunton is terrific, but it gets even better when you add one of the city’s festive winter events and cozy seasonal atmosphere. As you wander from one shop to the next, you’ll hear carolers singing on the sidewalks, see storefronts glowing with lights, and feel that unmistakable holiday energy that makes Staunton, Virginia, so inviting this time of year. The city’s calendar is filled with celebrations, and evenings bring elevated meals at award-winning restaurants in Staunton. It’s the kind of town that makes you slow down and truly enjoy the magic of winter in the Shenandoah Valley.
But why limit yourself to downtown Staunton, when you can add on an unforgettable stay at our luxury Bed and Breakfast near Staunton? We’re just a short drive away, but our elegant retreat offers a blend of warmth and sophistication you won’t find anywhere else. It doesn’t matter whether you choose one of our spacious Bed and Breakfast rooms or one of the private getaway cabins with a hot tub and fireplace, either. Both offer the kind of getaway that feels perfectly suited to the season.Â
With the charm of downtown Staunton and the elevated comfort of our Bed and Breakfast near Staunton, it’s easy to see how holiday getaways in Virginia can turn into pure magic. We offer a thoughtful, relaxing way to celebrate winter in Virginia, where small-town spirit, local craftsmanship, and genuine hospitality come together to make the season truly special. Book your winter getaways in the Shenandoah Valley today.Â