Calling all fans of Shakespeare, a visit to the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, VA belongs high on your list of things to do in Staunton VA. This remarkable venue is home to the Blackfriars Playhouse, a careful reconstruction of Shakespeare’s original indoor theatre from the 17th century. Inside this intimate and beautifully designed space, some of Shakespeare’s most famous works come to life as audiences experienced them centuries ago. For anyone interested in Staunton Shakespeare performances or the performing arts scene in the Shenandoah Valley, the American Shakespeare Center offers an experience that’s both historic and refreshingly alive.
Staunton, Virginia is one of the most interesting destinations in the Shenandoah Valley. Visitors quickly discover many of the best things to do in Staunton VA are centered around its lively downtown, where locally owned restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops line the beautifully preserved historic streets. The city is known for its vibrant cultural scene, highlighted by performances at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse and a year-round calendar of Staunton events celebrating music, theatre, and local creativity. Whether you are visiting for the theatre or just planning romantic getaways in Virginia, Staunton offers plenty of reasons to stay a little longer.
After an evening at the American Shakespeare Center, the experience becomes even more memorable when paired with a relaxing stay at Steeles Tavern Manor. Located a short drive from Staunton, our romantic cabins in Virginia offer couples a private retreat that perfectly complements a night of theatre at the Blackfriars Playhouse. Cozy interiors, peaceful mountain surroundings, and outdoor hot tubs create the ideal setting to unwind together after a performance. Whether you spend the evening discussing your favorite moments from the show or simply enjoy quiet time under the stars, our property offers a refined, comfortable escape. For couples planning romantic getaways in Virginia, combining a visit to Staunton Shakespeare performances with a stay at our cabins creates a memorable getaway in the Shenandoah Valley. Book your stay today!
Tickets to the American Shakespeare Center
The American Shakespeare Center is home to the Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s only re-created version of Shakespeare’s original indoor theatre, and it remains one of Virginia’s most distinctive performing arts venues. The Blackfriars Theatre opened its doors in 2001 and has welcomed audiences ever since with an energetic repertory style performance. The company hosts up to 14 productions each year and has presented more than 6,500 performances on its intimate stage. The original Blackfriars Playhouse was housed in a 13th-century monastery, where Shakespeare’s company began performing in 1608 before the theatre was eventually lost in the Great Fire of London in 1666. Today, Staunton’s recreation brings that remarkable history back to life for modern audiences.
The Blackfriars Playhouse at the American Shakespeare Center operates year-round and features five performance seasons. Several acting companies rotate through the seasons, with actors performing in repertory and often playing multiple roles across productions. This lively format keeps each performance engaging, whether you are attending your first Staunton Shakespeare show or returning for another visit.
The remainder of the 2026 season at the American Shakespeare Center includes Twelfth Night or What You Will, As You Like It, along with non-Shakespeare productions The Hound of the Baskervilles, Bold Stroke for a Husband by Hannah Crowley, and Our Town by Thornton Wilder. If your schedule doesn’t allow for a full performance, guided tours of the American Shakespeare Center are available. Playhouse tours cost $10 and take place on Wednesdays through Fridays at 2 pm and on Saturdays at 10 am, offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the historic Blackfriars Theatre.
Stay at Our Romantic Cabins in Virginia
An evening at the American Shakespeare Center is the perfect reason to plan a memorable getaway with someone special. After enjoying one of the most popular Staunton events, return to our romantic cabins in Virginia, just a short drive from downtown Staunton and Lexington. Our property is convenient to exceptional local restaurants, breweries, shops, and many other attractions that make the Shenandoah Valley such a great romantic getaway.
When the show is over, you’ll no doubt be ready to put your feet up, relax, and unwind. Why not do so in luxury at our Shenandoah Valley Bed and Breakfast? Our romantic cabins are the perfect place to escape from the craziness of everyday life and enjoy a bit of privacy, while our guest rooms in the Manor House offer you the opportunity to be pampered and well taken care of.
Each stay in the Manor House guest rooms includes a delicious breakfast made fresh for you daily and all the modern amenities you crave. The Inn has been tastefully decorated in a refined casual style, and we’re confident you’ll feel right at home as soon as you walk through the front door. Located right in the middle of the Shenandoah Valley, Steeles Tavern Manor is an exceptional place to get away. Book your room today!
