Waynesboro

With its unmistakable small town charm and great location, Waynesboro, VA offers a wonderful suburban way of life for those looking to live in the Shenandoah Valley region. Nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just 25 minutes to Charlottesville, VA, this independent city in the Commonwealth of Virginia is home to around 23,000 people who enjoy the city’s perfect marriage of tranquility and vibrancy.

A brief history

Waynesboro was named after General Anthony Wayne, a well-known US Army officer who led and won the Battle of Fallen Timbers in 1794. The area where the city is now located was a stop for covered wagon settlers crossing the Blue Ridge Mountains as they traveled west.

Waynesboro, then known as Waynesborough, was incorporated in 1834. It became the site of the last battle of the Civil War, and suffered considerable damage during and after the war. In 1923, the Waynesboro and the adjoining town of Basic City consolidated into a single town. Annexations expanded the town’s territory, and it was officially named an independent city in 1948.

Awards and recognitions

Described as something “straight out of a fairy tale”, Waynesboro boasts a natural beauty and old school charm that perfectly encapsulates the appeal of Virginia’s historic small towns. And with its great location and vibrant economy, it’s no wonder the city was named one of America’s 50 Best Places to Live by 24/7 Wall Street Journal. Waynesboro was also named one of the 15 Best Towns in Virginia to Raise a Family by Niche.com.

Waynesboro, VA real estate and homes for sale in Waynesboro, VA

Homes in Waynesboro come in a wide range of prices, sizes, and architectural styles. Most boast wonderful views of mountains and open spaces that go on for miles.

You’ll find excellently preserved historic homes built in the 1800s and early 1900s, as well as midcentury ranch homes, and more recently constructed homes in the Colonial style. Found in tranquil tree-lined streets, these homes capture the city’s family-friendly charm and sense of community.

There are plenty of new developments Waynesboro, some featuring townhomes or condos, or a mix of different property types, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condos. These newer communities feature amenities like walking trails, ponds, and neighborhood parks.

Living in Waynesboro, VA

History and culture

Culture buffs have plenty to love about Waynesboro. The city is home to museums and art and craft galleries, and has its own symphony orchestra, chorale, and music academy. There are two community theaters, Waynesboro Players and Wayne Theatre. Downtown Waynesboro features historic buildings and landmarks, cozy coffee shops, charming boutiques, and excellent bars and restaurants.

The Outdoors

Waynesboro is a gateway to the top nature attractions in Shenandoah Valley. The city has excellent access to the Blue Ridge Parkway/Skyline Drive, and is a designated Appalachian Trail Community. There are miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as excellent fishing spots. The city maintains six beautiful parks, with more are being planned. You’ll also find activity centers like the Rosenwald Community Center, the War Memorial Pool, and the Waynesboro Water Trail.

Education

Waynesboro is served by the Waynesboro Public Schools school district that includes several elementary schools and one high school. There are also a number of private schools in the area, as well as specialized education options at Fishburne Military School, Stuart Hall School, and OLLI at the University of Virginia – a UVA campus in Charlottesville that caters to seniors.