Staunton, VA
Staunton, VA is best known for its beautiful Main Street, where excellently-preserved buildings from the 1800s line both sides. This culturally rich independent city of the Commonwealth of Virginia is home to about 25,000, and is popularly known as the “Queen City” of the Shenandoah Valley.
A brief history
Staunton was first settled in 1732, and served as the capital of the Northwest Territory from 1738 to 1770. It formally incorporated as a town in 1801. With the construction of the Virginia Central Railroad in 1854, the town saw rapid growth as a bustling transportation hub.
Staunton was the birthplace of Woodrow Wilson, the 28th president of the United States. It is credited for introducing the city manager form of government, which it adopted in 1908.
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Awards and recognitions
Staunton’s timeless small town charm, combined with its rich culture and excellent healthcare and education services, has made it one of the most outstanding small communities in the US. The city has won numerous recognitions from various bodies, including:
- One of the 20 Best Small Towns in America by Smithsonian Magazine
- One of the Great Small Towns in DC by the Washingtonian
- One of America’s Greatest Main Streets by Travel and Leisure Magazine
- Great American Main Street Award by the National Trust for Historic Preservation
- Several Virginia Main Street Awards for its downtown development
Staunton, VA real estate and homes for sale in Staunton, VA
Staunton’s neighborhoods are a mix of historic and contemporary communities. The city has six historic districts, including Beverly District, the city’s acclaimed downtown. Most of the oldest homes are found in these districts, in varying architectural styles that reflect the trends in various eras.
In addition to single-family homes, Staunton’s most established neighborhoods also include apartments and condos, some of which were converted from original commercial buildings and warehouses.
Newer developments in the city include mid-20th century neighborhoods and contemporary ones created in the last few years. Homes in these communities include single-family properties, townhomes, and condos. Popular architectural styles include Cape Cod, ranch, and cottage. These properties also come in a wide range of sizes and prices to accommodate the preferences of different homebuyers.
Living in Staunton, VA
- History and culture
Staunton’s cultural attractions and events are comparable to those in large metros. Walking up and down Downtown Staunton is a cultural treat in itself. The city’s Shakespeare weekends brought by the American Shakespeare Center is one of the highlights in the city.
Staunton is also home to a number of art galleries and craft stores, as well as various historic attractions and museums, including the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind, and the Frontier Culture Museum.
- The outdoors
Nestled between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, Staunton offers numerous outdoor recreation options, including hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding.
If you’re up for a hike, the Wilderness Road, Virginia’s Heritage Migration Route, is a must-do. Retrace the paths taken by the country’s pioneers and see amazing historical sites along the way. Other great places for an outdoor and history adventure include Betsy Bell & Mary Gray Wilderness Parks, Confederate Breastworks Interpretive Site, and the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.
- Education
Staunton is home to the prestigious and historic Mary Baldwin University. Elementary and high school students in the city attend the Staunton City Schools school district. The historic Virginia School for the Deaf & Blind is recognized nationwide for its specialized education. The city also hosts several private schools overseen by the Virginia Council for Private Education
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Buying or selling a home in Staunton, VA?
We at Valley Realty Associates are the local experts to call. Contact us at 540.236.5800 or send us a message at ValleyRealtyAssociates(at)gmail(dotted)com.