Looking for cheap Flights to Staunton, Shenandoah, Virginia, USA (SHD) airport?

Staunton, accessible via affordable flights to Staunton at SHD airport (Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport), is a historic gem in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, celebrated for its impeccably preserved Victorian architecture, the unique American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, and its scenic mountain surroundings. This charming city blends historical elegance, vibrant performing arts, and natural beauty, making it an essential destination for travelers seeking cultural depth and picturesque landscapes.

The Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s only re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theater, offers an unparalleled theatrical experience with period-style performances, audience interaction, and natural lighting. Staunton’s Historic Downtown, with six designated historic districts, showcases stunning Victorian and Edwardian architecture along Beverley Street, creating a time-capsule ambiance for strolls and photography. The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, located at the birthplace of Virginia’s only U.S. President, provides insight into his life and legacy. The Frontier Culture Museum, an outdoor living history museum, brings to life the stories of early American immigrants through authentic buildings and interpreters. Savor Southern comfort food, farm-to-table cuisine, and fine dining in historic settings. With cheapest flights available to Staunton, this city invites exploration of its theatrical heritage, architectural splendor, and Shenandoah Valley charm.

Why Visit Staunton, Virginia

Staunton captivates with its unique Blackfriars Playhouse, beautifully preserved Victorian downtown, and access to the Shenandoah Valley’s natural beauty. Theater enthusiasts will love the Shakespearean performances, while history buffs enjoy the Woodrow Wilson Museum and Frontier Culture Museum. Outdoor lovers can explore nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, and foodies savor Southern and farm-fresh cuisine. With discount airfare to Staunton, it’s an affordable destination for solo travelers, families, and couples. Annual festivals and historic charm make Staunton a must-visit for cultural and scenic immersion.

Quick Facts & Highlights

• Population: Approximately 25,900 (2023 estimate)
• Founded: 1732
• Area: 20.0 square miles
• Key Highlight: Blackfriars Playhouse, a unique Shakespearean theater
• Notable Event: Staunton Music Festival, annual August event
• Fun Fact: Staunton is home to Virginia’s only presidential birthplace
• Local Treat: Virginia ham biscuits
• Landmark: Historic Downtown Staunton

Geographic Location & Climate

Staunton is located in Augusta County, western Virginia, 40 miles north of Lexington and 25 miles south of Harrisonburg, at 1,400 feet elevation in the Shenandoah Valley. The climate is humid subtropical, with warm summers (average high 86°F) and mild winters (average high 44°F). Annual rainfall is 40 inches, with occasional snow (~15 inches). Spring and fall (50-70°F) are ideal for outdoor activities, summer suits festivals, and winter offers mild hiking and theater visits.

Vital Statistics & Demographics In Staunton, Virginia

Total Population

Staunton’s population is 25,900 (2023), with a 0.6% growth from 2022, driven by tourism and education.

Age Distribution

Median age is 40.8 years; 18.7% under 18, 8.2% 18-24, 26.5% 25-44, 27.3% 45-64, 19.3% 65+.

Ethnic & Racial Composition

White 82.4%, Black 10.2%, Hispanic 3.5%, Asian 1.8%, Two or More Races 2.1%.

Gender Breakdown

Males 48.6%, females 51.4%.

Household Types & Sizes

Average household size 2.3; family households 59.2%, non-family 40.8%; 24.8% with children.

Population Growth Trends

Growth of 3.1% since 2020, projected to reach 27,000 by 2028, fueled by tourism and cultural attractions.

Economy & Living Standards In Staunton, Virginia

Major Industries & Employers

Tourism, education, and healthcare dominate; top employers:

• Mary Baldwin University, 318 Prospect St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Western State Hospital, 1301 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• City of Staunton, 116 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton City Schools, 116 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• American Shakespeare Center, 20 S New St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Augusta Health, 78 Medical Center Dr, Fishersville, VA 22939
• Blue Ridge Community College, 1 College Ln, Weyers Cave, VA 24486
• McKee Foods, 272 Patton Farm Rd, Stuarts Draft, VA 24477
• Walmart Supercenter, 1028 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Target, 1990 Frontier Dr, Staunton, VA 24401

Employment Rate & Job Market

Unemployment rate is 3.4%; jobs focus on tourism (20%), healthcare, and education, with seasonal arts-related boosts.

Median Income & Cost of Living

Median household income is $54,800; cost of living 92.7% of U.S. average; median home value $245,300.

Poverty Rate & Economic Challenges

Poverty rate is 10.8%; challenges include seasonal job fluctuations and housing affordability.

Business Environment & Investment Opportunities

Staunton’s tourism and arts scene attract hospitality and retail ventures. Virginia’s tax incentives and historic preservation grants support growth.

Health & Wellness In Staunton, Virginia

General Health Overview

Health metrics are solid; life expectancy is 79.1 years, supported by nearby Augusta Health.

Common Health Issues

Obesity (28%), heart disease, and allergies; addressed by community wellness and outdoor programs.

Fitness Centers & Wellness Studios

• Anytime Fitness, 90 Lee Jackson Hwy, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton-Augusta YMCA, 708 N Coalter St, Staunton, VA 24401
• CrossFit Staunton, 1235 N Augusta St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Yoga Haven, 10 E Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Fitness Factory, 1560 Commerce Rd, Staunton, VA 24401

Mental Health Resources

• Western State Hospital, 1301 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Valley Community Services, 85 Sangers Ln, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton Counseling, 1046 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Augusta Psychological Associates, 1027 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Mental Health America Augusta, 25 N Central Ave, Staunton, VA 24401

Public Health Initiatives

Augusta County Health Department runs vaccination clinics, obesity prevention, and mental health outreach; YMCA promotes active living.

Hospitals & Clinics In Staunton, Virginia

Hospitals & Emergency Services

• Augusta Health, 78 Medical Center Dr, Fishersville, VA 22939

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

• MedExpress Urgent Care, 1209 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Augusta Health Urgent Care, 851 Statler Blvd, Staunton, VA 24401
• Valley Health Clinic, 41 N Augusta St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton Medical Associates, 1414 N Augusta St, Staunton, VA 24401

Specialty Medical Centers

• Augusta Health Heart Center, 78 Medical Center Dr, Fishersville, VA 22939
• Shenandoah Valley Orthopedics, 70 Medical Center Dr, Fishersville, VA 22939
• Blue Ridge Eye Associates, 17 N Medical Park Dr, Fishersville, VA 22939
• Augusta Cancer Center, 78 Medical Center Dr, Fishersville, VA 22939

Telehealth & Remote Care Options

Augusta Health offers telehealth app; Valley Community Services provides telepsychiatry; most clinics support virtual visits.

Veterinary Services & Pet Care In Staunton, Virginia

Animal Hospitals & Emergency Vets

• Staunton Veterinary Clinic, 1033 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Augusta Valley Animal Hospital, 110 Betsy Bell Rd, Staunton, VA 24401

Pet Clinics & Routine Care

• Shenandoah Valley Pet Care, 1501 N Augusta St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Petco Veterinary Services, 831 Town Center Dr, Waynesboro, VA 22980
• Valley Veterinary Hospital, 1201 Greenville Ave, Staunton, VA 24401

Grooming & Boarding Facilities

• Paws & Whiskers, 1012 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton Pet Lodge, 2207 N Augusta St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Happy Tails Grooming, 1234 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails

• Gypsy Hill Park, 600 Churchville Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Betsy Bell Wilderness Park, 900 Betsy Bell Rd, Staunton, VA 24401
• Montgomery Hall Park, 1000 Montgomery Ave, Staunton, VA 24401

Local Government & Public Services In Staunton, Virginia

City Hall and Administrative Offices

• Staunton City Hall, 116 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

County Government Services

• Augusta County Courthouse, 1 E Johnson St, Staunton, VA 24401

Public Records and Licensing

• Augusta County Clerk, 1 E Johnson St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton City Clerk, 116 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

Planning and Zoning Departments

• Staunton Planning Department, 116 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Augusta County Planning, 18 Government Center Ln, Verona, VA 24482

Tax and Revenue Offices

• Augusta County Tax Office, 18 Government Center Ln, Verona, VA 24482
• Staunton Treasurer, 116 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

Police, Fire, and Emergency Services

• Staunton Police Department, 113 E Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton Fire Department, 500 N Augusta St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Augusta County Sheriff, 127 Lee Hwy, Verona, VA 24482

Courts and Legal Aid

• Augusta County Circuit Court, 1 E Johnson St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton General District Court, 113 E Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Blue Ridge Legal Services, 107 E Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

Public Works and Utilities

• Staunton Public Works, 116 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Augusta County Service Authority, 18 Government Center Ln, Verona, VA 24482

Voter Registration and Civic Engagement

• Augusta County Elections Office, 18 Government Center Ln, Verona, VA 24482
• Staunton Public Library, 1 Churchville Ave, Staunton, VA 24401

Current U.S. Senators & U.S. House Representatives

Senators: Mark Warner (D), Tim Kaine (D) House Representative (VA-6 District): Ben Cline (R)

Education & Libraries In Staunton, Virginia

Public School Districts

Served by Staunton City Schools.

Public School Names and Full Addresses

• A.R. Ware Elementary, 330 Grubert Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Bessie Weller Elementary, 600 Greenville Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Shelburne Middle School, 300 Grubert Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton High School, 1200 N Coalter St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Genesis Alternative School, 1301 N Coalter St, Staunton, VA 24401

Charter and Private Schools

• Stuart Hall School, 235 W Frederick St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Grace Christian School, 2731 Old Greenville Rd, Staunton, VA 24401

Colleges and Universities

• Mary Baldwin University, 318 Prospect St, Staunton, VA 24401; Majors: Liberal Arts, Health Sciences, Business
• Blue Ridge Community College, 1 College Ln, Weyers Cave, VA 24486; Majors: Technical, Nursing, Arts

Public Libraries and Learning Centers

• Staunton Public Library, 1 Churchville Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Mary Baldwin University Library, 318 Prospect St, Staunton, VA 24401

Flights & Travel Logistics In Staunton, Virginia

Best Time to Book Flights

Book 30-60 days ahead for low-cost flights to Staunton; January and November offer the best flight deals; avoid Staunton Music Festival and fall foliage peak.

Airlines That Serve Staunton, Virginia

SHD served by United Express; larger airports like CHO (45 min) or RIC (2 hours) offer Delta, American, United.

Nearby Airports and Alternatives

SHD is primary; alternatives: CHO (Charlottesville, 45 min), RIC (Richmond, 2 hours). Drive via I-81; no direct Amtrak; Greyhound to Staunton.

Transportation After Arrival

Car rentals at SHD (limited, Enterprise); taxis ($15-20 downtown); Uber/Lyft ($10-15); no public transit.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Pack for variable weather; book Blackfriars tickets early; try Virginia ham biscuits; explore downtown on foot; rent a car for mobility. Secure cheap round-trip flights to Staunton for savings.

Ready to explore Staunton? Book inexpensive flights to Staunton, Shenandoah, Virginia, USA (SHD) airport and save up to $148 with early booking. Keep in mind that the nearest airport to Staunton, Shenandoah, Virginia, USA (SHD) may offer low-fare flights and alternate date options depending on departure city and season.

Where to Stay In Staunton, Virginia

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

• Quality Inn, 200 Frontier Dr, Staunton, VA 24401
• Days Inn by Wyndham, 372 White Hill Rd, Staunton, VA 24401
• Econo Lodge, 1031 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401

Boutique Hotels and Inns

• Frederick House, 28 N New St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Berkeley House Bed & Breakfast, 303 Berkeley Pl, Staunton, VA 24401

Luxury Resorts and Spas

• Stonewall Jackson Hotel, 24 S Market St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Hampton Inn Staunton, 40 Payne Ln, Staunton, VA 24401

Family-Friendly Lodging

• Holiday Inn Express, 268 N Central Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Best Western Staunton, 92 Rowe Rd, Staunton, VA 24401
• Comfort Inn, 1302 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401

Vacation Rentals and Extended Stays

• Airbnb Downtown Homes, Various, e.g., 10 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• VRBO Valley Cabins, Near I-81, Staunton, VA 24401
• Avid Hotel, 62 Sangers Ln, Staunton, VA 24401

Getting Around In Staunton, Virginia

Public Transportation Overview

Limited public transit; Staunton Trolley offers downtown routes ($0.25/trip).

Car Rentals and Ride Shares

Rentals at SHD (Avis, limited); Uber/Lyft $8-12 for local trips; taxis $10-15.

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Areas

Downtown scores 85/100 walkability; Gypsy Hill Park and Beverley Street bike-friendly.

Parking Tips and Local Driving Rules

Free downtown parking evenings/weekends; 25 mph in city; use parking garages for events.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities In Staunton, Virginia

National Parks and Scenic Areas

Shenandoah National Park (45 min); Blue Ridge Parkway (30 min).

Hiking, Biking, and Nature Trails

• Betsy Bell Wilderness Park, 900 Betsy Bell Rd, Staunton, VA 24401
• Montgomery Hall Park, 1000 Montgomery Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Blue Ridge Parkway Trails, Milepost 0, Afton, VA 22920

Wildlife Viewing

Deer, foxes, hawks, and trout in Shenandoah Valley parks and rivers.

Lakes, Rivers, and Water Activities

• South River, fishing, Staunton, VA 24401
• Lake Tams, kayaking, 1100 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401

Camping and RV Parks

• Shenandoah Valley Campground, 2966 Lee Hwy, Verona, VA 24482
• Walnut Hills Campground, 484 Walnut Hills Rd, Staunton, VA 24401

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures

Spring hiking, summer kayaking, fall foliage tours, winter skiing at nearby resorts.

History & Heritage In Staunton, Virginia

Founding and Historical Background

Founded 1732; grew as a trade and rail hub in the 19th century.

Major Disasters and Events

Happy: Blackfriars Playhouse opening (2001). Sad: 1967 downtown fire; 2012 Hurricane Sandy flooding.

Recovery Efforts for Recent Disaster

Post-2012 Hurricane Sandy: FEMA aid, downtown restoration, flood mitigation.

Historical Landmarks

• Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, 20 N Coalter St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Trinity Episcopal Church, 214 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton Historic District, Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

Museums and Cultural Centers

• Frontier Culture Museum, 1290 Richmond Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
• Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, 20 N Coalter St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Camera Heritage Museum, 1 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

Local Folklore and Legends

Shenandoah Valley ghost stories; Woodrow Wilson birthplace tales; Civil War legends.

Indigenous and Pioneer History

Monacan lands pre-1700s; settlers arrived 1730s; rail and agriculture shaped growth.

Prominent Public and Private Personalities In Staunton, Virginia

• Woodrow Wilson: 28th U.S. President, born in Staunton.
• Mary Baldwin: Founder of Mary Baldwin University.
• Jim Gilmore: Former Virginia governor, Staunton resident.

Arts & Culture In Staunton, Virginia

Performing Arts Venues

• Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S Market St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Mockingbird Music Venue, 123 W Frederick St, Staunton, VA 24401

Art Galleries and Exhibitions

• Co-Art Gallery, 22 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton Augusta Art Center, 20 S New St, Staunton, VA 24401

Local Artists and Artisans

Painters, potters, and musicians at Staunton Music Festival and Art in the Park.

Cultural Festivals and Events

• Staunton Music Festival, Various venues, Staunton, VA 24401
• Art in the Park, Gypsy Hill Park, Staunton, VA 24401

Music Scene and Live Performances

• Red Wing Roots Music Festival, 94 Natural Chimneys Ln, Mt Solon, VA 22843
• Pompey’s Grill, 24 S Market St, Staunton, VA 24401

Food & Drink In Staunton, Virginia

Restaurants by Cuisine

• Southern - Zynodoa, 115 E Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401; Specialty: Farm-to-table Southern dishes
• American - The Shack, 105 S Coalter St, Staunton, VA 24401; Specialty: Seasonal tasting menu
• Italian - Aioli, 29 N Augusta St, Staunton, VA 24401; Specialty: Mediterranean-inspired pasta
• Asian - Chicano Boy Taco, 240 N Central Ave, Staunton, VA 24401; Specialty: Mexican fusion
• Pub - Byers Street Bistro, 18 Byers St, Staunton, VA 24401; Specialty: Craft beer and pub fare

Farm-to-Table and Local Ingredients

Zynodoa uses local produce; Staunton Farmers Market sources ham, cheese.

Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

• Redbeard Brewing Company, 20 S New St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Ox-Eye Vineyards, 44 Middlebrook Ave, Staunton, VA 24401

Street Food and Casual Dining

• Staunton Farmers Market, 10 Byers St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Clocktower Eats & Sweets, 27 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dietary Options

Zynodoa offers vegetarian dishes; Aioli has vegan options; most eateries provide gluten-free choices.

Shopping & Leisure In Staunton, Virginia

Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops

• Staunton Farmers Market, 10 Byers St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Beverley Street Shops, 10 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

Malls and Shopping Districts

• Staunton Mall, 90 Lee Jackson Hwy, Staunton, VA 24401
• Downtown Staunton, Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

Antique Stores and Markets

• Seventeen Antiques, 17 E Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton Antiques Center, 19 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

Souvenirs and Specialty Goods

• Woodrow Wilson Museum Gift Shop, 20 N Coalter St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Blackfriars Playhouse Shop, 10 S Market St, Staunton, VA 24401

Events & Entertainment In Staunton, Virginia

Annual Festivals and Parades

• Staunton Music Festival, Various venues, Staunton, VA 24401
• Queen City Christmas Parade, Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401

Farmers Markets and Local Gatherings

• Staunton Farmers Market, 10 Byers St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Art in the Park, Gypsy Hill Park, Staunton, VA 24401

Sports Events and Recreational Leagues

• Staunton Recreation Programs, 116 W Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Gypsy Hill Park Sports, 600 Churchville Ave, Staunton, VA 24401

Holiday Celebrations and Seasonal Fun

• Staunton Winter Glow, Beverley St, Staunton, VA 24401
• Staunton Halloween Harvest, Gypsy Hill Park, Staunton, VA 24401

Nearby Destinations In Staunton, Virginia

Popular Day Trips

• Harrisonburg, VA (25 min): James Madison University and museums
• Charlottesville, VA (45 min): Monticello and wineries

Hidden Gems in the Region

• Natural Bridge, 6477 S Lee Hwy, Natural Bridge, VA 24578
• Crabtree Falls, 11581 Crabtree Falls Hwy, Montebello, VA 24464

Scenic Drives and Routes

• Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 0, Afton, VA 22920
• Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park, VA 22610

Regional Attractions Worth Visiting

• Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Dr, Luray, VA 22835
• Monticello, 931 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy, Charlottesville, VA 22902

Audience-Specific Guides In Staunton, Virginia

Family Travel Tips

Visit Frontier Culture Museum, explore Gypsy Hill Park, stay at family-friendly hotels, attend Staunton Music Festival with budget airline tickets to Staunton.

Solo Traveler Highlights

Enjoy Blackfriars Playhouse, dine at Zynodoa, hike Betsy Bell Park, join Art in the Park with cheap one-way flights to Staunton.

Romantic Getaways

Dine at The Shack, stay at Stonewall Jackson Hotel, tour Woodrow Wilson Museum, visit Blue Ridge Parkway with low-budget flights to Staunton.

Business Travel Essentials

Near SHD airport, meeting spaces at Stonewall Jackson Hotel, quick dining, Wi-Fi at Holiday Inn with economical flights to Staunton.

Accessible Travel Resources

ADA-compliant museums, wheelchair rentals at Augusta Health, accessible trolley, VA Relay services.

Natural Resources

Timber, limestone, trout, deer, apples.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on October 1, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.