Waynesboro

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Waynesboro's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Waynesboro's Historic Center. Stop by the Waynesboro Heritage Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Enjoy a cup of coffee at a local café while soaking in the quaint atmosphere.

afternoon
:

After lunch, embark on a guided walking tour to explore the unique architecture and historical landmarks in the area. Visit the local shops and galleries, where you can find handmade crafts and art from local artists. Take a moment to relax in the nearby parks, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a nearby restaurant for a delightful dinner featuring Southern cuisine. Afterward, catch a live performance at the Wayne Theatre, where local talent showcases their skills. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets, reflecting on the day's discoveries.

day 2
Nature Walks in the Shenandoah Valley
morning
:

Start your day with an invigorating hike in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, just a short drive from Waynesboro. With trails suitable for all skill levels, choose a path that offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you connect with nature.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks during your hike. After your meal, continue your exploration by visiting local wineries or breweries, sampling their finest offerings. Take advantage of the picturesque landscape for some memorable photos.

evening
:

Return to Waynesboro and unwind with a casual dinner at a local pub, where you can savor regional craft beers. Engage with friendly locals and share stories of your adventures. End your evening with a stroll along the riverfront, listening to the soothing sounds of nature.

day 3
Cultural Day at the Art Galleries
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Shenandoah Valley Art Center, where you can immerse yourself in local art exhibitions. Participate in a morning workshop if available, allowing your creative juices to flow. Grab brunch at a nearby café that serves locally sourced ingredients.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon visiting additional art galleries around Waynesboro, discovering both contemporary and traditional pieces. Engage with artists during open studio sessions, gaining insights into their creative process. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Arts District, appreciating the vibrant murals and installations.

evening
:

For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a restaurant known for its artistic flair in both food presentation and taste. Afterward, attend a local art event or gallery opening, mingling with fellow art enthusiasts. Reflect on your artistic journey as you relax at a cozy coffee shop.

day 4
Outdoor Adventures at Lake Arrowhead
morning
:

Kick off your day with a visit to Lake Arrowhead, where you can rent a kayak or canoe to explore the serene waters. Enjoy the tranquility of the lake surrounded by lush forests and wildlife. Take a scenic walk along the shoreline, appreciating the beauty of nature.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the designated areas by the lake. Afterward, engage in some fishing or swimming, taking advantage of the lake's recreational offerings. Spend time relaxing on the beach or hiking the nearby trails for a change of scenery.

evening
:

As the day winds down, head back to Waynesboro for dinner at a lakeside restaurant, taking in the sunset views. Share stories of your day’s adventures with fellow travelers. End your evening with a stargazing session, marveling at the clear night sky.

day 5
Family Fun at the Local Parks
morning
:

Start your day at the Ridgeview Park, where kids can enjoy the playground while adults take a brisk walk around the scenic trails. Participate in a family-friendly activity, such as a nature scavenger hunt, to engage everyone in exploring the park. Enjoy a picnic breakfast under the shade of the trees.

afternoon
:

After a morning of fun, head over to the nearby Splash Park for some water play and cooling down in the summer heat. Join in on games like frisbee or soccer on the open fields, making sure everyone stays active and entertained. Treat the family to lunch at a local diner, known for its kid-friendly menu.

evening
:

As the sun sets, gather for a family dinner at a restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere and diverse menu options. Share your favorite moments of the day and plan for future family outings. Wrap up the evening with a movie night back at your accommodation, enjoying some popcorn and relaxation.

day 6
Exploring the History of the Civil War
morning
:

Begin your historical exploration at the Waynesboro Civil War Museum, where you can learn about the pivotal battles that took place in the area. Take a guided tour to understand the significance of Waynesboro during the Civil War. Browse through artifacts and exhibits that bring history to life.

afternoon
:

After a thorough exploration of the museum, visit the local battlefield sites to walk the grounds where history was made. Engage with historical reenactors if available, gaining insights into the daily lives of soldiers. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, perhaps sampling a dish that reflects the era.

evening
:

Finish your day with a themed dinner at a restaurant that celebrates Southern heritage and cuisine. Attend a local lecture or presentation about the Civil War, allowing for deeper understanding and discussion. Reflect on the emotional weight of history as you return to your accommodations.

day 7
Wine Tasting in the Valley
morning
:

Kick off your wine-tasting adventure with a visit to one of the local vineyards, where you can tour the vineyards and learn about the wine-making process. Enjoy a light breakfast at the vineyard's café, sampling local pastries. Take in the stunning views of the rolling hills and grapevines in the morning light.

afternoon
:

Continue your exploration by visiting several wineries in the area, indulging in tastings of their best selections. Engage with winemakers and learn about their unique approaches to crafting wine. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a winery, pairing delicious food with exquisite local wines.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Waynesboro for a casual dinner at a wine bar, where you can sample local wines by the glass. Reflect on your favorite tastings and experiences from the day with fellow wine enthusiasts. End your evening with a nightcap, reminiscing about the delightful flavors you encountered.

day 8
Adventure at the Blue Ridge Parkway
morning
:

Start your day with a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, where breathtaking views await at every turn. Stop at various overlooks to capture photos of the stunning landscapes. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a café along the way, setting the tone for an adventurous day.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon hiking one of the many trails that lead from the Parkway, immersing yourself in the rich flora and fauna. Explore waterfalls, wildflowers, and panoramic vistas that will leave you in awe. Pack a lunch to enjoy amidst nature, taking time to relax and recharge.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Waynesboro for dinner at a restaurant that specializes in local cuisine. Share stories of your adventures on the parkway with fellow travelers and locals. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk through the town, reflecting on the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

day 9
Local Markets and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Waynesboro Farmer's Market, where you can explore local produce, homemade goods, and artisan crafts. Engage with farmers and vendors, learning about their products and the stories behind them. Enjoy a light breakfast from one of the food stalls, sampling fresh pastries or smoothies.

afternoon
:

After the market, take a culinary class at a local cooking school, where you can learn to prepare a dish using seasonal ingredients from the market. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you share a meal with fellow participants. Spend some time exploring nearby specialty food shops for unique culinary souvenirs.

evening
:

Cap off your culinary journey with dinner at a highly-rated restaurant known for its farm-to-table philosophy. Discuss the cooking techniques you learned during the day and how they can be applied at home. End your evening with a dessert from a local bakery, savoring the sweet flavors of Waynesboro.

Discover Waynesboro

Read more in our Waynesboro 2025 Travel Guide.

Waynesboro Travel Guide