Things To Do In Staunton

When they craft their seasonal menu, the cooks at AVA Restaurant and Wine Bar aren't looking to impress diners with unfamiliar dishes. Instead, they wow taste buds with rich, robust flavors, roasted duck breast to meatloaf kicked up a notch by chipotle cream sauce. For vegan and vegetarian visitors, AVA's culinary team draws on organic and local fruits, veggies, and grains to create meals such as vegan chicken and waffles. Meatless or not, each feast can be accompanied by pours from an award-winning wine list curated by the eatery's onsite sommelier. Bartenders also serve plenty of beer, as well as custom, exotic tea blends.

Ranked 12th in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Family Hotels and Cruises, The Homestead has been pampering guests—including 22 U.S. presidents—with an assortment of leisurely activities since its pre-Revolutionary War construction in 1766. This Groupon includes one night of well-appointed slumber for up to two guests in one of the historic resort's luxurious classic rooms, featuring down pillows, featherbeds, and midnight golf tips from the ghosts of former boarders. The sun porches and authentic fireplaces in some rooms reflect influences of quieter times, whereas WiFi and flat-screen TVs keep guests technologically apprised of happenings in the outside world. Honk your golf cart's horn in triumph after launching a dimply ball off the nation's oldest first tee in continuous use at the Old Course (an extra round of golf may be purchased for $35). The hilly, par 72 course was originally completed in 1892 but has received fairway contouring and silicone calf implants to keep golfers on their toes. Patrons allergic to grass or 9 irons can partake in a slew of indoor excursions, such as complimentary afternoon tea in the Great Hall, free film showings in the historic theater, and spirited rounds of sphere hurling at the on-site bowling center.

As the promoter of antique shows across the East Coast, Dordy Fontinel's career is almost as storied as the pieces of vintage Americana she vends. A collector since her teenage years, Dordy first started in the antiques business in 1978, eventually moving into promotion in 1992. She was joined in her new venture by her husband, Stillie Mason, an auctioneer with 18 years of experience. Together, the pair helps dealers display their wares to new crowds of collectors, filling their events with vintage home decor, jewelry, and accessories—many of which date from the 1760s to the 1960s.

Learn to create your own painting in one 2-3 hour sitting while you chat with friends, munch on food, sip a drink, and listen to music. We hold art parties in our Nelson County location or can bring the party to your home or office! This isn't just art instruction, it's art entertainment.