Welcome to Staunton, Virginia
Your Guide to Exploring MBU’s Hometown

Whether you’re moving in, visiting for Family Weekend, or exploring Mary Baldwin University for the first time, we’re excited to welcome you to Staunton! Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, our historic downtown blends small-town charm with vibrant culture—an ideal backdrop for your MBU experience.

Getting Here & Getting Around

Staunton is easy to reach and even easier to explore once you arrive.

  • By Car: Conveniently located off I-81 and I-64.

  • By Train: Amtrak’s Cardinal line stops in downtown Staunton.

  • By Air: Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (about 20 minutes) and larger airports in Charlottesville and Roanoke (about an hour+).

Downtown and MBU’s campus are walkable. Public parking is available in city lots and garages, with free options evenings and weekends.

Where to Stay

Welcoming stays—many within walking distance of campus and downtown.

Coffee, Ice Cream &
Study Spots

Grab a latte, a pastry, or gelato, and a quiet table to study.

Family Favorites

Great for meals with visiting family or special occasions

Where to Eat

MBU Gear & Merchandise

Show your school spirit with official MBU apparel and gifts.

  • Book Dragon Book Shop – Official retailer of Mary Baldwin University merchandise. Find MBU apparel, spirit wear, and gifts alongside a curated selection of books and local goods. Conveniently located in downtown Staunton.

Everyday Essentials

Need the basics? Collins Market has got you covered. A neighborhood staple, Collins Market is more than a corner store—it's a convenient stop for fresh grab-and-go meals and everyday items, just a short walk from campus.

235 N. Lewis Street, Staunton, VA 24401
Operating Hours:

  • Mon–Thurs: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

  • Fri & Sat: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM

  • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Everyday Student-Faculty Savings

  • American Shakespeare Center — Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: $25 Rush tix

  • Billy Opal — SummerFest: 20% Reg Price | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10%

  • The Blackburn — Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: MBU Specials

  • Bonfire — SummerFest: 10% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10%

  • Burrow & Vine — SummerFest: 20% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10%

  • Ciders From Mars — SummerFest: 15% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10%

  • Depot Grille — SummerFest: 10% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10%

  • Design by 9 — SummerFest: 10%

  • Essentially Zen — SummerFest: 15% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10%

  • Heirloom Home — SummerFest: 20%

  • Juniper Lane — SummerFest: 20% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10%

  • Latitudes — SummerFest: 10% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10% Mondays

  • Marion’s — SummerFest: 10%

  • Queen City Music Studios — SummerFest: 10% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10%

  • Remedy Burger — SummerFest: 10% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 5% Lunch Only

  • Shenandoah Pizza — SummerFest: 10%

  • The Book Dragon — SummerFest: 10% of 1 book | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10% Mondays

  • The Green Room — SummerFest: 10% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 5% Lunch Only

  • The Queen Bee — SummerFest: 18.42% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10%

  • The Well Balanced Paw — SummerFest: 20% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10%

  • Tru by Hilton — SummerFest: $109 Student

  • Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library — SummerFest: 20% | Everyday Student–Faculty Savings: 10%

Plan Your Visit

If you are looking for recommendations or other resources, visit Staunton’s Visitor Center (35 S. New Street), where you can find maps, brochures, and helpful local tips.
Staunton is more than MBU’s home—it’s a welcoming community. Explore, relax, and make memories while you’re here.

Learn more at Visit Staunton | Staunton Downtown Development Association | Mary Baldwin University