Fly Fishing in the South River
Waynesboro has a wealth of cultural and natural amenities, not the least of which is its proximity to Shenandoah National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Appalachian Trail. Hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, horseback riding, and bicycling opportunities abound.
Another appealing element of the City is that its small-town charm is paired with big-city conveniences, such as national retail and restaurant outlets. Within city limits, shoppers will find Target, Kohl’s, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Walmart and more. This commercial district, located at exit 94 off I-64, also offers restaurants like Outback Steakhouse, Panera Bread, Five Guys, Cracker Barrel, and Plaza Antigua.
Waynesboro’s historic downtown is situated alongside the tranquil South River, one of only a few urban trout fisheries in the state. Try your hand at fly fishing or merely enjoy the paved Greenway Trail that follows the bends of the river for a lovely two-mile walk. Within downtown, explore the work of regional artists at the Shenandoah Valley Art Center, P. Buckley Moss Gallery, and the historic Wayne Theatre. History buffs will enjoy the Waynesboro Heritage Museum and Plumb House Museum, which saw action during the Civil War. When you’re ready to recharge, locally owned restaurants and coffee shops are close at hand. In the evenings, catch national and regional performances at the renovated vaudeville-era Wayne Theatre. Tapping into Waynesboro’s rich natural history, the proposed Virginia Museum of Natural History campus will also occupy space downtown in the near future.
Waynesboro’s annual events and festivals bring pleasure to the whole family—from Riverfest, which celebrates the beauty and ecology of the South River, to the Fall Foliage Art Show, which turns the streets of downtown into a gallery for over 150 artists. Waynesboro is also home to the Virginia Chili, Blues & Brews Festival, now in its second decade, and numerous other annual events. Waynesboro Parks and Recreation Department, which manages the six municipal parks including a leash-free dog park, makes sure there are plenty of family-friendly events year-round. Run the Valley races, outdoor concerts, fireworks, a kite-flying day—there’s always something on the calendar to look forward to.
Visit the City Tourism website to learn more.
Small Business Success Stories
This short video highlights three successful businesses in the East Main Street (Route 250) Corridor in Waynesboro, VA. The owners of Rockfish Gap Outfitters, Blue Ridge Bucha, and Basic City Beer Co. discuss the attributes of Waynesboro and the Shenandoah Valley as a wonderful place to visit, filled with outdoor adventure.
