Heres how to plan a trip to Staunton, Virginia.

Staunton (pronounced Stan-ten) is one of those places.

The folks who live here are known for being friendly and generally very open-minded.

Cityscape of a small town

Staunton, Virginia cityscape.Credit:DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

We are especially lucky to have a thriving queer community and a vibrant arts scene.

But thats just the start of what makes Staunton so special.

To experience some of its past first-hand, book a room atThe Historic Berkeley Place.

White hotel lobby with ample seating

Lobby of Hotel 24 South.Courtesy of Historic Hotels of America

Things to Do

See a live performance.

Get your steps in.

Much of Stauntons beauty is best experienced on foot.

People shopping for tomatos

Tomato stand at the Staunton Farmer’s Market.Kim Cormier

Go museum-hopping.

Staunton has several museums to check out while youre in town.

At theCamera Heritage Museum, youll find a collection of 7,000 antique and modern-day cameras.

Iberico Pork Collar, Butterbeans, Okra, Okra Seed Oil with a side of Heirloom Tomato, Sour Corn Vinaigrette, Basil at Maude & the Bear

Dishes from Maude & The Bear.Deb Lindsey for The Washington Post via Getty Images

Explore Stauntons historic districts.

Visit Shenandoah National Park.

EccoHollow Art and Sound

EccoHollow Art and Soundis the best record store in town, says West.

Buildings in downtown

Downtown Staunton, Virginia.Ian Bradshaw

Their made-from-scratch El Salvadoran food is authentic, delicious, and naturally gluten-free.

Queen City Bistro

Queen City Bistrotops the list for both West and Stell.

They are a newer addition to the Staunton food scene but have made a big impression, says West.

A train entering a station

A train pulling into the Staunton, VA station.Kate Simon

You’ll have to make reservations well in advance, but it’s worth it, says West.

Alternatively, you might take the train.

Both are great locations for outdoor recreation.