Best Weekend Getaway from Richmond & D.C. Itinerary

A lovely couple hiking

Do you have a final free weekend coming up this summer? Are you wondering where you should escape to in the Shenandoah Valley? The Blackburn Inn & Conference Center is your answer! This spot is the ideal home base for any getaway from Richmond or D.C. It’s one of the prettiest historic hotels in Staunton, VA with lots of activities like hiking and wineries nearby. Here’s our suggested itinerary — come explore with us!

Hiking at Turk Mountain Trail

The Shenandoah Valley is famous for its natural beauty, and there’s no better way to see it than by hiking during your weekend in Staunton. The Turk Mountain Trail is only about 2.5 miles (out-and-back) and takes roughly an hour and a half to complete. Drive 40 minutes from The Blackburn Inn to kill a little bit of time before 4 PM check-in. Hikers report this trail as a short, easy, and shady hike.

Check out the All Trails page of this hike for more detailed information.

Check in to The Blackburn


The Blackburn checks in guests at 4 PM. All rooms at the inn combine history elegance with Southern charm. There are a variety of room types and sizes depending on your party size and needs. Visit here to learn more about room options.

If you arrive before check-in time, consider grabbing lunch at Second Draft Bistro, The Blackburn’s on-site restaurant. This restaurant offers locally sourced and seasonal menus to give you a true taste of Staunton, VA during your visit.

Read more about the dining options at The Blackburn as well as spots local to Staunton.

Get a spa treatment at the Blackburn Inn Spa


The Blackburn Inn Spa is waiting to pamper you. Whether you’re looking for a solo weekend away, an anniversary getaway, or a babymoon location, the spa is here to help you escape into relaxation and rejuvenation. Rediscover your inner peace with massages, facials, pedicures, manicures, cupping, waxing, reflexology, and so much more.

See our spa menu for specific information about spa treatments and to book any services you’re interested in for your stay.

Head to SummerStage


Do you love staying busy even during a getaway? Take advantage of The Blackburn’s SummerStage package. Summerstage is a live music concert series. When you sign up for the “BLUE” tier, you not only get two tickets for the Friday night concert but also breakfast for two the following morning. This is a great addition to any Staunton, VA weekend itinerary.

Check out more information about SummerStage as well as other events happening at the historic hotel in Staunton, VA.

Final Thoughts


Don’t miss out on summer at The Blackburn Inn! Both trips from Richmond to Staunton and D.C. to Staunton are the perfect length for a weekend trip.

For more trip inspiration, click here for a custom getaway guide. Ready to book your getaway? Start planning your trip here today.