The Stonewall Jackson Hotel and Conference Center, Staunton, Virginia

To many travelers Staunton, Virginia is just an exit off of Interstate 81, nothing more. However, off of the Staunton exit is actually a small town and a hotel with a big name. The Stonewall Jackson Hotel and Conference Center is a 124-room hotel that was built in 1924. The hotel had a full remodel in 2005 to restore it to its former glory. This beautiful old building, and the town of Staunton, sit in the area knows as the Shenandoah Valley. The scenery is fantastic from any vantage point.

The Stonewall Jackson Hotel and Conference Center is a Georgian style hotel that was built at a cost of $440,000, quite a high price tag for the year 1924. The hotel sign on the top of the roof was a landmark back then and a social gathering place for the locals. Due to finances the hotel stopped functioning as a hotel. It became a center for the homeless, elderly and the mentally challenged. The building and all its splendor was saved by a public/private partnership and historic tax credits. The Stonewall Jackson Hotel and Conference Center once again draws weary travelers and local residents to its doors.

Along the interstate, or in town, you can stay at any of the 'chain' motels or you can stay at something so unique and lovely you won't pass by Staunton again without a smile on your face. Room rates run from $99 to $179. There are rooms in the new section and in the historic wing. Suits are in the historic wing and you can view the downtown area from the windows. Rooms include high speed internet, coffee maker, hair dryer, voice mail options, fitness center, baby sitting services and the hotel is pet friendly. There is a dining room at the hotel, and room service is available. For more information on rooms and rates - click here.

There are several restaurants in Staunton. One in particular is favored by the locals. During one stay in Staunton I asked for a recommendation for a restaurant and the name given to me was Mrs. Rowe's Family Restaurant. It has been in business since 1947. Mrs. Rowe's Family Restaurant offers a wide variety of moderately priced foods served with southern hospitality. Since it was dinner time, the restaurant was very busy. You need to be patient because the wait will be worth it!

Whether you stay at The Stonewall Jackson Hotel and Conference Center or not, make sure to have a meal at Mrs. Rowe's, located at 74 Rowe Road, Staunton, VA. For more information on Mrs. Rowe's Family Restaurant - click here.

While in the Staunton, Virginia area be sure to visit President Woodrow Wilson's Birthplace and Museum, The Frontier Culture Museum and the Civil War Trails. Don't forget to make your reservaton at The Stonewall Jackson Hotel and Conference Center and enjoy a part of history and enjoy the beautiful Shenandoah Valley.

The Stonewall Jackson Hotel and Conference Center 24 South Market Street Staunton, VA 24401. phone (540) 885-4848

Sources:

Historichotels.org

Stonewalljacksonhotel.com

MrsRowes.com