Staunton, Virginia is a lovely historic city in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Nestled between the Blue Ridge and the Allegheny Mountains, it is surrounded by natural beauty.  The quaint downtown district is reminescent of earlier times.  Many buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries have been preserved and are excellent examples of Victorian architecture.  In fact, the strict building codes within the historic district have resulted in making Staunton, VA the perfect location for period movies.  Gods and Generals, Hearts in Atlantis, and Evan Almighty all shot scenes in Staunton.

There are an abundance of historical, cultural, educational, and recreational opportunities in Staunton.  It is the birthplace of the 28th U. S. President, Woodrow Wilson.  His home and Presidential Library are open to the public as is the Museum of American Frontier Culture which offers a glimpse into early American life.  Staunton is also home to the American Shakespear Center, housed in the only existing replica of Shakespear's Blackfriars Theater, the Blackfriars Playhouse.  The arts are celebrated in Staunton with numerous studios and galleries offering classes and showcasing the talents of local artists, artisians and performers.

Staunton has an excellent public school system with 4 elementary schools, one middle school and one high school.  Private school options are also available.  Mary Baldwin College and Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind are located in Staunton.  Blue Ridge Community College, Bridgewater College, James Madison University, Eastern Mennonite University, and the University of Virginia are all within commuting distance.

Gypsy Hill Park is a wonderful multi-use public facility located in the city and within walking distance to downtown historic Staunton, Va.  The park boasts a golf course, football and baseball staduims, a gymnasuim, a duck pond, a public swimming pool, numerous play grounds, and areas for other sporting activities.  Picnic tables and grills are available for public use.  The close proximity of the mountains offers many opportunities for outdoor activities including skiiing, hiking, picnicing, and fishing.

The City of Staunton has 19.97 square miles within the city limits and a population of 23,853 (2000 Census).