Partner Content
As the weather gets warmer and plants begin to flower, there’s a certain itching to get outside and enjoy the springtime sights along the East coast. The Blackburn Inn and Conference Center, located in the heart of the scenic Shenandoah Valley, offers a unique way to take in spring’s natural beauty: via train.
The Blackburn Inn’s “Stay, Ride, Relax” package offers guests a train ride through the beautiful Shenandoah Valley complete with onboard dining service and a night’s stay at the hotel. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway for two or a relaxing girls’ trip, the Blackburn Inn has every detail completely planned out for you—all set against the backdrop of Staunton, Virginia’s historic views.
The Stay, Ride, Relax package has two routes to choose from—the Allegheny Special or the Blue Ridge Flyer. Each will take you through rolling hills and grassy knolls dotted with wildflowers, and sprawling fields lush with colorful scenery and wildlife. The Allegheny Special through George Washington and Thomas Jefferson National Forests begins with a relaxing stay (and complimentary champagne) at the Blackburn Inn before embarking on your adventure the next morning. Enjoy an Italian panini or triple-layer chocolate cake at lunch service while soaking in the sights aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway.
Blue Ridge Flyer riders begin with private dinner service and a late afternoon ride through the Blue Ridge tunnel. Carved directly through the mountain, it offers all the stunning, up-high views of the valley’s spacious mountain range—without the need to hike there yourself. The train returns to Staunton in the early evening, giving you plenty of time to explore the area and settle in for the night at the Blackburn Inn.
Both options offer perfect opportunities to enjoy the nightlife of historic Staunton, a small town with a vibrant cultural scene. Stroll through downtown’s historic streets and grab a bite to eat at southern-inspired Zynodoa or at The Depot Grille, a tavern-style eatery built in an historic rail depot, before catching a show at the Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s first recreation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre. If you’re looking for a nightcap, stop by Yelping Dog for a glass of locally produced wine, or grab a cocktail at The Junction, a laid-back lounge in another building full of Staunton history.
After a restful night at the Blackburn Inn, take the morning to grab coffee at local Crucible Coffee Roasters or breakfast at Sweet Addie’s Waffle Shop, which offers a variety of sweet and savory Belgian waffles to suit everyone’s taste buds. And don’t forget to make time to see Woodrow Wilson’s Pierce-Arrow limousine at his presidential library and museum.
Your stay in Staunton coupled with the breathtaking sights from your ride will give you and your party plenty of cherished memories to take home with you.
The Shenandoah Valley could not offer more temperate weather and beautiful sights than it does in the spring. Book now for April and May excursions.
