
R.R. Smith Center for History and Art
Discover Staunton's rich heritage and vibrant art scene at the R.R. Smith Center, featuring rotating exhibits and a peaceful garden.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Join the walking tour!

R.R. Smith Center for History and Art
Best Time
Join the walking tour!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Staunton's rich heritage and vibrant art scene at the R.R. Smith Center, featuring rotating exhibits and a peaceful garden.
"A great historic facility with interesting exhibits, well worth a visit for local history and art."

🎯 Don't Miss the Walking Tour
Start your visit with the Saturday morning walking tour for a great overview of Staunton!
📅 Book Research Appointments
Need to research local architecture? Book an appointment at the Historic Staunton Foundation workroom.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rotating Art Exhibits
Galleries
Admire diverse and changing art collections, often featuring local artists and unique prints for sale.

Local History Displays
Exhibits
Explore fascinating exhibits that delve into the rich history of Staunton and the surrounding region.
Historic Staunton Foundation Workroom
Workroom (by appointment)
Access resources for researching local architecture and property history. A gem for history buffs!
Tranquil Back Garden
Garden
A peaceful oasis perfect for enjoying a coffee or a quiet moment amidst your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the R.R. Smith Center
Accessibility & Gardens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Don't Miss the Walking Tour
Start your visit with the Saturday morning walking tour for a great overview of Staunton!
📅 Book Research Appointments
Need to research local architecture? Book an appointment at the Historic Staunton Foundation workroom.
☕ Relax in the Garden
Enjoy the lovely back garden for a peaceful break after exploring the exhibits.
🖼️ Support Local Artists
Many art pieces, including small prints, are available for purchase.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Don't Miss the Walking Tour
Start your visit with the Saturday morning walking tour for a great overview of Staunton!
📅 Book Research Appointments
Need to research local architecture? Book an appointment at the Historic Staunton Foundation workroom.
☕ Relax in the Garden
Enjoy the lovely back garden for a peaceful break after exploring the exhibits.
🖼️ Support Local Artists
Many art pieces, including small prints, are available for purchase.
🎶 Check for Concerts
The center hosts 'Fridays in the Gallery' concerts with student performances.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the R.R. Smith Center for its interesting and varied exhibits, highlighting both local history and art collections. The opportunity to purchase art prints and the peaceful garden are frequently mentioned positives. However, some note that the facility may not be fully wheelchair accessible.
"Don't miss the Saturday morning walking tour to start your visit in Staunton -- I did the tour on 8/26 with a knowledgeable and interesting tour guide who provided a great overview and ideas of further points of interest I visited later in the week. Highly recommend!"
Judy Grillo
"Interesting exhibits, often about local history, but also art exhibits. Historic Staunton Foundation has a workroom with resources where residents can research history of local architecture and properties (by appointment). A lovely garden in the back, great for sitting with your coffee."
Patricia
"A great bistoric facility, saved from the wrecking ball and used for three galleries and offices for several non profits. The art and other exhibits are well worth a visit."
Len Doran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The R.R. Smith Center is located in Staunton, Virginia. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, it's a central point within the historic downtown area, making it accessible by car. Parking information should be checked locally.
Parking availability can vary in historic downtown areas. It's recommended to look for public parking lots or street parking in the vicinity of the center.
Absolutely! The R.R. Smith Center is in a historic district, perfect for combining with a walking tour or exploring nearby Victorian architecture.
Yes, the Virginia Scenic Railway offers train rides from historic Staunton, making it a great addition to a visit.
Many visitors recommend starting with the Saturday morning walking tour for an excellent overview of the area's points of interest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is generally free, especially for events like 'Fridays in the Gallery' concerts. However, seating for concerts is limited.
Operating hours can vary as exhibits and events change. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current information.
For general gallery visits, advance booking is usually not required. However, for special events like concerts, seating is limited, so arriving early is advised.
Information on discounts isn't widely publicized, but many exhibits and events are free, making it an accessible cultural experience.
Yes, the Historic Staunton Foundation has a workroom with resources for researching local architecture and properties, but this requires an appointment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a mix of art exhibits, often featuring local artists and unique pieces, alongside displays focused on local Staunton history.
Some visitors have noted that the facility is not fully wheelchair friendly, so keep this in mind if mobility is a concern.
While not a traditional gift shop, small prints of art are often available for sale, allowing you to take a piece of the exhibit home.
This series features exceptional student performances of classical music works in the gallery setting, offering a delightful cultural experience.
The center has a lovely garden in the back, providing a great spot to sit, relax, and enjoy a coffee or a quiet moment.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by exhibit. It's best to check for signage or ask staff if photography is permitted, especially for specific art pieces.
The tranquil back garden offers a picturesque setting. The historic architecture of the building itself and the art within the galleries can also be visually appealing.
Staunton's historic Victorian architecture provides a charming backdrop for photos. The scenic train rides also offer unique photographic possibilities.
The center features diverse art exhibits, so look for pieces that resonate with your aesthetic, from local art to historical displays.
The garden is a lovely spot, and generally, personal photography is welcome in outdoor garden spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 History Buffs & Researchers
🎨 Art Lovers & Collectors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Staunton's History and Art
For those with a deep interest in the area's architectural past, the Historic Staunton Foundation maintains a workroom within the center. This resource allows residents and visitors to research the history of local architecture and properties, though it requires an appointment to access. This dedication to both contemporary art and historical preservation makes the R.R. Smith Center a multifaceted destination.
Beyond the indoor attractions, the center features a lovely garden in the back, providing a serene escape. It's an ideal spot to relax with a coffee or simply enjoy a moment of tranquility after immersing yourself in the exhibits. The combination of art, history, and a peaceful garden setting offers a well-rounded cultural experience.
Community Events and Performances
These musical interludes provide a unique atmosphere, blending visual art with auditory experiences. While admission is often free, seating is limited, encouraging visitors to arrive early to secure a spot. The series highlights the center's commitment to providing diverse cultural programming for the Staunton community and its visitors.
Beyond scheduled concerts, the center frequently hosts various special exhibits and events throughout the year. These can range from specific historical retrospectives to themed art showcases. Keeping an eye on their announcements is key to catching these limited-time offerings and experiencing the full breadth of what the R.R. Smith Center has to offer.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit