Verona offers nature, schools and easy interstate access
Natural beauty and proximity to modern amenities blend in the town of Verona, a rural yet connected community adjacent to Staunton in Virginia’s Shenandoah Mountains. “Verona is in the country between two cities,” says Cheyenne Cockrell, a local Realtor with Keller Williams Alliance, adding that the town’s location is its biggest draw. “You have easy access because it’s right off Interstate 81, so you can be in a rural setting and country feel without being too far from all the amenities you could want.” Small-town shops and national retailers are within a 30-minute drive; Staunton is 5 miles south of Verona, and Harrisonburg sits about 21 miles north. Additionally, Verona’s location puts locals close to abundant recreational opportunities and above average public schools.
Mountain views and varied architecture draw new residents
Verona’s rural setting includes a multitude of residential architectural styles, ranging in size and age. “There’s a good variety of housing styles,” Cockrell says. “There are neighborhoods that were built up in the 50s and 60s, some with brick ranch styles typical for the 70s and 80s, and new construction in the last three years.” Cockrell adds that the balance of older homes and new development appeals to many new residents, as well as the natural surroundings. “People are drawn to the properties in Verona because many of them have mountain views,” she adds. Ranch-style homes, Cape Cods and farmhouse-inspired colonial styles make up a large portion of the housing inventory. Larger homes tend to take on more mountain retreat facades, with styles including ramblers, contemporary raised ranch styles and Neo-Traditional homes. Prices typically range between $166,000 and $788,000.
Augusta County schools earn B grades
Students are zoned to attend Augusta County Public Schools, a district that earns a B overall grade from Niche. Kids may begin their education at Edward G. Clymore Elementary School before advancing to S. Gordon Stewart Middle School. High schoolers may attend Fort Defiance High School, which Niche rates as the second-best public high school in Augusta County. The high school receives above average scores for its academics, sports and extracurricular activities, which include a high achieving performing arts and symphonic band program. All three schools earn a B grade from Niche.
Middle River draws anglers, tubers and weekend campers
The Middle River is a major draw for recreationists in the area. “There are waterways all around,” Cockrell says. “Verona is known as having the most accessible river areas in the local area.” Anglers line the riverbanks to reel in trout, and teenagers float down the river on tubes. The Shenandoah Valley Campground is another especially well-loved area for outdoor recreation. The campsite, set along the river, offers water access, fishing piers, a playground and plenty of camping sites to reconnect with nature. “A lot of people stay at the campground to get to know the area,” Cockrell says. “And most Saturdays they host events that are very popular.”
Antique mall draws national visitors to Verona’s retail scene
Shoppers from around the region flock to the Factory Antique Mall, which claims to be America’s largest antique mall. “People come from all around the U.S. to visit the mall,” Cockrell says. The mall features a large selection of unique vintage glassware, books, memorabilia, home décor, collectibles and more. Local restaurants and a handful of stores line Lee Highway, one of Verona’s main thoroughfares. “Armstrong’s has been here the longest,” Cockrell says. “Places like that and Rackem Smackem Ribs get a lot of local townies, and places like Northridge Café and Maria’s are always busy.” While these establishments showcase the local flavor, residents can access national chains and big-box retailers in Staunton or Harrisonburg. Valley Mall in Harrisonburg houses familiar names like Target and Belk along with a variety of other stores. A Food Lion fulfills groceries in Verona, and additional grocery stores like Walmart are located in Staunton.
Interstate 81 keeps Verona connected to nearby cities
Proximity to Interstate 81 keeps the community well-connected to Harrisonburg and Staunton, as well as the rest of Virginia. The interstate links to other major highways like Interstate 64. While most residents depend on personal cars to get around, commuters can rely on bus routes that serve the area and connect to Staunton. Augusta Health Staunton Medical Associates is located approximately 5 miles away in Staunton. About 10 miles from town, Shenandoah Valley Airport offers daily round trip flights to Charlotte Douglas International Airport, and Verona is also about 120 miles from Richmond International Airport.
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Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola
