Where to Stop Along I-81 in Virginia

By liketheteaEATS on May 23, 2022 • ( 5 Comments )

Driving along Interstate 81 through Virginia is one of the most scenic road trips on the East Coast. The highway runs more than 300 miles through the Shenandoah Valley and passes charming towns like Winchester, Harrisonburg, and Staunton.

If you’re looking for great places to stop along I-81 for coffee, food, or a quick walk around a small town, here are some of my favorite road trip stops.

My fiancee and I love a good road trip and have taken quite a few over the years that have us driving up and down I-81 in Virginia (and of course making plenty of stops along the way). Below, I’ve compiled some of our favorite spots we have stopped for snacks, coffee, a bite to eat, and stretch our legs while walking through a charming downtown. I’ve listed everywhere out in order of the town you drive through when heading south on I-81 through VA.

The Best Stops on I-81 in Virginia (Quick Guide)

Winchester – coffee and breweries
Harrisonburg – breakfast and brunch
Staunton – bakeries and great restaurants
Lexington – mountain views and breweries
Roanoke – creative coffee shops
Bristol – classic Southern bakeries

Where to Stop in Winchester, VA

Bro Bears Coffee – this drive-through coffee shop is located in a parking lot and has tons of coffee beverages to fuel you up for the first (or final) leg of your trip
Hopscotch Coffee and Records – I love a coffee roaster that knows what they are doing and this spot fits the bill. Plus there’s a great vibe in here if you need to decompress for a bit before continuing your drive.
Winchester Brew Works – nestled just off Old Town’s pedestrian streets—its vibrant Shenandoah Valley mural, retro arcade games, and ever‑rotating flight of house‑made brews make it the perfect pit stop on your I‑81 Virginia adventure
Doppio Bunny – locally roasted espresso, house‑made syrups, scratch‑baked treats, and comfy vintage vibes make for a relaxing road trip stop
Taqueria Guadalajara – casual spot for authentic Mexican food

Where to Stop in Woodstock, VA

Woodstock Brewhouse – casual hangout with beers, good food, and plenty of outdoor space
Woodstock Cafe – fresh-brewed coffee, creative sandwiches, and house-made pastas, it’s the kind of place that turns a quick break into a memorable meal
Katie’s Custard – creamy ice cream in a cute roadside stand

Where to Stop in New Market, VA

Peep’s Frozen Custard – another roadside stand that makes great ice cream

Where to Stop in Harrisonburg, VA

Little Grill Collective – A vegan/vegetarian friendly worker owned spot in Harrisonburg, VA. Plenty of breakfast and lunch options and the few times we’ve visited I’ve ordered the breakfast burrito – it’s so good!
Magpie Diner – a modern corner diner with seriously excellent food and pastries. Great for grabbing a bite to eat.

Where to Stop in Staunton, VA

So we have actually stopped here for the night and had a seriously wonderful time so it’s always a must for us when in the area.

Redbeard Brewing Co. – This was our favorite stop for beers in the area
The Split Banana – Super cozy ice cream shop
The Shack – They offer a 5 course tasting menu that’s regularly changing and was seriously one of the best meals we’ve had
Reunion Bakery + Espresso – amazing coffee, flaky pastries, this place has it all. Don’t miss the cruffin
Cocoa Mill – this chocolatier has something for everyone and we definitely grabbed some truffles for the road
Crucible Coffee – if you’re looking for a really good cup of coffee, this roaster is a great stop. Make sure to grab a bag to bring home too!

Where to Stop in Lexington, VA

Devil’s Backbone Outpost – One of two Devil’s Backbone locations. Great food, awesome beers, and a lovely view of mountains off the patio.
Heliotrope Brewing – You have to try the pizza!

Where to Stop in Buchanan, VA

Drip – This no frills coffee joint is perfect for fueling up. If you need to stretch your legs, check out the Buchanan swinging bridge just across the street.

Where to Stop in Roanoke, VA

Sweet Donkey Coffee – In an old home, this coffee shop is serving some fun flavor combinations and I wanted to try them all. The spicy honey latte was excellent.

Where to Stop in Bristol, VA

Blackbird Bakery – A true old fashioned bakery – the doughnuts really hit the spot.
Pal’s Sudden Service – This fast food chain lured me in with its seriously adorable building and I can’t resist an order of french fries!