American Shakespeare Center - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
Mary Baldwin College - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
Gypsy Hill Park - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
Frontier Culture Museum - 6 min drive - 3.5 miles
Getting around
Staunton Station - 9 min walk
Weyers Cave, VA (SHD-Shenandoah Valley Regional) - 23 min drive
Restaurants
The Green Room - 11 min walk
Gloria's Pupuseria - 17 min walk
Taco Bell - 2 min drive
Subway - 2 min drive
Wrights Dairy-Rite - 3 min walk
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
"The Sparrow" at Historic Downtown Staunton
Perched on top of the famous Sears Hill, "The Sparrow" is a homey cottage located in Historic Downtown Staunton. Newly renovated with a priceless view of Staunton, The Sparrow boasts a comfortable and memorable stay with a twinkle light back deck overlooking the city, a private master suite with its own lounge area, and a minutes walk to downtown shops, theatre, and eating. Only 40 mins. to Wintergreen and Charlottesville/30 mins. to Harrisonburg and vineyards on 151/40 mins. to Lexington!
The space: Welcome to the Sparrow, a circa 1929 restored home on the historic Sears Hill in Staunton, VA. We welcome you with a rocking chair front porch, a coded deadbolt front door for easy access and secure locking, and a bird's egg blue front door. As you enter the living room, we offer original heart pine floors that are restored (and we love them so please remove your shoes!), comfy leather furniture for hanging out with family, a plush rug, a tv with Roku for simple streaming, board games, and don't forget to check out our custom Guidebook, restoration before and after photo album, and our FAQ binder found on the foyer table, along with a custom postcard you can send to your family during your trip to Staunton. All of the art throughout the home are custom framed photos, maps, and historic photos of Staunton.
In the front bedroom off of the living room, there is a queen sized bed with hotel quality bedding and fluffy duvet cover for chilly nights. Also in this front bedroom is a full sized antique dresser for clothing storage, bedside table with lamp equipped for phone charginga trunk full of throw blankets if needed, a closet with coat hangers, an iron, and ironing board.
Off of the living room is the bright white kitchen with dark granite countertops and open shelving, stainless steel appliances, pots and pans, cooking utensils and silverware, a baking sheet, Tupperware, a fire extinguisher, olive oil, salt and pepper, a Keurig coffeemaker, glassware including coffee mugs, cups, and wine glasses (perfect for Yelping Dog wine!), a toaster, a microwave, and airbnb sized refrigerator. With ever guest, we provide a tray of grab and go goodies for when you first arrive with Bigelow tea bags, Pike Place Keurig cups, creamers, nuts, and Kind bars for each guest. Also in the kitchen is a dining table for two ready for morning coffee.
Beside the kitchen is the other main floor bedroom with two twin beds and hotel quality bedding, an antique dry sink for clothing storage, bedside table with lamp equipped for phone charging, and closet with coat hangers. Can you see the view of downtown Staunton from the window?
Immediately down the stairs, you are welcomed by our original open rustic beam 6.5 foot ceilings with brand new waterproof LVT floors, and warm and cozy rugs. Next to the stairs is the grab and go bathroom utility cart with a couple extra towels (2 per guest will already be provided on each bed), black makeup washcloths, normal hand towels, and a blow dryer.
As you go through the custom barn doors DOWNSTAIRS, you will enter the bright and happy full bathroom with a marble top vanity, and storage with extra toilet paper and first aid kit, and you can't miss the 1930 restored claw foot tub with chrome 1920 style hardware perfect for an evening soak with a glass of wine!
At the bottom of the stairs is the private seating area for the master suite with its very own matching comfy chairs, lamp for phone charging, and electric fireplace for cold evenings and a cozy place to read a book or have an evening chat with someone you love.
The downstairs bedroom is what we would consider the private master suite with a locking barn door, queen bed with hotel quality bedding and a fluffy duvet, a bedside table with lamp equipped for phone charging, a 32 inch wall-mounted tv with Roku for easy streaming, and an antique armoire with dowel rod for clothing hanging and custom storage shelves, and a basket full of soft throw blankets.
Off of the master bedroom is the exterior door to the back deck. The back deck has a view of all of downtown Staunton and twinkle lights strewn all the way across the deck. Outdoor seating and a table is also provided if you want to take any meals on the back deck.
Guest access: The Sparrow is an old home built on an old, narrow street in downtown Staunton with no off street parking. The hill to the Sparrow is very steep but with that comes extremely good road maintenance in the snowy seasons, and VIEWS that will blow your socks off. The street leads you straight to "Woodrow Park" and the whole city overlook, and the bridge to downtown Staunton is within walking distance and great for an after-dinner walk. You will have access to the entire home including the yard and front/back decks. You will not have access to the housekeeper's laundry room off of the downstairs master bedroom.
Other things to note: In an effort to maintain a secure premises, the house is equipped with four exterior cameras. The cameras are ONLY on the exterior, and there are no cameras on the inside of the home. This home was built in 1929 and not up to today's construction standards so you will find lower ceiling heights in the downstairs level (6.5 feet), lower doorways, and a narrow and steep stairwell. The home's bathroom has a septic pump. Do NOT flush anything except toilet paper during your stay. The bathroom is located down the stairs on the lower floor with lower ceilings, so if you aren't able to go up and down stairs, this home may not be the place for you. Also, anyone with poor mobility or unsteady footing, this home is not the house for you. The 1930's claw foot tub is a freestanding tub that sits off the ground, with 6'5 ceilings. If you are taller than 6', the shower/tub will be a low height for you. Also, something to note: the home was built in 1929 and with that comes ORIGINAL heart pine restored floors, that do squeak! This is part of the charm! If this will bother you, you may not want to stay here. The kitchen is equipped with a breakfast bistro table for two. This will not allow you to cook and feed your Thanksgiving meal here. We do provide you with TV trays so everyone has a place to put a plate, but this is something to note if you are planning to cook in the whole time during your stay. Behind the Sparrow, is the old train depot where a train does come through occasionally. For train lovers, this is super cool because you can see the train from the backyard. We provide earplugs for all guests if noises wake you or disturb you (like a train coming through). During your stay, we highly recommend walking up the road to the Sears Hill Bridge which takes you directly to the train depot and. all of downtown. The perk to being close to the train depot, you are SO CLOSE to downtown!
Guest Access: The street going to the Sparrow is very NARROW and STEEP and most of the homes do not have off street parking. Typically there is parking in front of the home but it is not guaranteed as the street is public parking. There is typically enough space for two cars to park in front of the Sparrow. If your group has more than two cars, we recommend carpooling. If that is the case, reach out to the hosts for information on where to park that is closest.
Neighborhood Overview: Sears Hill is a neighborhood full of history with very old homes. Some are updated, and some are not, but with each home comes a view that is unforgettable of the whole city, and CLOSE (walking distance) proximity to downtown! Walk to dinner, shopping, theatre, and amazing ice cream! Behind the Sparrow, is the old train depot where a train does come through occasionally. For train lovers, this is super cool because you can see the train from the backyard. We provide earplugs for all guests if noises wake you or disturb you (like a train coming through). During your stay, we highly recommend walking up the road to the Sears Hill Bridge which takes you directly to the train depot and. all of downtown. The perk to being close to the train depot, you are SO CLOSE to downtown!
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms. Other standard amenities include a dryer, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.
Property manager
Samantha Shover
Languages
English
Similar properties
The All-American Cottage Seconds from Gypsy Hill Park! Kid and Pet friendly!
The All-American Cottage Seconds from Gypsy Hill Park! Kid and Pet friendly!
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Unit size: 1,000 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
1 total (50 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
Service animals exempt from fees
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to do around this cottage?
This cottage is located in Staunton, just steps from Staunton Railroad Station and Wilson Park, and within a short walk of The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library. You'll also find American Shakespeare Center and R.R. Smith Center for History & Art less than a mile away.
Is parking available on site at this cottage?
No, there isn't parking available at the cottage.
Is this cottage associated with a casino?
No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this cottage?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.
What will couples enjoy most about a stay at "The Sparrow" at Historic Downtown Staunton?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this cottage include a fireplace, a kitchen, and a smart TV.
Does "The Sparrow" at Historic Downtown Staunton have a hot tub?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this cottage.
Does this cottage offer breakfast?
No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this cottage allow pets to stay free of charge?
Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.
Are there connecting rooms at this cottage?
No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
How close is the airport from this cottage?
The closest major airport to this cottage is Weyers Cave, VA (SHD-Shenandoah Valley Regional), which is 19 mi away (23 minutes by car).
Can I book a room with a balcony at "The Sparrow" at Historic Downtown Staunton?
Yes, every accommodation at "The Sparrow" at Historic Downtown Staunton comes with a deck.
"The Sparrow" at Historic Downtown Staunton Reviews
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 14 out of 15 reviews
10 - Excellent
14
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 15 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 15 reviews
6 - Okay
1
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 15 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 15 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Emily B.
May 5, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Cute house that has been beautifully updated
My husband and I stayed here over a long weekend to explore the Staunton area and it worked out nicely. The owners were always very on top of communication, kind, and accommodating. Everything in the home was decorated well, and functioned well for 2 people who like to save a bit and do breakfast in the house and have some leftovers around after eating out. The location was close to downtown and we walked practically everywhere in the downtown area from the house. It does sit atop a pretty steep hill, with a couple block walk on the opposing side to above the train station and down some stairs. Worked out well for us since we like to walk places if possible, but it may be a challenge for someone who wants to walk but needs flat ground. Would stay here again!
Emily B.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kimberly J.
Apr 27, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Birthday
Spent my 60th birthday here with my best friend! Awesome trip!
Kimberly J.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
6/10 Okay
Shari M.
Feb 13, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Sparrow
We had a relaxing time
Shari M.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Rebecca M.
Oct 27, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Super cute, great location
Adorable house, lovely host, wonderful location.
Rebecca M.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Chris W.
Oct 1, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Cute little house
We’re in town for the magic city festival as well as parents weekend at JMU. Great location to walk to the festival
Chris W.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jodi A.
Jul 21, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Charming home & close to town
The Sparrow is most charming and the host was most hospitable. We were close to the lovely town of Staunton and the master bedroom & bath were very comfortable!
Jodi A.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Holly K.
Jun 9, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Family Girls’ Weekend
Sparrow House is comfy, cozy and well cared for. Close walk to town for dinner and shopping, or great jump off spot for vineyards and outdoor recreation. Highly recommend.
Holly K.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kammie R.
May 19, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Family fun
We enjoyed the hospitality and location of The Sparrow for our daughter’s college graduation!
Kammie R.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Ben C.
Oct 9, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
A Quaint Gem
This was an ideal rental for our family of four. The cottage is located in close proximity to Woodrow Park, which provides a walking bridge to cross the railroad tracks and venture into the historic downtown district on foot. The hosts were super nice and had all the lights on in the house when we arrived late in the evening; there was no fumbling in the dark to punch in the lock code or enter the house, which we very much appreciated. This was probably the cleanest VRBO rental we’ve ever booked, as well. The whole house was spotless. We hope to be back as soon as the American Shakespeare Center performs MacBeth. Highly recommend!
Ben C.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Gilian F., -
Aug 14, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely house; lovely location
Four of us (two couples) spent three nights at this cottage while we attended the local Shakespeare festival. The house was in a terrific location, just a short walk from town but far enough away that it was quiet and peaceful at night. The property was immaculate, and the front and back porches were as nice a place to rest and relax as was the living room. The kitchen was provisioned with everything we might need, and the owners left us a welcome basket of sweet and savory treats to enjoy. When we come back next year, we will certainly stay here again.
Gilian F.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Lisa H.
Mar 6, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
The Sparrow was superb, clean, well-equipped, charming, reasonably priced and close to downtown.
Such a great weekend staying at The Sparrow in Staunton. Perfect place for a girlfriend’s getaway!
The owners stayed in touch before and during our stay. They were so hospitable!! Will definitely be back!
Lisa H.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
10/10 Excellent
Lauren W.
Feb 10, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect!
The hosts were unbelievably accommodating and the place was perfect for our family!
Lauren W.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Carmen R.
Sep 19, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Grindstone 100 Oasis
We loved The Sparrow and it proximacy to everything we needed. The cottage was very clean and adorable and all the utinsels needed to cook were available. It was nice to walk to the historic downtown and feel safe doing so. We highly recommend The Sparrow to other travelers.
Carmen R.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022
10/10 Excellent
Linda N.
Jun 22, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Short distance to town/very clean/great host
The host couple of this house were wonderful. They answered all my questions and provided little extra things for our stay. The house was also sparkling clean. The house is within walking distance to downtown Staunton (although it is a steep hill to walk there) It is an area where some of the houses are being remodeled and some are not lived in. As mentioned in their write up- their house was completely remodeled. We are an older couple so it was a little tough going up and down the stairs from kitchen and living room to downstairs bedroom.
Linda N.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
10/10 Excellent
Mark N Sue W.
May 8, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Spring Reunion
Three college friends got together and this cottage was great!Comfortable beds, nice living room to chat in. Enjoyed evenings out on the deck!