The Ultimate Summer Guide to Culpeper, VA

May 28, 2025 Food & Drink Places to Stay Things to Do Share

By Theresa Meeker Pickett

It’s time to slow down and soak it all in this summer as Culpeper, Virginia calls you to explore more and cherish the moment. Whether you’re paddling on the lake at sunrise or dancing downtown as the sun sets, this charming town blends small town warmth with big-time adventure.

Craving memory-making moments and slower itineraries? Culpeper delivers. Come for the scenic views and kid-friendly fun. Stay a while for the craft breweries, countryside wineries and starlit evenings on Main Street that linger just a little longer.

Live and Local: Music, Movies, and More

Summer in Culpeper is best spent in good company. Whether you’re wandering into a lively festival or catching a classic movie at a one-of-a kind theater, these local events celebrate the region’s creative core and warm, hometown spirit.

• June 7 – Age of the Viking Festival at Mountain Run Winery
  • Step back in time with Viking shield battles, epic storytelling and tastings of authentic Virginia mead at this family-friendly event with an ancient flair.
• 3rd Thursday Summer Concert Series
  • Enjoy free music all summer long in downtown Culpeper.
    • June 19: Déja Grüv Band
    • July 17: Tëaze
    • August 21: The Nashville Nights Band
• June 29 – Metaphysical Market at Mountain Run Winery
  • Explore new ideas and nourish your mind, body, and spirit, while browsing artisan goods, listening to live music and connecting with creatives.
• Culpeper’s 4th of July Festival
  • Kick off Independence Day with the annual Freedom 5K, moon bounces, food trucks, live music, all culminating with a spectacular fireworks display over town.
• Library of Congress Packard Campus Screenings
  • Settle into this hidden cultural gem, where classic and contemporary films play throughout the summer in a historic, cinematic setting.
• Echos in the Pines Concert Series
  • Enjoy an evening under the stars at Verdun! For one night a month you can listen to great music and then camp out on the Verdun grounds with all your friends and family! Your ticket includes admission to the concert and access to our beautiful camp grounds!
    • June 21: Chelsea Sager, Meisha Herron Band, and James Tamelcoff Band
    • July 19: Paul Rogers, Duck Chuck Goose, and A.P. Project
    • August 16: Mackenzie Roark, CAN-D, and Eclectic Company
    • September 20: Kaylee Hansen, Marc Allred, ThePhipps and the FUNK

Hidden Gems and Hometown Vibes

Culpeper’s charm invites you to slow down and explore. From historic buildings to artisan shops, meaningful moments are tucked around every corner.

• Culpeper’s Original Courthouses – Step back through time as you pass interpretive markers and walk towards Main Street, where centuries of local history still echo in the architecture.
• Culpeper Artisan Collective at PeaPod Atelier – Take a piece of Culpeper home with you and shop this unique collection from regional artisans.
• La Bee da Loca – This boutique buzzes with personality. Buy fresh honeycomb, meet the bees, and spin the hive for a fun, interactive experience.
• Collage Spa – Add a touch of self-care to your itinerary. Whether it’s a quick manicure or a head-to-toe full spa day, this boutique spot offers relaxing treatments in a cozy setting.

Traveling with Littles

Culpeper is ideal for family escapes and multigenerational getaways. With kid-friendly, fun stops at every turn, little ones can roam freely, while adults enjoy the charm.

• VA250 Mobile Museum – Rolling into town this June, this traveling exhibit celebrates 250 years of Virginia history with hands-on learning and immersive displays.
• Puzzle Room Live – Work as a team to decipher codes and escape themed rooms in this interactive rainy-day adventure.
• Bounce With Us – Indoor inflatables and open playtime invite kids to burn off energy, while parents relax.
• State Climb – Indoor rock climbing in a family-friendly space perfect for rock climbers of all levels.
• Throwbacks Arcade – Retro fun meets modern games in this lively arcade tucked away downtown, offering entertainment for kids and adults.

Cool Off in Culpeper

Escape the heat without sacrificing fun. Culpeper offers refreshing places to chill out, from splashy adventures to shaded parks.

• Rockwater Park Splashpad – Let kids run wild through cool jets, while adults enjoy picnic spots and walking trails.
• Paddling at the Rappahannock River – Float through nature at your own pace. Rent a kayak nearby or bring your own and explore a peaceful stretch of nature.
• If you’re seeking a peaceful escape, head to Lake Culpeper. Lake Culpeper Adventures at The Ole Country Store is your convenient starting point, where you can easily rent a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or paddleboat.

Read more tips for Coolcationing in Culpeper.

Bites and Brews

Culpeper’s food scene is full of flavor, with an emphasis on welcoming vibes and local ingredients. Whether you’re brunching outside or sipping a cider, the pace here is delightfully slow.

• Pinto Thai – Fresh flavors, colorful boba tea and patio seating that’s perfect for family dining.
• Old Trade Brewery & Cidery  – With wide open space, this is a favorite for craft drink lovers and families alike.

Culpeper Sleeps: Boutique & Beyond

• West Park Gardens – West Park Gardens offers a charming blend of historic elegance and modern comfort. This 1920s-era red-brick home is just a short walk from downtown’s vibrant shops, restaurants, and attractions.
• Cabins at Virginia Bison Co. – Nestled within the serene landscapes of Culpeper, Virginia, the cabins at Cibola Farms offers a unique retreat on a 300-acre working bison farm. Choose from three secluded cabins that provide guests with an intimate connection to nature, surrounded by rolling pastures and the gentle presence of grazing bison.
• Culpeper Manor – A newly refinished spacious and luxurious vacation home, located on a wooded lot in a peaceful neighborhood.

In a season that’s all about slowing down and soaking it in, Culpeper delivers fresh-air freedom combined with live music energy, and the joy of discovering something new every day.

Explore more Places to Stay, Things to Do, Places to Eat & Drink, and upcoming Events. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @visitculpeperva to stay up to date on upcoming happenings.