10 Things to do in The Shenandoah Valley This Summer
Let the Shenandoah Valley be your summer playground. Whether you're trying to hide from the heat, a music lover, a history buff, or you want to spend every minute outside this summer, the Valley has something for you.
Here’s a roundup of some of my favorite things to do in the summer to enjoy the best of the Shenandoah Valley, even if that means just hiding from the heat:
Photo courtesy of Happ Coffee
1. Coffee Cupping Class at Happ Coffee
For coffee enthusiasts, the coffee cupping class at Happ Coffee in Waynesboro is a great learning experience. This hands-on class allows you to explore the nuances of different beans, learn about Happ’s in-house roasting process, and enhance your tasting skills. It’s a unique way to delve deeper into the world of coffee - highly recommend!
When: Thursdays at 11am
Where: Happ Coffee, Waynesboro, VA
Photo courtesy of the Luray Caverns
2. Explore the Luray Caverns
No visit to the Shenandoah Valley is complete without exploring the Luray Caverns. These underground formations offer a wild journey through vast chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The caverns also feature the world’s largest musical instrument, the Great Stalacpipe Organ, which is a marvel to hear. The perfect, underground hideaway from a hot day in the Valley.
When: Daily
Where: Luray, VA
Photo courtesy of the Frontier Culture Museum
3. Go Back in Time at the Frontier Culture Museum
Step back in time at the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton. This living history museum provides an immersive experience into the lives of early American settlers with interactive exhibits, historic buildings, and costumed interpreters. It’s both educational and entertaining, making it a great spot for visitors of all ages.
When: Daily
Where: Staunton, VA
Poplar Ridge’s booth at the Farmers Market. Photo courtesy of SFM.
4. Buy Local at the Staunton Farmer’s Market
If you’re a fan of fresh, local produce and artisanal goods, the Staunton Farmers Market is the place to be. Held every Saturday between April and October, this market features a wide array of vendors offering everything from farm-fresh vegetables and fruits to homemade pastries and crafts. It’s a wonderful way to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying some great food.
When: Saturdays, 7am - 1pm
Where: Downtown Staunton
Ox Eye Vineyard’s Tasting Room in Downtown Staunton. Photo by Pop of Molly Photography via Ox Eye Vineyards.
5. Drink Wine
The Shenandoah Valley is home to numerous wineries that offer a perfect summer escape. Spend a day wine tasting at local vineyards, where you can savor a variety of wines while soaking in picturesque views of rolling hills and lush vineyards. Popular wineries like Barren Ridge Vineyards and Ox Eye offer tastings and tours that are educational and enjoyable.
My pick: Ox Eye Tasting Room
When: 7 days a week, 12-6pm
Where: Downtown Staunton
Photo courtesy of Make Waynesboro.
6. Take a Class at Make Waynesboro Clay Studio
Unleash your creativity with a class at Make Waynesboro. The studio offers pottery classes that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned potters. You can create your own ceramic pieces while enjoying a relaxed and supportive environment. It’s a fantastic way to spend an afternoon out of the heat, and leave the class with a new skill and hopefully a few worthwhile homemade ceramics!
When: Scheduled classes vary, see studio calendar
Where: Make Waynesboro, Waynesboro, VA
Photo courtesy of Noelia Nunez.
9. Do Yoga in Gypsy Hill Park
Enjoy a serene morning of yoga in the park led by local Staunton artist and yoga instructor, Noelia Nuñez. Be sure to follow Noelia at for updates regarding location in the park and weather plans.
When: Sundays, follow @yoga_with_noe for updates
Where: Gypsy Hill Park, Staunton, VA
8. Enjoy a Picnic Date at Sunset Park
In the last several years the City resolved to recognize the old Waynesboro landfill property as a park. After years of hard work and restoring the property, Sunset Park is now open to the public and a beautiful spot to enjoy just that - the sunset. Pack your picnic baskets with a little dinner to go and grab a blanket to take in the beautiful view and Waynesboro’s newest park.
When: Daily
Where: 300 N. Winchester Avenue, Waynesboro VA 22980
9. Wine Tasting & Dinner at Patti’s Place
Join an evening of quality food and wine at Patti’s Place at Laurel Grove Wine Farm! They are hosting Stephen Hagen from Antiquum Farm to guide guests through a selection of regeneratively farmed and uniquely expressive wines. His Estate Wines selection will be paired with a farm-to-table family style meal prepared by Nikki Mommen, Patti’s own Culinary Director.
When: Friday, August 9th from 6-9pm
Where: 3178 Laurel Grove Road Winchester, VA 22602
10. Rockingham County Fair
Held annually, the Rockingham County Fair is a quintessential summer experience in the Valley. This family-friendly event features a happy mix of carnival rides, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and nostalgic fair food. Enjoy a fun, classic summer day out with the whole family.
When: August 12-17
Where: 4808 S. Valley Pike Harrisonburg, VA 22801
With so much to see and do, the Shenandoah Valley is a fantastic summer destination. From music and markets to history and natural wonders, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone. Enjoy your visit and make the most of your summer in this beautiful corner of Virginia!