Virginia Summer Bucket List: 34 Ways to Make the Most of the Season
Summer in Virginia was made for adventure—bike rides along the Potomac, paddleboarding at sunset, rooftop cocktails, and weekend escapes to wine country or the coast. Whether you're spending the day in Alexandria or heading to the mountains, here’s your go-to list of 34 unforgettable ways to soak up the season.
Close to Home: Alexandria and Northern Virginia
Bike the Mount Vernon Trail. Ride along the river from Old Town to George Washington’s estate—or all the way into DC.
Spend a Saturday Morning at the Old Town Farmers Market. One of the oldest continually operating farmers markets in the country.
Kayak or Paddleboard from Belle Haven Marina. Calm waters and scenic views make this a favorite summer spot.
Tour George Washington’s Mount Vernon (by boat or by bike!). Take the scenic route to history.
Catch a Show at The Birchmere. This legendary music hall hosts major acts in an intimate setting.
Dine Outdoors at Ada’s on the River or a DC Rooftop. Try Top of the Gate, Whiskey Charlie, or the Rooftop at the Graham for sunset views and summer cocktails.
Go Wine Tasting in Loudoun County. Highlights include Bluemont Vineyard, 868 Estate, and Stone Tower Winery.
8. Hike Great Falls Park. Towering rock formations and rushing waterfalls just minutes from the city.
9. Tour a Local Brewery or Cidery. Don’t miss Port City Brewing or Lost Boy Cider in Alexandria—perfect for a flight and a bite from food trucks.
10. Take a Paddleboat Ride at Burke Lake Park. A relaxing outing that’s great for families.
11. Take a Ghost Tour in Old Town Alexandria or Fredericksburg. History gets a haunting twist after dark.
Blue Ridge & Shenandoah Adventures
12. Hike to McAfee Knob or Old Rag. Bucket-list-worthy views and iconic Appalachian summits.
13. Cruise Skyline Drive or the Blue Ridge Parkway. Scenic overlooks, wildflowers, and peaceful winding roads.
14. Go Tubing or Kayaking on the Shenandoah or James River. Cool off with a float through Virginia’s rolling hills.
15. Stay in a Treehouse, Yurt, or Cozy Airbnb in Wine Country. The perfect summer reset.
16. Spend a Weekend in Charlottesville Wine Country. Visit King Family, Pippin Hill, Early Mountain, and Veritas Vineyards.
17. Ride the Virginia Creeper Trail. A 34-mile scenic bike trail through forests and farmland.
18. Explore Luray Caverns. Underground wonders just a short drive from Shenandoah.
19. Taste Your Way Through Staunton or Lexington. Charming small towns packed with culinary gems.
20. Watch a Movie at the Goochland Drive-In Theater. A nostalgic night under the stars.
21. Tour Lavender Fields at Seven Oaks Farm or White Oak Lavender. Visit mid-to-late summer for peak bloom.
Coastal Escapes & Chesapeake Charm
22. Spend a Weekend in Virginia Beach or Cape Charles. Sand, sun, and laid-back beach town vibes.
23. Go Sailing, Jet-Skiing, or Crabbing on the Bay. Adventure or relaxation—your call.
24. Attend the Chincoteague Pony Swim (late July). A unique and beloved summer tradition
25. Tour Historic Williamsburg. Stay at the Williamsburg Inn and play a round at Golden Horseshoe Golf Club.
26. Visit Busch Gardens or Kings Dominion. Thrills, shows, and family fun.
27. Explore Natural Bridge State Park. Walk beneath the 215-foot limestone arch and explore nearby caverns and trails.
28. Attend a Festival on the Eastern Shore or in the Virginia Highlands. Live music, local food, and small-town charm.
More Virginia Summer Favorites
29. Pick Your Own Fruit. Strawberries, peaches, and blackberries at Hollin Farms, Great Country Farms, or Carter Mountain.
30. Attend a Food Truck Festival or Night Market. Check out Truckeroo in DC or events at The Wharf.
31. Visit Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s Home. History meets stunning mountain views.
32. Hunt for Antiques in Middleburg. A perfect pairing with wine country weekend vibes.
33. Sip Craft Beer on the LoCo Ale Trail or Richmond’s Beer Trail. From hoppy IPAs to crisp lagers, there’s a brew for every palate.
34. Watch Fireworks Over the Potomac (4th of July). Catch the show from Mount Vernon, the National Mall, or Old Town’s waterfront.
SEE ALSO: From Pools to Patios: Explore Alexandria’s Must-See June Homes
