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Culpeper, Virginia, isn’t your typical vacation spot – it’s a hidden gem tucked away in Virginia’s Northern Piedmont. Forget crowded tourist traps! Culpeper offers a unique blend of fascinating historical sites that bring the past to life, exciting outdoor adventures to get your heart racing, and a welcoming community that makes you feel at home.
In this article, we’ll explore the best things to do in Culpeper County to make your visit unforgettable. Let’s dive in and discover why this hidden gem should be your next vacation destination!
Things to Do in Culpeper
Explore the Historic Downtown
Take a guided walking tour to learn more about Culpeper’s history. Learn about the town’s Civil War history, enjoy its architectural gems, and discover fascinating stories from the past. Most tours last around 1.5 hours, leaving you with some free time to explore independently. You’ll see plenty of historic buildings. George Washington surveyed this area of Virginia before becoming president.
If you prefer a self-guided adventure, download a walking tour app or map and explore Culpeper at your own pace. Many options highlight historical landmarks, architectural points of interest, and hidden gems you might miss otherwise.
For a more relaxing afternoon, soak up the natural beauty of Culpeper at Yowell Meadow Park. Enjoy a picnic lunch under the sun, stroll along scenic trails, or unwind on the green grass.
Library of Congress – Packard Campus
If you’re a cinephile, then your first stop in Culpeper needs to be at the Library of Congress Packard Campus. This is THE place where all types of recordings are lovingly preserved.
If you’re looking for audio recordings, movie recordings, and all types of digital items, this is where you’ll find them. This location prides itself on audio-visual conservation, restoring movies for the future. Public tours are available once a year.
Plan on viewing one of the free movies showcased in their original format every weekend.
PRO TIP: Look at the film schedule and plan your getaway around seeing a favorite movie!
Stop into Far Gohn Brewing Company
Unwind with a flight of unique brews and discover your new favorite pint at Far Gohn Brewing Company, a local favorite known for its welcoming atmosphere and innovative craft beers. They capture the spirit of traditional taverns with their brewing and serving space all in one location, just like pre-prohibition times.
Far Gohn celebrates the art of craft beer. Their house specialties are classic German ales – Kolsch, Hefeweizen, and Altbier – offering refreshing and flavorful options for any beer lover. But they don’t stop there!
A rotating selection keeps things exciting. Explore British ales, Belgian delights, and the creativity of American craft breweries. There’s something for everyone! And for a truly unique experience, visit on the weekend to try their special cask ale, served in the traditional style dating back centuries.
Sip on a Cocktail at Grass Rootes
Escape to the lively atmosphere of Grass Rootes! This Culpeper gem promises an unforgettable evening filled with delicious food, handcrafted cocktails, and live music.
Sip on specially crafted cocktails that fit your preferences as the friendly bartenders perform their magic. Live music from 6 pm to 9 pm brightens the atmosphere on Fridays with the musical talents of local performers.
Grass Rootes has a warm and friendly atmosphere, ideal for a fun night out with friends or a casual date night. Before you visit, make sure to check their hours and live music schedule.
Visitor Center and Museum of Culpeper History
Embark on a journey through time at the Culpeper Visitor Center and Museum of Culpeper History! Located in the heart of downtown Culpeper, this state-of-the-art facility is housed within the old train station.
While here, you’ll be amazed by the museum’s incredible scope, showcasing everything from 215-million-year-old dinosaur tracks to modern art installations. This unique blend allows you to appreciate Culpeper’s story across several eras, from prehistoric times to the present.
The engaging exhibits go beyond static displays, bringing Culpeper’s past to life through interactive elements and multimedia presentations. To keep things fresh, the museum rotates exhibits throughout the year.
Aside from the exhibits, the friendly and knowledgeable staff is always happy to answer your questions and provide deeper insights into Culpeper’s history. The Visitor Center is also conveniently located near the museum and provides additional resources like maps and brochures to recommend things to do. There’s also a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs.
Plan your visit by checking their website for current hours, admission fees, and guided tour options (available by booking in advance or walk-in, depending on availability).
Wollam Gardens Flower Farm
Escape to a world of blooms and breathtaking beauty at Wollam Gardens Flower Farm, a sprawling 11-acre oasis just outside Culpeper, Virginia! Wollam Gardens is open every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Each season brings a fresh wave of vibrant blooms, ensuring a unique and captivating experience on every visit. For the ultimate hands-on experience, check if cut-your-own flowers are available on your visit (call ahead to confirm, especially during busy wedding seasons).
But even if you can’t pick your own blooms, Wollam Gardens offers a selection of pre-cut flowers for purchase, allowing you to bring a piece of the farm’s beauty home.
If you want a peaceful and uncrowded experience, consider scheduling your visit outside peak wedding season weekends. Yes, the farm is the perfect wedding venue. Check their website or call ahead for the farm’s wedding calendar to plan accordingly.
Before you leave, browse the charming farmhouse shop for various delightful items, including locally-made crafts and unique souvenirs.
Mountain Run Winery
This lovely family-operated winery is open every day from 12 pm to 7 pm. Mountain Run Winery offers an impressive selection of award-winning wines to suit all tastes. But wine isn’t all they offer! Craft beers are also available on tap, allowing you to sample a range of styles and flavors.
Feeling indecisive? Try a tasting flight, a carefully crafted selection of wines or beers that will help you find your new favorite.
The tasting area is housed in a converted 1950s corn crib and has a warm and inviting atmosphere ideal for relaxing with your favorite beverage. Before you leave, browse the on-site shop for a selection of locally made crafts and souvenirs, a perfect way to remember your visit to this charming winery.
Shop Main Street
One of the best things about exploring the small town of Culpeper is the opportunity to visit unique boutiques. Strolling Main Street and neighboring side streets, you’ll find a variety of shops catering to your fancy. Vintage shoppers delight in discoveries made at Vintage Vibes. Collector’s Den may help fill a void in your collection.
The gentleman in your life (you know, the one that is hard to shop for) will appreciate the distinguished offerings from Fulton Found. The international lover in me delighted in the items at The Cameleer that reminded me of my adventures. Or pick up cute decor at Jane of All Trades. And don’t forget your four-legged friend with an item or two from Reigning Cats and Dogs.
Oak Shade Farm (Crafts & Events)
A visit to Oak Shade Farm promises an enriching and enjoyable experience at this thriving center of crafts and events. This family-owned farm hosts a variety of activities throughout the year, from craft fairs and workshops to seasonal festivals.
You’ll be welcomed into a warm and inviting atmosphere when you arrive at Oak Shade Farm. I was encouraged to sit for a spell, admiring the beautiful views and even given some hand-picked lavender to take home!
The craft fairs showcase a diverse range of items, from jewelry and pottery to home decor and artisanal foods, highlighting the incredible talent within the local community.
One of the highlights of Oak Shade Farm is its Open Farm Days. These special events invite old friends, new friends, nature lovers, families, and individuals to come out and enjoy the farm’s beautiful surroundings.
Seasonal festivals at Oak Shade Farm are also popular, celebrating everything from the arrival of spring blooms to the harvest season. These events often feature live music, delicious food, and fun activities for all ages.
Little Fork Church
A visit to the historic Little Fork Church is a journey back in time. Established in the 18th century, this charming church stands as a testament to the area’s rich history and architectural beauty.
As you enter, you’ll be greeted by the original woodwork and box pews, showcasing the craftsmanship of the past. The pulpit stands as a central feature, reflecting the architectural style of the colonial era. The church’s outside brick walls include unique carvings that highlight its historical significance.
Little Fork is also historically unique as the only active colonial church in Culpeper County, VA. Registered as a historic landmark, it offers visitors a chance to connect with the rich history of the region. Worshiping inside a church so full of history and love is a profound experience that enriches both the spirit and the mind.
Culpeper Downtown Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning from May to October, explore the Culpeper Downtown Farmers Market. Come see the best that local farms and businesses have to offer.
Grab a fresh cup of coffee or bakery item as you wander from stall to stall admiring local produce and crafts. Whether you want to bring home some local honey or delicious farm fresh mushrooms, you’ll find it here.
Friendly vendors happily explain their passion for their product and teach you the best way to use their wares. It’s a win-win situation!
Old House Vineyards
Visit Virginia’s first tri-fecta brewery – that’s a winery, brewery, and distillery! That’s right, at Old House Vineyards, offers several venues within this lovingly restored former alfalfa farm where visitors can sample all their goods.
To try some of their beers, visit their Tap Room or the Irish Pub (21+ only!). You’ll feel like you stepped into an authentic pub where conversation and friends are king. Visit the tap room is you prefer a more laidback, family-friendly atmosphere.
Sample one of the ten wines lovingly produced onsite from locally grown grapes. Join their wine club to receive the latest offerings before they’re available to the rest of the public.
And why not try their distillery products? Old House produces seven spirits – from a more traditional rum to whiskeys to vodka and more. Many support a cause or idea. The Dude Spirit vodka celebrates all who served and serve in our armed forces. There’s even a World War II Museum in the Distillery Tasting Room!
Drinks at Beer Hound Brewery
Relax and prepare your taste buds for dinner with pre-dinner brews at Beer Hound Brewery. This microbrewery, a local favorite located in downtown Culpeper, has a casual and inviting ambiance – the ideal place to start your evening.
Sample a range of their award-winning craft beers, all of which are produced in-house and quality-certified by the VA Craft Brewers Guild. Settle down and enjoy the lively spirit of the tasting room. They even take pride in using local ingredients whenever possible, ensuring a unique and authentic taste experience.
Explore their beer selection through a flight or single pours, allowing you to discover your new favorite brew. Feeling hungry? Food trucks are often parked outside, offering a variety of delicious options to pair with your beer.
Refuel and Recharge in Culpeper restaurants
After taking in Culpeper’s charm, it’s time to recharge for your adventures with a delicious meal! The local food scene is diverse and delicious.
This town has a thriving culinary scene, offering a variety of options to satisfy your taste buds. Craving classic American fare? Head to Flavor on Main for mouthwatering steaks, juicy burgers, or fresh seafood in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
In the mood for international flavors? Embark on a culinary journey to Peru at 4 C’s Restaurant, a family-run gem offering authentic dishes. For a casual bite on the go, check out Graze to Griddle, a popular food truck serving up delicious 100% grass-fed beef burgers and fresh sides.
No matter your craving, Culpeper has a delicious lunch option waiting for you. Enjoy a relaxing meal and savor the flavors of this charming town! For a truly unique experience, explore the offerings at the Culpeper Downtown Farmers Market (Saturdays only) and sample fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and homemade treats from local vendors.
Where to Eat in Culpeper
In addition to the places named above, like Grass Rootes, and the offerings at several of the breweries, check out these delicious establishments:
Brunch at Grill 309
Skip the fancier restaurants and go right to Grill 309 for a delicious and casual breakfast or brunch experience. This friendly neighborhood restaurant provides an inviting atmosphere perfect for unwinding and enjoying a range of breakfast and brunch favorites. While their award-winning burgers are popular at lunchtime, breakfast is the favorite.
Relax in the relaxed atmosphere and fuel up for your day’s adventures. Craving some energy with your meal? Grill 309 offers creative cocktails to add a touch of fun to your morning routine. On beautiful days, take a seat on the outdoor patio (weather permitting) and soak up the fresh Culpeper air.
PRO TIP: Order the Breakfast B.E.L.T., featuring a nested egg in the top slice of a BLT that puts those claiming to have bacon in their BLTs to shame. So good!
Lunch at Pinto Thai Culpeper
This award-winning, family-owned restaurant is a must visit when in Culpeper. Fans of authentic Thai flavors will delight in discovering this hidden gem.
Pinto Thai Culpeper is perfect for both experienced Thai lovers as well as those venturing into Thai cuisine for the first time. The menu offers several sampler platters for soon-to-be fans to try a variety of flavors. Thai food devotees will find many of their favorites from an extensive selection of dishes from curries to noodles to fried rice options and salads like Lab Gai.
The best part (to me!) is that items are delivered by a robot. It’s a fun place with a great lunch and dinner menu.
Dinner at It’s About Thyme
Step into Old World ambiance in this European-style fine dining establishment. At It’s About Thyme, offers a variety of foods from traditional starters and salads, to sandwiches, to pasta, and main courses, making it a hit when unsure what you want to eat.
Their daily menu offers incredible tastes and the unexpected. Featuring the best and freshest options, the chef produces dishes like Lobster Ravioli or Wasabi Potato Croquettes. Sometimes longer than the regular menu, explore these seasonal flavors.
Want to enjoy the outdoors? The alley next door serves as the restaurant’s outdoor dining option. It’s a more casual and relaxed atmosphere, though often has a longer wait when the weather is warm.
Coffee at Ravens Nest Coffee Shop
If coffee is one of your love languages, then stop by Ravens Nest Coffee Shop. Sip on your favorite version of this lovely nectar whether siting inside on the comfy couches among plants or while people watching at an outdoor table. Or try one of their alcoholic versions like the Nutty Raven featuring espresso, vodka, Kahlua, and Frangelico.
If it’s snack time, sample one of their delicious pastries, quiches, or sandwiches. Pick up a bag of their coffee to take home as a souvenir!
Getting to Culpeper
Located in Northern Virginia, Culpeper is easily accessible from East Coast locations. Culpeper is a short drive from I-95 (only 42 minutes!). The town is about 60 minutes outside of Washington, DC.
Or make it easy on yourself and take the train! One of the best ways to explore is by taking the train and then walking. The Visitors Center has information on local taxis so you can order one if you wish to get around to the farther reaches of the area.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Culpeper, VA
Small town Culpeper is a charming destination for a weekend getaway. If you’re looking for a place to visit that can be easily discovered by walking, then Culpeper fits the bill perfectly.
Meander the beautiful streets while enjoying a more relaxed pace of life. Whether you love history, great food, a friendly town, or all of the above, you’ll find it during a visit to Culpeper.
Check out these related posts:
- Weekend Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Winchester, VA
- 20 Best Things to Do in Woodstock, VA
- Harrisonburg, VA: A Foodie Destination
I want to thank Visit Culpeper for hosting my visit. As always, my posts accurately reflect my experiences and opinions.
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
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Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.