21 Things to Do in Culpeper, VA: A Family Adventure Guide

Why aren’t more people talking about this charming Virginia town? Culpeper is the perfect destination for a family-friendly getaway, blending history, outdoor adventure, and unique local attractions. Located just one hour from the Shenandoah Mountains, 90 minutes from Washington, D.C., and two hours from Baltimore, this adorable town is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or a longer stay, Culpeper has plenty to offer for everyone in your family. Here’s your ultimate guide to things to do in Culpeper!

Start Your Culpeper Journey

1. Museum of Culpeper History

This small but fascinating museum showcases the area’s prehistoric and Civil War history, including a collection of fossils and exhibits about Culpeper’s unique past. It also has a small, hands-on kids play area and a gift shop.

👉 Learn More: Museum of Culpeper History

2. Culpeper Visitor Center

The Culpeper Visitor Center is right down the hall from the Museum of Culpeper History. It is a great way to acclimate yourself with the city, ask for suggestions from the friendly staff, and pick up brochures, maps, and discount coupons (my favorite). It is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm aside from major holidays. It may also close intermittently for a lunch break. Public bathrooms are also available.

👉 Learn More: Culpeper Visitor Center

3. Culpeper LOVE Sign

The Culpeper LOVE sign is located right across from the Visitor Center. Entitled “Reel LOVE” because it is decorated like movie reels, it is part of the signature LOVEworks collection of over 300 LOVE signs throughout Virginia. Snap a pic for instagram and tag #LoveVA!

👉 Learn More: Culpeper LOVE Sign

Downtown Culpeper Tours

4. Right the Record Walking Tour

Take a self-guided walking tour and delve into the powerful stories and history of Culpeper. It’s a meaningful way to connect with the local culture.

👉 Learn More: Right the Record

5. Find the Culpeper Murals

Culpeper currently has 13 vibrant murals throughout the downtown area. See if you can find them all!

👉 Learn More: Culpeper Mural Map

6. Explore South East Street

This historic street is the first residential neighborhood to be named to the National Register of Historic Places. It features over 40 homes influenced by Greek and Colonial Revival architecture dating back to the early 1800s.

👉 Learn More: East Street Historic District

Shoppping in Culpeper

7. Downtown Culpeper Shopping

Take a stroll through the main street and pop into the locally owned stores. Some of our favorites include:

• Collector’s Den a gamers paradise
• CHICquitata a girly store with a big Hello Kitty vibe
• Pepperberries gift shop that supports women’s health initiatives
• Reigning Cats & Dogs dog-friendly pet store
• Green Roost sustainable boutique

8. Antiquing in Culpeper County

Culpeper has several fun antique shops to browse. Our favorite is the MinuteMan Mini Mall because it offers 24,000 square feet of vintage wares, it is open 7 days a week, and welcomes well-behaved dogs.

👉 Learn More: Culpeper Antique Stores

Kid-Friendly Activities in Culpeper

9. PlayDate Children’s Museum

For families with younger kids, this children’s museum in downtown Culpeper indoor play zones are guaranteed to provide hours of fun. They also host weekly crafts, storytime, sensory-friendly hours, and other special events.

👉 Learn More: Playdate Culpeper

10. Bounce with Us

This indoor moon bounce play center is another favorite for those with little ones! This venue in nearby Brandy Station has open play time plus a dedicated Toddler Time once a week.

👉 Learn More: Bounce With Us

11. Throwbacks Arcade

Gamers of all ages will love this retro arcade in downtown Culpeper filled with 70 classic video and pinball games, including Pac-Man, Frogger, and Mortal Kombat. Admission is one flat fee, and kids under 5 are free. Food, beer, and cocktails are also available.

👉 Learn More: Throwbacks Arcade Culpeper Facebook Page

12. Puzzle Room Live

Puzzle Room Live rotates their escape room themes and offers exciting challenges! This is a wonderful activity for families with teens in Culpeper! Our kids absolutely loved it!

👉 Learn More: Puzzle Room Live

Active Adventures in Culpeper

13. Culpeper Skating Center

Roller skating is in again! The Culpeper Skating Center is a local’s favorite! Rent skates, groove to great music, and enjoy a retro experience. They also sell used roller skates!

👉 Learn More: Culpeper Skating Center

14. State Climb

Looking for an active and exciting challenge? Check out State Climb, Culpeper’s indoor rock-climbing gym. It’s great for beginners and experienced climbers alike and is an excellent way to burn off some energy.

👉 Learn More: State Climb

15. Hiking in Culpeper

Culpeper has two easy park trails within the city. Yowell Meadow Park is within walking distance from downtown and has a 1.7-mile loop trail. Rockwater Park is within driving distance and also has a 1.7-mile trail. Plus, there are several family-friendly amenities including a playground, obstacle course, and seasonal splash pad as well as an 18-hole disc golf course. History buffs will appreciate Cedar Mountain Battlefield in nearby Rapidan. The 2.1-mile loop will take you through the site of an 1862 battle. It is also a great choice for bird enthusiasts.

16. Verdun Adventure Bound

Located 10 minutes north of downtown Culpeper, this venue in Rixeyville offers camping and fishing, summer camps, and team building activities. They also host events like 5ks, concerts, a holiday light trail, and more.

👉 Learn More: Verdun Adventure Bound

More Fun Things to Do in Culpeper

17. Sips of Culpeper Passport Program

Visit Culpeper’s breweries, wineries, and distilleries to collect passport stamps and trade them in for prizes. This is a great way to experience the diverse locations throughout the area ranging from urban breweries to beautiful wineries set on rolling hills with sunset views! Many locations are pet- and kid-friendly and offer live entertainment and other events. A few of our favorites are:

• Far Gohn Brewing Company in downtown Culpeper that has delicious house-made pizzas that drop from the second floor on a rope!
• Old Trade Brewery & Cidery is a dog-friendly hidden gem has a cozy interior with a kids play area built into a former horse stall. For warmer months, they also have a sprawling playground, fenced in dog yard, axe throwing, fire pits, and yard games.
• Death Ridge Brewery Events is worth the drive to Jeffersonton! They host live music every Thursday through Sunday and offer local brews, wine, and cider alongside food truck options. Enjoy the relaxing vibes while taking in scenic views.

👉 Learn More: Sips of Culpeper

18. Enjoy a Live Concert

The Stage Alive Community Concert Association is a non-profit organization that puts on several performances a year. Shows include local and national musicians and dancers.

👉 Learn More: Stage Alive

19. Visit a Bison Farm Unique Farm Experiences

Learn about bison and sustainable farming at the Virginia Bison Company located just a short drive away from downtown. The farm welcomes guests daily for a self-guided, free tour. No reservations are needed. There is also a retail farm store on-site that is open from Wednesday to Sunday. Current hours are 9 am to 5 pm.

👉 Learn More: Virginia Bison Co. at Cibola Farms

20. Shop Local at Bees & Trees Farm

Located East of downtown Culpeper in Elkwood Virginia, Bees & Trees farm sells honey, jams, sauces, and other un-BEE-lievable products. They also have a cute little farm of rescue animals that kids love to visit that includes goats, miniature donkeys, chickens, cats, and dogs.

👉 Learn More: Bees & Trees Farm

21. Seasonal Events

Culpeper is a great place to visit during Christmas:

• Downtown Culpeper Holiday Events including Santa visits, special shopping days, and a tree lighting.
• A Holiday Tour of Historic Homes that takes place in early December.
• A self-guided Holiday Lights Driving Tour of the best private home Christmas lights around the city.

They also host an all-day Mardi Gras festival in downtown Culpeper. Plus, lots of warm weather events including a farmers’ market, block parties, and more!

👉 Learn More: Downtown Culpeper Events

Where to Eat in Culpeper

Fuel your adventures at these top restaurants and coffee shops:

• Breakfast Favorites: Ravens Nest Coffee Shop, 18 Grams Coffee Lab, and Frost Cafe.

• Lunch & Dinner: Piedmont Steakhouse (reservations recommended), Grass Rootes, or Graze to Griddle for farm-to-table options.

• Sweet Treats: Don’t miss La Chiapaneca for authentic and delicious desserts.

Places to Stay

Lucky Start Farm

Located 11 miles south of downtown Culpeper, this historic farmhouse has sprawling grounds, complete with cannon pits and trenches from the Battle of Morton’s Ford. The three-bedroom home accommodates up to five guests and is perfect for stargazing and watching Hereford cattle graze.

👉 Book Your Stay: Lucky Start Farm

Campo Cibola

For a unique escape, stay on a 300-acre bison farm! Choose between the rustic Cabin Vieja or the modern A-frame cabin, Cielo. Both options offer beautiful surroundings and a serene getaway.

👉 Learn More: Campo Cibola Farm Stays

Culpeper offers a little bit of everything for families: history, outdoor fun, unique dining, and local charm. Start planning your visit today and discover why this town is one of Virginia’s best-kept secrets!

Which activity will your family try first? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Looking for more Virginia getaway inspo? Check out 21 Fun Things to Do in Roanoke Virginia!