CULPEPER, Va. (7News) — Tucked in the foothills of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Culpeper, Virginia may just be the summer destination you didn’t know you needed.

This charming town strikes the perfect balance between small-town warmth, wide-open adventure, and a deep-rooted sense of place. With rolling countryside, rich Revolutionary War history, and events that feel both personal and grand, Culpeper invites you to slow down, explore more, and make summer memories that matter.

Culpeper is a place where the accommodations are as diverse as the experiences. Visitors can settle into a cozy downtown boutique hotel steps from shops and dining, book a family-friendly vacation rental with mountain views, or go rustic with riverside camping and scenic glamping. Looking for something immersive? Try a farm stay—wake up to wide skies and working fields.

Summer in Culpeper is best enjoyed outside. Cyclists love the scenic backroads and pastoral routes, while hikers can explore trails at the Culpeper Battlefields State Park or head just west into Shenandoah National Park. Paddle the Rappahannock River, fish at Lake Culpeper, or stroll shaded walking trails designed to offer a break from the heat.

Need to unwind? Wineries, breweries, and distilleries are in full summer swing, with weekend live music, food trucks, and lots of outdoor seating to soak up the views and the vibes.

Downtown Culpeper isn’t just picturesque—it’s alive with creativity. The self-guided public art tour reveals bold murals, hidden details, and the iconic LOVE signs that have become favorites among selfie-seekers. The town's Culpeper Uncovered initiative adds depth to the experience with interactive storytelling woven throughout.

Family-friendly festivals fill the summer calendar. Kick off the season with the Culpeper Pride Festival at Mountain Run Winery (June 1), step into the past at Historic Germanna’s colonial conference in July, or bring the kids to the wildly fun Wizard Weekend (July 25–27), when downtown transforms into a world of spells and sorcery. Close out the season in true Virginia style with the Culpeper Rodeo (August 30)—a crowd favorite that blends sport, music, and Southern flair.

This year, Culpeper plays a starring role in Virginia’s 250th Commemoration (VA250) , marking 250 years since the American Revolution. A place that once trained Minutemen and shaped the fight for freedom, Culpeper is honoring its past with a very present celebration.

This fall, Culpeper’s 250th Commemoration History Week brings the past to life with immersive, accessible programming. The week begins with an Oktoberfest & History Faire at Salubria on October 18, continues with walking tours, living history, and special events throughout town, and culminates in a spectacular Dinner Alfresco at Yowell Meadow Park on October 25—a perfect blend of history, hospitality, and heritage.

With so much to explore—on trails, through time, and across vineyard-lined hills— Culpeper, VA delivers the kind of summer you’ll talk about all year long. Whether you’re coming for the adventure, the art, the events, or the deep roots of history, you’ll leave with a story all your own.