Travel and Dish

The warmer weather and longer days mean it’s time to rejuvenate your soul after a long winter. I love hopping in my car and heading out for the weekend. Sometimes I travel with my husband, or friends, and also my adult daughters who make everything lively and see things the way younger people do. A fresh eye.

Last spring I headed to Culpeper , Virginia where I spent a few days exploring Main Street, along with a variety of outdoor activities, shopping and dining experiences.

Culpeper’s Main Street

Culpeper has plenty of adventures to get that heart pumping again. This town is truly a hidden gem and only two hours from Washington DC in the Virginia Piedmont. Downtown Culpeper has a busy Main Street, with more than a dozen locally owned boutiques, bakeries and a history museum. I really liked Raven’s Nest Coffee Shop for the pastries and friendly vibe. You’ll find lots of unique merchandise here, like Le Monkey House’s irreverent clothes and gifts. There’s the classy outdoor clothing at Fulton Found, and earth-friendly finds at Green Roost.

But the bucolic countryside is the big draw. Immerse in the rambling farmland where local makers thrive and produce memorable experiences. One of the most relaxing and joyful experiences I’ve had in awhile was petting baby goats at Charming Hill Goat Farm. If you’re up for a trail ride or farm stay, check out Andora Farm (some weekends you might catch a look at a real live cattle drive). From May through October, watch the daredevils at the Bealeton Flying Circus. The bi-planes do a loop-de-loop while you holler and hoot.

Culpeper has plenty of dining options, from the steaks and seafood at Piedmont Steakhouse (my favorite) to Burnt Ends BBQ. Of all Culpeper’s charms I was most impressed with the beer, wine and spirits scene. Most notably Old House Vineyard where they produce all three on the scenic grounds (check out the World War II themed distillery there). Far Gohn Brewing produces German-style beer and Morais Vineyards is known for Portuguese wines. Just a few miles from Old Rag and Shenandoah National Park, there is just too much for one weekend. 

History buffs can visit Civil War battlefields and the beautifully preserved Graffiti house where Civil War soldiers from both sides left their marks on the walls. So, take advantage of this perfect weather and go on a MidAtlantic road trip to this town nestled between the Rappahannock and Rapidan Rivers, just a short drive to Shenandoah National Park.

You’ll find plenty to love in Culpeper!