The Best Affordable Summer Activities in the Shenandoah Valley

You don’t need to spend big to make big memories in Virginia this summer! From waterfall views to live music and hands-on history, the Shenandoah Valley is packed with experiences that are low on cost but high on fun. Here’s your guide to some of the best budget-friendly ways to explore the region this season.

Peruse the Local Farmers Market

Summertime means fresh produce, local crafts, and open-air shopping at community farmers markets. Wednesdays through August 27 at Massanutten Resort, you can check out the Massanutten Farmers Market to browse handmade goods, enjoy live music, and stock up on seasonal fruits and veggies. For year-round options, check out South Street Barn Market in the heart of downtown Woodstock or Lexington Farmers Market known for its high-quality, locally sourced products from the surrounding Blue Ridge region.

Take in the Scenic Beauty of Shenandoah

Immerse yourself in nature at Shenandoah National Park where scenic vistas surround you on every side. Home to over 500 miles of trails and countless waterfall hikes, you’ll have plenty to fill those long summer days. Entrance passes range from $15–$30 per vehicle, but savvy visitors can plan around  free entrance days to save a few dollars!

For a less active, but just as rewarding, waterfall adventure add Falling Spring to your list, an 80-foot waterfall visible right from the roadside overlook. No hiking or entrance fees required, and the views are well worth a packed picnic.

Adventure enthusiasts can discover a world beneath the surface at five unique caverns across the Shenandoah Valley. Explore the awe-inspiring Luray Caverns, the largest in the eastern U.S. and a designated National Landmark, along with Endless Caverns, Shenandoah Caverns, Skyline Caverns, and Grand Caverns.

Keep Cool With Water Activities

With both Indoor & Outdoor WaterParks, Massanutten Resort is the ultimate spot for making a splash this summer. Plan ahead for cheaper prices or opt to visit around discounted “Green Days” for lower admission. Bonus: every Sunday from June 22 - August 17, their Outdoor WaterPark will be hosting a Lei'd Back Sunday event complete with a DJ and specialty cocktails and mocktails for purchase.

If you’re looking to explore beyond the resort, make your way to a local outfitter for a tubing adventure on the Shenandoah River. Check out Front Royal Adventures, Shenandoah River Outfitters, or Massanutten River Adventures for affordable river tube rentals.

Visit a Museum in the Shenandoah Valley

History is alive and well in the Shenandoah Valley, where museums offer immersive and affordable experiences. Only a short 10-minute drive away from the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum (and $12 ticket), stop by the biggest open-air living history museum in the Shenandoah Valley, the Frontier Culture Museum where costumed interpreters illustrate how diverse people and cultures blended together into a new American way of life. Or head north to Winchester to tour the 50,000-square-foot Museum of the Shenandoah Valley. Marvel over unique displays of miniature houses, six acres of stunning gardens (don't miss the Gardens at Night concert series), and a beautifully preserved eighteenth-century house.

Find Tranquility on the Farm

R&R takes on a new meaning at White Oak Lavender Farm & The Purple WOLF Vineyard, which offers an abundance of ways to experience peacefulness in the outdoors, all at affordable prices. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, lavender U-pick experiences, self-guided farm tours, and the can't-miss Discovery Area designed to help visitors relax with features like a walking labyrinth, pond, and adult and children’s swings. For some animal therapy, check out their small animal encounters or venture to The Woodstone Meadows Stables & Petting Farm in Massanutten for low-cost pony rides and petting farm experiences ideal for children.