The Complete Guide to Visiting Culpeper, Virginia

You’ll find Main Street charm, historical adventures, and memorable dining experiences when you visit Culpeper. 

A gem in the rolling foothills of the Piedmont, Culpeper is ready to surprise you with unique opportunities. Here are our recommendations for where to stay, eat, and drink, plus top attractions and nearby fun in Culpeper, Virginia. 
 

WHERE TO STAY IN CULPEPER

Fountain Hall

A stately inn conveniently located within walking distance of many downtown Culpeper attractions, Fountain Hall offers six different rooms and suites. Each has unique decor, but all are equipped with amenities to make your stay comfortable and quiet. 

West Park Gardens 

If you’re traveling with a group or as a family, consider booking a four-bedroom home at West Park Gardens. The property comes with onsite parking, a fenced garden, and entertainment options like a pool table and cornhole. 

Suites at 249

There are six modern rooms available at this boutique hotel in the Historic District. Suites at 249 is a concierge-less hotel, so you can check in at your leisure with a personal guest code. 

Keep exploring more lodging options. 
 

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

Raven’s Nest Coffee House–Fuel your day with a locally roasted cup of joe or stop by in the afternoon for a craft cocktail and bite to eat at this friendly cafe. 

Knakal’s Bakery–Stop for a classic baked treat like a donut, eclair, or loaf of fresh made bread from this longtime Culpeper business. 

It’s About Thyme–You’re guaranteed a meal to remember at It’s About Thyme, where intricate murals contribute to the Old World ambiance of the casual restaurant. 

Frost Cafe–Opt for a classic diner vibe at this approachable spot on East Davis Street. 

Dtom Dtun Noodle–Find all kinds of Asian noodles at Dtom Dtun, whether you’re craving ramen, lo mein, pho, or khao soi. There are also plenty of appetizers to munch on during your culinary survey of the continent. 

Pinto Thai–Since 2004, the family team behind Pinto Thai has been preparing quality Thai food for Culpeper locals and visitors alike. 

Hungry for more? Find dozens of local restaurants in Culpeper. 
 

TOP ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO

Old House Vineyards

Sip wine at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, take a tour of the lush vineyards, and enjoy a bite to eat in the restored 19th century farmhouse at Old House Vineyards. The winery also operates as a distillery and brewery — the first “trifecta” in Virginia! 

Take a Mural Tour

Craft your own self-guided mural tour while you explore downtown Culpeper. Use this map to find popular public art pieces — including a LOVEwork — and don’t forget to take pictures. 

Culpeper Cheese Company 

Up your charcuterie game or enjoy sampling rare offerings at this specialty cheese shop. 

Shop on East Davis Street

Stop into eclectic and curated shops as you make your way down Davis Street in the heart of downtown Culpeper. Find the perfect gift to take home at Culpeper Artisan Collective, The Bear and The Blade, Botanical Dwellings, or Fulton Found. Don’t miss browsing the racks at clothing and accessories stores like Pepperberries and The Salted Lemon. 

Culpeper Battlefields State Park

Designated as a state park in 2024, Culpeper Battlefields State Park allows visitors to explore four Civil War battles that were fought in the county: Brandy Station (site of the largest cavalry battle in North America), Cedar Mountain, Kelly’s Ford, and Rappahannock Station. Walking and equestrian trails are available in the park.

Library of Congress Packard Campus

Get ready to nerd out at this Library of Congress facility, a truly unique space that houses the nation’s largest audiovisual archive. Walk the grounds and admire the architecture and landscaping before catching a free screening of a preserved film at the theater, which features a state-of-the-art project booth. 

East Street Historic District

Take in the architecture of this residential neighborhood, located on one of Culpeper’s oldest streets. Some of the homes date back to the 1830s, with a variety of Greek and Colonial Revival styles represented. 

Virginia Bison Company

Sign up for a guided tour of a 300-acre working bison farm that’s all about sustainability. You can even stay overnight in an on-site cabin.
 

JUST DOWN THE ROAD…

Shenandoah National Park | Around a 30-minute drive from Culpeper is the Thornton Gap entrance to Shenandoah National Park, a 300-square-mile sanctuary of trailside flowers, tumbling streams, and panoramic mountain vistas. 

Bonus: While there’s plenty to do within the park, we’ve also got recommendations for where to eat and things to do near the entrance. 

Lake Anna | Travel around 40 miles southeast of Culpeper and you’ll find Lake Anna, Virginia’s third largest lake and a hotspot for boating, sailing, fishing, swimming, and watersports. 

Gordonsville | A hotspot for antiquing enthusiasts, Gordonsville is also known for its museums, including the Civil War Medical Museum, as well as its fall festivals. It’s around 36 miles south of Culpeper. 

Warrenton | For more small town charm, head 25 miles north to Warrenton. Don’t forget to stop by Red Truck Bakery in Old Town for a sweet treat. 

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with your family, a Virginia vacation’s got all that you love, all in one place. Start planning your trip to Culpeper.