While there are plenty of recreational activities in the waters of Virginia to cool you off during the hot days of summer, we have an even better alternative—skip the blistering heat and enjoy the Great Outdoors at night. Make plans to attend these five evening activities this summer and discover what makes Virginia’s outdoors so unforgettable.  

Adventure Kayak Tours—Chesapeake

Adventure Kayak Tours offers night paddling trip by reservation request, creating a custom evening out on the water for your group. Take a starlit paddling excursion and you may spot the owls that live in the Northwest River Natural Area Preserve. After dark tours can be self-guided or accompanied by an expert, but reservations are always required. 

Night Skies—Luray

Big Meadows Stargazing

Held in the Big Meadows area of Shenandoah National Park, Night Skies draws amateur astronomers and romance-seeking stargazers to catch a glimpse of the stunning starlight. Pack a blanket, chair, and a flashlight for some of the most uninterrupted views of Virginia’s night skies. This monthly event is dependent on the weather, and will be rescheduled in the case of rain or heavy clouds.  

For an overnight trip, book a room at Big Meadows Lodge or bring along your camping gear and stay at the nearby Lewis Mountain Campgrounds. A special presentation of the Night Sky Festival is held in August, with constellation tours, solar scope viewings, telescope viewings and hands-on activities. 

Keep looking to the stars with our guide to stargazing in Virginia. 

Sunset Dolphin Paddle with Chesapean Outdoors—Virginia Beach

Paddle along the Chesapeake Bay, take in serene views, and spot native wildlife, including dolphins, on this two-hour paddle. The tour will take you to near the Cape Henry Lighthouse and Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. 

Starry Nights at Veritas Vineyards & Winery—Afton

Veritas Vineyards Starry Nights
Photo Credit: Kate Magee

Veritas Vineyards & Winery hosts Starry Nights, a summer outdoor concert series held on the lush lawns of the vineyard. Bring picnic blankets or lawn chairs to relax under the stars and sip on fine wines, all while enjoying live music performances. Call in advance to reserve your spot at the vineyard for these live concerts under the stars.  

Sunset Polo at Great Meadow—The Plains

Saturday evenings, visit Great Meadow for their Sunset Polo series, presented by Blue Valley Winery & Vineyards. Pack a picnic basket and blanket, then nab a seat on the grass or reserve a railside box, which fits up to six people. Watch polo, drink wine, and dance the night away. Gates open at 5:30 PM, the first match starts at 6:00 PM with dancing in the pavilion following the final feature match at 8:00 PM.