Summer Bucket List – Things to do in Northern Virginia
Summer is here, and it’s time to soak up the sunshine and make every moment count. If you’re in Northern Virginia, you’re in for a treat because this region is bursting with activities that perfectly capture the charm of the season. Get ready to discover the best of what Northern Virginia has to offer and start planning the summer you’ve been dreaming of!
#1. Memorial Day Weekend Goat Yoga
Sunday, May 25 · 10 – 11am EDT
Little Goat Farm at the Lake
8954 Burwell Road Nokesville, VA 20181 United States
Ticket: $39.99
About the Event
Get ready for the most adorable and unforgettable experience at Little Goat Farm at the Lake! Picture this: you’re stretching into your downward dog while playful baby goats nuzzle, climb, and hop around you, spreading pure joy. No need to be a yoga pro here, just bring your sense of adventure (and love for cuddly, mischievous goats!). These tiny Nigerian Dwarf goats are full of personality and love, giving you plenty of chances to snuggle, laugh, and snap the perfect photo.
Plus, enjoy FREE goodies like cheese packages, fresh eggs, seasonal produce, and even a chance to win beautiful flower bouquets in our special raffles! Feeling peckish? There’s often a food truck on-site with tasty snacks and drinks. Rain or shine, the fun doesn’t stop—we’ll move to our big barn if the weather takes a turn.
Don’t miss out on bottle-feeding and snuggles with our baby goats and bunnies, too! It’s truly a day like no other. Spots fill up fast, so grab yours now and get ready for the sweetest day of your life!
#2. Kim Hosen Memorial Hike – 2025
Saturday, May 24 · 10am – 1pm EDT
17502 Beverley Mill Drive Broad Run, VA 20137 United States
FREE
About the Event
Join us in celebrating the incredible legacy of Kim Hosen, founder of the Prince William Conservation Alliance, by embarking on a breathtaking adventure through the natural wonders of Prince William County! On May 24th, lace up your hiking boots and explore the beauty she cherished so deeply at the VOF Preserve at Bull Run Mountains. From tidal wetlands to the majestic peaks of Bull Run, this unique landscape is teeming with environmental treasures that connect us all.
Guided by Sonnie Cuffey III from the NAACP, along with Joe Villari and John Lenox from the Virginia Outdoor Foundation, you’ll uncover the fascinating stories of the Occoquan Reservoir headwaters. Learn about the history, ecology, and cultural marvels that make this place so special.
#3. Stone Harbor, NJ: The Ultimate Beach Town for Boutique Shopping
Stone Harbor is a shopper’s paradise where beachside charm meets boutique elegance. Wander into The Well Dressed Olive and bring home a taste of sophistication with their gourmet olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and artisan spices that will have everyone asking for your secret ingredient.
For a wardrobe refresh, step into Skirt and browse chic collections from coveted brands like Veronica Beard and Le Superbe, or brighten your day with the bold, classic styles at The Preppy Palm and Coco Blu. Looking for family treasures? Breezin’ Up offers nautical logo shirts that scream seaside memories, while Bad Kitty Kids is a haven for colorful bows and whimsical finds for little ones.
Trendz Stone Harbor enchants with coastal-inspired fine jewelry and art, while Blue Eden pampers with hand-crafted perfumes and vegan soaps. To top it off, Charlotte Shoppe keeps you stylish from head to toe with breezy linen outfits and stunning footwear. Every corner of Stone Harbor holds a unique find waiting to become your next favorite thing. Where will you start your shopping spree?
#4. Unleash the Ultimate Boardwalk Adventure in Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City, Maryland, is a vibrant playground packed with adventure beyond the iconic boardwalk. Start your day on the water with jet ski rides, pontoon boat cruises, or an unforgettable parasailing experience from Paradise Watersports, giving you breathtaking views of the coastline.
Just a short drive away, Assateague Island National Seashore offers a serene escape with pristine beaches, gentle nature trails, and its famous wild horses. Step indoors for a dose of curiosity at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, filled with quirky oddities like shrunken heads, or immerse yourself in maritime history at the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum. Of course, no trip is complete without exploring the classic 3-mile boardwalk, where Jolly Roger Amusement Park delivers thrills with roller coasters, water slides, and arcade games, while Trimper Rides brings timeless nostalgia with its Ferris wheel, vintage carousel, and spooky haunted house.
Don’t forget to challenge your friends to skee-ball at Marty’s Playland for a perfect mix of fun and old-school vibes. Ocean City has something for everyone, so where will you start your adventure?
#5.Farmers’ Market 2025
Sunday, May 25 · 8am – 1pm EDT
Long Family Markets
163 Staffordboro Boulevard Stafford, VA 22556 United States
FREE
About the Event
Step right up to the Long Family’s Farmers’ Market 2025 for an unforgettable day! Don’t miss the chance to snag some luxurious BariGold hand-crafted Shea butter—you’ll absolutely love its rich, nourishing feel! Plus, every visit to our booth helps support Labour of Love, a dedicated 501(c)(3) organization transforming communities in Ghana since 2002.
With initiatives that have boosted local student enrollment by 75% in just five years, we’re on a mission to create even greater impact by enhancing education, providing medical supplies, and empowering agricultural growth. Want to make a difference? Hop aboard the #LoveTrain and join us in spreading love and meaningful change. Let’s build brighter futures together!
#6. Adventure Awaits: Family-Friendly Ziplining at Bear Mountain
Craving an adventurous family outing that’s out of the ordinary? Ziplining might just be the thrill you’re looking for! Perfect for all ages and skill levels, these courses promise a mix of excitement and breathtaking views. At Bear Mountain Ziplines in Luray, a family-owned treasure nestled in over 50 acres of stunning forest, your crew can soar through the treetops and take in the scenic beauty from a whole new perspective.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned zipline enthusiast, their friendly team ensures everyone feels at ease. Be sure to book ahead, though, as reservations are recommended to guarantee your spot for this unforgettable adventure. It’s time to add some zip to your family’s fun!
#7. Soar and Explore: Unlimited Fun at Fun Land Fredericksburg
Get ready for a high-flying adventure at Fun Land Fredericksburg! Their thrilling Sky Trail ropes course offers over two dozen exciting challenges and a zipline that soars above the vibrant arcade below. It’s an electrifying indoor experience perfect for adventurers of all ages. With a FUNpass or FUNpass+, you’ll enjoy this attraction and unlimited access to a full day of fun, making every moment unforgettable. Whether you’re testing your skills on the course or zipping through the air, Fun Land is your go-to destination for nonstop excitement!
#8.Discover Nature’s Wonders in Stone Harbor’s Coastal Gems
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Stone Harbor’s coastal ecosystem with unique, hands-on adventures. At The Wetlands Institute, you can witness the magic of nature during seasonal turtle release programs or glide through serene salt marshes on guided eco-tours aboard a pontoon boat. For bird enthusiasts, the tranquil Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary spans over 21 acres, offering peaceful trails to spot majestic species like herons, ospreys, and egrets. Whether you’re releasing turtles or marveling at winged wonders, Stone Harbor invites you to connect with nature in unforgettable ways.
#9. Thrills Among the Treetops at Harpers Ferry Zipline Tour
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at River Riders Family Adventure Resort in Harpers Ferry, WV! The Harpers Ferry Zipline Tour offers two and a half to three hours of pure excitement, guided by expert professionals who ensure your safety and fun every step of the way. You’ll soar through seven exhilarating ziplines, each more thrilling than the last, and cap off the experience with a heart-pounding free fall rappel that will leave you breathless. Are you ready to take the leap and make lifelong memories?
#10. Reach New Heights of Fun at Up! Ultimate Adventure Park
Looking for nonstop excitement and adventure? Up! Ultimate Adventure Park in Ashburn has it all! Challenge yourself on a two-story ropes course that ends with a thrilling zipline ride, or conquer the park’s vibrant themed climbing walls for an extra dose of fun. When you’re ready to switch gears, head to the arcade for games that will entertain kids and adults alike. Planning a special celebration? The park’s customizable birthday party options make any event unforgettable. Adventure, fun, and memories await at every turn!
Summer in Northern Virginia is a season packed with opportunities to explore, discover, and connect with the beauty and charm of the region. Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, savoring local wines, or seeking out hidden gems, this is your chance to build a summer filled with unforgettable moments. Now it’s your turn to create a bucket list and start checking off those adventures. Get out there, make memories, and soak up every bit of what Northern Virginia has to offer this season! What’s first on your list?
KATIE WEDGE
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