We have officially made it halfway through the summer, the kids are bored, parents are ready to pull their hair out, what's next? I have compiled a list of my favorite family activities in the summertime ranging from outdoors to inside, from educational to downright family fun. Winchester, VA has so much to offer, so get out there and explore!
The Wagon Wheel Ranch offers loads of activities and camps, from Horse Back riding to wagon rides to birthday parties. This beautiful setting has it all!
This is a local favorite. People go to pick apples, play on the expansive outdoor playground, but most of all people come for the Apple Cider Donuts! The market has something for everyone. Pack a lunch and have a picnic on the lovely covered porch outside.
Kids can run and play in the indoor laser tag arena. Take friends or meet new ones! Laser tag is fun, easy and safe. Plus, perfect entertainment for a rainy day!
Not only is bowling fun for the whole family, but students also get one free game and one free hot dog. North Side Lanes offers deals all summer long, so be sure to check the website often. And don’t forget about Glow in the Dark Bowling!
Enjoy a family horseback ride through some of the most beautiful scenery the Shenandoah Valley has to offer. The trails are easy, and the horses are friendly. But it is really Bill Schwasha that makes this trip an adventure, you do not want to miss this real-life cowboy in action!
The Handley Library is not just a library, it is a beautiful work of architecture. Walk in and be sure to look up at the amazing stain glass ceiling. The library offers numerous activities for both kids and adults and you don't want to forget about the summer reading program!
The Discovery Museum will not disappoint. With hours and hours of entertainment, kids will love that they are having fun and parents will love all that they are learning. The museum also offers a WIDE variety of summer camps that every kid will enjoy!
History buffs are sure to love this museum located in the heart of Winchester. There is so much history packed into the building, complete with handwritten notes on the wall from civil war soldiers. Don't forget to ring the bell on the way out!
You and your family can spend all day here without doing the same thing twice! Go Karts, putt putt, driving range, batting cages…. there is no way the kids will be bored!
10. Dinosaur Land
This is a family favorite, the epitome of a roadside attraction. If you haven't been there, stop reading this and go there now. Kids love it, parents love it, grandparents love it! Learn about dinosaurs and marvel in the incredible fight scenes. The gift shop is a real treasure as well.
11. Family Drive-In
With less than 350 drive-in movies left in the United States, this is a must do. The price is right, and you can even bring in your own food. Pack blankets and comfortable chairs and get comfy for the show. Stay for a double feature if you can make it up that long!
I cannot say enough about this museum! The traveling exhibits are always changing, the gardens are breathtaking, and they even have a summer concert series. This is one my family continues to visit, and we never see the same thing twice. Definitely, think about becoming a member or go on Wednesdays when admission is free!
We are so lucky to live in a town that puts on live music in the center of town. With music, food, drinks, and entertainment, the whole family will have a ball. Plus proceeds help the SPCA of Winchester, Frederick and Clarke County. WIN WIN!
14. Blandy Farms
With over 172 acres to explore, the kids will not have time to get bored! Be sure to check the website for fun and educational activities for the whole family!
15. Sky Meadows
This is my family’s favorite place to hike. There are numerous trails to hike varying from a nice easy stroll in the woods to an insanely steep mountain top. The views are absolutely breathtaking! Be sure to head to Hunters Head Tavern in Upperville for an amazing meal after!
Winchester has so much to offer in the summer for families with children of all ages. What is most important, is getting out there and making the most of our time with our children. Even a simple picnic or a walk around Jim Barnett park means the world to our families. Make the most of this time together and make memories that will last a lifetime.