Free things to do in the Shenandoah Valley
A great Valley day doesn't have to cost anything. These free parks, greenways, overlooks, and community spaces are open to all and rated worth the drive.
VMI Museum
Lexington, RockbridgeFree museum tracing the Institute's 180-year history.
Chessie Nature Trail
Lexington, Rockbridge7-mile rails-to-trails path along the Maury River.
- Montgomery Hall Park Playground
Montgomery Hall Park Playground
Staunton, AugustaSprawling park with playground, trails, and disc golf.
- Betsy Bell Hill Loop
Betsy Bell Hill Loop
Staunton, AugustaShort hill climb with panoramic Valley views.
- Friendship Park Loop
Friendship Park Loop
Harrisonburg, RockinghamShaded paved loop ideal for strollers and toddlers.
- Glen Maury Park Playground
Glen Maury Park Playground
Buena Vista, RockbridgeRiverside playground inside a sprawling municipal park.
- Virginia Capital-to-Capital — Lexington Loop
Virginia Capital-to-Capital — Lexington Loop
Lexington, RockbridgePaved town loop perfect for casual riders.
- Smithland Road Park
Smithland Road Park
Harrisonburg, RockinghamModern inclusive playground with shaded picnic areas.
- Westover Park Playground
Westover Park Playground
Harrisonburg, RockinghamLarge public playground with splash features and walking trails.
- Blue Hole at St. Marys Wilderness
Blue Hole at St. Marys Wilderness
Steeles Tavern, AugustaHidden swimming hole reached via a forested hike.
- Beverley Street Studio School Gallery
Beverley Street Studio School Gallery
Staunton, AugustaFree contemporary art gallery in downtown Staunton.
- Goshen Pass
Goshen Pass
Goshen, RockbridgeBoulder-strewn river gorge perfect for swimming and tubing.
Gypsy Hill Park
Staunton, AugustaGypsy Hill Park in Staunton, Virginia, offers a welcoming green space for outdoor enjoyment in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Visitors can expect walking trails, picnic areas, and open fields perfect for a relaxed afternoon, all set ag
Purcell Park
Harrisonburg, RockinghamHawksbill Greenway
Luray, PageMary Baldwin Heifetz Institute Trail
Staunton, AugustaExplore the Mary Baldwin Heifetz Institute Trail in Staunton, Virginia, for a pleasant hiking experience amidst the natural beauty of the Shenandoah Valley. This trail offers a chance to enjoy a refreshing walk, with opportunities to apprec
Harrisonburg Farmers Market
Harrisonburg, RockinghamThe Harrisonburg Farmers Market in Harrisonburg, Virginia, offers a vibrant glimpse into the agricultural heart of Rockingham County. Visitors can anticipate a bounty of fresh, seasonal produce, often sourced directly from local farms. Beyo
Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
Harrisonburg, RockinghamEdith J. Carrier Arboretum
- Bridgewater Reservoir Trail
Bridgewater Reservoir Trail
Bridgewater, RockinghamFlat 2-mile loop around a small reservoir popular with walkers and dog-owners.
More local guides
- Rainy day things to do in Harrisonburg →
- Dog-friendly spots in the Shenandoah Valley →
- Kid-friendly things to do in Harrisonburg →
- Outdoor adventures in Page County →
- Things to do in Staunton, VA →
- Wineries of the Shenandoah Valley →
- Best hiking trails in the Shenandoah Valley →
- Breweries and cideries in the Shenandoah Valley →
- Scenic drives in the Shenandoah Valley →