If you're looking to make the most of those last long summer evenings, Shenandoah County has plenty to keep you out after dark. For those who are brave enough to trade the golden hour for the glow of moonlight, you’ll discover that some of the area’s most memorable experiences happen after the sun goes down. Though many attractions close at night, they occasionally reopen for special evening events, so keep an eye on our website for upcoming nighttime adventures.
Every great night starts with a little fuel … in the form of caffeine. Stop by Jackson's Corner Coffee Roastery and Cafe before they close in the afternoon (3 or 4 p.m.) and grab one of their nostalgic Summer Night Lattes. Inspired by campfires, ballpark snacks, circus treats and childhood favorites, flavors like S'mores, Cracker Jack and Circus Animal are the perfect way to get the energy boost you need for an evening of moonlit adventures.
Raise a glass of a different kind beneath a blanket of stars at Star in the Valley Winery’s AfterDARK events (August 29 and September 26), where local wine, full-moon views and live disco sets from DJ BVRNIN come together to create an unforgettable evening. Also, their Wine Under the Stars night on August 15 will feature telescopes and star ambassadors to help you spot celestial highlights. The winery is open until 10 p.m. on event nights to ensure that attendees can make the most of their after-dark experiences.
Can’t get enough of the live music and wine combo? Mark your calendar for Wolf Gap Vineyard and Winery's First Friday events, where the wine and live music don’t stop flowing until 9 p.m. You can wander the walking path under the stars or simply settle on the deck to enjoy the night sky.
For aspiring astronomers, Shenandoah County Park in Maurertown frequently hosts public stargazing nights with the local astronomical society. Seven Bends State Park also offers select after-hours nature programs throughout the year, giving visitors the chance to experience the outdoors from a whole new perspective. (Remember you need to sign up for these after dark exclusive experiences, guided by a ranger, as the park is not to be disturbed at night.)
Looking to make a night of it? Book an overnight stay at a property that features front-row seats to the cosmos. Earl’s Place at Shenandoah Caverns, the Shenandoah Riverfront and Mountain View Cottage, or an Airstream on the Shenandoah River all offer wide-open skies perfect for stargazing. The cabins at Shrine Mont also allow for stargazing, and they’re the perfect lodging option for those attending the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival concert series this summer.
For more rustic accommodations, pitch a tent at George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, Camp Roosevelt, Elizabeth Furnace, Wolf Gap Recreation Area or Fort Valley Ranch & Campground and fall asleep right under the stars.
As the days start to grow a little shorter, it’s time to savor every last warm evening. Find a quiet spot so you can look to the stars and discover why our county shines extra-bright after dark.