It’s hard to believe after weeks of endless rain that we we spent a very sunny and warm weekend in Massanutten earlier this month. As much as I love boots, apples, and hot coffee, I’m a summer girl through and through. I’m already missing summer adventures, but at least I get to relive this one a little longer. 

About 2.5 hours from D.C., Massanutten is a small resort town near Shenandoah National Park. The nearest larger town is Harrisonburg, VA, the home of James Madison University. We decided to spend a relaxing long weekend there for my 30th birthday and it was the lovely, quiet weekend I’d been wanting. 

On our way in, we stopped at two wineries—White Oak Lavender Farm and CrossKeys. They each had totally different vibes, but we enjoyed the wine and experience at both. White Oak Lavender Farm would be a great place to go with kids. The grounds are large and they have animals kids would love to say hi to. CrossKeys was more sophisticated, with a beautiful pergola that would be wonderful on a cool day.

We clearly had fun wandering the grounds and wine tasting.

The next day, we spent most of the day at Shenandoah National Park. When our first hike got rained out, I painted a little sketch to pass the time. I always love spending time in national parks, rain or shine.  

After a day in the sun, we stopped in Harrisonburg for some dinner and beers. We loved the “smofu” at Lola​ Mo’s Deli and beers at Three Notch’d Brewing Co. We could have spent even more time in Harrisonburg and may try to make a fall trip happen.

On our last day, I tried my hand at golfing. I have to admit, it was a bit painful because I’m so bad. But. I really enjoyed driving the golf cart so I still had a good time. And M had a lot of fun, so that’s what matters. 

We spent each evening cooking dinner together, sitting on the balcony, star-gazing and spending lots of time together. 

 It was a perfect way to end the summer and celebrate my last few days in my 20s