Planning a family getaway to Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley? Look no further than Luray, VA—a charming small town packed with kid-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and unique experiences that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, school-age children, or teens, there are plenty of ways to fill a weekend with fun, learning, and relaxation.
If you’re wondering what to do in Luray with kids, this guide highlights the top activities and destinations for a memorable weekend adventure.
Start Your Day with Breakfast and a Walk Along the Greenway
Kick off your trip with breakfast at a local favorite like Gathering Grounds, a cozy café offering fresh-baked pastries, hearty breakfast sandwiches, and great coffee for the grown-ups. Once everyone’s fueled up, take a peaceful stroll or bike ride along the Luray-Hawksbill Greenway. This two-mile paved path winds through the heart of town and along Hawksbill Creek, offering plenty of spots to stop, snack, and watch for ducks, turtles, and even herons.
Benches, picnic tables, and footbridges make it a relaxing way to explore downtown Luray at a kid-friendly pace.
Visit the Luray Zoo – A Rescue Zoo
The Luray Zoo is one of the town’s top family attractions and a must-visit for animal lovers. This rescue zoo is home to over 80 animals—including monkeys, big cats, reptiles, and birds—all saved from neglect or poor conditions. Kids can get close to the animals while learning about conservation and responsible animal care.
The zoo is small enough for little legs to enjoy, but big on engagement. Plan for about 1–2 hours to explore.
Head Outdoors for a Shenandoah Adventure
Just minutes from downtown, Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive offer incredible views and family-friendly hiking opportunities. Short, scenic trails like the Stony Man Trail or Dark Hollow Falls are ideal for kids, offering big payoffs (like waterfalls or overlooks) with manageable distances.
Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s designated picnic areas, or stop at one of the overlooks for a truly scenic break.
Canoe, Kayak, or Tube on the Shenandoah River
On warmer days, make time for a river adventure. Several local outfitters—including Shenandoah River Outfitters—offer canoe, kayak, and tubing rentals with family-friendly floats on calm sections of the Shenandoah River. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy nature and cool off during the summer months.
Even younger kids can participate with proper supervision and safety gear, making this a memorable activity for the whole family.
Explore Local History at the Luray Valley Museum
For an educational and hands-on experience, visit the Luray Valley Museum, where kids can walk through a recreated 19th-century village complete with log cabins, old-school general stores, and historical artifacts. It’s a great way to connect with local history and understand how early settlers lived in the Shenandoah Valley.
Many exhibits are interactive and suitable for children, making it both fun and informative.
Treat the Kids to Ice Cream and Local Shopping
Back in downtown Luray, take time to browse small shops and grab a sweet treat. Flotzie’s Soft Serve, a retro-style ice cream stand, is a hit with kids and parents alike. Enjoy cones, sundaes, and milkshakes while relaxing outdoors.
You’ll also find several local boutiques and souvenir shops with handmade goods, books, toys, and crafts that make for great keepsakes.
Wrap Up the Day in a Family-Friendly Cabin or Lodge
Luray offers plenty of cozy, family-friendly accommodations including cabins, vacation homes, and lodges. Many are just minutes from town and offer amenities like fire pits, full kitchens, and mountain views. Some even sit up in the mountains, and have family friendly amenities like Hawksbill Retreat Mountain Log Cabins. A large mountain side resort tucked away just a few miles away from downtown Luray, and many other local attractions.