The Perfect 4-Day Summer Family Getaway in Bryce Mountain, VA
Looking for a family-friendly escape that combines nature, adventure, and all the cozy vibes? Bryce Mountain is your hidden gem—tucked in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, just two hours from DC. Whether your crew includes toddlers, teens, or grandparents, this 4-day itinerary is packed with easy outdoor fun, delicious local eats, and memorable moments—all made better with a cozy cabin stay at Simply Cozy Getaways.
Day 1: Arrival + Cabin Comforts
Welcome to your home away from home!
Check in to your Simply Cozy cabin and let the relaxation begin. Whether you’ve booked The Chestnut, Southern Charm or Mountain View Lodge, you’ll have space to stretch out, a view to enjoy from inside or out as well as a cozy outdoor firepit.
Afternoon:
Unpack, explore the cabin, and let the kids pick their rooms. But we highly suggest the bunk rooms for sleepover vibes if you’re staying at the Chestnut or Mountain View Lodge.
After settling in, take a short drive to nearby Lake Laura for a light leg-stretching stroll along the shoreline. You’ll probably want to save your swim day for tomorrow to get the most time in. But the peaceful lake views and spotting wildlife like herons or turtles is a perfect way to ease into mountain time. Plus, you can scope out the perfect spot for tomorrow’s lake day. If you have time, there is an easy 2 mile trail that loops around the lake.
Evening:
Easy dinner idea: Bring a pre-made casserole to quickly pop into the oven so you don’t have to cook after traveling.
End the day with a classic family game night or cozy movie marathon on the smart TV. (Don’t forget the s’mores for the firepit!)
Day 2: Bryce Resort Adventures + Lake Time
Morning:
Pack a picnic and spend a few lazy hours at Lake Laura—perfect for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tubing and paddle boating, which are all available for rent. To keep up your energy grab a snack or some ice-cream from the snack shack. And if you didn’t get the chance to take a stroll around the lake, you should have plenty of time to do so!
Don’t miss the photo op with mountain views in the background!
Late afternoon:
Take a quick 10 minute scenic lift ride at Bryce Resort to experience some of the best views of the valley, and North Mountain at the West Virginia border. Tickets are $8 at the Bike Rental Shop and available Wednesday - Sunday from 10am - 4:30pm.
Evening:
Dinner at Copper Kettle Restaurant at Bryce Resort for easy family dining. If you’re in time for happy hour it is on Wednesday to Friday 4-6pm. Coming straight from the lift ride, you should be just in time!
Optional: Catch sunset views from your deck with a glass of local Virginia wine for the adults. Occupy your gamers with a Pac-Man tournament and set some records in the game room.
Day 3: Day Trip + Local Fun
Morning:
Take a scenic drive to Shenandoah Caverns (about 25 mins away). The rock formations are kid-approved magic.
Stop by Route 11 Potato Chips, just 3 minutes down the road, on the way back for a quick factory tour and snack!
Afternoon:
Head back for some rest or family downtime—board games, books, or naps.
If you're up for more, check out Bryce Resort’s golf course, or for a more family friendly take, try a round of fling golf, perfect for all ages.
Evening:
Grill dinner at the cabin or grab a tasty Detroit pizza from Pale Fire Brewing near the cabins (PS. The hot honey meat lover's pizza is a must!)
Stargaze from the deck or take a twilight walk under the stars.
Day 4: Slow Morning + Send-Off
Morning:
Sleep in and enjoy a slow breakfast—pancakes on the griddle, hot coffee, and birdsong outside your window.
Let kids run around in the yard one last time while you pack.
Roadtrip Pit-Stop:
If you’re heading north and in the mood for some small-town charm Woodstock makes a charming pitstop. You can stretch your legs at W.O. Riley Park—which has a beautiful, kid‑friendly playground with slides, swings, and shady picnic spots—perfect for unwinding before the next leg of your journey.
For a pick me up, stop by Flour & Water for coffee and pastries or Woodstock Garden Cafe for lunch.
If you’re in a more adventurous mood, Seven Bends State Park really showcases Shenandoah Beauty. If some in your party are less inclined to hike, pit stop at Muse Vineyards which also includes some scenic walking trails with views of the mountain and river, along with delicious, award-winning local wines for those of age.
Bonus Tips for Families:
Looking for more family fun around the area? Check out our list of kid-friendly activities.
Most cabins are stocked with kid-friendly items (games, toys, high chair, pack and play, baby bath and changing tables—check the listing!).
Pack water shoes for Lake Laura and bug spray for evening adventures.
Want more travel inspo? Browse all our family-friendly cabins here and follow us on Instagram for cozy ideas year-round.
