Getaways just a quick drive from DC have always a fun way to spend a weekend, but, lately, our travel has looked a lot more like this day trip to Purcellville, VA. While we’ve had to cancel some exciting bigger trips this year, it’s given us the opportunity to explore destinations closer to home that might have otherwise fallen past our radar.
A Day Trip to Purcellville, VA
Purcellville ended up on our radar when I told Adam “Hey, I’m going to work out this morning, by the time I’m done, come up with a day trip — my only requirement is there must be at least one antiques shop.” His only requirement was a brewery to fill up his growler. And both of us didn’t want to drive further than an hour.
So, Purcellville it was. While I’d been to Leesburg, just a few minutes closer in towards DC, I’m not sure I’d ever ventured out to this small town in Loudoun County, Virginia. Just about an hour out 66, Purcellville has wineries, breweries, and, yes, even a little antiquing.
Check Out Antiques and Shopping in Purcellville, VA
Whenever I’m getting out of DC, one of my top priorities is antiquing and thrifting. There’s just something about treasure hunting on the road that I don’t get from searching within my own city. While I wouldn’t say Purcellville is a top destination for antiquing, there were more than a few shops to pop in and keep myself busy for a few hours. I had super specific items I was looking for, so I walked out empty-handed, but I could have gone crazy had I been just looking for looking’s sake.
- Bazaar on 21st: This large antiques shop is well-curated with vendor stalls displaying offerings from western to mid-century to traditional Virginia and everything in between. I’d call this a scaled down antiques mall.
- Re-Love It Consignment Shop: If you’re into searching, like really searching, this is your place. There were oodles of amazing mirrors, frames, and more…but everything is strewn together and requires a level of patience. But, the payoff will be worth it when you walk out with an amazing deal.
- Vintage Magnolia II: This shop has a mix of new and vintage. It’s not necessarily my style, a little bit more country than I prefer, but it’s cute and there are fun gift items to be found.
- Twigs: There’s also a little bit of a country-chic vibe in this home and apparel store, but it’s super well curated and has items that will appeal no matter your style. I found stylish, modern candles, great baby presents, and even a headband.
- Nostalgia: This shop closes a bit early, at 4 PM, so we missed it. But, I would have loved to stop in and check out the vintage clothing. I’m on the hunt for a pair of vintage white cowboy boots currently…
Sneak in a Scoop of Ice Cream…and Maybe Some BBQ
What good is a day trip without some snacks? While we didn’t plan to have any big meals while in Purcellville because we’re still not ready to dine indoors, we did manage to grab a quick sweet treat.
- Tipped Cow Creamery: Obviously I was tempted by the siren call of an ice cream shop. We grabbed a scoop (don’t miss the banana pudding ice cream!) and were able to sit outside in the shade enjoying our ice cream.
- Monk’s BBQ: So, we didn’t stop in here, but it’s owned by the same people as Tipped Cow and is literally right next door. It smelled delicious and seemed to have a steady stream of customers, so I’m going to assume it’s worth checking out.
Leave Those Teetotaling Ways Behind
Most of you who’ve been out to Loudoun County know that breweries and wineries dot the landscape. You’ve probably been on a wine bus tour out there or spent an afternoon at a brewery. So, not surprisingly, this is also the case in Purcellville. Here are the two places we stopped.
- Catoctin Creek Distillery: While they were doing tastings inside and out, we just popped in here to pick up a rye whiskey. This distillery is located in a big warehouse space right in town, so it’s easy to swing by after an afternoon spent combing through Re-Love It and Bazaar on 21st.
- Adroit Theory Brewing: This brewery has lots of outdoor space, though it’s located in what appears to be an industrial office park and, if it’s a sunny day, there doesn’t appear to be much solace from the sun. However, it was perfect for stopping by just to fill up our growler.
Other Easy Virginia Day Trips to Explore
Looking for other Virginia day trips to explore? I also love Fredericksburg, Middleburg, Richmond, Charlottesville, and more. If you ever have any questions about cities to check out or even have a suggestion, give me a shout!
