Before you say goodbye to August, why not flood your days with all things sunny and splendid? Catch the scent of fresh peaches at a farmer’s market and bite into perfectly juicy summer fruit. Visit a local stand or bake up a Peach Cobbler—the kind that’s best topped with melty vanilla ice cream. Farmers’ markets are bursting with flavor this time of year, so grab your market tote and see what produce you can find for a grill fest or a picnic in the park.
Kick up the fun a notch and host a relaxed backyard shrimp boil or fire up the grill for impromptu burgers. Gather friends and family for grilled fruit, summer veggies, and cool drinks while the sky’s still bright and the patio string lights come on for the evening.
Sun-Chasing Adventures in Short Pump
If you’re a Short Pump local (or visitor), you’re in for a treat. There’s a never-ending parade of things to do around every corner, each one packed with summer flavor.
Short Pump Town Center
11800 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23233
This open-air mall isn’t just for shopping. With over 140 shops and restaurants, you could spend hours wandering, snagging new sundresses, and treating yourself to one last “summer splurge.” Kids love the Short Pump Express train ride and the play areas, and grown-ups can unwind at the comedy club, spa, or winery. If you’re speedy, you’ll catch live music or quirky street performances that pop up on weekends.
Deep Run Park & Recreation Center
9900 Ridgefield Pkwy, Henrico, VA 23233
Step into 164 acres of pure green bliss—tree-lined trails, shady paths, and playgrounds. The pond is perfect for a lazy fishing day, while the walking and biking tracks let you stretch your legs under leafy canopies. There’s even a fitness center if you want to squeeze in a playful sweat before sunset. Pack a picnic basket, bring the dog, and let the kids cool off at the pump track or playgrounds. Nature’s soundtrack provides the perfect backdrop to say farewell to summer.
Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park
3400 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060
History, hiking, and hands-on animal encounters, anyone? Spend a slow afternoon at Crump Park, where you can roam wide-open fields or stroll the trails. The historic farmhouse tour brings local stories to life, and quirky farm animals add a whimsical touch. Don’t miss the playground and the pond—the perfect spots for impromptu games, fishing, or a summer craft session. It’s a place where history and sunshine mingle, and you’ll leave with stories, smiles, and maybe a fun fact or two about Virginia summers.
Whimsical Ways to Celebrate Summer’s End
Throw an Ice Cream Social
Set up a fun serve-yourself bar at home or at your favorite park. Let everyone mix and match flavors, scoop up their own toppings, and create quirky concoctions. Root beer floats, banana splits, and classic sundaes—make them all! For real adventure, add sodas, sprinkles, and a friendly mixing contest.
Get Crafty
Create a summer scrapbook featuring tickets, pressed flowers, and fun photo strips. Scavenger hunts and water balloon battles are great choices for groups. If you’re feeling playful, pack up some colored paper and markers: craft session at the park table, anyone?
Go Pickleball Crazy
Hit the courts for friendly games. Pickleball is the sport of the summer, and Short Pump has plenty of spots for a match. If you’re new to the game, grab a paddle and let curiosity lead the way—it’s all about quick moves and giggles.
Outdoor Movie Nights and Karaoke Under the Stars
Round up your crew for a backyard movie marathon or outdoor karaoke bash. Bring sleeping bags, string up fairy lights, and queue up favorite summer blockbusters. For karaoke, set up outside and let the neighbors chime in when someone belts out a catchy chorus.
Fly a Kite, Catch a Fish, or Climb a Tree
Visit a local toy shop for bright kites, pack a fishing pole, and head out to one of Short Pump’s lovely parks. Sometimes, the best ways to wrap up summer are the simplest: climbing a sturdy tree, discovering a cool bug, or running barefoot on the lawn.
Out and About: Day-Trip Fantasies
Even though Short Pump is brimming with charm, it’s easy to slip out for a spontaneous Richmond road trip. Fill your car with your favorite snacks and swing by parks, gardens, and riverside trails in the wider area. Discover hidden murals downtown or take in late summer vibes at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. But let’s be honest, with all that Short Pump offers, you might just be tempted to stay put!
Pack Your Bag and Play
Summer’s end doesn’t mean slowing down—it’s an invitation to wander, laugh, and squeeze every drop out of the sunny days ahead. Short Pump is bursting with places to explore, snacks to sample, trails to roam, and backyard games worth giggling over. Ready, set, go!
Sources: countryliving.com, henrico.gov, visitrichmondva.com
Header Image Source: Chris Abney on Unsplash
