Virginia

When fall rolls through Virginia, the Blue Ridge Mountains burst into shades of crimson and gold, small towns celebrate with apple festivals and harvest fairs, and historic streets glow under canopies of fiery leaves. The season offers the perfect blend of outdoor beauty, American history, and Southern hospitality. From mountain trails to waterfront towns, here are some of Virginia’s best destinations for a memorable fall getaway.

Charlottesville – Wine Country and Mountain Views

Begin your autumn adventure in Charlottesville, where scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive showcase some of the best foliage in the East. Visit Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s mountaintop home, surrounded by fall color and history.

Stop by local wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail, where vineyards like King Family Vineyards and Veritas Winery offer tastings with panoramic mountain views. Stroll through the historic downtown pedestrian mall for boutique shopping and local dining — The Whiskey Jar and Citizen Burger Bar are local favorites. Stay at The Clifton Inn, where elegant accommodations meet countryside tranquility.

Williamsburg – A Colonial Autumn Experience

Step back in time with a visit to Colonial Williamsburg, where fall brings harvest-themed events, lantern-lit tours, and crisp evenings filled with history and charm. Stroll along Duke of Gloucester Street as the leaves crunch beneath your feet, and don’t miss the Yorktown Market Days Harvest Festival for handmade goods and local treats.

Families will love Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s Howl-O-Scream, blending thrills with fall festivities. For dinner, enjoy hearty colonial fare at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern, then relax at the Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection, conveniently located near the historic district.

Shenandoah National Park – Nature’s Grand Display

Virginia’s crown jewel in autumn, Shenandoah National Park offers more than 200,000 acres of mountain majesty. Drive the legendary Skyline Drive, where each overlook presents a postcard-perfect view of rolling hills drenched in red, orange, and gold. Hike popular trails like Stony Man, Old Rag, or Dark Hollow Falls to fully experience the beauty up close.

For a cozy stay, book a cabin or lodge inside the park at Skyland Resort or Big Meadows Lodge, both offering rustic comfort and unbeatable views.

Roanoke – Mountain Culture and Craft Flavor

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge, Roanoke is a vibrant mountain city known for its art scene, local food, and outdoor adventure. Take the Mill Mountain Star Trail to enjoy panoramic vistas over the Roanoke Valley, or explore the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway for leaf-peeping and scenic overlooks.

Downtown, visit the Taubman Museum of Art, then sample farm-to-table fare at Lucky Restaurant or grab a local brew at Big Lick Brewing Company. Stay at the Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, a Tudor-style gem blending old-world charm with modern comfort.

Abingdon – Arts, Trails, and Appalachian Charm

In the southwest corner of the state, Abingdon offers a mix of history, art, and outdoor beauty. Walk or bike the Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile path surrounded by blazing autumn foliage. Catch a show at the renowned Barter Theatre, one of the oldest theaters in America, then stroll the cobblestone streets of downtown lined with antique shops and cozy cafés.

Dine at The Tavern, Abingdon’s oldest restaurant, housed in an 18th-century building, and stay overnight at The Martha Washington Inn & Spa, an elegant retreat perfect for a fall weekend escape.

Lexington – Heritage and Horse Country

Fall paints Lexington in rich hues, providing the perfect backdrop for exploring Virginia’s horse country and Civil War history. Visit Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University, both known for their beautiful campuses framed by autumn color.

Enjoy a scenic drive through the Shenandoah Valley, stopping at Natural Bridge State Park to marvel at the towering limestone arch. For dining, Southern Inn Restaurant offers refined Southern cuisine in a charming downtown setting. Stay at The Georges, a boutique inn in the heart of Lexington that’s as warm and inviting as the town itself.

A Time to Wander and Wonder

From the misty peaks of Shenandoah to the cobblestone streets of Williamsburg, Virginia offers endless ways to savor the season. Whether you’re sipping cider in the countryside or exploring history amid falling leaves, every turn reveals a new story — and a reason to linger a little longer.