Top Fall Destinations in Virginia

Autumn in Virginia offers endless activities, from admiring the vibrant foliage and hiking in the wilderness to ghost tours in historic communities. Let’s explore the top fall destinations in Virginia for an ideal seasonal retreat.

Richmond, dating back hundreds of years, is one of the country’s oldest cities. This thriving city is known for its historic buildings and superb architecture. Its exceptional museums, scenic landscapes, and gorgeous churches create a quaint setting made all the more charming in the fall season. In autumn, Richmond offers plenty of top-notch seasonal activities. Savor fall-inspired beverages at its numerous breweries, attend the area’s many fall festivals, or hike through Richmond’s scenic parks. 

Charlottesville, set against a scenic mountainous backdrop, is a picturesque fall destination with numerous seasonal attractions for both residents and visitors to enjoy. Carter Mountain Orchard offers apple picking and freshly made ciders. Also, numerous wineries outside Charlottesville provide pleasant tours and tastings during the fall.

Roanoke is renowned for housing the iconic Roanoke Star, the world’s second-largest man-made star, which sits atop Mill Mountain. This town’s fascinating history and remarkable food scene help make it a can’t-miss destination. During the fall, visitors will love Roanoke’s Blue Ridge Mountain scenery. The region features scenic drives and hikes, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, widely considered one of the country’s premier destinations for admiring seasonal foliage. You can enjoy fall agricultural spots as well, such as apple orchards, wineries, and pumpkin patches. 

Williamsburg is one of Virginia’s most historic communities, renowned for its immaculately preserved colonial architecture, first-rate museums, and historical districts. Visiting Williamsburg is like stepping back in time, and the colorful scenery autumn brings enhances the setting. Fall brings plenty of excitement to Williamsburg, from farmers markets and wine festivals to waterfront concerts. Also, many of its famous historical attractions host Halloween-themed events, adding a spooky feel to this picturesque town. 

Fredericksburg, a charming city near Washington, D.C., is celebrated for its distinctive history, having been the backdrop for several pivotal American battles. It also served as the childhood hometown of George Washington and features numerous acclaimed monuments and historic sites. Fredericksburg hosts multiple fall festivals, including Fall Festival Weekends at Braehead Farm, every weekend from September 30th through October 29th, and the famed Virginia Cider Festival in early September. Fredericksburg goes all out for Halloween as well, hosting ghoulish events, including Gothic Ghosts on October 13th and 14th.

Leesburg, a picturesque little town, offers an uncrowded fall getaway with plenty for visitors to enjoy. Downtown Leesburg exudes an all-American charm, comprising historic brick storefronts housing local shops, eateries, and cafes, where you can enjoy some tasty fall treats. During the Halloween season, visitors can take ghostly tours of well-preserved historical homes once owned by renowned former residents. Also, lush forests with pleasant hiking trails surround the town, presenting idyllic settings for snapping some stunning fall photographs.