News Summary
This autumn, Virginia emerges as a prime travel destination, showcasing stunning trees adorned in vibrant shades of crimson, gold, and orange. With a peak foliage season that extends from early October to mid-November thanks to the state’s microclimates, travelers can explore various charming towns perfect for weekend retreats. From the historical sites of Danville to the picturesque Chesapeake Bay views in Onancock, Virginia offers something for everyone while promoting its online Fall Foliage Report to help plan visits.
Virginia is becoming a top travel destination this autumn, as its dense forests transform to display vibrant foliage in crimson, gold, and burnt orange. With its stunning scenery, Virginia is one of the Mid-Atlantic region’s prime locations for leaf-peepers looking for fall weekend getaways.
The peak foliage season in Virginia is unique due to its microclimates, which extend the viewing period from early October to mid-November. This variation allows visitors ample opportunities to experience the picturesque landscapes throughout the autumn season.
To enhance travel experiences, Virginia has recommended 11 towns perfect for weekend retreats during the fall. From historical sites to beautiful natural surroundings, these towns cater to a variety of interests.
Recommended Fall Weekend Getaways in Virginia
Wytheville
Located along Route 21, Wytheville serves as a hub for travelers. A suggested place to stay is the Bolling Wilson Hotel, known for its fantastic views and the on-site restaurant Graze. Travelers can also enjoy nearby attractions such as the Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre, which offers professional productions alongside delicious dining options.
Danville
Known as the “City of Churches,” Danville is distinguished for its high density of houses of worship. Visitors can explore through guided walking tours and the River District, which includes the Danville Science Center. The Bee Hotel offers a unique boutique accommodation near Main Street and a variety of attractions.
Onancock
Onancock is a charming town on the Chesapeake Bay, often referred to as the “Gem of the Eastern Shore.” Visitors can stay at the Inn at Onancock and try local dining options like Mallards at the Wharf and Onancock Taphouse. A particularly good time to visit is during the November Champagne and Oyster Tasting event.
Bristol
Bristol is steeped in country music history and offers various accommodations, such as the Sessions Hotel and Bristol Hotel. While there, travelers can explore the Birthplace of Country Music Museum and enjoy live entertainment venues.
Charlottesville
Home to significant historic landmarks like the University of Virginia’s Academical Village, Charlottesville also hosts activities such as the Virginia Film Festival and tours of Monticello. Visitors can stay comfortably at the Oakhurst Inn.
Winchester
As the gateway to the Shenandoah Valley, Winchester features preserved architecture and exciting activities including visits to Old Town and the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley. The Apple Harvest Festival in October is an ideal time for visitors to enjoy the local harvest.
Luray
Kown for Luray Caverns, Luray offers a prime starting point to explore Skyline Drive. Accommodations include Mimslyn Inn, while the Page County Heritage Festival provides additional local culture and experience for visitors.
Colonial Williamsburg
As the world’s largest living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg offers numerous activities throughout the year. The Williamsburg Inn is suggested for travelers seeking a historic experience.
Abingdon
With a rich history, Abingdon’s 20-block historic district features attractions such as Barter Theatre and the Virginia Creeper Trail. The Virginia Highlands Festival is a recommended time to visit.
Lexington
Famous for its horse-drawn carriage tours and landmarks like Washington and Lee University, Lexington also boasts the nearby Natural Bridge. Travelers may find suitable lodging at The Gin Hotel.
Yorktown
Yorktown has significant ties to the American Revolution, featuring various memorials. The American Revolution Museum offers educational insights, and visitors can stay at the Hornsby House Inn.
To assist travelers in planning their visits to these beautiful autumn destinations, Virginia Tourism has created an online Fall Foliage Report. Each of these locations offers a unique blend of nature, history, and seasonal festivities, ensuring a memorable weekend getaway in the fall.
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Additional Resources
- Travel and Tour World: Virginia Fall Getaways
- Travel + Leisure: Scenic US Train Rides for Fall Foliage
- Southern Living: Harrisonburg, VA
- West Virginia Explorer: Fall Foliage in West Virginia
- Travel Off Path: Virginia’s Most Underrated Fall Getaway
- Wikipedia: Virginia
- Google Search: Virginia Fall Foliage
- Google Scholar: Virginia Fall Travel
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Virginia
- Google News: Virginia Travel News
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
