Looking for some of the best places to visit in Virginia in the fall? Well, you’re in luck, as there is truly no state more beautiful in the fall than Virginia. The splendor of the fall foliage, the crispness in the air, the bountiful fall harvest — what’s not to love about autumn? From orchards to hardwood forests, coastal trails, and mountain tops, these destinations will elevate your appreciation for Virginia’s most colorful season.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway
Blue Ridge Parkway, Blue Rdg Pkwy, Fancy Gap, VA, USA
DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images
For breathtaking scenery at every turn, countless overlooks to admire, and miles upon miles of Blue Ridge Mountain beauty, look no further than the Parkway. It's beautiful in any season, but fall in Virginia is perhaps the most impressive time to drive this famed 469-mile route. Check out these gorgeous photos of the Blue Ridge Parkway for some inspiration.
2. Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive, Skyline Dr, Front Royal, VA, USA
OGphoto / Getty Images
Similar to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Skyline Drive offers some of the best mountain views on the East Coast. This scenic drive cuts through Shenandoah National Park, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing along the way. Skyline Drive is one of the best places to visit in Virginia in the fall and tends to be very popular, so you might want to consider visiting during a weekday or early in the morning. Learn more about Skyline Drive and its gorgeous scenery.
3. Mabry Mill
Mabry Mill, VA 24120, USA
OGphoto / Getty Images
Mabry Mill is the most photographed place along the Blue Ridge Parkway, most especially during the fall in Virginia, and it's no mystery why. This historic mill can be found at Milepost 176.2 of the Blue Ridge Parkway and makes for the perfect place to not only stretch your legs but also grab a quick bite at the adjacent restaurant. Find out what's in store for your belly at Mabry Mill Restaurant.
4. Humpback Rocks
Humpback Rock, Virginia 22920, USA
Ben Schumin / flickr
Some of the most famous Virginia hikes to enjoy in the fall are Old Rag and McAfee Knob, but we would argue that Humpback Rocks is every bit as epic. This short yet intense hike packs a mean punch and offers some truly stunning views from the top. It's a great place to visit in Virginia in the fall. Get more info on this trail and other beautiful hikes in Virginia.
5. The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
Edith J. Carrier Arboretum and Botanical Gardens at JMU, 780 University Blvd, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, USA
Edith J. Carrier Arboretum at JMU / Facebook
If you are looking for things to do in Virginia in the fall, but aren't necessarily looking for an intense hike, the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum makes for a lovely day trip destination. Located on the JMU campus, this woodland sanctuary and botanical garden is a wonderful place to learn about Virginia's flora while also finding a few moments of solitude. Learn more about visiting this arboretum and other beautiful gardens in Virginia.
6. Great Falls Park
Great Falls, VA, USA
Jonathan Smith / flickr
There's something positively mystical about Great Falls Park in the autumn. Shared between Virginia and Maryland, this stretch of property along the famous Potomac River has attracted naturalists, kayakers, and hikers for decades. No matter your choice of adventure, this is one of the best places to visit in Virginia and you'll love spending your time on -- or at least near -- the water. Learn more about visiting Great Falls.
7. Sherando Lake
Sherando Lake, Virginia 22952, USA
Nicolas Raymond / flickr
During the fall in Virginia, the only thing more beautiful than abundant fall foliage is abundant fall foliage reflected right back at you. Walking along the banks of Sherando Lake, that's the exact experience you can look forward to. Located in Lyndhurst, Virginia, this recreation area is often referred to as the jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Spend a beautiful afternoon admiring the foliage here or opt for a night or two of camping. Read more about camping at Sherando Lake.
8. The Yankee Horse Ridge Trail
Yankee Horse Ridge Trailhead to Wigwam Falls, Blue Rdg Pkwy, Montebello, VA 24464, USA
Nicolas Raymond / flickr
If you're traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway and craving a place to stretch your legs, it doesn't get much better than the Yankee Horse Ridge Trail. This short-and-sweet pathway follows an old logging railroad route and leads to a dazzling waterfall. There's even a picnic area where you can enjoy a packed lunch in the woods, making it a lovely place to visit in Virginia in the fall. Learn more about walking along Yankee Horse Ridge Trail.
9. The Virginia Creeper Trail
Virginia Creeper Trail, Virginia, USA
Eli Christman / flickr
This 35-mile multi-purpose trail stretches between Abingdon and Whitetop, traversing the Mount Rogers Wilderness. Along the way, bikers and hikers alike will enjoy the splendid scenery. An awesome thing to do in Virginia in the fall, the added allure of foliage and perhaps even a pumpkin patch or two will truly put you in the spirit of the season. Get yourself more acquainted with the Virginia Creeper Trail.

Related Stories

8 Awesome Corn Mazes In Virginia You Have To Do This Fall

8 Awesome Corn Mazes In Virginia You Have To Do This Fall

 This Virginia Bike Ride Leads To The Most Stunning Fall Foliage You've Ever Seen

This Virginia Bike Ride Leads To The Most Stunning Fall Foliage You've Ever Seen

 Here Are The Best Times And Places To View Fall Foliage In Virginia

Here Are The Best Times And Places To View Fall Foliage In Virginia
10. Crabtree Falls
Crabtree Falls, Virginia 22976, USA
Jim Liestman / flickr
If you've yet to hike the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, now's the time! Crabtree Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Virginia, and there's no time like the fall to enjoy its stunning beauty. Hike all the way to the top of the falls and admire the view from above. Or, continue on and conquer some of the Appalachian Trail. Either way, it's one of the best places to visit in Virginia in the fall. Get all the details before you head out on the hike to Crabtree Falls.
11. Westmoreland State Park
145 Cliff Rd, Montross, VA 22520, USA
Virginia State Parks / flickr
Like Great Falls Park, Westmoreland State Park is also situated on the Potomac River, but it's in Virginia's Northern Neck. Offering 1.5 miles of waterfront property, this beautiful park is famous for its Horsehead Cliffs and recreational opportunities. Hike, fish, bike, camp...there's no wrong way to enjoy the beauty of Westmoreland State Park during the fall in Virginia. Discover more about the beauty of Westmoreland State Park.
12. Breaks Interstate Park
Breaks Interstate Park, 627 Commission Cir, Breaks, VA 24607, USA
GPA Photo Archive / flickr
Did you know that the Grand Canyon of the South was right here in Virginia? It's located on the Kentucky border and promises to impress just about anyone. Admire stunning fall foliage for as far as the eye can see as you peer out over the 1,000-foot gorge. It's truly one of the most amazing places to visit in Virginia in the fall. Find out more about what you can do in a visit to Breaks Interstate Park.
13. Grayson Highlands State Park
Grayson Highlands State Park, 829 Grayson Highland Ln, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363, USA
Virginia State Parks / flickr
If getting high-altitude, panoramic mountain views is your favorite thing to do in Virginia in the fall, head straight to Grayson Highlands State Park. The crown jewel of the Virginia Highlands region, this sprawling state park is truly magical. From Mount Rogers -- the tallest of Virginia's peaks -- to the roaming wild ponies, there's so much to love about this state park. You might even consider camping here. But be sure to bundle up as temperatures are much colder here than in other parts of the state. Read more about what you can expect from Grayson Highlands State Park.
14. High Bridge Trail State Park
High Bridge Trail, Farmville, VA, USA
Virginia State Parks / flickr
What better way to admire fall in Virginia than to view it from above? The breathtaking bridge, once part of a railway, stretches over the Appomattox River at 2,400 feet long and 125 feet tall. The trail continues for 31 miles, but the bridge is the most magnificent stretch. Learn more about High Bridge Trail State Park.
15. Veritas Vineyard
Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln, Afton, VA 22920, USA
Veritas Vineyard / Facebook
Nothing celebrates fall like a taste of local wine. That's exactly what you'll find at Veritas Vineyard, a beautiful property located in Afton, Virginia. One of the best places to visit in Virginia in the fall, sit outdoors while sampling a flight of wine and a charcuterie plate while taking in the beautiful surroundings. Check out what's in store for you during a visit to Veritas Vineyard.
16. The Omni Homestead Resort
The Omni Homestead Resort, 7696 Sam Snead Hwy, Hot Springs, VA 24445, USA
The Omni Homestead Resort / Facebook
Looking for a stunning place to visit in Virginia in the fall for a getaway? Look no further than the Omni Homestead Resort, which has been welcoming travelers since 1766. Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, this beautiful resort is famous for its use of healing and naturally heated mineral water. Whether you're soaking in the pool or you opt for a spa treatment, you'll feel completely rejuvenated by your visit. Learn more about the hot springs at Omni Homestead Resort.
17. Hungry Mother State Park
Hungry Mother State Park, Virginia 24354, USA
Virginia State Parks / flickr
Hungry Mother State Park is a popular summer destination. But if you head here during the fall in Virginia, you can look forward to a less-crowded park with breathtaking fall color. This park offers miles upon miles of hiking trails as well as cabin rentals for families looking for a longer stay. Learn more about visiting Hungry Mother State Park.
18. Buchanan Swinging Bridge
Buchanan Swinging Bridge, Buchanan, VA 24066, USA
Simon Foot / flickr
At 366 feet long, the Buchanan Swinging Bridge is one of the longest and most famous of its kind in Virginia. There's something thrilling about crossing this historic structure and peering out over the water below. The landmark is especially dramatic in the fall when you can enjoy cooler weather and a stroll through charming downtown Buchanan. Read more about the Buchanan Swinging Bridge, one of the coolest things to do in Virginia in the fall.
19. Carter Mountain Orchard
Carter Mountain Orchard and Country Store, 1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA 22902, USA
C Watts / flickr
Last, but not least, we arrive at Carter Mountain Orchard near Charlottesville. It's perhaps the quintessential fall destination, with apple picking, cider donuts, and an array of fall beverages to sample. You can take a seat at an outdoor picnic area, enjoy the scenery, and fill up on all of your favorite seasonal treats. It's really one of the best places to visit in Virginia in the fall. Read up on everything available at Carter Mountain Orchard.

How many of these picturesque destinations have you visited during the fall in Virginia? Which are you adding to your bucket list? Tell us about your experiences and picks in the comments below!

Looking for more fall fun? Check out our list of the best apple cider donuts you can find in Virginia. You won’t be disappointed!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

best places to visit in virginia in the fall

Rachel Raimondi | August 19, 2022

What are the scariest haunted houses in Virginia? 

If you are a lover of paying to get scared, know that there are quite a few haunted houses in Virginia. In Partlow, there’s Haunted Hill. Here, there’s plenty to do, from walking trails to hayrides to mazes, and of course, a haunted house to roam through. And be sure to watch out for the crazed clowns and zombies! Heading out to these sorts of scares are one of the most enjoyable things to do in Virginia in the fall.

What are the most well-known parks in Virginia?

Aside from Shenandoah National Park, there are 41 state parks in Virginia. In Mouth of Wilson, you’ll find the 4,502-acre Grayson Highlands State Park. Here, you’ll get outstanding views of the state’s tallest mountains, Whitetop Mountain and Mount Rogers. There are 25 miles of hiking trails as well as opportunities for camping, horseback riding, biking, fishing, and more. You can also access the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail from this park. Bear Creek Lake State Park is located in Cumberland within the Cumberland State Forest. Take advantage of water activities on the 40-acre lake, such a swimming, boating, and fishing. There are also a few hiking trails as well as places to camp and picnic.

When can I see peak fall foliage in Virginia?

It can be a little hard to predict just when fall in Virginia will be at its peak, as this changes slightly each year based upon weather patterns and temperature. But what we can tell you is that, in general, the colors will be at their most beautiful and brightest between October 10th and October 31st. You’ll get your earliest foliage at higher elevations, like Shenandoah National Park and the Appalachian Trail, and from there, it moves in an easterly direction. If you’re looking for a few places to see the best colors, check out First Landing Park in Virginia Beach or the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway.

Related Articles

Explore Virginia