I am not ashamed to admit that I go full PSL White Lady in the fall. I live for cozy fires, pine scented candles, and the Hallmark Holiday movies. I mean, I'm already in the Dollar Tree thinking that I should buy this Halloween holiday tree and ornaments and it's only August 8. Fall is my favorite season of the entire year, and I dream of it year round. Fall in Virginia is like nature's own cozy sweater – warm, inviting, and full of charm. There's nothing quite like the crisp, cool air and the vibrant colors that paint the landscape. So, grab your favorite scarf and let's dive into some seriously fun fall bucket list ideas you should think of doing this year!
First things first: apple picking! Carter Mountain Orchard near Charlottesville is a favorite in the state for a reason. Imagine yourself surrounded by apple trees, the sweet scent of ripe fruit filling the air. Grab a basket and start picking your way to the perfect apple pie, or just rummage through the ones they've already picked for you so your outfit can stay cute for the Gram. And don't forget their famous cider donuts – did you even go if you didn't have one? Once you've filled your baskets, head over to their Carter Mountain Wine Shop, which touts itself as the highest tasting room in Charlottesville, offering stunning views alongside its wine selections. Enjoy a tasting or glass on their patio with panoramic views!
While we're on the topic of orchards, Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria is another fantastic option. I grew up going to the annual bluegrass festival here, and it wasn't until my mid-20's that I realized they did an apple festival every year! On select Saturday and Sundays in October you can find rows and rows of craft vendors selling so many things I can't even name them all. There's live music and usually cloggers dancing throughout the day, so bring your chairs to relax and enjoy! Take the kids on a hayride, pony ride, pick some apples, and spend some time in the kids play area. It's def fun for the whole family! If you're traveling child free, I highly recommend the nearby Pendruid Brewing and Little Washington Winery for some delicious beverages and beautiful views!
After you've picked your apples, it's time to find the perfect pumpkin. Cox Farms in Fairfax County is a pumpkin-picking paradise. They've got everything from tiny pumpkins perfect for decorating to giant ones that could be a Halloween throne. While you're there, take a hayride, get lost in the corn maze, enjoy some live music, or visit their famed "Foamhenge" - a life sized replica of Stonehenge! Tbh, I didn't know about this festival until I started researching for this post and now I am 100% going. Foamhenge? I have to.
And if you're looking to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of music culture, mark your calendar for the Richmond Folk Festival September 27 - 29, 2024! This free, three-day fest in Richmond brings together musicians, dancers, and craftspeople from all over the country. You'll hear everything from bluegrass to Cumbia to traditional Mongolian singers across the 5 stages. We never miss it. There's food and drinks for sale, or within walking distance. It's held every year downtown on Brown's Island, which has some beautiful views of our awesome city!
And let's not forget about the breathtaking fall foliage. A scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway is an absolute must. It stretches from the Shenandoah National Park all the way down to the beautiful Smoky Mountains of Tennessee! Along the parkway you will see highest mountain peak in the eastern United States, the oldest river in North America, deepest gorge east of the Grand Canyon, and the highest waterfall east of the Rockies. I mean, honestly, this alone could be an entire road trip, and I am def planning on doing it this fall season! The colors are simply mesmerizing. You'll find yourself winding through mountains, passing by cascading waterfalls, charming small towns, and feeling a sense of peace wash over you. Stay tuned for the dedicated fall foliage post coming next month!
So, there you have it – a taste of the amazing fall experiences Virginia has to offer. Whether you're into family fun, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking up the beauty of the season, Virginia has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your fall getaway and get ready to make some unforgettable memories!
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