The Best Virginia Fall Road Trip Itinerary
The leaves are already starting to change in the northeast — so for all you leaf peepers and autumn enthusiasts, it’s time to act fast. Finding the perfect fall campervan trip to take can be quite a challenge, though, even if you are already well-acquainted with the best spots for autumn adventures in the USA. Whether you’re looking for a quiet site for enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature in-transition, or a lively small town to explore, every autumn ‘destination’ has its own unique spots that attract travelers in the chilly months leading up to winter.
For Washington, DC residents, it can be difficult to decide exactly where to go during hoodie season. Do you go far south to enjoy the heat, or make the trek way up north to see the leaves change? Questions like these depend on your own personal climate preference, but if you’re truly looking to find destinations with the best day-of-Halloween vibes, you gotta check out the spots located in Virginia below. Grab your camera, pack a bag or two, and get ready for a road trip that encapsulates all the pumpkin-spice-goodness of the season.
Day 1: Harpers Ferry
Nestled between the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, Harpers Ferry is a charming historic town that comes alive each fall season with a breathtaking sort of autumn beauty. As a crisp cool settles upon the region, the town and its surrounding landscape truly transform.
By early to mid-October, Harpers Ferry's picturesque streets, lined with quaint 19th-century buildings, are adorned with cascades of fiery red, burnt orange, and golden leaves. The historic significance of this town, where the Civil War once left its indelible mark, is beautifully juxtaposed with the serene spectacle of fall.
Stay at The Lavat Spot Eudaimonia
Eat at The Rabbit Hole
Day 2: Culpeper
The charming town of Culpeper and its surrounding countryside undergo one of the most beautiful fall transformations in Virginia each year. Culpeper's historic downtown, lined with well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture, takes on a new warmth as the trees that line the streets burst anew, and the town's shops and cafes, adorned with seasonal decorations, beckon visitors to savor the delights of the season. Culpeper's countryside also becomes a patchwork of vibrant autumn colors, while the winding country roads that lead to the town are framed by a breathtaking canopy of foliage, making every road trip a scenic adventure. Nature enthusiasts will also surely feel drawn to the nearby entrance to Shenandoah National Park, where trails meander through forests ablaze with autumn hues.
Stay at Casa Vargas
Eat at Piedmont Steakhouse
Explore Mountain Run Winery
Day 3: Charlottesville
Charlottesville, also nestled in the heart of Virginia's Piedmont region, is a city that truly shines come October. The historic downtown district, with its charming brick buildings and tree-lined streets, becomes a picturesque setting for the arrival of autumn. The University of Virginia's iconic Grounds, designed by Thomas Jefferson, take on a similar autumn allure as the leaves on the trees turn brilliant shades of red and gold.
Vineyards and orchards dot the Charlottesville countryside, offering the perfect backdrop for wine tours and apple picking adventures — perfect activities for a town synonymous with apple cider, pumpkin-spiced treats, and farm-to-table dining experiences. Local restaurants and markets showcase the season's bounty, providing an opportunity to savor the flavors of fall. It’s true, though, that Charlottesville’s secret allure is never more evident than during its fall festivals and gatherings. The Charlottesville Festival of the Arts and the Virginia Fall Foliage Festival bring people together to celebrate the season's abundance, showcasing local artisans, craftspeople, and musicians.
Stay at a private farm minutes from downtown
Eat at The Ivy Inn
Explore The University of Virginia for the best fall campus vibes
Days 4-5: Roanoke
In the very heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke exists as a moody fall oasis for travelers and residents alike; its bustling marketplaces and locally-owned boutiques become even more delightful to explore as they showcase fall-themed displays and seasonal goods.
Surrounded by the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke truly offers a wealth of opportunities for leaf-peeping and outdoor adventure. The scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, often referred to as "America's Favorite Drive," winds its way through the region, offering breathtaking vistas of the rolling hills and vibrant forests.
The culinary scene of course embraces the scents and flavors of fall, with cozy cafes and restaurants dotting the city’s map. Any number of local favorites serve up hearty comfort food and seasonal delights, in addition to the local cideries and breweries showcasing autumn-inspired drinks.
Stay at Savage Acres on Craig Creek
Eat at The River and Rail Restaurant
Explore the Dragon’s Tooth Trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway