Driving through the Blue Ridge Mountains to take in the vivid oranges, reds, and yellows that blanket the landscape is one of Virginia’s most iconic fall experiences, and few routes in the entire country can compare to the linked roadways of Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

Pack up the car and plan your road trip for a memorable bucket list experience using this guide for where to eat, sleep, and play along the way! 

Note: As two of Virginia’s most popular scenic routes, the roadways get busy in the fall, especially on the weekends. Consider a mid-week trip for a leisurely experience of road tripping while taking in the stunning fall foliage blanketing Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Fall Activities in Shenandoah National Park | Where to Stay in Shenandoah National Park 

Small Towns Near Shenandoah National Park | Where to Eat in Shenandoah National Park 

SKYLINE DRIVE IN SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK

At 105 miles long, Skyline Drive meanders through the nearly 200,000-acre Shenandoah National Park. There are four entry points: Front Royal, Thornton Gap, Swift Run Gap, and Rockfish Gap.

 

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park

Photo Credit: Nicholas Moore, @nicholasmoorephoto

Inside the park, you’ll find more than 500 miles of hiking trails, including a 101-mile section of the famous Appalachian Trail. As the speed limit stays at 35mph for the entire length of Skyline Drive, this is a leisurely drive through some of Virginia’s most gorgeous scenery, especially in the fall. Be ready to stop and admire the views from the 75 scenic overlooks in the park. 

 

Know Before You Go

  • Shenandoah National Park passes may be purchased online or at the park entrances.
    • $30 vehicle entry fee, $25 motorcycle entry fee (fee waived on select dates)
    • Fully cashless fee collection onsite at the park 
    • Visitors with cash may purchase a park pass from third-party vendors in communities near the park
    • An entrance pass covers seven consecutive days
    • Active military, veterans, and their families can get free America the Beautiful passes
    • Cell phone service is limited in the park; plan your route ahead of time and prepare for spotty signal. 
  • Bookstores and concession facilities accept both cash and credit 
  • A day-use ticket is required to hike Old Rag from March 1 to November 30, and a maximum of 800 tickets are allotted for each day. Tickets are $2 each and may be reserved up to 30 days in advance. 
  • There are two visitor centers within Shenandoah National Park — Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, located at milepost 4.6 close to the northern Front Royal entrance, and Byrd Visitor Center at milepost 51 just across from Big Meadows. 
  • The main dining options within the park are at Skyland (milepost 41.7) and Big Meadows Lodge (milepost 51). Both restaurants have limited hours and are closed for the winter season, so check ahead of time to ensure they are open. 
  • Big Meadows Wayside is the only gas station in the park. It is at roughly the halfway point through the park at milepost 51.2. You can also exit the park at one of the four main entrance points to fuel up and then return to Skyline Drive. 
  • The clearance at Mary's Rock Tunnel (milepost 32.4) is 12'8"
  • Inclement weather may close Skyline Drive. Call 540-999-3500 for status or text SHENALERTS to 888777 for text alerts. You may unsubscribe at any time. 

 

The Best Fall Activities Near Shenandoah National Park

Looking for some quick stops along Skyline Drive to stretch your legs and experience the best of fall in Virginia? Here are a few ideas to create an unforgettable road trip along one of America’s most iconic routes! 

More Fall Fun Nearby 

"Kaiya" Mural in Waynesboro

Mural in Waynesboro

Photo Credit: Sam Dean, @sdeanphotos

Attend a Fall Festival

  • Learn about the traditional apple butter-making process at the Apple Butter Festival at Wade’s Mill.
  • Attend the Page County Heritage Festival over Columbus Day weekend for a chance to see traditional mountain heritage activities, including log sawing, wheat thrashing, corn husking, hay baling, and blacksmithing. 
  • On October 10-11, 2025, make plans for the Festival of Leaves in Front Royal, an annual event with live music, food trucks, a classic car show, and more. 
  • The Fall Foliage Art Festival occurs in Waynesboro on October 11, 2025, and is a free event that features more than 160 local artisans and musicians. Food trucks, wineries, and craft breweries offer everything you need to make it a day on the town.
  • Held in Stanardsville on September 20-21, 2025, the Virginia Clay Festival celebrates the creative possibilities of clay as an art medium. 35 clay artists from around Virginia gather to showcase their skills with clay and sell handmade clay crafts and pottery. 

Sample Fall Treats

Quievremont Winery

Quievremont Winery

Spooky Experiences

  • If visiting on a Friday or Saturday in October, head to Fear Forest in Harrisonburg for a spectacularly spooky experience. 
  • Another Halloween attraction, DarkWood Manor in Luray is an interactive and theatrical haunted house. 
  • Book a walking tour with Ghosts of Staunton to see the most haunted sites in town. 
  • Navigate the corn maze at Valley View Farm. 

Orchard & Farm Adventures

F.T. Valley Farm Pumpkin Patch

F.T. Valley Farm Pumpkin Patch

Photo Credit: Kathy Penkiunas, @FTValleyFarm

Charming Towns Near Shenandoah National Park Entrances

While Skyline Drive itself is an alluring attraction for fall, the small towns that are a short drive outside of Shenandoah National Park offer so much more. Discover the beauty of Virginia’s rural areas with a short detour to one of these adorable towns. 

 

Where to Stay Near Shenandoah National Park

Lodging Within the Park

There are campgrounds, cabins, and two lodges (Skyland and Big Meadows Lodge) within Shenandoah National Park, but these book up early for the summer and fall seasons. Make sure you reserve your lodging well in advance if you prefer staying within the park.

Lodging Near the Front Royal Entrance

Skyline Yurt, a custom wooden yurt located in Front Royal in the Shenandoah Valley.

Skyline Yurt

Skyline Yurt – One-of-a-kind luxury two-story yurt with two bedrooms and a king-size sleeper sofa. Amenities include a pool table, archery gear, a hot tub, e-bike rentals, an EV charging port, and an expansive deck with stunning views of the mountains. Pets are allowed for a small fee. 

Postcard Cabins Shenandoah – 45 luxury tiny modern cabins on 80 private acres. 

Lodging Near the Thornton Gap Entrance

Cabin Rentals Near Luray – Called the “Cabin Capital of Virginia,” the mountain town of Luray has a vast array of cabin rentals for groups of every size, from the couple looking for a romantic weekend retreat to the multigenerational family caravaning through the park.

Shadow Mountain Escape – European-style luxury timber cabin rentals; adults only. 

Lodging Near the Swift Run Gap Entrance

Lydia Mountain Lodge – Offering lodge rooms and private cabin rentals, many of them pet-friendly.  

Massanutten Resort – Family-friendly four-season mountain resort about 30 minutes west of the Swift Run Gap Entrance to the park. More than 6,000 acres hold ski slopes, mountain biking trails, an indoor/outdoor water park, zipline courses, miniature golf, and much more. 

Lodging Near the Rockfish Gap Entrance

Grey Pine Lodge

Grey Pine Lodge

Grey Pine Lodge – Boutique motel with 33 acres of grounds just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Also convenient for those looking to explore the award-winning wineries and scenic breweries nearby. 

Iris Inn and Cabins – Luxury inn and cabins with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

More Lodging Options Near the Park

 

Where to Eat Near Shenandoah National Park

Restaurants Near the Front Royal Entrance

The Apple House – Part cozy country-style diner, part gift shop that has been a beloved family-run roadside institution since 1963. Renowned for the legendary apple‑butter‑cinnamon donuts, hearty sandwiches, smoked BBQ, and fresh pies.

Spelunker’s – Frozen custard and burger drive-thru that is open daily. 

Element – Contemporary New American bistro serving seasonally rotating comfort‑food favorites like house‑made sandwiches, hearty soups, wood‑fired pizzas, burgers, and seafood.

Vibrissa Beer – Craft brewery in downtown Front Royal with a pet-friendly beer garden serving elevated pub fare. A favorite stop for Appalachian Trail hikers due to on-site laundry facilities and showers.

Restaurants Near the Thornton Gap Entrance

Patty O's Restaurant, Part of the Inn at Little Washington

Patty O's Restaurant, Part of the Inn at Little Washington

Photo Credit: The Inn at Little Washington

Patty O’s Cafe – The famous Inn at Little Washington’s more casual sister restaurant, located right across the street from the inn. Open for lunch, dinner, and brunch during select hours. 

New Iberia Kitchen – Located inside the Marketplace in Sperryville, the restaurant blends classic Southern fare with flavors from around the world.

Sumac – Food truck located at Pen Druid Brewery & Farm in Sperryville. Casual fine dining that sources all proteins, vegetables, dairy, and grains from within 150 miles, resulting in fresh, seasonal fare. 

Restaurants Near the Swift Run Gap Entrance

Maybelle’s on Main – Stanardsville coffee shop, bakery, and restaurant serving up wraps and sandwiches in addition to baked goods. 

Bearrr Appetit – On-site restaurant at Lydia Mountain Lodge open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on select days. Stunning patio views of the mountains. 

Elkton Brewing Co. – Small-batch brewery with 14 taps rotating regularly. 

Restaurants Near the Rockfish Gap Entrance

The River Burger Bar – Classic burger bar also serving an array of vegan and vegetarian options with an impressive craft beer menu. 

Crozet Pizza – Landmark pizza place that has been crafting hot, delicious pies since 1977. 

More Restaurants Near Shenandoah National Park

 

BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY

Pine Tree Overlook – Blue Ridge Parkway

Pine Tree Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway

From Rockfish Gap on Afton Mountain, you can access both Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway. From that point, the Parkway meanders 469 miles south to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.

 

Know Before You Go

  • No entry fee
  • 45mph speed limit
  • There are dozens of scenic overlooks, but some of the most iconic include Greenstone (milepost 8.8), Roanoke River (milepost 114.9), Roanoke Valley (milepost 129.6), Devils Backbone (milepost 144), Pine Spur (milepost 144.8), and Groundhog Mountain (milepost 188.8). 
  • The Bluff Mountain Tunnel (milepost 53.1) clearance is 13'7"
  • Inclement weather may close the Parkway. Call 828-298-039 or check the real-time closure map for status.

 

The Best Fall Activities Along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Mabry Mill

Mabry Mill
  • Learn about traditional practices like blacksmithing and woodworking during demonstrations at Mabry Mill, the most photographed spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway. 
  • Pick pumpkins and sunflowers at Sinkland Farms. If visiting on the weekends, you’ll experience the Sinkland Farms Pumpkin Festival, ranked in the top three in the nation by USA Today.
  • Get fresh apples right from the orchard and choose from hundreds of canned preserves at Gross’ Orchard. Don’t miss the apple hand pies–they are magical! 
  • Sample Virginia mead at Graham Ordinary Meadery. Grab a seat on the deck to enjoy the crisp fall mountain air. 
  • Visit Natural Bridge State Park to be awed by the 200-foot-tall limestone arch carved out by the creek below over thousands of years.
  • Rent kayaks or canoes through Twin River Outfitters in Buchanan to paddle the James and take in the scenic fall foliage.
  • Catch a live performance of folk and Appalachian music at the Blue Ridge Music Center.
  • Get a taste of Appalachian culture, music, and food at the Floyd Country Store, a charming general store in the Blue Ridge Mountains that has been a staple in the community for more than 100 years.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth when you pick up handmade candy, fudge, and other sweets at Nancy’s Candy Company.
  • Get a close-up view of the changing trees at Explore Park’s treetop adventure course.   

 

Charming Towns to Visit Along the Blue Ridge Parkway

 

Where to Stay Along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Wintergreen Resort

Wintergreen Resort

Photo Credit: Big Orange Frame

Wintergreen Resort – Sprawling 11,000-acre four-season resort atop the Blue Ridge Mountains that offers family-friendly lodging, from cozy inn rooms to multi‑bedroom condos and expansive homes. Activities include hiking trails, an Adventure Center for kids, indoor and outdoor pools, and skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.

Montebello Camping & Fishing Resort – Remote escape where guests can unplug, hike nearby trails, fish on a scenic mountain‐top lake, and recharge surrounded by natural beauty. Stay in cozy log cabins or book tent or RV sites and enjoy fishing in the stocked trout pond during your visit. 

Fenton Inn – Whimsical Bavarian‑style bed & breakfast near the Blue Ridge Parkway in Wintergreen that is designed like a charming European village complete with a cobblestone “Main Street,” clock tower, bakery, spa, gym, and forest‑crafted timber details.

Graham Ordinary Lodge – Colonial‐era log cabin lodge and meadery, nestled on 23 wooded acres and just 1.5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

Peaks of Otter Lodge – Off milepost 86, the pet-friendly lodge has 63 guest rooms that overlook tranquil Abbott Lake and the majestic Sharp Top Mountain, as well as a full-service restaurant, lounge, and gift shop. 

Peaks of Otter Farm – Beautifully restored farmhouse located at the base of the Peaks of Otter. This unique farm stay experience lets you mingle with friendly animals—including baby goats, emus, donkeys, pigs, chickens, and cows—just outside your cozy farmhouse retreat.

Hotel Floyd – Eco‑friendly hotel in downtown Floyd featuring uniquely themed guest rooms, sustainable design utilizing geothermal systems and solar arrays, complimentary breakfast, free Wi‑Fi, and easy access to local galleries, music venues, shops, and scenic drives.

Meadows of Dan Campground – Serene year-round campground in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains with camping and RV sites and log cabin rentals that feature Whirlpools and gas-log fireplaces. Take in the peaceful surroundings and enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby Crooked Road Heritage Music Trail. 

Primland Resort – Part of the upscale international Auberge Resorts Collection, this sumptuous back‑to‑nature retreat sits on a private 12,000‑acre estate along the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering refined accommodations (including luxury treehouses with awe-inspiring views), a world‑class spa, yoga classes, a fitness center, an indoor pool, plus unique adventures from horseback and ATV riding to stargazing at the observatory. 

 

Where to Eat Along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Stable Craft Brewing

Stable Craft Brewing

Photo Credit: Kyle Head, @thenomadmedia

Stable Craft Brewing – Working farm with an on-site brewery and restaurant. After dining, visit with the horses in the stables, take a picture in front of their keg LOVEwork, relax on the spacious patio, or get cozy near the fire pits. 

Crystal Spring Grocery – Serves a selection of grab-and-go items as well as made-to-order sandwiches, soups, and salads. Menu changes daily to reflect fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local vendors. 

Fortunato – Italian kitchen and Neapolitan-style pizzeria in Roanoke. Don’t miss the speakeasy bar located right behind the restaurant. 

Stock Cafe & Bar – Within the Fire Station One Boutique Hotel, Stock offers Nordic and Scandinavian-inspired cuisine with a full cocktail bar and an impressive selection of local wines. After dining, check out TXTUR, a locally-made furniture store connected to the restaurant and hotel. 

Dogtown Roadhouse – Six miles off of the Parkway in Floyd, this wood-fired pizza parlor embraces the musical legacy of Floyd with live music performances and karaoke every week. 

Red Rooster Coffee – Virginia-based coffee roastery and cafe with a location in Floyd. 

Chateau Morrisette Winery and Restaurant – Winery and restaurant with incredible views off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 171.5.

Mabry Mill Restaurant & Gift Shop – Historic mill, restaurant, and gift shop on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 176. The circa-1910 mill is known as one of the most photographed spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

The Gap Deli at the Parkway – Deli near the Virginia/North Carolina border off the Blue Ridge Parkway serving signature salads, sandwiches, desserts, coffee, and daily specials. 

 

Use these travel tips to help make your fall foliage road trip along Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway a breeze.