Fall City Escapes in Virginia: Discover the Best Urban Adventures

Virginia's cities become absolute playgrounds of color and culture when fall rolls around. Ready for some epic weekend getaways? Let's dive into the best spots for autumn vibes, cool attractions, delicious eats and drinks, festive fun, and the hidden gems and music scenes that make these cities pop.

Richmond | Alexandria | Charlottesville | Norfolk | Roanoke |
Harrisonburg | Virginia Beach | Fredericksburg | Staunton | Bristol

Richmond: The Quintessential Capital

With its rich history and bustling culture, Richmond is always a top spot for Virginia visitors, but in the fall, the city amps up its seasonal beauty. Hike along the James River surrounded by fiery foliage and picturesque riverfront scenery, or visit Maymont for a stroll through an autumnal urban oasis. Richmond blends the old with the new, offering an eclectic experience ideal for autumn adventurers.

Richmond Fall Foliage

• Hollywood Cemetery: Historic and serene, this spot offers beautiful views of the fall foliage high above the James River, making it a peaceful place for a reflective stroll.
• Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden: The changing leaves are reflected from the garden’s idyllic pond, resulting in double the seasonal colors. 
• James River Park System: Enjoy a scenic river walk or a more adrenaline-fueled mountain bike ride under a canopy of vibrant fall colors. The park offers numerous trails, each providing a unique perspective on the city's natural beauty. 

Top Attractions in Richmond

• Maymont Park: Wander through the lush gardens and explore the historic mansion of this 100-acre gem. 
• Virginia Museum of Fine Arts: Peruse diverse art collections, from Impressionist landscapes to centuries-old sculptures, and catch special exhibits this fall. 
• Carytown: Shop till you drop at unique boutiques and savor every bite at the wide range of popular restaurants in this eclectic neighborhood.

Where to Stay in Richmond

• The Jefferson Hotel: Five-star historic accommodations in the heart of Richmond.
• The Berkeley Hotel: Gracious hotel in the Shockoe Slip neighborhood of downtown Richmond, known for its cobblestone streets and bustling nightlife.  
• Graduate Richmond: Modern hotel with a rooftop bar, restaurant, and pool just steps from the Virginia Commonwealth University campus. 

Richmond Fall Flavors

• Local Food: Get your farm-to-table fix at L’Opossum or The Roosevelt, where seasonal ingredients shine.
• Local Beverages: Craft beer lovers head to Hardywood Park Craft Brewery for fall-flavored beers, like the Farmhouse Pumpkin made with locally sourced pumpkins. Cozy up with a freshly brewed cup from roasteries like Black Hand Coffee Company or Blanchard’s Coffee Roasting Co. 

Check out our Richmond Dining Guide for dining ideas!

Richmond Fall Festivals

• Richmond Folk Festival–September 27-29, 2024: Music, dance, and crafts from all over the globe—this Richmond fest is a must for locals and fall visitors alike. 
• 54th Richmond Oktoberfest–October 18-19, 2024: The longest-running and most authentic German folk festival in Virginia, Richmond’s Oktoberfest offers German beers, food, crafts, and musical performances. 
• State Fair of Virginia —September 27-October 6, 2024: Held annually at the Meadow Event Park north of Richmond, the state fair features amusement rides, carnival games, animal and agriculture competitions, and all your favorite tasty fair foods. 

Richmond Music Venues

• The National: See live performances from big names and indie bands alike at this downtown venue. 
• Broadberry: An intimate venue with a killer sound system and a continuously great lineup.

Richmond Hidden Gems

• Belle Isle: Perfect for scenic hiking or biking along the river to take in the fall colors.
• Quirk Hotel Rooftop Bar: This hotel bar is the prime location for cityscape views, upscale vibes, and craft cocktails with a touch of elegance.
• Libbie Hill Park: Known as the “view that named the city”, the geographical features seen from Libbie Hill Park are said to resemble Richmond on the Thames in England closely.

Looking for a more in-depth guide to cool things to do in Richmond? Check out our Trendy Neighborhood Guide!

Alexandria: Historic Charm by the Potomac

With its cobblestone streets and waterfront beauty, Alexandria is fall-ready and calling your name. Think colonial charm paired with tree-lined streets alight in autumn colors. Alexandria's blend of history, boutique shopping, and culinary delights make it a must-visit for a memorable fall weekend.

Alexandria Fall Foliage

• George Washington Memorial Parkway: Take a scenic drive along the Potomac River to spot impressive fall colors. This route offers numerous pull-off spots for impromptu photo sessions.
• Fort Hunt Park: An incredible spot for picnics and leaf-peeping, with wide open spaces and beautiful trees.

Top Attractions in Alexandria

• George Washington's Mount Vernon: Tour the expansive estate of our first president and attend seasonal events and commemorations. 
• Torpedo Factory Art Center: Art lovers, this one's for you—local studios and galleries abound in the art center. 
• Old Town Alexandria: Shop, dine, and soak up the historic vibes of this charming district.

Where to Stay in Alexandria

• Morrison House: Historic charm meets modern elegance in this 45-room Federalist-style hotel near Alexandria’s Old Town waterfront. 
• Archer Hotel Old Town Alexandria: King Street hotel with a private courtyard, a delightful spa, and BRABO Brasserie, an award-winning restaurant uniting American cuisine with refined European techniques.  
• Hotel AKA Alexandria: Sophisticated accommodations designed by world-renowned architect Piero Lissoni featuring mid-century elements and modern minimalistic touches. 

Alexandria Fall Flavors

• Local Food: Feast on fall dishes at Virtue Feed & Grain, where the menu changes to reflect the best of the season.
• Local Beverages: Sip on various award-winning beers at Port City Brewing Company.
• Captain Gregory’s: A hidden speakeasy with incredible cocktails.

• For more local dining ideas, check out our dining guide to Alexandria and Arlington!​

Alexandria Fall Festivals

• Del Ray’s Art on the Avenue–October 5, 2024: A multicultural celebration of arts, music, and food in early October.
• Alexandria Old Town Art Festival–September 14-15, 2024: Walk down Old Town Alexandria’s famous King Street transformed into an outdoor art gallery for this fall festival. 
• Alexandria Film Festival–November 7-10, 2024: Spend four days in November screening high-quality movies, hearing from talented filmmakers during panels, and attending arts presentations. 

Alexandria Music Venues

• Birchmere: A legendary live music venue with great acoustics.

Alexandria Hidden Gems

• Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey House: The only public Frank Lloyd Wright house in the D.C. metropolitan area, this Usonian structure is an architectural jewel. 
• Huntley Meadows Park: Nature trails and wildlife spotting just outside the city.

Looking for a more in-depth guide to cool things to do in Alexandria? Check out our Trendy Neighborhood Guide!

Charlottesville: A College Town with Endless Scenic Beauty

Nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville blends eye-catching scenery with a lively arts scene. Fall here is like stepping into a postcard. From historic landmarks to internationally-ranked wineries, this city offers an optimal mix of relaxation and adventure.

Charlottesville Fall Foliage

• Shenandoah National Park: Just a short drive away, this famous park offers some of the best fall foliage in the state. For breathtaking views, few routes in the world compare to Skyline Drive.
• Kemper Park: Explore 89 acres of land along the Thomas Jefferson Parkway with mixed passive recreational use, such as walking, jogging, biking, and bird watching. 

Top Attractions in Charlottesville

• Monticello: Thomas Jefferson’s estate, sitting high above downtown Charlottesville, is even more breathtaking in the fall.

• Charlottesville Historic Downtown Mall: Shop, dine, and catch live street performances in one of the longest pedestrian malls in the country.

• University of Virginia: Tour Jefferson’s iconic campus with its stunning architecture and gorgeous grounds.

Where to Stay in Charlottesville

• The Draftsman Hotel: Boutique hotel close to the University of Virginia campus.

• Boars Head Resort: AAA Four-Diamond Country Resort on the outskirts of Charlottesville that features gorgeous trails, a top-ranked golf course, and a luxurious spa. 

• Kimpton The Forum Hotel: Pet-friendly accommodations near the UVA School of Law. Jeffersonian-style hotel surrounded by a flourishing botanical garden, arboretum, and walking trails.

Charlottesville Fall Flavors

• Local Food: Seasonal dishes await at The Local or Black Cow Chophouse.
• Local Beverages: Sip wines at Jefferson Vineyards, craft beers at Three Notch'd Brewing Company, or ciders at Potters Craft Cider.

• For more dining ideas, check out our Charlottesville dining guide!

Charlottesville Fall Festivals

• Virginia Film Festival–October 30-November 3, 2024: Film buffs, this one's for you—discover cinematic gems during the annual Virginia Film Festival.

• Crozet Arts and Crafts Festival–October 12-13, 2024: Arts, crafts, and live music with an epic mountain backdrop.

Charlottesville Music Venues

• Jefferson Theater: Historic venue on the downtown mall with a stellar lineup.
• The Southern Café and Music Hall: Intimate shows with big vibes.

Charlottesville Hidden Gems

• Humpback Rocks: A short drive from downtown Charlottesville, hike this one-mile up-and-back trail for panoramic fall views. It's a challenging trek with big elevation gains but the payoff is worth it.
• Bodo’s Bagels: A Charlottesville institution, grab a bite at one of four locations to experience world-class bagel sandwiches. 
• IX Art Park: Tucked away behind Three Notch’d Brewery, this park features dozens of murals and installations by local and regional artists. 

Norfolk: Coastal Livin' & Maritime History

A coastal city packed with urban excitement, Norfolk should be a top destination for fall travelers. The lively downtown features a rich maritime history, picturesque waterfront views, and an incredible arts scene. Norfolk offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation–add it to your fall travel bucket list.

Norfolk Fall Foliage

• Norfolk Botanical Garden: Spend a leisurely afternoon walking through fields of fall blooms and changing leaves in a serene setting.
• Elizabeth River Trail: Bike or walk along this river trail, which offers prime views of fall foliage in the Norfolk area with a mix of urban and natural scenery.

Top Attractions in Norfolk

• Nauticus and Battleship Wisconsin: Explore America’s maritime history at this waterfront discovery center. Don’t miss a tour of the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest and last battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy. 
• The Virginia Zoo: Encounter exotic animals at this AZA-accredited zoo with more than 700 animals representing 150+ species. 
• Chrysler Museum of Art: See more than 30,000 pieces of world art at this free museum.

Where to Stay in Norfolk

• The Glass Light Hotel: Marriott boutique hotel and glass art gallery in downtown Norfolk. 
• Hilton Norfolk The Main: Upscale hotel conveniently located at the corner of Main and Granby Streets. Includes three chic eateries serving everything from casual burgers and brews to fine-dining Italian and fresh local seafood.

Norfolk Fall Flavors

• Local Food: Sample fresh seafood at Saltine or farm-to-table goodness at Commune.
• Local Beverages: Sip craft beers at Benchtop Brewing or a made-to-order coffee at Café Stella.

Norfolk Fall Festivals

• Virginia Children's Festival–October 5, 2024: Bring the kids to the Virginia Children’s Festival for cultural experiences, military demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and musical performances. 
• The NEON Festival–October 17-18, 2024: In Norfolk’s first official arts district, this is a free event held over two evenings in October that encourages visitors to discover the NEON District. 
• Stockley Gardens Arts Festival–October 19-20, 2024: Art, music, and food in a charming park setting.

Norfolk Music Venues

• The NorVa: A favorite live music spot with an electric atmosphere.
• Attucks Theatre: The historic Attucks Theatre is well suited for intimate live performances.

Norfolk Hidden Gems

• Historic Ghent District: Historic Ghent offers boutique and antique shopping in a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere along Colley Avenue and 21st Street.

• Mermaid Factory: Create a mermaid keepsake to commemorate your trip to Norfolk.

• Waterside District: With a dozen restaurants and bars, you can eat, drink, and play right by the water at Norfolk’s Waterside District.  

For more ideas of cool things to do in Norfolk, check out our Trendy Neighborhood Guide to Norfolk and Virginia Beach!

Roanoke: The Star City of the South

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke has an abundance of outdoor activities and a lively downtown that make it a fantastic fall destination. Known for its scenic drives, hiking and mountain biking trails, and thriving craft beer scene, Roanoke is the perfect blend of city life and nature.

Roanoke Fall Foliage

• Blue Ridge Parkway: Take a scenic drive with magnificent fall views. The parkway is one of the most visited spots in the country for fall foliage, famous for its stunning overlooks and warm colors during peak season.
• Explore Park: Hike and bike through 1,100 acres of colorful forests and riverfront trails at Explore Park. This is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts! 

Top Attractions in Roanoke

• Mill Mountain Star and Park: Visit the iconic star for city views and vivid fall foliage. 

• Taubman Museum of Art: Peruse contemporary art in a striking setting.

• Roanoke City Market: Shop fresh produce, crafts, and tasty treats at this year-round market, open seven days a week. 

Where to Stay in Roanoke

• Fire Station One Boutique Hotel: Historic fire station converted into a tastefully modern seven-room hotel. Each room is thoughtfully decorated with pieces from TXTUR, the downstairs custom furniture store based out of Roanoke. 
• The Liberty Trust Hotel: Former First National Bank headquarters that has been recently renovated into a gorgeous hotel with incredible views of the Blue Ridge Mountains visible from the upper-floor rooms. 
• Hotel Roanoke: Nicknamed “The Grand Old Lady”, Hotel Roanoke offers timeless accommodations in downtown Roanoke.

Roanoke Fall Flavors

• Local Food: Feast on farm-to-table dishes at Local Roots or Southern-inspired cuisine at The River and Rail.
• Local Beverages: Roanoke is a craft beer lover’s mecca! Sample craft beers at Big Lick Brewing Company, or Golden Cactus Brewing. 

For more in-depth dining ideas, check out our Roanoke dining guide!

Roanoke Fall Festivals

• Blue Ridge Folklife Festival–October 26, 2024: Music, crafts, and Appalachian culture abound at this authentic festival. Learn about local music traditions, moonshine history, the crafting of artisan goods, and much more during the one-of-a-kind event. 
• Roanoke GO Outside Festival–October 18-20, 2024: A three-day celebration in mid-October of everything outdoors in Virginia’s Blue Ridge region. In addition to vendors selling quality outdoor products, you can demo everything from paddleboards and mountain bikes to climbing gear and kayaks. 

Roanoke Music Venues

• Dr. Pepper Park: See live music performances outdoors with a scenic backdrop of the Roanoke River and Mill Mountain. 
• 5 Points Music Sanctuary: Unique venue with a mission to enrich lives through music.

Roanoke Hidden Gems

• Carvins Cove: Adventure awaits with hiking, biking, and boating. It’s the perfect spot for an outdoor excursion during your visit to Roanoke. 
• Black Dog Salvage: As seen on the DIY Network, a 40,000-square-foot antique warehouse carries a huge variety of restored furniture and collectible pieces. 

• Looking for a more in-depth guide to cool things to do in Roanoke? Check out our Trendy Neighborhood Guide!

Harrisonburg: The Friendly City

Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg is a mountain paradise bursting with fall colors, local charm, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're hitting the trails or exploring downtown, this city has nonstop scenic beauty and vibrant local culture. 

Harrisonburg Fall Foliage

• Shenandoah National Park: With an entrance about 30 minutes from Harrisonburg, this park offers some of the most awe-inspiring fall foliage in Virginia. Skyline Drive is an absolute must.
• Edith J. Carrier Arboretum: Wander through this lush botanical garden and soak in the fiery fall hues right in the heart of the city.

Top Attractions in Harrisonburg

• Downtown Harrisonburg: Explore unique shops, art galleries, and historic sites in the bustling downtown area.
• Explore More Discovery Museum: A family-friendly interactive museum that provides hands-on fun for kids of all ages.
• Virginia Quilt Museum: Dive into the history and artistry of quilting with fascinating exhibits and displays.

Where to Stay in Harrisonburg

• Hotel Madison: Hotel and conference center featuring well-appointed rooms and suites with mountain and downtown views. 
• The Joshua Wilton House: Quiet and refined bed & breakfast in a beautiful Victorian manor.

Harrisonburg Fall Flavors

• Local Food: Enjoy farm-to-table goodness at Local Chop & Grill House or Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint.
• Local Beverages: Sip on craft beers at Pale Fire Brewing Company or indulge in a cozy coffee at Black Sheep Coffee.

Harrisonburg Fall Festivals

• Massanutten Fall Festival–October 12, 2024: Held at Massanutten Resort a short drive from downtown Harrisonburg. Browse arts and crafts vendors while enjoying local food and drinks. Kids will love the activities, including pumpkin painting and tie-dye stations. Live music keeps the energy going throughout. 

Harrisonburg Music Venues

• Golden Pony: Catch live music with a laid-back atmosphere at the downtown hotspot.
• Clementine Café: A local favorite venue offering live performances and delicious eats.

Harrisonburg Hidden Gems

• Kline's Dairy Bar: Treat yourself to some of the best ice cream in town.
• White Oak Lavender Farm: Relax and unwind in the fragrant fields of a charming lavender farm. Try the lavender ice cream and stop by the Purple WOLF Vineyard Tasting Room for lavender-infused wines. 

Virginia Beach: Coastal Vibes for Fall Fun in the Sun

Virginia Beach isn't just a summer destination. When fall arrives, this coastal city transforms into a paradise of cool breezes, spectacular sunsets, and endless activities. From sandy shores to thrilling nightlife, Virginia Beach has it all.

Virginia Beach Fall Foliage

• First Landing State Park: Explore miles of trails shaded by colorful fall foliage along the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean.
• Mount Trashmore Park: Take in panoramic views of the city and the striking fall colors from this unique urban park.

Top Attractions in Virginia Beach

• Virginia Beach Boardwalk: Stroll along the iconic boardwalk, lined with boutique shops and restaurants just a few steps from the Atlantic Ocean.
• Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center: Discover marine life through interactive exhibits and immersive experiences. 
• Military Aviation Museum: Dive into history with an impressive collection of vintage aircraft.

Where to Stay in Virginia Beach

• The Historic Cavalier Hotel & Beach Club: This opulent hotel originally built in the 1920s has been renovated to reflect modern-day elegance. Private beach club with infinity pool and cabana rentals. 
• Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront: Oceanfront hotel with a rooftop infinity pool and award-winning restaurant located on the iconic Boardwalk.
• Embassy Suites Virginia Beach: Family-friendly oceanfront hotel with indoor and outdoor pools, a semi-private beach, and activities like bike rentals, crafts, and wine tastings. 

Virginia Beach Fall Flavors

• Local Food: Savor fresh seafood at Waterman’s Surfside Grille or farm-to-table dishes at Commune.
• Local Beverages: Enjoy craft beers at Back Bay Brewing Co. or a creative cocktail at Waterman Spirits, a distillery making organic, coral-filtered vodka, or Tarnished Truth Distilling Co., located inside the historic Cavalier Hotel. 

For more in-depth dining options, check out our dining guide to Virginia Beach!

Virginia Beach Fall Festivals

• Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend–September 27-29, 2024: Celebrate the season with sand sculptures, live music, and local vendors along the boardwalk.
• Virginia Beach Craft Beer Festival–August 24, 2024: Sample a bevy of craft brews while enjoying the oceanfront vibes.

Virginia Beach Music Venues

• Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater: Catch big-name concerts and live performances at this popular venue.
• Peabody's Nightclub: Dance the night away with live DJs at Peabody’s Nightclub, a mainstay in the Virginia Beach music scene. 

Virginia Beach Hidden Gems

• Chesapeake Bay Distillery: Taste locally crafted spirits and take a tour of this unique distillery.
• Pleasure House Point Natural Area: Explore this serene natural area with beautiful trails and wildlife.

For more ideas of cool things to do in Virginia Beach, check out our Trendy Neighborhood Guide to Norfolk and Virginia Beach!

Fredericksburg: The Past & Present Intertwined

Fredericksburg’s historic sites, picture-perfect downtown, and riverfront location make it a fantastic fall escape. Step back in time as you visit the Rising Sun Tavern, follow the Fredericksburg Civil Rights Trail, and walk in the footsteps of George Washington at his boyhood home, Ferry Farm. Then, take some time to appreciate the modern aspects of the city, including critically acclaimed restaurants and original boutique shops along Caroline Street.

Fredericksburg Fall Foliage

• Chatham Manor: Walk through the historic gardens and enjoy stunning views of the Rappahannock River adorned with fall colors.

• Alum Spring Park: A local favorite for picnics and leisurely walks, this park is beautiful during the fall season.

• Fredericksburg Battlefield: Learn about Civil War history with a visit to this significant battlefield.

Top Attractions in Fredericksburg

• Historic Downtown Fredericksburg: Explore antique shops, art galleries, and historic sites in this charming district.
• Gari Melchers Home and Studio: Tour the preserved home and art studio of American artist Gari Melchers.

Where to Stay in Fredericksburg

• Ironclad Inn: Princess Anne Street bed and breakfast with manicured gardens and a shaded patio. First bed & breakfast to have an on-site bourbon tasting room. 
• Courtyard Fredericksburg Historic District: Centrally-located hotel near the University of Mary Washington and the Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park.
• The Publisher, Fredericksburg: New luxury boutique hotel in the downtown Historic District of Fredericksburg. 

Fredericksburg Fall Flavors

• Local Food: Dine at Foode for a farm-to-table experience or enjoy classic Italian fare at Orofino. Indulge in a local favorite with a delicious frozen treat at Carl's Frozen Custard. 
• Local Beverages: Grab a pint at Red Dragon Brewery or try the signature coffee blends at Hyperion Espresso.

Fredericksburg Fall Festivals

• Fredericksburg Fall Home & Craft Festival–October 15-16, 2024: Shop unique crafts, home décor, and more at this annual event.
• Via Colori Street Art Festival–September 28-29, 2024: Enjoy colorful street art created by talented artists during this vibrant festival in nearby Stafford. 

Fredericksburg Music Venues

• The Colonial Tavern: An Irish pub featuring live music acts every Thursday through Saturday night. 
• Strangeways Brewing Fredericksburg: Sip on locally-made ales while enjoying live performances at this Fredericksburg brewery.

Fredericksburg Hidden Gems

• The Battlefield Country Store: Country store and grocery serving breakfast and lunch as well as homemade sweet treats in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Make sure to try their epic milkshakes, available in over 20 different flavors and piled sky-high with all your favorite toppings. 
• Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park: Hallowed grounds where the Civil War reached its tragic peak.

Staunton: The Best-Kept Secret of the Shenandoah Valley

Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton has lots to offer in the fall, from museums and architectural beauty to cultural richness and a burgeoning food scene. From its beautifully preserved downtown to its thriving arts community, Staunton has something for everyone.

Staunton Fall Foliage

• Gypsy Hill Park: Wander through this 214-acre scenic park with its colorful fall trees and peaceful atmosphere. 
• Frontier Culture Museum: Experience the biggest open-air living history museum in the Shenandoah Valley as you take in the stunning fall backdrop.

Top Attractions in Staunton

• American Shakespeare Center: Witness world-class Shakespearean performances in the Blackfriars Playhouse.
• Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum: Learn about the 28th President of the United States at his birthplace, filled with exhibits that follow the life and times of Virginian Woodrow Wilson. 
• Virginia Scenic Railway: Climb aboard Virginia’s only regularly scheduled tourist train and take a ride through the irresistible Shenandoah Valley, which is at its peak charm when blanketed in fall colors. 

Where to Stay in Staunton

• Blackburn Inn and Conference Center: Stay in a beautifully restored historic hotel with modern amenities.
• The Historic Inn at Oakdene: 1902 Queen Anne-style residence surrounded by idyllic gardens that have been converted into a luxury inn. For the best fall views, book the Commonwealth Suite, which has a private deck overlooking the gardens.  

Staunton Fall Flavors

• Local Food: Dine on seasonal farm-to-table fare at The Shack, Zynodoa, or Maude & The Bear.
• Local Beverages: Get a taste of Staunton’s craft beer scene at Queen City Brewing or enjoy a cup of joe at Cranberry’s Grocery & Eatery.

Staunton Fall Festivals

• Queen City Mischief & Magic–September 28-29, 2024:: Immerse yourself in the wizarding world with this whimsical festival.
• Staunton Music Festival–Select dates through November 3, 2024: Enjoy classical music performances in various historic venues around the city.

Staunton Music Venues

• The Green Room: Relax with live music paired with an excellent selection of natural wines. 
• Byers Street Bistro: Enjoy great food and live performances in a cozy setting at this casual, colorful bistro with outdoor seating.

Staunton Hidden Gems

• Sunspots Studios: Watch live glassblowing demonstrations and shop for unique glass art.
• Wrights Dairy-Rite: An old-school drive-in serving up sandwiches and shakes. 

Bristol: The Birthplace of Country Music

Straddling the Virginia/Tennessee state line, Bristol is a unique mix of musical heritage, scenic beauty, and southern charm. With the nickname of the Birthplace of Country Music, Bristol’s streets are always ringing with local music, and you’ll discover the rich history and a lively cultural scene that will make you fall in love with this southern city. 

Bristol Fall Foliage

• South Holston Lake and Dam: Take in the stunning fall colors while enjoying recreational activities like fishing and boating.
• Sugar Hollow Park: Explore this expansive park with trails that showcase the beautiful fall foliage.

Top Attractions in Bristol

• Birthplace of Country Music Museum: Uncover the storied musical history of Bristol with interactive exhibits and artifacts.
• State Street: Walk along the iconic street that divides Virginia and Tennessee, filled with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
• Bristol Motor Speedway: Catch a thrilling race or tour one of the most famous tracks in NASCAR.

Where to Stay in Bristol

• Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards: 450-acre resort with unparalleled luxury accommodations including an on-site vineyard, a restaurant helmed by famed Virginia Chef Travis Milton, and an infinity pool and spa. 
• The Bristol Hotel: A 65-room boutique hotel featuring a rooftop bar with sweeping views of the Appalachian Mountains, especially lovely in the fall! 
• The Sessions Hotel: Music-themed hotel in a renovated historic building with artfully-inspired rooms 

Bristol Fall Flavors

• Local Food: Experience old-fashioned delights at The Burger Bar or try the amazing offerings at 620 State Restaurant. Grab a box of decadent baked goods from Blackbird Bakery. 
• Local Beverages: Sip on local beers and throw axes at Axe & Ale House. Get a taste of Virginia’s incredible wine scene at Nicewonder Vineyards, one of the most picturesque vineyards in the Commonwealth. 

Bristol Fall Festivals

• Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion–September 13-15, 2024: Celebrate Bristol's musical heritage with this three-day festival featuring live performances on multiple stages, both indoor and outdoor, and local food, drink, and artisan vendors.

Bristol Music Venues

• Paramount Bristol: Catch live music in the historic State Street venue with a cozy atmosphere.

Bristol Hidden Gems

• Benjamin Walls Gallery: Explore stunning photography and artwork in this charming gallery curated by the five-time Smithsonian exhibitor.
• Clear Creek Golf Club: Tee off amidst the beautiful fall scenery at this local public golf course.

From fiery foliage to exciting festivals and hidden treasures, Virginia's cities are calling your name this fall. Grab your coziest sweater and hit the road to discover these urban adventures waiting for you.