Virginia is beautiful year-round, but autumn’s vibrant red and orange hues make the region even more stunning. Whether you’re traveling by car, train, or boat, here are a few ways to take in the fall views around the commonwealth.
Skyline Drive
You can’t talk about leaf peeping without bringing up Skyline Drive. With 105 miles of winding road, this Shenandoah National Park destination is lined with scenic vistas. Roll the windows down to take in the sights of the Blue Ridge Mountains and pull off onto some of the many viewpoints along the way to snap photos. Shenandoah National Park, Front Royal, $30
Virginia Scenic Railway
Don’t want to drive? Hop aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway to get sweeping fall views from the comfort of a train car. The three-hour Alleghany Special route departs from Staunton and carries riders through the Shenandoah Valley toward the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. Staunton, $69+
Photo Cruise on the Potomac
One great way to capture views of fall foliage is from the water. At George Washington’s Mount Vernon, this photo cruise runs seasonally through October 25. The tour brings passengers along the Potomac with narration about Washington and the river’s history. The Wharf at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, $11 in addition to estate admission
George Washington Memorial Parkway
Right in NoVA, the George Washington Memorial Parkway is an easy way to see some of our area’s landmarks decorated with fall colors. The 25-mile road offers glimpses of the Potomac River, Arlington National Cemetery, and Mount Vernon. Location varies, free
This story originally ran in our October issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
