There’s no better place to admire the scenic beauty of fall in Virginia than the Shenandoah Valley. Each year, this beautiful part of the country comes alive with a striking palette of colors, transforming it into a must-visit destination. There are many ways to enjoy fall in Virginia, but one of our favorites is aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway. It’s the only regularly scheduled sightseeing train in Virginia, and though it offers rides year-round, they are at their most beautiful in the fall.
From the quaint town and farms around the valley to mountain peaks, the expansive landscapes of the Shenandoah Valley are positively breathtaking in the fall. Forests of oak, maple, and hickory trees come to life, transitioning from the lush greens of summer to a natural mosaic of color that stretches as far as the eye can see. Fall in the Shenandoah Valley is about more than scenic rides on the Virginia Scenic Railway and fall colors, though.
Fall is a wonderful time to visit local orchards, farms, vineyards, and breweries, getting a taste of the valley as you move from one adventure to the next. Agritourism has always been popular in the Shenandoah Valley, but with a renewed focus on local and sustainably produced products, visiting local farmers and purveyors has never been more popular. As you can imagine, there’s more here than you’ll be able to explore in a lifetime. As you gear up for many fun adventures this summer and into fall, we hope you’ll consider relaxing with us at our top-rated Bed and Breakfast and cabins in Virginia.
Our top-rated B&B and luxury cabins place you in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and provide a peaceful base from which to explore the surrounding countryside, take in the vibrant fall foliage, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of local wildlife. Whether nestled by a crackling fire or sipping coffee on a porch overlooking the mountains, staying in one of our Shenandoah Valley cabins adds an element of bliss to your fall experience. Book your room or cabin with us today!
Ride the Virginia Scenic Railway This Fall
From trips into Shenandoah National Park or up the Blue Ridge Parkway to almost everything in between, there’s much to love about fall getaways to our beautiful B&B or cabins in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. There is breathtaking beauty at your fingertips everywhere you turn, but perhaps never more passively than on the Virginia Scenic Railway.
The Virginia Scenic Railway departs from the Amtrak station in nearby Staunton and is the only regularly scheduled tourist train in Virginia. It takes passengers on a legendary trip through some of the state’s most beautiful scenery. Riding on the Virginia Scenic Railway is more than just a lovely afternoon excursion, though – it’s also a journey through time. Though the experience has been modernized for comfort, you’ll board a vintage rail car from the 1940s for this journey through the Shenandoah Valley.
There are a couple of different routes and itineraries to choose from aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway, but all include access to the rolling farmlands, peaceful rivers, historic towns, and beautiful mountains surrounding us in this scenic part of the state. Narrated tours provide insights into the history of the region, the significance of the railway, and stories about the towns and landmarks along the route. \
Currently, you’ll find two excursions available on the Virginia Scenic Railway. The Alleghany Special travels west from Staunton past rolling farmland and into the beautiful George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. This trip takes three hours and is available Thursday – Sunday. The Blue Ridge Flyer heads east out of Staunton and through the communities of Fishersville and Waynesboro before it ascends around 1,000 feet to the entrance of the mile-long Blue Ridge Tunnel.
Both rides are stunning and worth it any time of year! In addition to a scenic ride on the vintage train, your tickets include a meal, a dessert selection, and a beverage (coffee, soda, tea, and water). Beer and wine are also available for purchase.
More Ways to Enjoy Fall in Virginia
You won’t regret a second of your time spent on the Virginia Scenic Railway, but we’re not kidding when we say that’s just one of many things waiting for you this fall in Virginia. The Shenandoah Valley is dotted with picturesque towns and villages, gorgeous farms, and beautiful natural attractions – inviting visitors for a colorful adventure like no other. It’s a region rich in history, agriculture, culture, charm, and natural beauty and provides many experiences for locals and visitors alike.
When you’re done with your ride aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway, we hope you’ll stay with us at our top-rated cabins in Virginia or our signature Shenandoah Valley Bed and Breakfast. From scenic drives along portions of the Blue Ridge Parkway or Skyline through the heart of Shenandoah National Park to rural adventures visiting artisans along the North Rockbridge Trail, we’d love to welcome you for a fantastic and fun-filled fall getaway in the Shenandoah Valley. Below, we’ve listed a few of our favorite things to do each fall in Virginia.
- Don’t miss the trip on Skyline Drive, a 105-mile scenic road that runs the entire length of Shenandoah National Park. This drive offers over 75 overlooks with breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley, allowing visitors to take in some of the best views of fall in Virginia. There are over 500 miles of trails to hike here, including portions of the Appalachian Trail.
- Similarly, a trip to Virginia in the fall isn’t complete without a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the country’s most scenic and popular fall drives. The parkway is also a gateway to outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
- Before or after your journey on the Virginia Scenic Railway, take a walking tour of historic Staunton, which is a delight to explore in the fall. The town’s well-preserved Victorian and colonial architecture, set against a backdrop of autumn colors, is simply charming.
- Similarly, Lexington, home to the Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University, is a beautiful place to walk, explore, and enjoy in the fall.
- Visit Natural Bridge State Park, featuring a natural limestone arch carved by Cedar Creek. The trails here are beautiful, especially in the fall. The park is also one of the few designated International Dark Sky Parks in the country, meaning it’s an exceptional place for stargazing.
- Head out for a day along the North Rockbridge Trail, a collection of local farms, artisans, wineries, and more – and a truly authentic glimpse at all the Shenandoah Valley has to offer. Fall in Virginia is the perfect time to go apple picking, visit pumpkin patches, and sip and swirl your way through local wineries.
- Getting out for a hike is one of the best ways to enjoy the vibrant colors of fall in Virginia. There are plenty along the Blue Ridge Parkway and within Shenandoah National Park, but you can even enjoy fantastic trails right here in the Staunton and Lexington areas. We’d happily recommend a few favorites while you stay with us!
- Embrace some of our local history and culture and visit the top museums and attractions in the area, including the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, the Stonewall Jackson House, and more.
Though there are plenty of things to do in the Shenandoah Valley in the fall, leave yourself plenty of time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the view of our beautiful property. We offer exquisite accommodations in our stately Bed and Breakfast or more private accommodations in our five luxurious cabins in Virginia. No matter the choice, you’ll be surrounded by the exquisite beauty of fall in Virginia. Don’t miss your chance to book your upcoming getaway, though. Book your room with us today!
