If you’re searching for the best way to experience the vivid colors of fall in Virginia, hop aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway. This old fashioned train takes passengers through some of the most spectacular stretches of the Shenandoah Valley. It’s not just one of the top scenic train rides in Virginia, it’s the only regularly scheduled scenic railway tour in the state. While the views are incredible any time of year, fall brings a show you don’t want to miss.
The train departs from Staunton, a charming small town with historic charm and walkable streets. As you ride through farmland, foothills, and forests, you’ll pass sweeping views of Virginia scenery that turns fiery red, amber, and gold in autumn. This Blue Ridge train ride is the kind of experience that feels both relaxing and unforgettable.
There’s a reason fall train rides near Staunton draw both locals and travelers from across the region. The Shenandoah Valley’s mix of oak, maple, and hickory trees creates a dynamic landscape that changes daily during peak foliage. From the window of a classic scenic railroad car, you’ll see rolling farmland, rustic barns, and distant mountain peaks bathed in warm afternoon light.
These views aren’t the only draw. The train ride also connects visitors to the heart of Virginia’s seasonal experiences. After your Staunton train ride, you can visit nearby orchards, pumpkin patches, wineries, or stop at a local brewery for a small-batch cider. The area’s growing agritourism scene makes it easy to pair fall color with handcrafted flavors.
If you’re planning to enjoy train rides in Virginia, make your trip last by booking a stay at one of the area’s top-rated inns or cabins. Our boutique Virginia bed and breakfast sits just minutes from the Virginia Scenic Railway and gives you a comfortable base for exploring the Shenandoah Valley.
Imagine waking up with a view of misty hills, sipping coffee on the porch, and heading out for a day of fall color and crisp mountain air. Whether you’re riding the rails or winding through country roads, you’ll find no shortage of ways to connect with the season. Add in a cozy fire, gourmet breakfast, and personalized hospitality, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect fall getaway.
With peak foliage season just around the corner, now’s the time to book your VA scenic railway experience. These popular scenic railway tours fill up fast in October, especially on weekends. Whether you’re a leaf peeper, a train enthusiast, or simply looking for something unique to do in the fall, a ride on the Virginia Scenic Railway is a great way to slow down and enjoy the view. Book your train ride, reserve your room, and let the Shenandoah Valley welcome you with unforgettable color and charm.
Ride the Virginia Scenic Railway This Fall
Whether you’re cruising Skyline Drive, exploring Shenandoah National Park, or wandering local towns along the Blue Ridge Parkway, there’s something magical about fall in the Shenandoah Valley. One of the best ways to take it all in is on the Virginia Scenic Railway, where the views roll by without you lifting a finger. It’s one of the most relaxing and memorable scenic railway tours in the state.
This scenic railroad departs from Staunton’s historic Amtrak station and is the only regularly scheduled tourist train in Virginia. The ride blends history with comfort, offering passengers a seat inside restored 1940s railcars. While the interiors have been modernized, the vintage vibe is still intact, making this one of the most unique old fashioned train experiences in the region.
The Virginia Scenic Railway offers more than just views. It’s a narrated experience through the history and geography of western Virginia. As you glide past rolling farmland, slow-moving rivers, and forested hills, you’ll hear stories about local towns and the legacy of rail travel in the Shenandoah Valley. It’s part sightseeing, part time travel, and a must-do for anyone looking for top-tier train rides in Virginia.
There are currently two excursion options available. The Alleghany Special heads west from Staunton into the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. The route includes wide-open pastures, wooded hills, and that golden fall glow everyone hopes to catch. This trip runs Thursday through Sunday and lasts about three hours.
The Blue Ridge Flyer travels east through Fishersville and Waynesboro, climbing over 1,000 feet to the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel. This route is perfect for those seeking a Blue Ridge train ride with panoramic views and a sense of elevation as you move through the mountains.
What to Expect on Your Staunton Train Ride
Both rides offer plenty of window time to admire the brilliant fall foliage, rolling hills, and Virginia scenery that defines the Shenandoah Valley. It’s one of the most laid-back and picturesque fall train rides near Staunton, and it’s a fantastic addition to any fall itinerary.
Each ticket includes a meal, a dessert, and your choice of beverage. You can also purchase wine or craft beer to enjoy along the ride. It’s a full experience that pairs comfort with incredible views, making it one of the most enjoyable scenic train rides in Virginia.
Plan your ride soon, especially during peak foliage season when seats fill up quickly. The Virginia Scenic Railway is one of the most scenic and memorable ways to experience fall in Virginia, and it’s even better when paired with a weekend getaway at our cozy cabins in the Virginia mountains.
Make the Most of Fall in Virginia
There’s no better time to explore the Shenandoah Valley than during fall in Virginia. The hills are alive with color, the air is crisp, and the whole region takes on a glow that feels made for weekend getaways. One of the most memorable ways to experience the beauty of Virginia in the fall is by riding the Virginia Scenic Railway, a vintage train that winds through some of the state’s most captivating landscapes.
As beautiful as the ride is, it’s only the beginning. The Shenandoah Valley is filled with small towns, rolling farmland, and scenic trails that make autumn the ideal season to slow down and enjoy the moment. From outdoor adventures to historic sights, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy a classic fall getaway in Virginia.
Make the Most of Fall in Virginia
After your trip on the Virginia Scenic Railway, stick around for more seasonal highlights. Our top-rated cabins in Virginia and charming Shenandoah Valley Bed and Breakfast are just minutes from it all. Whether you’re heading out for another drive, a trail hike, or a glass of wine on a crisp afternoon, you’ll have a comfortable home base right in the heart of the valley.
Here are a few of our favorite ways to celebrate Virginia in the fall:
- Drive Skyline Drive Through Shenandoah National Park. This 105-mile road runs the length of the park and offers more than 75 scenic overlooks. It’s one of the top places to see the changing leaves and take in sweeping views of the valley. With over 500 miles of hiking trails, including portions of the Appalachian Trail, this area is a dream for leaf peepers and outdoor lovers alike.
- Cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway. Another legendary route for fall in Virginia, the Blue Ridge Parkway is famous for good reason. It’s more than a drive, it’s a gateway to biking, hiking, and even horseback riding. The views are postcard-perfect and the journey is as peaceful as it is picturesque.
- Explore Historic Staunton and Lexington. Staunton’s historic district is a must-see, especially with the warm hues of autumn adding to its Victorian and colonial charm. Take a walking tour before or after your Staunton train ride for a deeper connection to the area. Nearby Lexington, home to Washington and Lee University and VMI, is equally stunning and full of rich history.
- Visit Natural Bridge State Park. Known for its massive limestone arch carved by Cedar Creek, Natural Bridge is especially striking in the fall. It’s also one of the few designated International Dark Sky Parks in the country, making it perfect for daytime hikes and nighttime stargazing.
- Follow the North Rockbridge Trail. This local trail is a collection of farms, wineries, and artisan stops that capture the best of the Shenandoah Valley. Fall in Virginia is prime time for apple picking, pumpkin patches, and wine tasting with views that stretch across golden hills.
- Hike the Local Trails. While there are amazing hikes in Shenandoah National Park and along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll also find beautiful local trails in the Staunton and Lexington areas. Whether you want a short nature walk or a full afternoon trek, we’re happy to point you to some of our favorite spots.
- Dive Into Local Culture. Visit historic sites like the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, catch a performance at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, or explore the Stonewall Jackson House. The Shenandoah Valley is full of cultural treasures that come alive during the fall season.
Book Your Fall Getaway to our Shenandoah Valley Cabins
There’s no better time than now to plan your escape to Virginia in the fall. After soaking in the sights aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway, come back to a place where you can truly relax. Our luxury cabins in Virginia and elegant guest rooms offer the comfort, quiet, and views you need to recharge.
Every stay is enhanced by the warmth of the season, fresh mountain air, and access to everything that makes fall in Virginia unforgettable. Don’t miss your chance to experience it all. Book your stay with us today and let the season unfold around you.
