If you’re looking for an immersive, postcard-worthy couple’s getaway, it’s hard to beat the sensory-rich experience you’ll find each fall in the Shenandoah Valley. The crisp air, the glow of amber and crimson leaves, and the quiet charm of small-town life all come together in a way that’s hard to replicate. One of the best ways to soak in the season is aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway, where the Blue Ridge Flyer offers an unforgettable Staunton train ride through some of the state’s most iconic landscapes.
Departing from historic Staunton, this scenic railway gives passengers a front-row seat to the rolling hills and Shenandoah fall colors that make Virginia in the fall so special. This one-of-a-kind Blue Ridge train ride gives you the perfect opportunity to slow down and simply enjoy the view. Traveling through the Shenandoah Valley, past quiet farmland and through the entrance of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, this old-fashioned train captures the nostalgic feel of a classic rail journey with modern comfort and style. With peak Virginia fall foliage on full display out your window during October, it’s no wonder this has become one of the top scenic train rides in Virginia.
Of course, you don’t have to stop with the train ride. Fall in Virginia is the perfect time to explore the Shenandoah Valley, with scenic drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway, vineyard visits during harvest season, or crisp morning hikes with awe-inspiring mountain views. Whether you’re chasing color along the Skyline Drive or exploring Staunton’s charming downtown after your ride on the Blue Ridge Flyer, there are endless things to do in the Shenandoah Valley this fall.
For those seeking to make the trip a full-on getaway, our romantic cabin rentals in Virginia with hot tubs provide a private and luxurious stay, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. It’s the ideal place to unwind after a day of leaf-peeping and one of the best places to visit in fall for couples or anyone who loves cozying up in comfort while surrounded by stunning Virginia scenery. Book a stay at one of the most coveted cabins in Virginia today!
The Best Staunton Train Ride For Fall Colors
Though the Virginia Scenic Railway offers several scenic train rides and unique experiences throughout the year, there’s no doubt that our favorite Staunton train ride for fall is the Blue Ridge Flyer. Departing from the historic Staunton Amtrak station, the three-hour round-trip journey aboard this Blue Ridge train ride takes passengers eastward through the charming towns of Fishersville and Waynesboro, ascending approximately 1,000 feet to the entrance of the nearly mile-long Blue Ridge Tunnel.
Carved deep beneath the mountain summit, the Blue Ridge Tunnel adds a sense of adventure to this scenic Staunton train ride. Emerging from the tunnel, travelers are greeted with sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, showcasing some of the most awe-inspiring fall foliage in Virginia. The journey continues to the quaint town of Ivy before the train reverses course, offering a second passage through the historic tunnel.
The train’s vintage 1940s passenger cars have been modernized for comfort, featuring large windows that offer unobstructed views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Each ticket includes onboard dining with a delicious, fresh, sit-down meal to enhance the overall experience. The menu changes seasonally with food selections that pair perfectly with a relaxing fall afternoon. Whether you’re sipping a fantastic glass of Virginia wine or enjoying a locally crafted beer, dining aboard this scenic railway feels like stepping into another era, just with better food and more legroom.
Throughout this scenic Staunton train ride, passengers will enjoy onboard narration that provides insights into the area’s rich history and natural beauty. This route on the Virginia Scenic Railway operates Thursday through Sunday with a 3:30 p.m. departure. Given its popularity, advance reservations are recommended to secure a spot on this memorable excursion.
To make the most of your Virginia Scenic Railway experience, consider arriving early in Staunton to explore the station and nearby downtown, then settle in for the ride. It’s one of the most immersive scenic railway tours you can take in the region and easily ranks among the most memorable fall train rides near Staunton.
More Rides on the Virginia Scenic Railway
If you’re looking for the best scenic Staunton train ride, you can’t go wrong with any of the experiences aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway. The Blue Ridge Flyer is just the beginning! There are three more standout excursions offered from Staunton: The Alleghany Special, Murder on the Menu, and Sip & Savor Express. Each Staunton train ride delivers a unique way to experience the Virginia fall foliage, local culture, and the nostalgic charm of an old-fashioned train.
The Alleghany Special is a morning journey that heads west from Staunton through the Shenandoah Valley, offering views of pastoral landscapes, working farms, and rural mountain vistas as you approach the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. The train turns around in Goshen in Rockbridge County. This three-hour round trip departs at 10:30 a.m. Thursday through Sunday, and includes a meal, dessert, and beverage served in a souvenir glass.
For a more interactive experience, Murder on the Menu is one of the most unique Virginia train rides, transforming the train into a rolling stage for a live murder mystery dinner theater. Set against a turn-of-the-century backdrop, this three-hour immersive experience includes a complimentary beverage service, entrée, and dessert, with the option to purchase local wine and beer during the event. Professional actors perform an original murder mystery, inviting passengers to solve the case as the scenic ride unfolds. These Staunton train rides are only available on Saturdays and Sundays, and often sell out quickly.Â
Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the Sip & Savor Express, an exclusive wine tasting event aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway. Each month features a new local winery, with curated pours and charcuterie to match, guided by an onboard wine expert. This three-hour round-trip through the Shenandoah Valley offers a relaxed, elegant atmosphere perfect for couples, friends, and wine lovers alike. This Staunton train ride takes place on Friday afternoons, and given the once-a-month adventure, it’s best to plan well in advance.Â
After a day of exploring the Shenandoah Valley aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway, there’s no better way to unwind than by retreating to one of the state’s most luxurious cabin rentals with hot tubs. Our Shenandoah Valley cabins offer you an immersive and relaxing stay in the heart of the Valley. Our 50-acre property, surrounded by the vibrant hues of Virginia’s fall foliage, is the perfect enhancement to your fall getaway. Book your stay at one of our romantic cabin rentals in Virginia with hot tubs, and experience this unbeatable season with us. Book your cabin rental today!
