Virginia’s Most Underrated Fall Getaway: Riverside Delights & Small Town Charm

Whether or not or not it’s bayside bliss, sensational meals, vibrant shores, and astounding mountains, Virginia presents extra various experiences than one may count on.

There’s one city being hyped by Coastal Virginia Magazine that even has these coastal consultants venturing inland in favor of small city attraction and riverside delights for an ideal journey with out the pesky crowds it’s possible you’ll discover elsewhere.

Internet hosting festive occasions in what’s already a vibrant city gleaming in nostalgia solely amplified by autumn colours, this hideaway hugging the Potomac River is considered one of Virginia’s finest escapes to keep away from the town bustle in favor of cobblestone strolls.

Solely a 25 minute drive, and even sooner with a 15-minute Amtrak journey from Washington DC, it is tremendous simple to succeed in regardless of feeling worlds away with its historic aptitude — considered one of many the reason why we at Travel Off Path consider Virginia is considered one of America’s most underrated adventures for an unforgettable fall getaway.

Calling All Leaf-Peepers! Immerse In Alexandria’s Fall Ambiance

Go away the crowds behind in DC and head down the tranquil Potomac to this timeless gem that oozes fall splendor within the coming months.

Alexandria needs to be your go-to spot to walk downtown’s old-timey streets with a PSL in hand and rockin’ your favourite sweater that is been within the closet far too lengthy.

Not solely is Alexandria vibrant and aesthetically pleasing from an architectural perspective with red-brick walkways and each constructing seeming to boasting a special shade, its artwork scene is buzzing with enjoyable occasions all through the season.

Considered one of which is Art on the Avenue, celebrating its thirtieth yr on October 4th.

Moreover, there are choose dates of public installations at Waterfront Park, which simply so occurs to be an incredible spot for sundown strolls and foliage photo-ops backdropped by calm waters.

Although, the town itself highlights these 4 parks as the most effective spots to take pleasure in autumn magnificence with a shade wheel of leaves starting from rustic reds to close glow-in-the-dark golds:

1. Fort Ward Park
2. Alexandria Cemetery (and spooky vibes!)
3. Jones Level Park
4. Monticello Park

However for the final word hideaway to immerse in fall’s best colours, Mount Vernon has an award-winning path it is so beautiful — and extremely beneficial to discover on 2 wheels. 🚴‍♀️

Go to Automotive-Free? Native Consultants Say Sure

Alexandria’s charming Outdated City is a delight to stroll by. That is to not see say it does not make an superior stopping level or end-cap to a scenic street journey, however native consultants at Coastal Virginia Journal encourage a ‘car-free go to’.

And the numbers again it up. Downtown Alexandria a has a near-perfect Walk Score of 99/100.

Lined with indy outlets, cozy cafes and eating places, and historic sights absolutely to catch your eye, which means it is time to hop aboard an Amtrak to get right here.

You are positively not alone in case you accomplish that, and the expertise might deliver the most important crowd throughout your journey as Virginia welcomed a record number of rail riders given so many superior locations to go to.

Alexandria is actually within the combine. In fact, the preferred gateway right here is from close by Washington DC, as quick as quarter-hour away and as little as $9 for a Coach seat.

As soon as right here, in case your boots aren’t made for walkin’, do not fret! Alexandria’s free King Avenue Trolley has your again (and your ft).

Simply know in case you plan on visiting the famed George Washington Masonic Nationwide Memorial, the trolley does not go that far.

Get pleasure from Riverside Delights

Alexandria presents one lodge alongside the Potomac River, and it is a title all of us love.

Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria is not simply steps away — you’ll be able to’t get any nearer while not having swimwear.

There isn’t any higher place to remain for sweeping waterfront views, except you’ll be able to rating an Airbnb for extra space.

However the true delights are in your tastebuds. There are much more locations to eat than there are to relaxation your head at evening.

Ada’s on the River is considered one of locals’ and vacationers’ favourite locales to sip decadent wine, minimize right into a juicy steak, and take within the surroundings.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Author & Journalist based mostly in San Diego has visited 36 nations and written over 1000 articles with a concentrate on sharing his personal journey experiences and shining a light-weight on lesser-known gems.