Updated: September 30, 2020

Planning a fun foliage trip should be definitely on everybody’s list of things to do this fall…especially if you happen to be or are going to be in Northern Virginia!

There is just something absolutely breathtaking about looking at the colorful leaves that somehow look even more picturesque with the stunning scenery in the background. And there is no place like Northern Virginia that offers you several amazing locations to witness the beautiful colors of fall.

So if you are looking for fun family things to do in Northern Virginia, there is nothing better than spending your time on a leisurely ride sans the traffic and distractions, solely surrounded by nature!
And bonus points: you get some fabulous options to wine and dine at, as well!  Don’t forget to bring your family’s camera to document the beauty you’ll come across as well as the smiles and adventures your family will experience.

So, if you are interested, here are the top foliage ride locations in Northern Virginia for you:

Abingdon, Virginia

The Blue Ridge Mountains that surround Abingdon make for an excellent foliage ride location. Be prepared to get blown-away as your ride takes you to witness trees and trees turning into gorgeous fiery shades of red, orange and gold.

Don’t forget to bring your camera along with you!

Southern Loudoun and Northern Fauquier County

It’s a great location in the Northern Virginia area for hiking, apple-picking, and various other family friendly activities.  There are several beautiful parks and groups for the kids to run around and have fun.  There's also a location for you to get a glass of wine.

Things to do in Southern Loudoun County and Northern Fauquier County (Map)

• Visit Aldie Mill
• Visit Middleburg, VA
• Stop at Sky Meadows State Park in Delaplane for seasonal pumpkin fun and activities
• Pick apples at Stribling Orchard (they offer several different varieties of apples and other food products

Have afternoon tea or a meal at Hunter’s Head; if tea isn’t your thing visit The Front Porch for a glass of wine.

Leesburg and Loudoun County

The scenic Leesburg and Loudoun County is second on our list of top foliage ride locations. Fall is the perfect time to visit the county. The weather is crisp with just the right amount of chill in air, but the trees are the show stealers!
When in Leesburg, make sure to go for a hike in the Red Rock Overlook Regional Park for some exceptional foliage views. Oh and Leesburg and Loudoun County have a number of places where you can stop to grab a bite and maybe even sip some Virginia wine! King Street Oyster Bar is highly recommended.

Things to do in Leesburg and Northeast Loudoun County (Map)

• Go antiquing at Old Lucketts Store
• Get a slice of pie at Mom’s Apple Pie (pies range from apple to pumpkin to bourbon walnut)
• Visit the Lost Creek winery
• Walk the gardens and grounds of Morven Park.  The mansion has tours on weekend afternoons during the fall.
  
• Ride along the Potomac on White’s Ferry
• Enjoy a wood fire pizza at Fire Works Pizza

Great Falls

Great Falls is next on the list! And I kid you not when I say that if you are considering this location to witness some beautiful fall foliage views, head straight to the Great Falls Park! Not only would you get a chance to hike along Mather Gorge, you will also get to experience equally breathtaking waterfall views!
If you are looking for more options to hike at, Seneca Park and Fairfax Cross County Trail from Leigh Mill Road are two other great places to keep in mind.

Things to do along Great Falls Drive (Map)

• Stop at Krop’s Crops
• Visit the Great Falls Park for waterfall views and a hike along Mather Gorge
• Stop at The Old Brogue or Bollywood Bistro for a meal or drink

George Washington Memorial Parkway

The historic George Washington Memorial Parkway is yet another one of our favorite locations to enjoy some picturesque foliage views. There are plenty of hiking and biking opportunities for those who wish to explore the scenic place. Our favorite is the Turkey Run Park. However, if you are looking for an easier trail to hike at, Windy Run would accommodate you perfectly.

Oh, and also don’t miss the wonderful opportunity to explore George Washington’s Mount Vernon!

Things to do along George Washington Memorial Parkway (Map)

• Hike the Potomac at Turkey Run Park

Visit a unique pharmacy in Alexandria (Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum).  This museum has hand-blown glass and historical medical equipment. 

Address: 
105-107 South Fairfax Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
703-746-3852

• Visit Theodore Roosevelt Island
• Visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Snickersville Turnpike

The last on my list is Snickersville Turnpike. When it comes to things to do in Northern Virginia, Snickersville Turnpike packs a lot. From gorgeous small towns to fantastic breweries and a whole bunch of other things to do, there’s a lot to keep you happily occupied.

A stop at Purcellville is highly recommended if you are looking for one location which has the maximum number of activities to do---hiking, biking, eating, drinking, there’s something for everyone here!

Things to do along Snickersville Turnpike and Northwest Loudoun County (Map)

• Enjoy beer or wine at Bluemont Winery or Dirt Farm Brewing
• Shop fresh produce at Great Country Farms (FREE for military families)
• Visit the historic village of Waterford (founded in 1733 by the Quakers).  Waters is one of three National Historic Landmark Districts.
• Visit the Philomont General Store (it’s a great stop to make before or after visiting Great Country Farms)
• Stop in Purcellville (Visit Nichols Hardware Store for antiques, Monks BBQ, or Loveworks sign)

 

I hope you're able to take many pictures of your family outside enjoying the beautiful scenery of Northern Virginia.  Don't forget to share your journey and pictures with us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tamiekasmithphotography.  Have FUN!

Tamieka Smith is a family and military photographer in Northern Virginia.  She may be contacted via telephone at (571) 250-5073 or email at tamieka@tamiekasmithphotography.com.  To find other fun family friendly things to do this fall in Northern Virginia, visit here.

*Please Note: Many of the stores may be closed due to COVID.