Seasonal Guides
The Upcoming Charlottesville Opera Summer Season
Best Charlottesville Opera Experience in Virginia
The Charlottesville Opera is a defining part of summer in Virginia, offering a refined and engaging addition to any weekend visit. As one of the most anticipated Charlottesville events, this long-standing company presents a seasonal lineup that combines classic works with thoughtful, contemporary interpretation. For those seeking unique things to do in Charlottesville, attending a performance provides both cultural depth and a memorable evening at a historic location in the city.
Performances are held at The Paramount Theater on the Downtown Mall, a restored historic venue that enhances the experience from the moment you arrive. Originally opened in 1931, the theater’s architectural detail and intimate scale create an environment where every seat feels connected to the stage. The Charlottesville Opera continues a legacy dating back to 1975, drawing talented performers from across the country while maintaining a focus on accessibility and artistic quality.
Each summer season features a curated mix of productions designed to appeal to a wide audience. Whether you are familiar with opera or exploring it for the first time, the programming offers an approachable entry point. With live orchestration, carefully designed staging, and strong vocal performances, the Charlottesville Opera stands out among things to do in Charlottesville, VA, during the summer months.
A Refined Stay at a Charlottesville Bed and Breakfast
Pairing an evening performance with the right accommodations completes the experience. The Orchard House Bed & Breakfast offers a well-appointed option for those planning a weekend centered around Charlottesville Opera events. Located in nearby Lovingston, this Charlottesville Bed and Breakfast provides a quieter setting while remaining within reach of downtown Charlottesville.
Guest rooms are designed with comfort and attention to detail, creating a relaxing space to return to after an evening at the theater. Each morning begins with a thoughtfully prepared breakfast, allowing guests to ease into the day before exploring more of the region. From visiting local wineries in Virginia to discovering additional Charlottesville events, the location supports a well-rounded itinerary.
Summer is the ideal time to plan your visit to this region! Whether you are organizing a dedicated weekend around performances or incorporating them into a broader Virginia trip, this experience offers a distinctive way to engage with the region. Book your stay and plan your Charlottesville Opera getaway today.
Things to Do in Rock Hall, MD, This Fall
Why Fall Is the Best Time for a Rock Hall Getaway
The best things to do in Rock Hall, MD, take on a different character in the fall. The summer boat traffic thins out, the air turns crisp, and one of the East Coast’s premier birding destinations comes alive with fall migration. Warm afternoons still invite time on the water, while cool evenings are perfect for dinner overlooking the harbor or relaxing by the fire. By October, the town settles into an easygoing pace that is hard to find during the busy summer season, making it the ideal setting for a fall getaway.
Rock Hall regularly earns a place among cute towns in Maryland, but fall offers more than a scenic harbor. While many fall activities in Maryland revolve around orchards and hayrides, ours center on the Chesapeake Bay. Visit Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge during peak migration, enjoy fresh local oysters at FallFest, one of our favorite fall festivals in Maryland, or spend an afternoon exploring nearby Chestertown, one of the best small towns in Maryland. Together, they make this corner of the Eastern Shore one of our favorite destinations for weekend getaways in Maryland.
We have spent years pointing guests toward our favorite corners of town and things to do in Rock Hall, MD, in the fall. Sitting on a beautiful 70-acre property just outside the village, our Bed and Breakfast in Maryland is a quiet retreat just minutes from the area’s best attractions.
Things to Do in Rock Hall, MD, in the Fall
The best things to do in Rock Hall, MD, in the fall happen outdoors. This working waterman’s town of around 1,000 residents sits along the Chesapeake Bay, and October is one of the best times to visit. Migrating songbirds move through in waves, waterfowl numbers steadily increase throughout the season, and the whole community comes together for one of its favorite annual events. Here are the things to do in Rock Hall, MD, that we recommend most often:
- Spend a morning at Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge. This 2,285-acre island refuge sits about five minutes from the Inn at Huntingfield Creek. Fall migration is one of the best times to visit, with waterfowl stopping here throughout the season and bald eagles beginning to establish their territories. By mid-to-late November, visitors often spot tundra swans arriving from their Arctic breeding grounds. The refuge is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
- Go to FallFest. The annual FallFest takes over downtown Rock Hall on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Among the many fall festivals in Maryland, this hometown celebration stands out with live music, artisan vendors, free admission, and plenty of fresh local Chesapeake oysters.
- Take a sunset sail. Blue Crab Chesapeake Charters offers approximately 90-minute cruises through October. Reservations are recommended, especially during fall in Maryland, when Chesapeake Bay sunsets are at their best.
- Bike to Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge. The quiet roads south of town are ideal for cycling, and the trip to the refuge passes quiet country roads and farmland. Guests at the Inn at Huntingfield Creek can borrow one of our two complimentary bikes.
- Eat like a local. Order crab cakes, oysters, and rockfish at the best restaurants in Rock Hall, MD, or make the 20-minute drive to Chestertown restaurants, where you will find even more of the Eastern Shore’s best collections of locally owned dining spots.
- Catch a show at The Mainstay. Rock Hall’s beloved nonprofit music venue hosts jazz, blues, folk, bluegrass, and Americana performances throughout the year, making it a wonderful way to spend a cool fall evening.
- Browse downtown Rock Hall. Wander through the waterfront district, stop in locally owned shops, grab an ice cream or coffee, and enjoy the slower pace that makes fall one of our favorite times to visit.
- Visit the Waterman’s Museum. This museum tells the story of the Chesapeake Bay’s crabbing, fishing, and oystering traditions that continue to shape Rock Hall today.
A few planning notes. Fall in Maryland offers something different throughout the season. Visit in early October for FallFest and comfortable afternoons on the water, come during mid to late October for colorful foliage, and plan a November trip if spotting tundra swans is on your list. Book sailing charters and FallFest weekend lodging well in advance, since the festival draws thousands of visitors ready to explore things to do in Rock Hall, MD, in the fall.
Stay at the Best Bed and Breakfast in Maryland
After a day spent exploring the best things to do in Rock Hall, MD, you will appreciate returning to the Inn at Huntingfield Creek. Our 70-acre property sits along Eastern Neck Road, putting Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge, scenic cycling routes, and downtown Rock Hall just minutes away. Choose from five guest rooms in the Manor House, seven private cottages, or the InnTown House, which sleeps four above Java Rock Coffee House in downtown Rock Hall.
Perfect for weekend getaways in Maryland, mornings here begin the way they should at a Bed and Breakfast. We serve a full country breakfast in the Main House featuring farm-fresh eggs, local fruit, breakfast meats, a homemade sweet that changes daily, and LeBus sourdough toast. Our guests are invited to enjoy complimentary premium wine, beer, and homemade salted chocolate chip cookies during their stay.
Book Your Fall Getaway to Rock Hall, MD
Fuel up, grab your binoculars, and experience even more things to do in Rock Hall, MD, in the fall. Browse our getaway packages and book your fall stay at the Inn at Huntingfield Creek.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do in Rock Hall, MD?
Rock Hall offers Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge, sunset sailing charters, the Waterman’s Museum, live music at The Mainstay, and a walkable waterfront downtown filled with locally owned shops and restaurants.
When is FallFest in Rock Hall, MD?
FallFest takes over downtown Rock Hall in October and features live music, artisan vendors, and fresh local Chesapeake oysters.
Where is Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge?
Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge sits about five minutes from the Inn at Huntingfield Creek in Rock Hall, MD, on a 2,285-acre island along the Chesapeake Bay.
What are the best small towns to visit near Rock Hall, MD?
Chestertown, about 20 minutes from Rock Hall, is one of the best small towns in Maryland to pair with a Rock Hall visit, offering additional dining and shopping on the Eastern Shore.
Tour the Covered Bridges of New Hampshire This Fall
Why Exeter Is the Ideal Base for Covered Bridges in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is home to 54 historic covered bridges, one of the highest concentrations in New England. These wooden spans have crossed the state’s rivers since the early 1800s, and they remain among the most photographed landmarks in the region, especially in New Hampshire in the fall. Covered bridges in New Hampshire are worth building a fall getaway around, and autumn is when they are at their most spectacular.
Here is what we tell guests planning to explore the covered bridges in New Hampshire: make Exeter your home base and treat the bridges as the centerpiece of a bigger fall in New Hampshire itinerary. You can spend a morning chasing fall colors in New Hampshire at the Cornish Windsor Covered Bridge, then return in time to find the best breweries. Between scenic drives, there are so many things to do in Exeter, including browsing independent shops, taking a downtown walking tour, and dining at some of the Seacoast’s best locally owned restaurants. It is an easy way to combine history with the most beautiful fall foliage New Hampshire has to offer.
After a day on the road exploring covered bridges in New Hampshire, you will appreciate returning somewhere comfortable. Inn by the Bandstand sits in the middle of downtown Exeter, steps from the town’s historic bandstand, and offers an upscale alternative to other Exeter hotels. Our historic 1809 inn places you within walking distance of restaurants, galleries, and shops, while a freshly prepared breakfast helps you start another day of exploring.
Your Guide to the Best Covered Bridges in New Hampshire to Visit This Fall
So how many covered bridges in New Hampshire are there? Today, the state recognizes 54 historic covered bridges, and they were the first type of historic structure protected under state law. Most still carry vehicle traffic just as they did generations ago, making them living pieces of history. Crossing one is part of the experience, from the sound of wooden planks beneath your tires to sunlight filtering through the timber siding and the river flowing below. Because many of the New Hampshire covered bridges are clustered within easy driving distance of one another, it is possible to visit several in a single day.
Autumn is easily the most popular season to explore the NH covered bridges. The White Mountains contain the state’s largest concentration, and the drives connecting them, particularly along the Kancamagus Highway, showcase some of the finest fall foliage New Hampshire has to offer. Peak color typically arrives between late September and mid-October, although timing varies slightly each year depending on weather conditions. If you are planning things to do in New Hampshire in the fall, visiting the covered bridges belongs near the top of the list. Weekends during peak foliage are busy, so an early start makes for quieter roads and better photo opportunities.
If you are deciding which are the best covered bridges in New Hampshire, here are a few we would recommend first:
- Cornish Windsor Covered Bridge, Cornish. The bridge that appears on nearly every list of covered bridges in New Hampshire, and for good reason. Originally built in 1866, it stretches 449 feet across the Connecticut River between New Hampshire and Vermont. It is the longest two-span covered bridge in the United States and the longest wooden covered bridge in the country still open to traffic.
- Jackson NH Covered Bridge, Jackson. Better known as the Honeymoon Bridge, this bridge was built in 1876. Local tradition says couples who kiss while crossing will enjoy a long marriage, giving the bridge its nickname. A pedestrian walkway makes it easy to stop, admire the craftsmanship, and photograph one of the state’s most recognizable covered bridges.
- Albany Covered Bridge NH, Albany. Just off the Kancamagus Highway about six miles west of Conway, this bridge spans the Swift River inside the White Mountain National Forest. Built in 1858, it ranks among the most photographed New Hampshire covered bridges, thanks to its mountain backdrop, nearby parking, and easy access during foliage season.
- Saco River Covered Bridge, Conway. This 1890 bridge is still in daily use, offering visitors the chance to experience one of the state’s historic covered bridges exactly as generations of local residents have.
- Durgin Bridge, Sandwich. Built in 1869 over the Cold River, Durgin Bridge is the fourth bridge constructed at this location. The quiet drive through Sandwich is especially beautiful during fall in New Hampshire, and local tradition associates the crossing with the Underground Railroad.
- Contoocook Railroad Covered Bridge, Contoocook. One of the longest surviving covered railroad bridges in the United States, this 1889 bridge stretches across the Contoocook River. Although trains no longer use it, the bridge has been carefully restored and now serves as a pedestrian crossing.
A little planning goes a long way. Visit New Hampshire publishes an official covered bridges map that makes it easy to locate the bridges and build your own driving route. Most bridges are free to visit and have a nearby pull-off or small parking area for photographs. Keep in mind that many have height and weight restrictions, several are one lane, and drivers should yield to oncoming traffic.
Why Inn by the Bandstand Stands Out Among Exeter Hotels for a Fall Getaway
Every great day exploring the covered bridges in New Hampshire ends with a comfortable place to unwind. At our upscale lodging, you will stay in a AAA Four Diamond boutique hotel housed in an elegant 1809 Federal-style mansion in downtown Exeter. Our eight guest rooms and suites are individually decorated with antiques and fine art, and seven feature fireplaces that are especially inviting after a crisp autumn afternoon. Among Exeter hotels, few offer this combination of historic character, walkable location, and personalized hospitality.
Then there is the food. Ambrose, our on-site restaurant, serves contemporary cuisine prepared with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, making dinner as convenient as it is delicious. In the morning, enjoy breakfast specialties like our Frangelico French toast or French rolled omelet before setting out to discover more New Hampshire covered bridges.
Book Your Fall Getaway to Exeter
Book your autumn getaway at Inn by the Bandstand and experience the best covered bridges in New Hampshire while enjoying one of the most distinctive Exeter hotels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many covered bridges are in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is home to 54 historic covered bridges, one of the highest concentrations in New England, and they were the first type of historic structure protected under state law.
When is peak fall foliage in New Hampshire?
Peak fall foliage in New Hampshire typically arrives between late September and mid-October, though timing varies slightly each year depending on weather conditions.
Where can you see the best fall foliage in New Hampshire?
The White Mountains hold the state’s largest concentration of fall color, and drives like the Kancamagus Highway connect several of the best covered bridges in New Hampshire with some of its finest foliage views.
Where should you stay in New Hampshire for fall foliage season?
Exeter makes an excellent base for a covered bridges road trip, with Inn by the Bandstand offering a historic 1809 setting in the heart of downtown, within reach of covered bridges throughout the Seacoast and White Mountains regions.
Unforgettable Juneau Tours & Summer Excursions
Best Juneau Tours to Experience in Alaska This Summer
Summer is one of the most exciting times to explore Alaska, especially for travelers searching for unforgettable Juneau Tours. From glacier adventures to wildlife encounters on the water, Juneau offers experiences that highlight the dramatic landscapes and coastal beauty of the Last Frontier. Whether you are planning an adventure getaway or looking for memorable tours in Juneau, Alaska, there are countless ways to experience the region this season.
One of the most popular summer activities is taking Juneau whale-watching tours departing from Auke Bay. These excursions take guests into the nutrient-rich waters of the Inside Passage, where humpback whales are frequently spotted breaching, tail slapping, and bubble-net feeding. Many tours also encounter sea lions, porpoises, or bald eagles during the journey, creating an incredible opportunity to witness Alaska’s wildlife in its natural environment.
For those interested in aerial views of the landscape, Juneau helicopter tours provide a completely different perspective. Flights depart near downtown and travel across forested ridgelines toward the Juneau Icefield. Guests can land directly on ancient glaciers, explore icy terrain with expert guides, and even visit summer dog sledding camps. These excursions combine scenic views with hands-on adventure, making them one of the most memorable experiences in the region.
Visitors looking for more relaxed Juneau glacier tours often head to Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls. Well-maintained trails, scenic overlooks, and educational exhibits at the visitor center make this area ideal for travelers wanting flexibility and easy access to Alaska’s natural beauty. Boat tours through Tracy Arm Fjord are another favorite, offering views of waterfalls, towering granite cliffs, drifting icebergs, and the impressive Sawyer Glaciers. By far, one of the best things to do in Juneau!
Stay at one of the Best Alaska Hotels
After a full day outdoors, staying close to downtown makes exploring Juneau even easier. Alaska’s Capital Inn provides a welcoming place to unwind near the waterfront, local restaurants, and major tour departure points. As one of the most inviting Alaska Hotels in Juneau, the inn combines historic character with thoughtful hospitality, creating a comfortable home base for summer adventures. Guests can begin each day with a fresh breakfast before setting out to experience the best Juneau tours Alaska has to offer.
Valentine’s Day Getaway in Pennsylvania
Best Valentine’s Day Getaway for Couples in Pennsylvania
A Valentine’s Day Getaway in Pennsylvania is a meaningful way to slow down and reconnect, especially in February when winter creates a natural pause from everyday routines. Fewer crowds, cozy dining rooms, and small-town charm make this time of year ideal for couples who want their time together to feel relaxed and intentional.
Western Pennsylvania offers an appealing mix of historic streets, locally owned restaurants, and scenic countryside. Couples can spend their days walking through downtown Sharon, browsing antique shops and boutiques, or taking an easy winter drive past farmland and covered bridges. February encourages mellow mornings, thoughtful itineraries, and evenings spent enjoying good food and conversation.
For couples interested in adding variety to their stay, romantic getaways in Pennsylvania often include cultural experiences and simple adventures. Museums, local performances, and community events provide opportunities to share something new together, while nearby trails and countryside roads offer space for quiet exploration. Whether you prefer heading out or staying in by the fire, the flexibility of a winter getaway allows you to shape the experience around how you connect best.
Stay at a Romantic Hotel Near Sharon, PA
Where you stay plays a central role in any Valentine’s Day Getaway. A romantic hotel near Sharon, PA, offers the kind of setting couples appreciate in February: warm, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed for comfort and privacy. Starting the day with a homemade breakfast sets a relaxed tone, while shared spaces invite easy conversation throughout the stay.
Evenings feel effortless with on-site dining options, a cozy bar for a nightcap, and inviting common areas to unwind together. After a day exploring western Pennsylvania, returning to a familiar, comfortable guest room helps turn a simple weekend into something memorable. A February Valentine’s Day Getaway in Pennsylvania is less about planning every detail and more about creating space to enjoy each other’s company, long after the holiday has passed.
Valentine’s Day Getaway on the North Shore
Best Valentine’s Day Getaway on Lake Superior
February in Duluth brings a kind of romance that feels effortless and authentic. Set along the north shore of Lake Superior, the city offers dramatic water views, crisp winter air, and a walkable layout that makes it ideal for a Valentine’s Day getaway. For couples seeking a romantic escape that feels both scenic and intimate, Duluth delivers an experience that balances outdoor adventure with cozy moments together. There are so many fantastic things to do in Duluth, even in the wintertime.
A Valentine’s Day weekend getaway here is defined by shared experiences. Couples can stroll along the Lakewalk as waves crash against the shoreline, explore Canal Park’s shops and cafes, or take in winter sunsets that glow across the lake. Outdoor-minded travelers can enjoy snowshoeing, scenic hikes, or a peaceful shoreline walk, while food lovers will appreciate Duluth’s strong dining scene and local craft beverages. These simple pleasures are what make romantic getaways in Duluth feel natural rather than overplanned.
A Romantic Duluth Bed and Breakfast Experience
Where you stay sets the tone of any Valentine’s Day getaway. A waterfront Duluth Bed and Breakfast offers couples an elevated experience with unmatched views of Lake Superior and easy access to Canal Park and the Lakewalk. Thoughtfully designed guest rooms and personalized hospitality create an environment that encourages couples to relax and reconnect.
Winter adds to the charm. Mornings feel quieter, breakfasts are leisurely, and the view of Lake Superior often becomes part of the day’s plans. Many couples choose romantic add-ons, such as in-room treats or early check-in, to make their stay feel even more special.
Beyond the city, the North Shore invites exploration. A short drive reveals frozen waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and quiet stretches of forest that add a sense of adventure to a February getaway. Evenings can be spent enjoying live music, a show, or simply returning to a warm room with lake views.
For couples looking for one of the best Valentine’s Day getaways in the Midwest, Duluth offers a rare mix of winter beauty, walkable attractions, and heartfelt hospitality that turns a long weekend into something truly memorable.
Vermont Fall Foliage
Driving the Molly Stark Scenic Byway
If you want one drive that captures everything worth seeing in southern Vermont during fall, take the Molly Stark Scenic Byway. This 40-mile stretch of Route 9 connects Brattleboro to Bennington, running straight through the Green Mountain National Forest with mountain overlooks, covered bridges, and small towns that have barely changed in a century. Locals call it the Molly Stark Trail, named for the wife of Revolutionary War General John Stark. Whether you have two hours or a full day, this byway belongs on your Vermont road trip itinerary.
Start in Brattleboro, where the West and Connecticut Rivers meet at the byway’s eastern end. The town has a walkable downtown, working art galleries, and enough coffee shops and bookstores to fill a morning before you ever get on the road. Give yourself time here. Brattleboro is one of Vermont’s most interesting small towns.
What to See Along Route 9 Vermont
Heading west out of Brattleboro, the byway climbs into the Green Mountain National Forest almost immediately. About 20 minutes in, pull off at Hogback Mountain for a scenic overlook with a hundred-mile view across three states on a clear day. No hiking required.
A few miles past Hogback, Molly Stark State Park sits directly along the route. If you have 90 minutes to spare, the Mount Olga Trail is a moderate 1.7-mile loop that climbs to a fire tower with views of the Green Mountains, the Berkshires, and Mount Monadnock in New Hampshire.
From there, the byway continues to Wilmington, a walkable village with good lunch spots and easy access to Mount Snow. The final stretch toward Bennington passes the Robert Frost Stone House Museum in Shaftsbury, where Frost wrote two of his best-known poems, before ending at the Bennington Battle Monument and the town’s covered bridges.
Peak fall foliage along this stretch of Vermont scenic drives usually hits in the first two weeks of October, when the hardwood forest along Route 9 turns deep red and gold against the mountain overlooks. Late spring is worth considering too. By late May, the Green Mountain National Forest is a saturated green, and the overlooks are nearly empty.
Stay at a Brattleboro Bed and Breakfast Before You Drive
The Inn on Putney Road is a six-room French Baronial-style manor, a short walk from downtown Brattleboro, set on an acre of gardens along the West River with direct access to over 17 miles of hiking trails. Start your morning with a two-course gourmet breakfast made from local Vermont ingredients, then be on Route 9 within ten minutes.
Guest rooms fill quickly during foliage season, so if you’re planning to drive the Molly Stark Scenic Byway when the color peaks, book early. As one of the more established options among Vermont scenic byways for a home base, this Brattleboro Bed and Breakfast puts you close to the route and close to town.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Molly Stark Scenic Byway?
It is a 40-mile designated Vermont scenic byway running along Route 9 from Brattleboro to Bennington, passing through the Green Mountain National Forest.
How long does it take to drive the Molly Stark Trail?
The drive itself takes about 90 minutes without stops, though most visitors spend three hours to a full afternoon, including overlooks and short hikes.
What is there to see at Hogback Mountain?
Hogback Mountain has a roadside scenic overlook offering views across three states on a clear day, with no hiking required to reach it.
Are there hiking trails at Molly Stark State Park?
Yes. The Mount Olga Trail is a 1.7-mile moderate loop to a fire tower with views of the Green Mountains, the Berkshires, and Mount Monadnock.
Who was Molly Stark?
Molly Stark was the wife of Revolutionary War General John Stark, and the byway takes its name from her.
Book your stay at the Inn on Putney Road today and make our Brattleboro Bed and Breakfast your base for one of Vermont’s best fall foliage drives.
Virginia in the Fall: Your Guide to the Perfect Blue Ridge Weekend
Why Virginia in the Fall Is Worth Planning Around
Virginia in the fall means crisp mornings, mountains layered in red and gold, and small towns that seem built for slow weekends. Fall colors in Virginia typically peak between mid and late October, with higher elevations turning first and the valleys filling in shortly after. Time it well and you catch the season at its most vivid.
With so many things to do in Lovingston and Charlottesville, Nelson County and the village of Lovingston sit in a sweet spot for a fall getaway. The town has a walkable historic district and locally owned shops, and it lies just off the Blue Ridge Parkway and a short drive from Charlottesville. That puts foliage drives, mountain hikes, orchards, and the heart of Virginia wine country all within easy reach of one home base.
The Best Things to Do for Fall in Central Virginia
Plenty of travelers chase fall activities in Northern Virginia, but Central Virginia matches the scenery and adds award-winning wineries and orchard country. Here is how to fill a fall weekend near Lovingston.
- Drive Skyline Drive (1.5 hours away). This 105-mile road winds through Shenandoah National Park past 75 scenic overlooks. October is the park’s busiest month, so go early in the morning or on a weekday.
- Hike Crabtree Falls (30 minutes away). One of the tallest cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi River sits just south of us, and the moderately challenging trail climbs past a series of falls framed by autumn foliage.
- Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway (35 minutes away). Beginning near Afton, the Parkway strings together mountain vistas, overlooks, and picnic areas, and it ranks among America’s most scenic drives every October.
- Pick apples at Carter Mountain Orchard (30 minutes away). You can fill a bag of apples, sip fresh cider, browse the country store, and take in views over Charlottesville.
- Spend an afternoon at Chiles Peach Orchard (40 minutes away). Fall brings apple picking, pumpkins, cider donuts, and family-friendly festivals set against the mountains.
- Tour the Monticello Wine Trail (5 to 40 minutes away). Named Wine Enthusiast’s 2023 Wine Region of the Year, the trail starts five minutes from our door at Lovingston Winery, with Brent Manor Vineyards (15 minutes), Veritas Vineyard & Winery (30 minutes), and Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards (35 minutes) close behind.
- Catch the Graves Mountain Apple Harvest Festival (1.5 hours away). Held the first three weekends of October in Syria, Virginia, the festival features bluegrass music, hayrides, local crafts, and apple cider. Confirm current dates before you go.
- Explore downtown Lovingston (less than 5 minutes away). Browse the HeART of Nelson Collective, grab coffee at Trager Brothers Coffee, and snap a photo at the Nelson County LOVEwork.
One planning tip makes the whole trip easier. Beginning in late September, the Virginia Department of Forestry publishes weekly foliage reports, so you can time your visit to peak color. October reservations at wineries and restaurants fill quickly, so book ahead.
Stay at a Boutique Bed and Breakfast Near Charlottesville, VA
After a day of foliage and wine tasting, you will want somewhere worth coming back to. Orchard House Bed and Breakfast, built in 1874 as the home of a Virginia state judge, sits on 14 acres in Lovingston with a one-acre vineyard, a pond, and Blue Ridge Mountain views. Mornings begin with a freshly prepared two-course breakfast and coffee on the front porch. Evenings end around the gas fire pit with a glass of wine as the mountains fade into dusk. Each of our six guest rooms has its own character, along with a pillow-top bed, quality linens, and a private ensuite bath.
Book Your Fall Getaway in Virginia
Whether you are planning a romantic fall weekend or a relaxed trip with friends, Orchard House puts you minutes from the wineries, trails, and orchards that make Virginia in the fall so memorable. October is one of our busiest seasons, so reserve early. Book your stay at our Bed and Breakfast Charlottesville, VA, travelers return to every October and start planning your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does fall start in Virginia?
Fall officially begins in late September, and in the Blue Ridge region the first cool mornings and early color usually arrive around the same time, building through October.
When is peak fall foliage in Virginia?
Peak fall foliage in the Nelson County and Charlottesville region typically arrives mid to late October, with higher elevations turning one to two weeks earlier than the valleys.
Where can you see fall foliage in Virginia?
Skyline Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Crabtree Falls, and the vineyards along the Monticello Wine Trail offer some of the state’s most reliable foliage views.
When is the best time to visit Virginia in the fall?
The second and third weeks of October are usually the safest bet for color. It is also the busiest season, so book lodging and winery reservations early.
What to Do in Duluth on a Snowy Day
Best of What to Do in Duluth During a Winter Visit
Winter transforms Duluth into a city filled with dramatic lake views, snowy streets, and inviting places to warm up between adventures. If you are deciding what to do in Duluth during the colder months, you’ll find outdoor beauty, cultural attractions, and cozy experiences that make a winter visit especially rewarding. From Lake Superior shorelines to local dining and events, Duluth offers plenty to explore at a relaxed winter pace.
Start your day along Canal Park and the Lakewalk, where snow-dusted paths frame sweeping views of Lake Superior. Watching ships pass beneath the Aerial Lift Bridge feels even more memorable against a winter backdrop. For travelers looking for peaceful scenery, Park Point offers quiet shoreline walks and snowshoe-friendly dunes along the world’s longest freshwater sandbar.
Winter is also the perfect time to enjoy Duluth attractions indoors. Warm up with locally roasted coffee, browse boutiques and galleries in Lincoln Park, or spend an afternoon at the Great Lakes Aquarium, where large windows showcase the snowy harbor. History lovers will appreciate touring Glensheen Mansion, where the estate’s grounds feel straight out of a winter storybook.
Stay Cozy Near Lake Superior at Our Duluth Bed and Breakfast
After a day of exploring what to do in Duluth, returning to a comfortable place to unwind makes all the difference. Staying at a Duluth Bed and Breakfast near Lake Superior puts you close to downtown attractions while offering a peaceful setting to relax. Guests enjoy inviting suites, fireplaces, plush robes, and views that make winter evenings feel especially memorable.
Dining is another highlight of a winter visit. Duluth’s restaurants shine this season, offering intimate atmospheres and inventive menus. From romantic dinners with lake views to relaxed spots perfect for unwinding after snowy walks, winter dining becomes part of the experience.
For travelers interested in Duluth events, winter brings unique seasonal highlights, including the renowned John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon. Whether you spend your time outdoors, indoors, or a mix of both, winter reveals a quieter, more personal side of the city. With thoughtful planning and the right home base, discovering what to do in Duluth during winter becomes a getaway worth repeating.