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

Whether it be bayside bliss, sensational food, vibrant shores, and astounding mountains, Virginia offers more diverse experiences than one might expect.

There’s one town being hyped by Coastal Virginia Magazine that even has these coastal experts venturing inland in favor of small town charm and riverside delights for a perfect trip without the pesky crowds you may find elsewhere.

Hosting festive events in what’s already a vibrant town gleaming in nostalgia only amplified by autumn colors, this hideaway hugging the Potomac River is one of Virginia’s best escapes to avoid the city bustle in favor of cobblestone strolls.

Only a 25 minute drive, or even faster with a 15-minute Amtrak ride from Washington DC, it’s super easy to reach despite feeling worlds away with its historic flair — one of many reasons why we at Travel Off Path believe Virginia is one of America’s most underrated adventures for an unforgettable fall getaway.

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

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

Alexandria should be your go-to spot to stroll downtown’s old-timey streets with a PSL in hand and rockin’ your favorite sweater that’s been in the closet far too long.

Not only is Alexandria vibrant and aesthetically pleasing from an architectural perspective with red-brick walkways and every building seeming to boasting a different color, its art scene is buzzing with fun events throughout the season.

One of which is Art on the Avenue, celebrating its 30th year on October 4th.

Additionally, there are select dates of public installations at Waterfront Park, which just so happens to be a great spot for sunset strolls and foliage photo-ops backdropped by calm waters.

Though, the city itself highlights these 4 parks as the best spots to enjoy autumn beauty with a color wheel of leaves ranging from rustic reds to near glow-in-the-dark golds:

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

But for the ultimate hideaway to immerse in fall’s finest colors, Mount Vernon has an award-winning trail it’s so gorgeous — and highly recommended to explore on 2 wheels. 🚴‍♀️

Visit Car-Free? Local Experts Say Yes

Alexandria’s charming Old Town is a delight to walk through. That’s not to see say it doesn’t make an awesome stopping point or end-cap to a scenic road trip, but local experts at Coastal Virginia Magazine encourage a ‘car-free visit’.

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

Lined with indy shops, cozy cafes and restaurants, and historic attractions surely to catch your eye, that means it’s time to hop aboard an Amtrak to get here.

You’re definitely not alone if you do so, and the experience may bring the biggest crowd during your trip as Virginia welcomed a record number of rail riders given so many awesome places to visit.

Alexandria is certainly in the mix. Of course, the most popular gateway here is from nearby Washington DC, as short as 15 minutes away and as low as $9 for a Coach seat.

Once here, if your boots aren’t made for walkin’, don’t fret! Alexandria’s free King Street Trolley has your back (and your feet).

Just know if you plan on visiting the famed George Washington Masonic National Memorial, the trolley doesn’t go that far.

Enjoy Riverside Delights

Alexandria offers one hotel along the Potomac River, and it’s a name we all love.

Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria isn’t just steps away — you can’t get any closer without needing swimwear.

There’s no better place to stay for sweeping waterfront views, unless you can score an Airbnb for more space.

But the real delights are for your tastebuds. There are far more places to eat than there are to rest your head at night.

Ada’s on the River is one of locals’ and tourists’ favorite locales to sip decadent wine, cut into a juicy steak, and take in the scenery.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.