Guide to Fall 2021 in Richmond, VA

Here’s the thing about living in a city like Richmond, VA that showcases all four seasons: it can be hard to pick your favorite. But with fall foliage in full effect, a thriving brewery scene, easy day trips, and inviting festivals, fall is a frequent fav among Richmonders.

Let’s take a closer look at why fall Lives Up in so many ways in RVA.

FALL FOLIAGE HOT SPOTS

The changing leaves are the quintessential autumn sight. And while you can often watch this free-falling phenomenon right in your backyard, there are a couple of preferred perches for catching postcard-worthy views. These include neighbors Woodlake and Sunday Park off Route 360 in Chesterfield, as well as destinations including Maymont, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, and the University of Richmond. And don’t forget simply taking a stroll down the sidewalks of Monument Avenue. Oh, and the best part about catching glimpses of this kaleidoscope of descending color — it’s free!

GOOD VIBES ON TAP

The fall season doesn’t just give us eye candy; it gives us palate pleasers with all of the season’s flavors bubbling to life at local breweries. From Ardent’s Sweet Potato & Sage to Buskey Cider’s Classic Cider and Center of the Universe’s Oktoberfest beer, there’s plenty of flavors on tap to celebrate fall. Find a brewery with a deck, and you can sip while staring at the leaves for a true multi-sensory experience.

FIT FOR FALL

Just because the temperatures are dropping in RVA come fall, it doesn’t mean your level of physical activity needs to drop off. In fact, with plenty of 60- and 70-degree days, you’ll find the ideal conditions for biking on the Capital Trail, hiking over to Belle Isle, or even catching some downtime with a view at Texas Beach.

PUNCH YOUR TICKET

If you like events with bands, drink tickets, and food trucks-a-plenty, fall in Richmond is a great landing spot. Here’s a quick look at some of the can’t miss events:

• OKTOBERFEST: October 1–2 — If you love giant pretzels, oompah bands, and pilsners or Dunkels, head over to the Richmond Raceway and share a good “Prost!” with new friends.
• RICHMOND FOLK FESTIVAL: October 8–10 — It’s the ultimate Richmond festival, complete with multiple stages overlooking the James River, kids’ activities, craft shopping, and more.
• OYSTOBERFEST: October 16 — Head over to St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Ginter Park for brats, beer, bands, a kids’ zone — and, of course, oysters!
• HALLOWEEN ON HANOVER: October 31 — It’s the neighbor party where everyone is invited. Swing by for a fun-size treat and to ogle at the best decorations in town.

EMBRACE YOUR INNER DAY-TRIPPER

Have a Saturday suddenly open up? Get ready and gas up; Richmond has plenty of one-tank trips that embrace everything autumn has to offer. Fill up the mini-van and head to Carter Mountain in Charlottesville for apple picking, famous apple cider donuts, tractor rides, and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you do want to do more than “ohh” and “ahh” at the changing leaves, get in the middle of it all with a brisk, scenic hike. Or head east and step back in time on the streets of Colonial Williamsburg, where historical re-enactors and nostalgic buggy rides await. Both destinations are just about an hour away!

FALL FAMILY FUN

From pumpkin patches to trick-or-treat events, there are plenty of options to immerse the entire family in fall fun. One to check out is Kings Dominion’s Great Pumpkin Fest, featuring hay mazes, face painting, and other PG fun. And don’t forget the rides!

This is just a taste of what Richmond has to offer come fall. And remember — you don’t need to plan anything. Simply step into your three-season room or outdoor living area, kick back, and watch the leaves do their thing. Happy fall ya’ll!