Fall in Richmond VA, is a lovely time and the city offers many wonderful views. I have my staple locations but I feel like I’m still finding a new spot every year.
Here are 7 of the best places to experience the vibrant colors of autumn in the Richmond area:
1) Westover Hills Blvd
Buttermilk and Forest Hill are my favorite trail running spots, especially in the fall. Besides the already beautiful park systems as mentioned above, I’m also treated to a nice splash of color as I enter the Westover Hills neighborhood from Nickel Bridge.
You go from wonderful views of the James on your left and right, right into being greeted by beautiful reds, yellows, and oranges.
You can run this part, drive it, or bike it. Whichever you choose, it’s a nice treat.
2) Maymont Park:
Maymont Park is a 100-acre estate with lovely gardens, waterfalls, and walking trails. In the fall, the park’s mature trees, including oaks and maples, burst into shades of red, orange, and yellow. Strolling through the park during this season is a delightful experience.
Also, be on the lookout for their Maymont’s Garden Glow event. A yearly fall-time event where Maymont transforms into a beautifully lit display. It all takes place after sunset, so you won’t see many naturally colored fall leaves, but there are plenty of fire pits, benches, and hot cocoa to soak up that wonderful fall feeling.
3) Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden:
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is a year-round attraction, but it truly shines in the fall when its extensive collection of plants and trees display their autumn colors. The garden’s Japanese Garden and Lake Sydnor area are particularly picturesque during this season.
4) James River Park System:
The James River Park System comprises numerous parks and trails along the James River, providing an ideal setting for enjoying the fall foliage. Head to locations like Belle Isle, Forest Hill Park, or the Buttermilk and North Bank trails for spectacular river views framed by colorful leaves.
I caught this wonderful image last year near the Pump House after trying to capture sunset photos on the James. I like this shot much more than the river sunset image.
5) S Belvidere St/Lee Bridge (North End)
I love this location for sunrise pictures of the city. And catching the fall leaves as pictured below was a happy accident. So while the bridge may lack red, orange, and yellow surroundings, the stunning views will more than make up for it!
6) Virginia Capital Trail:
The Virginia Capital Trail is a 52-mile multi-use trail connecting Richmond and Williamsburg. Along the trail, you’ll encounter a variety of trees, providing a scenic backdrop for a fall bike ride or hike. Some sections, such as those near the Chickahominy River, offer stunning views of fall foliage.
7) Monument Ave:
I love walking Monument Ave in the fall. It’s one of the first spots I start to notice leaf color changes, so I also use it as a gauge for the rest of Richmond. And recently I moved into the Fan right down the street from Monument Ave so you bet I’ll be out there quite often this year snapping pics and soaking in the views.
Wrapping Up
Remember that the timing of peak fall foliage can vary from year to year, but generally, late October to early November is the best time to visit Richmond for vibrant autumn colors. Be sure to check local foliage reports and plan your visit accordingly.
