My wife Emma and I are foodies, so for us an outing to the big city simply must involve getting something special to eat. We love living rural life in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina for many reasons, but the diversity of restaurants isn’t typically one of the major benefits. Thankfully, a recent … Read more
In our experience, a good head-scratcher of a Fall corn maze really makes it feel like Autumn (much like leaf-peeping, pumpkin patches, and apple picking). Thankfully, there are an array of Virginia corn mazes to choose from spanning the entire state. From kid-friendly story mazes (where little ones wander around looking for the next piece … Read more
Shenandoah National Park in the Fall invites you to experience panoramic views, cool breezes, beautiful birds, and leaves falling like colorful gems from above. In October, Shenandoah National Park is practically bursting with vibrant Fall colors! This natural attraction welcomes Fall foliage pilgrims every Autumn with towering summits, excellent hiking trails, flowing streams, and magical … Read more
[Updated November 16, 2024] In my 25+ years as a professional travel writer, I’ve been extremely fortunate to travel to some amazing destinations all around the world. But, as a lifelong resident of the peach state, I always come back home in time to spend Christmas in Georgia. I grew up in the city and … Read more
“Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.” This line from the Emily Brontë poem “Fall, Leaves, Fall” perfectly captures the wistful beauty of Fall in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. The approach of Autumn stirs different expectations in everyone. I look forward to playing golf without intense Summer heat and tailgating … Read more
If you like brain teasers, love a good head-scratching mystery, or just enjoy playing pretend, there are some amazingly fun escape rooms in Virginia you can visit to challenge your mental acuity. Escape rooms are a great way to while away an hour with friends, family, or work colleagues. It’s an opportunity to prove … Read more
Every season of the year has its highlights, but Fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains has to be my favorite. Living in the Blue Ridge Mountains at this time of year, as we do, is wonderful for a number of reasons. In our experience, nothing beats cruising the Blue Ridge Parkway in Fall for … Read more
Fall is finally here! In the state of Virginia, where we live, we’re already pulling out our flannel shirts and stepping out for a pumpkin spice latte. That’s a sure sign that the explosion of Virginia Fall colors won’t be far behind. In Virginia, Fall foliage typically begins to change colors at higher elevations in … Read more
[Updated on September 18, 2023] The Appalachian Mountains encompass a massive portion of the United States. They span 420 counties in 13 states, with foothills as far south as Alabama and all the up into New York State. Before the arrival of Europeans, the region was home to numerous indigenous tribes, including the Cherokee, Iroquois, Powhatan, … Read more
Staunton VA is one of the oldest mountain towns in the Shenandoah Valley, which lies just west of the Blue Ridge Mountains range. It’s a popular destination for travelers who appreciate history, good food, and old-fashioned charm. The town of Staunton is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains of VA to the east and the Alleghenies to the … Read more
