Apple Picking in Virginia: The 20 Best VA Apple Orchards to Visit

Apple Picking in Virginia

[Updated August 10, 2024] Virginia is one of the largest apple-producing states in the nation, with plenty of apple orchards scattered throughout the state. Many apple orchards in VA sell their apples locally, along the east coast, and even nationally/internationally.  While you can visit these farms and pick up pre-picked bushels, many VA apple orchards … Read more

The 15 Best Pumpkin Patches in VA to Visit for 2025

Pumpkin Patches in VA

[Updated 9/22/25] If you’re looking for the best pumpkin patches in VA, you’ll find a seemingly endless array of options to choose from in every corner of the state.    Of course when you’re choosing a Virginia pumpkin patch, it isn’t always just about the pumpkins.   Sure, picking out a pumpkin that’s perfect for … Read more

The 20 Best North Carolina Hiking Trails

Hiking the Rough Ridge Trail with Peak Fall colors

Although there are always a myriad of things to do in our home state, hiking in North Carolina ranks high among my favorite activities. Many of the best North Carolina hiking trails involve hiking in the mountains in the western part of the state. But the Central Piedmont and Atlantic Coast also have some stellar places … Read more

Fall in North Carolina: 25 Great Places to See Fall Colors in NC

Fall in North Carolina: Fall Colors on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad in Bryson City NC

[Updated August 6, 2023] Fall in North Carolina is particularly special because the autumn leaves are around for an extended amount of time. The vibrant fall colors almost seem to develop in shifts, gradually working their way down the sides of the Blue Ridge Mountains as seasonal temperatures begin to drop. Leaves changing in North Carolina … Read more

The 25 Best Pumpkin Patches in NC

Pumpkin Patch in North Carolina

[Updated 8/6/2023] When autumn rolls around there are tons of fun activities and annual traditions to look forward to. But you could argue that none are quite as iconic as picking out the perfect pumpkin for the season. Whether you’re looking forward to spending an evening carving jack-o-lanterns, baking pumpkin pies, or creating unique seasonal … Read more

The 10 Best Things to Do in Staunton VA

Things to do in Staunton VA

Located 16 miles west of the Blue Ridge Parkway (and just 11 miles west of Waynesboro), the lively town of Staunton VA is teeming with art, theater, music, and Southern hospitality. Known as “the Queen City of the Shenandoah Valley,” Staunton was settled in 1732, incorporated in 1801, and has grown to a population of over 25,000 … Read more

The 20 Best Overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Fall

Blue Ridge Parkway in the Fall, Chestnut Cove Overlook

The Blue Ridge Mountains are famed for their stirring scenic vistas, and the Blue Ridge Parkway in Fall is arguably the crème de la crème.  My wife Emma and I both have October birthdays, and autumn is our favorite time of year for many reasons. As avid gardeners, it means the fruits of our labors … Read more

25 Fun Things To Do in Georgia for Fall

Fun Ways to Experience Fall in Georgia

[Updated 9/20/2025] You know it’s nearly Fall in Georgia when the sweltering heat of summer gives way to a cool, crisp morning breeze, and you start swapping out bikinis and board shorts for boots and sweaters. When the first maple trees begin to transform and suddenly everything becomes pumpkin-themed and flavored, you know fall in … Read more

Apple Picking in Georgia: The 14 Best GA Apple Orchards to Visit

North GA Apple Orchards

[Updated August 6, 2025] When autumn starts to roll around, there are plenty of fun annual traditions to look forward to such as Apple Picking in Georgia. From watching the leaves transform into glorious fall colors and visiting a pumpkin patch/corn maze to going to Georgia fall festivals and picking apples, it’s truly our favorite … Read more