[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
[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
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
[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
[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
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 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
[Updated July 26, 2023] As the temperatures cool and the colors of autumn begin to emerge in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you may find yourself longing to explore the myriad fall festivities and corn mazes in Georgia. The season brings with it all sorts of fun activities, from apple picking and choosing the perfect pumpkin to … Read more
[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
[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