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How to spend a fall day like the “Gilmore Girls” in Northern Virginia

Want to feel like you’ve transported to Stars Hollow? See how you can live like the “Gilmore Girls” while staying in Northern Virginia.

The Stars Hollow sign from "Gilmore Girls."

Let’s go to Stars Hollow without leaving NOVA. | Photo by Gord Lacey via Flickr

Queue “Where You Lead” by Carole King and grab your white, cable knit sweater. We’re turning Northern Virginia into Stars Hollow, and living out the lives of Rory and Lorelai Gilmore from the well-known TV show “Gilmore Girls.”

Grab coffee and breakfast at Luke’s Diner

Ruthie’s All-Day is NOVA’s answer to Luke’s Diner — a beloved neighborhood spot in Arlington that’s open all day and perfect for gathering with friends and connecting with the community.

Shop at Doose’s Market

The Del Ray Farmhouse Market & Garden sells a variety of local goods like produce, eggs, and fresh bread. Just don’t steal the cornstarch when you go.

Indulge in a slice from Weston’s Bakery

Want a piece of cake to soak up all of that coffee? Liberty Baking Co. in Falls Church crafts up elegant cakes, making for a perfect sweet treat.

Look (but don’t touch) at Kim’s Antiques

Roaches in the Attic Antiques in Herndon is a quaint antique shop reminiscent of Kim’s Antiques, offering everything from period furniture to lamps. You might even find a gorgeous piece like Emily Gilmore did.

Find the beat at Sophie’s Music Shop

Learn how to wail on the drums like Lane at Foxes Music Company in Falls Church.

Grab a sweet treat at Taylor’s Olde Time Soda Shoppe

Pop’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Co. offers the perfect oldies vibe to grab a scoop of ice cream. I’m opting for chocolate (choclate, chocolate). If you’re looking for classic candy or soda, stop by Rocket Fizz in Alexandria. Sorry, Kirk, I don’t think you’ll be able to get a chocolate phosphate here.

Get a book at Stars Hollow Books

Head to Vienna and stop at Bards Alley Bookshop to get that small, local bookshop feel. If you’re anything like Rory, you’ll be leaving with quite the stack of books.

Explore Chilton

As fall reaches its peak, head to Georgetown University and soak in the scholarly charm of Chilton — we assure you, there’s plenty of “big stuff” to check out on campus.

Book a staycation at The Dragonfly Inn

Set in the charming town of Middleburg, Goodstone Inn & Restaurant offers the cutest inn vibe, just like The Dragonfly Inn. It also offers farm-to-table dining, exactly like the food Sookie makes with Jackson’s crops.

Stay at the Independence Inn for something more historic

If you are looking for something that more closely resembles the Independence Inn, the Inn at Evergreen in Haymarket is the place for you.

Is there important “Gilmore Girls” lore that we missed? Let us know in the comments below.

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