A scenic drive is a great way to see fall colors this season. | Photo via Virginia Tourism
September is here, which means fall is almost upon us. From mountain overlooks to wooded trails, the region offers countless spots to enjoy the season’s beauty. Here are some of the best places to catch peak fall foliage.
Distance from downtown Arlington: ~10 minutes Accessibility: Easy
You don’t even need to leave your car to enjoy the breathtaking fall foliage along this parkway. As you drive, the road winds through a vibrant canopy of reds, oranges, and golds, with trees arching overhead to create a tunnel of color as you follow the Potomac River.
Distance from downtown Arlington: ~25 minutes Accessibility: Easy
These beloved gardens offer a peaceful escape that’s perfect for a relaxing stroll — especially during the sparkling fall season. With a small admission fee of $4 to $8, visitors can enjoy the serene landscape and explore the full 1-mile perimeter trail that winds through the park’s natural beauty.
John Legend | Tuesday, Sept. 2-Wednesday, Sept. 3 | 8 p.m. | Filene Center, Vienna | $64+ | This Grammy-award-winning singer will perform his famously known hits during his “Get Lifted — 20th Anniversary World Tour.”
Thursday, Sept. 4
Aaron Chen | Thursday, Sept. 4-Friday, Sept. 5 | 7 p.m. | Arlington Drafthouse, Arlington | $24 | Don’t miss this award-winning Australian comedian and actor as he brings his sharp wit and unique charm to the stage.
Sunday, Sept. 7
3rd Annual VeloPigs Pignic & Club Fundraiser | 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Wheatland Spring Farm + Brewery, Waterford | $34 | Take advantage of this lovely weather at this biking and picnicking event.
Washington Commanders vs. New York Giants | 1 p.m. | Northwest Stadium, Landover, MD | $193+ | Football season is upon us. Root for your Washington Commanders as they take on the New York Giants.
A Hot Wheels Car Library has popped up in Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia after a father and his son built it together, allowing other kiddos to take a car or leave a car. If you’re after a more traditional library experience, we’ve got some thoughts about turning a page or two outdoors in NOVA.
Eat
Chipotle has launched “Build-Your-Own Chipotle,” a new, digital-only offering that allows you to order key ingredients in bulk for small groups (or meal prepping, perhaps?) Alternatively, switch up your lunch routine with a bite from one of these new local spots.
State
I scream, you scream, we all scream for Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, aka the most popular ice cream brand in Virginia. While we’d never pass up a pint of Brambleberry Crisp, NOVA’s local ice cream shops serve our favorite scoops.
Tech
Google has launched Preferred Sources in the US, a feature that allows your favorite sources to appear more frequently in search results. This is great news if you love NOVAtoday — you can follow Google’s instructions to see even more of our hyperlocal content.
Number
60. That’s how many haunted houses are in Virginia, according to The Scare Factor, though that number may climb if more haunts make their presence known. You can explore the directory to find one near you, but only if you’re brave enough.
Quoted
“Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married.” That’s how Taylor Swift announced her engagement to Travis Kelce via Instagram. While we raise a glass to the happy couple, we want to know your thoughts on the best wedding venues in NOVA. Let us know.
With cooler temps finally rolling in, it’s the perfect time to hit the range. Enjoy golf ball and beverage discounts at several Fairfax golf courses while soaking up that just-right weather.
It’s finally September — that means it’s basically fall, right? Treat yourself in honor of a brand new autumn season with top-rated decor that’s all $30 or less.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Feel that cool breeze? That’s hockey season rolling in. I can NOT wait. The Capitals recently dropped their promo game schedule for the 2025-2026 season — check it out. And if you happen to see me screaming in the stands… no you didn’t.
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