FUN ACTIVITIES WITH KIDS NEAR LOVE RIDGE
Autumn in Virginia is nothing short of magical. The leaves turn red, orange, and yellow. For families staying at our Blue Ridge mountain lodging, this season also brings myriad activities to enjoy with kids. Here are some fun-filled activities and destinations that you can explore with your little ones this fall:
1. Leaf Peeping and Nature Walks:
Virginia’s Blue Ridge is renowned for its stunning fall foliage. Grab a pair of binoculars and a camera, and set out for a scenic drive or hike in the nearby George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. More than 2,200 miles of hiking trails here cater to all age groups, making it perfect for a family day out.
2. Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes:
Fall is synonymous with pumpkins, and there’s no better way to get into the season’s spirit than visiting a local pumpkin patch. Kids will have a blast choosing their pumpkins; many farms offer hayrides and corn mazes. One of our favorites is Jeter Farm in Roanoke. It is about an hour and a half drive from Love Ridge, but they have a fun corn maze, pumpkin picking, hayrides, and food. Check out the farm and enjoy a day of autumn fun.
3. Apple Picking:
Getting the kids to eat their apples is much easier when they have picked them locally. Several orchards offer families the chance to pick apples; most of Virginia’s apples are grown in the Shenandoah Valley through Roanoke Valley. We enjoy visiting these orchards within about a 30-minute drive of the property.
- Silver Creek and Seamans’ Orchards, Tyro
- Saunders Brothers Orchard & Farm Market, Piney River
4. Fall Festivals:
Virginia’s love for festivals shines even brighter in the fall. Many local fall festivals feature hayrides, cider tasting, face painting, and other family-friendly activities. Check out these upcoming October Festivals.
- The Blue Ridge Mountain Maze has relocated to Blue Toad Hard Cider, right at the base of Love Ridge. Families can enjoy the 5-acre corn maze, farmy games, live music and more
- Virginia Wine and Garlic Festival on October 14th & 15th in Amherst, VA, has a great KidZone fun Station, Face Painting, Balloon artists, and more.
- A little further to drive, but always a lot of fun, is the Anthem Go Outside Festival in Roanoke on October 13-15th—a free family event where you can try out bikes, paddle boards, and more. There are more than 175 workshops planned for 2023.
5. Visit Sherando Lake:
Sherando Lake is especially beautiful in the fall, located within a short drive of Love Ridge. Its serene waters reflecting the vibrant foliage make it a peaceful spot for picnicking, fishing, or enjoying nature. The recreation area also has a playground and several trails for families to explore.
6. Camp Outdoors:
The cooler temperatures of fall make it an ideal time for camping. Pack up your tents, marshmallows, and campfire stories, and plan to camp in one of our camping sites. Enjoy the fire pits and amazing views of the fall colors.
7. Crafting Days:
Walk the property and local trails and collect leaves, pinecones, and acorns during outdoor excursions. Once home, use these materials to create fall crafts. From leaf prints to pinecone bird feeders, crafting can keep kids engaged and excited about the season. Bring a few bags to store your stash.
8. Explore Waynesboro:
Just a short drive away, Waynesboro offers family-friendly attractions like the Plumb House Museum or the P. Buckley Moss Gallery. There are many special events in the fall, so check the local calendar and plan to visit the Farmer’s Market for some of the best fall produce.
9. Horseback Riding:
Experience the fall colors by embarking on a horseback ride through the scenic trails around the area. Several nearby stables offer guided rides, making it a safe and enjoyable family activity.
- 3 Blazing Maines in Lyndhurst, VA, offers trail rides through the area with stunning mountain views and breathtaking vistas.
- Rock Branch Horse and Cattle CO offers trail rides which average about an hour. They also offer summer camps for kids ages eight and up if you have kids who would love to learn to ride.
Fall at Love Ridge, VA, offers many activities that kids can enjoy. The beauty of the season, combined with the rich offerings of the Shenandoah Valley, ensures that families can make the most out of this magical time. Whether outdoorsy or prefer cozy indoor activities, there’s something for everyone. So, put on your jackets, grab your scarves, and set out to make this fall unforgettable for your family! Book your stay now at our Blue Ridge Parkway cabin!
