Fall on the east coast is nothing short of spectacular. As the weather cools off, and tourism slows down, the area beams with color. Trees change their colors from green to yellow, orange, and red. New England is the coveted fall foliage destination in the United States but there are other stunning destinations around Washington DC that are worth a weekend gateway to view the fall foliage. Here is our guide to the best fall weekend getaway trips near DC.

Best Fall Getaways near Washington, DC

Harpers Ferry National Park

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve

Shenandoah National Park

Harpers Ferry National Park

Harpers Ferry is a hidden gem only 60 miles from the heart of Washington, DC. The little town is built into the cliffside where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet. The town is home to The Harpers Ferry Historical National Park. The Harpers Ferry National Park is home to John Brown’s raid that speared the slave rebellion. 

The Harpers Ferry Historical Park Fee is per Vehicle it is $20.00 – For a single, private vehicle. Excludes group tours and 7+ passenger vans. Entrance passes are valid for three consecutive days, beginning on date of purchase, and are required in all park areas. Fees are payable at the Entrance Station near the park’s visitor center, Bolivar Heights, Maryland Heights, Harpers Ferry Train Station, and River Access Parking Lot.

Within the 3,500 acres of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, there are many places to explore, learn, and enjoy. With miles of walking and hiking trails, Harpers Ferry is the premier fall hike destination.

Best Places to Stay in Harpers Ferry

We have put together a list of ‘Best Places to Stay in Harpers Ferry‘ for you to look at but here are a few of our favorites. 

•  Harpers Ferry Vacation Rentals
• Clarion Inn in Harpers Ferry
• The Anglers Inn

Best Things to Do in The Fall in Harpers Ferry:

• Electric Biking Harpers Ferry
• Harpers Ferry Canopy Tour 
• John Brown Wax Museum
• Harpers Ferry Adventure Park
• Harpers Ferry Ghost Tour
• River Riders Whitewater Rafting 

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve

The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons; the New River is among the oldest rivers on the continent. 

The park encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along the New River, is rich in cultural and natural history, and offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities.

In December 2020, the New River Gorge National River got re-designated to national park status, making New River Gorge National Park and Preserve the 63rd national park in the US – and the very first in the state of West Virginia.

Best Places to Stay Near New River Gorge National Park

•  The Historic Morris Harvey House
•  Country Road Cabins 
• ACE Adventure Resort

Best Things To Do Near New River Gorge National Park

• Whitewater Rafting
• Walk Under The New River Gorge Bridge
• New River ATV Rentals

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park extends along the Blue Ridge Mountains in the U.S. state of Virginia. The Skyline Drive runs its length, and a vast network of trails includes a section of the long-distance Appalachian Trail. Mostly forested, the park features wetlands, waterfalls, and rocky peaks like Hawksbill and Old Rag mountains.

Places to Stay near Shenandoah National Park:

• Shenandoah National Park Cabins and Lodging
• Hotel Laurance
• Cave Hill Farm Bed and Breakfast

Things To Do near Shenandoah National Park:

• Cave Hill Farm Brewery
• Luray Caverns
• Skyland Stables Horseback 

The fall season around Washington, DC is a magical time of year. You will be able to get outside and see the sea of reds, oranges, and yellows along the Appalachian Mountain chain. Whether you will get to see Harpers Ferry in the fall or the Shenandoah National Park leaves change, you will get to be in a world of your own. Enjoy the fall foliage around the DC area while it still lasts! Be adventurous and have fun!