Tuesday, October 7, 2025
By Minza Mirza
Autumnal air wrapped Georgetowners up on the first day of October 2025. For leaf peepers enthralled by the autumn feel and eager to hear the crunch of boughs of leaves under their boots, the Georgetowner compiled a list of leaf-peeper friendly towns three to four hour drives away.
Thomas, West Virginia
Davis, West Virginia boasts a fall experience like no other with its stunning architecture and turning leaves. Only a three hour, scenic drive from Georgetown, this small town is fit for families, couples, and individuals looking to peep piles upon piles of leaves.
Stay: Canaan Resort
The Canaan Resort offers all kinds of lodging experience from cabins to campsites. Sitting on Main Lodge Road, the resort’s location offers breathtaking views, especially in the fall.
Eat: Wicked Wilderness Pub
This pub and restaurant is fit for a variety of eats. On 5th street, this flavorsome spot serves up delectable wings and fish and chips.
Shop: The Wandering Caravan
This boutique on Williams Ave sells home decor and women’s clothing from an array of artisans, alluring visitors to take a piece of the local scene home.
Saunders-Monticello Trail in Charlottesville, VA
Charlottesville beholds the stunning Saunders-Monticello nature trail, the perfect place for a leaf peeping stroll. Three hours away from Georgetown, Monticello is a staple of the city, offering a pond, arboretum and a scenic, autumnal path for running and biking.
Stay: The Clementine Cottage at Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard
To truly complete the nature feel, try staying at one of the many cabins and cottages in the area. The Clementine Cottage at Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard provides an intimate living experience in a 2-bedroom cottage home close to the trail.
Eat: Aromas Cafe
Hitting a quaint cafe ties the bow on a perfect day of seeing some fall foliage on the trail. The Mista Salad and Mezza Trio are delicious and some patrons’ favorite dishes.
Shop: Farmers Markets
On Saturdays, the Charlottesville City Market at 100 E Water St runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m through Thanksgiving. Take this opportunity to shop in the lovely Charlottesville autumn.
Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
This quaint, cozy town lies three and a half hours away from Georgetown and provides a warm fall foliage experience. Hidden in a valley of the Pocono Mountains, Jim Thorpe, PA offers the perfect blend of natural scenery and fun activities such as white water rafting. Every year, the town holds the Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival for the first three weekends of October, showcasing the heart and culture of the city. Entry to the festival, located on 1 Susquehanna Square, is free.
Stay: The Bella Victoria Bed and Breakfast
While the rooms of this late 1800s Victorian adult-only bed and breakfast remain true to their era, modern amenities and necessities make staying at this B&B the utmost comfortable experience.
Eat: Broadway Grille and Pub
Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Broadway Grille and Pub sits on 24 Broadway inside the Historic Inn at Jim Thorpe. Delectable dishes can be found all over the menu, but their sweet potato fries prove a hit among locals and visitors alike.
Shop: Local Fair
The town’s talent shines at Local Fair, a shop showcasing goods from over 30 local artisans. Jewelry, pottery, art pieces, and more adorn the walls of this shop.