Fall is upon us! Crisp nights give way to cool days, trees sporting hues of vibrant reds and golden yellows, evening bonfires with friends, and pumpkin everything. It’s a glorious time of year to enjoy Halifax County, so we’ve made a list of local attractions to make the most of the season.
Get Outdoors
One of the telltale signs that fall has arrived is when the leaves begin to change. The surrounding forests display shades of brilliant yellows, vivid oranges, and deep reds. Don’t settle for views from your window – enjoy the milder weather and nature itself by immersing yourself in the natural world. Staunton River State Park has 11 trails and nearly 20 miles of trail to explore, whether you’re horseback riding, on a bicycle, or taking a leisurely stroll through the woods. Trying to stay closer to town? Visit Edmund’s Park, which offers walking trails through the pastures and woods of an old dairy farm. Stroll along the Tobacco Heritage Trail, a paved pathway that follows an old railway. Paddling enthusiasts can view the changing leaves while exploring the waterways of the SOVA Wild Blueway. Want to view leaves, but not into the great outdoors? View the countryside, fall colors, and pieces of folk art on a self-guided driving tour of the Halifax County Barn Quilt Trail.
Dining
Fall is the season of harvest, and there’s no better way to enjoy the flavors of the season than a bite to eat at one of our local restaurants. Molasses Grill is celebrated for its menu, featuring weekly specials that utilize local and seasonal ingredients. As temperatures cool down, Toasted Wine & Gifts offers a selection of packaged soups, chilis, and autumn squash quiches for carry out. Nearby Southern Plenty serves fall favorite drinks like chai latte and ciders with desserts to match. The season also brings pumpkin-flavored… well, everything. Cuppajoe and Southern Plenty offer a variety of pumpkin-flavored coffee and drinks to celebrate the season.
Lodging
Is there anything more quintessentially fall than bundling up next to a campfire with friends or family? Brisk days lead to cooler nights – the perfect time to roast marshmallows. But where will you build a fire? Several lodging options in Halifax have you covered. Those looking for a more primitive experience may choose to camp at Staunton River State Park, which offers no-frills sites to those with water and electric hookup. Not into camping? The park’s recently renovated and fully furnished cabins have fire pits as well, allowing visitors to retreat from the elements for a good night’s sleep. For something a bit closer to town, The Cabins at Springfield 1842 offer a similar rustic experience. The added bonus of these cabins is that the owners will build a bonfire if requested, and you’re a few paces from a distillery and tasting room. If campfires aren’t your thing, you may enjoy forest views from the comfort of one of our county’s cozy B&B’s. Nature lovers will enjoy Oak Grove, a historic home powered by green energy, which offers guided hikes with the property’s owner. Sunnyview is perfect for history lovers, a beautiful brick home which has been carefully restored to keep its history intact. Those who like to create may enjoy the Chandler House, home to the Virginia School of Traditional Arts, which hosts workshops from wilderness survival to blade smithing.
Shopping
What better way to appreciate fall than decorating your home for the season? Find autumn décor at local shops. MC Home & Co is a unique, locally owned business in Downtown South Boston that sells seasonal décor. Shoppers can find inspiration in the shop’s displays or ask for decorating advice from associates. Just down the street is The Mercantile, an antique mall inspired by country stores of a bygone era. In addition to vintage finds, the shop also carries candy, soaps, candles, and souvenirs. Searching for seasonal produce to decorate with? Reese’s Farm and Produce offers a variety of pumpkins, gourds, and mums to brighten your outdoor living space. Shoppers can find them at their location in Centerville or the farm itself just outside of Scottsburg, Virginia.
