Temporary Visitor Center Changes
The Mobile Visitor Centers will be closed through Saturday, August 22, and the Visit Charlottesville offices at 3510 Remson Court are currently closed. Visitors seeking information can visit the Albemarle County Office Building at 401 McIntire Road, open Monday–Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or call us at (434) 293-6789.
More InfoOctober in Charlottesville: Top Things to Do - Fall Foliage, Hiking, History
October in Charlottesville and Albemarle County is pure magic. Near perfect temperatures, leaves turning from green to gold, and a calendar packed with classic fall traditions.
Whether you’re a longtime local, a newcomer, or a first-time visitor, this is your sign to soak up everything the season has to offer — because October here is simply too good to miss!
One blog couldn’t possibly capture everything that’s happening in Charlottesville and Albemarle County! Head over to our upcoming events page to stay up to date on all the latest happenings in the area.
1. Celebrate Virginia Wine Month
Sip and stay awhile because October is Virginia Wine Month! The Monticello Wine AVA is home to more than 50 acclaimed wineries offering a variety of experiences -- whether you're looking for perfectly paired bites or a unique adventure! Many wineries are family and dog-friendly, some routinely offer food trucks and live music, while others have refined their experience to be suited for ages 21+. Head to our events page for the most up-to-date information on winery happenings.
-- Plan Ahead for November --
In 2026, Oenoverse's annual 'Two Up, Wine Down' festival is taking place on Saturday, November 7th at the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center. Enjoy an afternoon of tastings, DJ-spun beats, and an all-star cast of curators sharing their voice and perspective through an incredible line-up of Virginia wines. The festival is all about good times, great connections, and celebrating what makes us unique. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just down for a fun day, this is the place to be!
2. Admire the Fall Foliage
Leaf peepers, raise your hands! For some, the sole purpose of an October visit is to witness Mother Nature’s annual color show. In 2026, the Charlottesville-area will be enjoying peak fall foliage between mid-October and early-November, with the city trees changing color last. This is all completely dependent on the trees though, so the best plan is to have no plans, other than leisurely driving around and visiting some of the area's most popular spots!
If you’re planning to venture out to neighboring Shenandoah National Park, follow the park’s 'Fall Color Updates'. Keep in mind that wait-times to enter the park increase during peak foliage, so it's best to purchase a park pass ahead of time.
3. Explore Local Orchards & Farms
October is prime season for putting on your best cozy attire and heading out to one of Albemarle County’s orchards and/or farms, where you can enjoy all the special treats of the season like hot cider, donuts, and of course – pumpkins! Here are some popular stops to get you started -- be sure to plan ahead as some weekend require tickets!
4. Go for a Hike
Immerse yourself in the captivating fall foliage and crisp autumn air by getting out on the trails! Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a more intensive climb, there’s a hike to suit all desires and abilities in the Charlottesville area. Take a look at our favorite hikes in the area, including a few extra stops in Shenandoah National Park!
6. Savor the Flavors of Fall
October is one of the best months to eat your way through Charlottesville and Albemarle County! Restaurants embrace the season with fall menus featuring local apples, squash, sweet potatoes, and more, while bakeries roll out pumpkin treats, maple pastries, and spiced lattes.
7. Visit Historic Sites
Cooler temperatures and colorful landscapes make for the best time to explore the area's historic attractions! Walk the grounds of Monticello, tour James Monroe's Highland, or spend an afternoon on an e-bike tour around the University of Virginia, an official UNESCO World Heritage Site.
8. Celebrate Halloween Fun
Whether you're visiting with little ones or looking for a fright-filled night out, you'll find Halloween happenings throughout October. Be sure to check our Events Calendar for the latest seasonal celebrations and haunted happenings during your visit.
One day is never enough to experience everything Charlottesville & Albemarle County has to offer. Extend your adventure with an overnight stay and wake up ready to explore award-winning wineries, historic sites, mountain trails, local restaurants, and unique shops. Browse our Places to Stay page to find the perfect accommodations, then visit our Guides and Itineraries page for even more ways to build your ideal trip.