When the air gets crisp and the leaves start changing, Richmond becomes an absolutely beautiful dreamscape of fiery reds, burnt oranges, and golden yellows. Fall in Virginia is simply the best, and Richmond's mix of urban parks, riverside trails, and historic sites make it the perfect backdrop to see fall foliage.
Whether you're a recent transplant, a long-time local, or just passing through, there’s no shortage of spots where you can soak up this season's beauty. Here is my list of the top 10 places to see foliage (In order by location).
If you'd like to watch the video of Best Foliage Spots in RVA, you can here:👇
Libby Hill Park
2801 E Franklin St, Richmond, VA 23223
Perched on a hill, Libby Hill Park offers some of the best views in Richmond, especially in the fall. This historic park, dating back to the 1850s, gives you sweeping, panoramic views of the James River and the downtown skyline, framed by brilliant fall colors.
Also a great choice here is to catch a sunset, it is such a vibe. Libby Hill is perfect for those who want a mix of history, nature, and cityscape all in one spot.
St John’s Church
2401 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23223
Guided Tours: $12 each (free to walk around)
Website: https://www.historicstjohnschurch.org/
Famous as the site of Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty, or give me death!” speech, St. John’s Church is a must-see landmark because of it's history—and because in the fall, it takes on a whole new level. The church’s grounds are surrounded by gorgeous trees that burst into gorgeous colors alongside the very old and historic gravestones.
Plus, the nearby Church Hill neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets and historic row houses, makes for a picturesque autumn walk as well. It's so magical in the Fall.
Floodwall Park
101 Hull St, Richmond, VA 23224
For an off-the-beaten-path fall experience, Floodwall Park offers one of the best views in Richmond. Running alongside the James River, this is more Floodwall than park but it features an elevated walkway that gives you stunning views of the city skyline with epic autumn colors. You can see the city’s skyline, the water flowing from the James River, a train going by, cars passing by on the Mayo bridge and all from the same viewpoint.
Floodwall Park is the perfect spot to soak up fall colors and see so much going on in Richmond. Also there is a convenient free parking lot right next to it for easy access.
The Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge, or “T. Pot” to locals, is one of the most scenic spots in Richmond, especially in autumn. This pedestrian bridge stretches across the James River, offering an kind of immersive experience as you’re surrounded by the river’s water flow and vibrant fall colors on both banks. The bridge gives you an up-close view of the changing leaves on Belle Isle, as well as panoramic views of the downtown skyline.
Accessible to walkers, bikers, and even strollers, the T. Pot bridge is perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll or a sunset view. Don’t forget to stop midway for a prime photo op spot!
Oregon Hill Overlook
For a breathtaking blend of fall foliage, river and skyline views, Oregon Hill Overlook is a Richmond must. This cozy spot is perched just above the James River, providing a great vantage point to take in the autumn colors stretching along the riverbanks and the downtown cityscape in the background. As the leaves change, the overlook transforms into a picture-perfect spot where you can watch the vibrant hues reflect on the water, framed by Richmond’s iconic skyline.
This overlook is located in the historic Oregon Hill neighborhood, and is usually a quiet spot. Plus this is a great access point to the North Bank Trail.
North Bank Trail
Unnamed Road, Richmond, VA 23219
The North Bank Trail is an approx 5.4 mile out & back urban hiking trail, and in the fall, it’s amazing! The trail winds along the north side of the James River, passing by two cemeteries and through tons of trees. This is a perfect trail for hikers, bikers, and anyone looking for a scenic workout.
Along the way, you’ll catch sight of the river rushing below, views of the South Bank’s autumn colors across the water and gorgeous nature. It’s a fantastic spot for those who want to escape the city noise and immerse themselves in Richmond’s nature.
Hollywood Cemetery
412 S Cherry St, Richmond, VA 23220
Hollywood Cemetery is a Richmond classic, blending history, breathtaking views, and, in the fall, the perfect display of colorful foliage. As one of the oldest cemeteries in the country, it’s the final resting place for some famous names, including two U.S. presidents, John Tyler and James Monroe. But come autumn, Hollywood Cemetery transforms into a wonderland of yellows, reds, and warm oranges, making it a favorite for both us locals and visitors.
The rolling hills, towering monuments, historic tombstones, and the sweeping overlook of the James River make for a unique, peaceful walk in the Fall.
Monument Ave
1830 Monument Ave, Richmond, VA 23220
Monument Avenue is one of Richmond’s most iconic streets, famous for its grand historic homes, tree-lined medians, and storied past. In the fall, this wide avenue becomes a canopy of vibrant Fall colors. Driving, walking or biking down Monument Avenue is such a vibe. You can look at amazing architecture and also enjoy the Fall foliage.
University of Richmond
280 Richmond Way, Richmond, VA 23229
The University of Richmond is known for it's beautiful campus, especially in the fall. With its Gothic architecture, lakes, and woodsy trails, the campus transforms into an autumn dream.
Walking through the campus in the fall, you can explore scenic spots like Westhampton Lake, surrounded by vibrant foliage reflecting on the water, or take a stroll along the wooded trails. Whether you’re an alum, a student, or simply a visitor, the University of Richmond’s fall foliage is a peaceful and a visually captivating experience.
From the James River
RVA Paddlesports James River Rapids Rafting Tour: https://rvapaddlesports.com/
For those who crave a little adventure with their fall scenery, Richmond’s whitewater rafting experience on the James River is an absolute must. The river’s Class III and IV rapids offer waves and drops right in the heart of the city, making it one of the only places in the U.S. where you can experience urban whitewater rafting. In autumn, the experience gets an added dose of magic as you paddle through a backdrop of reds, oranges, and yellows lining the riverbanks.
RVA Paddlesports is the only company in town that does Fall guided whitewater rafting and it is seriously so much fun! You will navigate the river and rapids while catching breathtaking views of the changing leaves on Belle Isle and the surrounding area. I have to admit this is one of my favorite ways to see Fall Foliage!
Between the fun adventure of whitewater rafting and taking in the cityscape with foliage, this makes it a one-of-a-kind fall adventure. Whether you're a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, this is an unforgettable way to see Richmond's autumn!
Thanks for joining me on this Fall tour of Richmond’s best fall foliage spots! As you can see from this list, Richmond has so many amazing places to soak up the Fall season.
I hope you found this list helpful! There are more blogs on my website about other spots around Virginia, as well as Richmond tips.
You can also follow me on YouTube for my travel videos or Instagram for daily updates. Feel free to DM me with any questions! Have a great trip!
💚Lauren Z Ray