6 Ways to Make the Most of Fall in DC

It’s been unseasonably warm in DC the past few days, but forecasts show that true fall weather is on the way. People keep telling me that we’re in for a super cold winter, to which I put my hands over my ears and sing “Steal My Sunshine” at the top of my lungs. However, there’s no denying that our days of outdoor bliss are limited and it’s time to get out there and enjoy nature while we still can. Here are a few of Bad Sentences’ favorite ways to make of most of fall in DC.

6 Outdoorsy DC Fall Activities

 

The National Arboretum

The leaves are starting to turn in the district, and the best place to take see them in all their glory is at the U.S. National Arboretum, the 446-acre park and research program located on Northeast New York Avenue.

Quick facts and tips:

• Free entrance
• Free parking
• Dog friendly, as long as their leashed and you pick up after them
• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the National Capitol Columns
• Check out this post for more information about visiting the arboretum

Virginia Wine Country

This one takes a little more planning, and a car, but the inevitable views and good times that await you in Virginia Wine Country are worth it. There are plenty of wineries within an hour or so drive from DC, or even more fun, plan a weekend getaway to explore some of the wineries a little further out.
Most recently, we visited 8 Chains North winery in Waterford, Virginia for a perfect fall Saturday with family. We had to introduce our niece (the little bundle in Jen’s joey pouch) to our favorite activity – wine tasting!
We really enjoyed the indoor cute space at 8 Chains and especially the gorgeous back patio with views of the vineyards.
I also love that its dog friendly indoors and out, and there’s even a dog run to allow your pup some off leash fun.

More Bad Sentences posts about Virginia Wine Country:

• 8 Great Wineries in Loudoun County
• Wine Tasting Near Winchester, Virginia
• The Dog & Oyster Vineyard
• Cabin Getaway in the Shenandoah
• Exploring the Chesapeake Wine Trail

Quick facts and tips:

• Many wineries are dog friendly and most are child friendly, but be sure to check first as some have strict rules.
• Visit www.virginawine.org to find wineries close to you or your planned destination.
• Most places will offer some sort of sustenance, and some have full menus, but packing a picnic is almost always the thriftier option.
• Be sure you have a designated driver!

Hiking

Another one that will most likely involve leaving the district, but you know hiking has to be on this list. There are so many gorgeous hikes within a reasonable drive from DC. The most popular are probably the Billy Goat Trail at Great Falls, Old Rag in the Shenandoah and Maryland Heights in Harpers Ferry.

Quick tips and facts:

• Hiking Upward is far and away the best resource for finding great hikes in the DC area.
• Be sure to pay attention to the hike’s duration and level of difficulty before you commit.
• Wear sturdy shoes, pack plenty of water and a lunch or snack depending on the length of the hike.

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens

I will admit that not all aspects of this park are beautiful in the fall. It seems to be somewhat neglected and much of the “gardens” are dead and brown. But if you’re looking for a low-key way to spend an hour with a few fun sights along the way, give Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens a shot.
We went this past weekend after realizing it was far too nice outside to go to the gym. We didn’t really work up that much of a sweat walking through the gardens, but we had a great time anyway.

Quick tips and facts:

• Free entrance
• Free parking
• Leashed pets are welcome
• Don’t wear your fanciest pair of shoes as you’ll likely encounter mud

Rock Creek Park

Like the arboretum, Rock Creek Park is a great place to catch the fall foliage. You can go on a strenuous hike or a leisurely stroll.

Quick tips and facts:

• Free entrance
• Free parking
• Leashed dogs allowed
• Visit the information center first for tips on how to spend your trip

Fall Picnic in Yards Park

I would be remiss not to include my backyard in this list. Yards Park is one of DC’s most underrated green spaces and perfect for a fall picnic with ample grass as well as more formal seating near the water. If you’re not much of a picnic person, grab a table at Osteria Morini or Whaley’s for waterfront views and delicious food. Or head to Philz Coffee for a warm drink (to my knowledge they do not have pumpkin spice lattes, bless them) before a stroll on the boardwalk. Be sure to check out the new outdoor plaza at Dock 79.

Quick facts and tips:

• Now that baseball season is over, cheap parking is easier to find.
• The park is a short walk from the Navy Yard metro stop.
• If you want a view from above, head to Top of the Yard for a beer.

After all that adventuring, you’ll probably work up an appetite. Be sure to check out my restaurant reviews for help choosing the perfect meal. Happy fall!
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