The days are shorter, the air is crisp and the landscape has turned to amber. It can mean only one thing: It's autumn in the Mid-Atlantic.
And with it comes an opportune time to travel. After all, the crowds are down, prices are on the cheap and the scenery can't be beat.
Just about every destination is hosting a fall celebration of some kind or another, beckoning travelers to get outdoors and enjoy the weather while it lasts.
"Fall is a delightful time to travel in Maryland. Daytime temperatures in the mid-60s to lower 70s combined with low humidity create perfect conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking - with the added bonus of viewing colorful fall foliage while on the trails," says Margot Amelia, executive director of the Maryland Office of Tourism. "Additionally, fall is considered to be a 'shoulder season' in several Maryland regions so visitors can expect less crowds and lower prices at many venues while still being able to fully enjoy all the amenities."
So get out and enjoy the natural beauty of the season. Try a new destination or visit an old favorite. If you can't quite decide, here are a few suggestions within driving distance from Baltimore.
Natural Bridge, Va.
Come see breathtaking natural wonders set amid Virginia's beautiful Shenandoah Valley for a fall getaway sure to impress. Visit the Natural Bridge and Natural Bridge Caverns while taking in spectacular vistas along the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive.
What to see: : In nearby Lexington, the Toy Museum at Natural Bridge includes a collection of 45,000 different toys spanning almost 300 years. Or take in local history at the Natural Bridge Wax Museum with figurines and scenes on display and an opportunity to see the on-site factory and studio.
What to do: : Visit the Monacan Indian Village, where you can learn about the Woodland tribe's traditional culture and activities, including canoe-building, hide-tanning, mat-weaving and more.
Where to stay: : The Natural Bridge Hotel offers dining and package deals.
When to go: : Any time is a good time to visit this destination, but when you add beautiful fall foliage to the package, it makes it a must-see.
Information: : virginia.org
Chestertown
Autumn visits to Maryland's Eastern Shore, where soybean crops turn into fields of gold, should be a yearly trek. And with charming shops, mouthwatering restaurants and a "walk-able" downtown all nestled along the banks of the Chester River, Chestertown should be high on the go-to list.
