7 things you should be doing this fall

Fall is one of the best times of the year. The weather is ideal, the autumn colors make for picturesque landscapes, and the holiday seasons are just around the corner. Lucky for you, there is no shortage of fun activities in the Richmond area during the fall season. Whether you enjoy looking at art, trying new food and craft beer, or getting active and being surrounded by nature, there is something for you to enjoy.

1. Nacho Taco week (Nov. 2-8)

If you like nachos and tacos or if you enjoy trying new restaurants in the area, this one’s for you. From Nov. 2-8, participating restaurants are offering $5 nachos and tacos. Go to any of the 18 participating restaurants, including Don’t Look Back, Little Mexico, Rodeo Taco and Casa Del Barco. There is a large variety of taco and nacho flavors and toppings, including vegan options. Head to www.nachotacoweek.com for more information, and don’t forget to print your Nacho Taco Passport beforehand!

Photo: @jjacobu

2. Richmond on Broad and City Hall observation deck

The City Hall observation deck has perfect views overlooking the downtown Richmond area. Grab lunch to go at Richmond on Broad (where you can use dining dollars, by the way!) and head on up to the observation deck where you can enjoy beautiful views of the city and in all of its fall foliage goodness.

3. Richmond’s “First Fridays”

If you love art, you’ll love First Fridays, where you get to hear live music and walk around to see some of Richmond’s best art galleries. These take place the first Friday of every month, with the next one landing on Nov. 6. Check out www.facebook.com/RVAFirstFridays and www.rvafirstfridays.com for more information.

Photo: rvafirstfridays.com

4. Carter’s Mountain Orchard

For those wanting to experience another part of Virginia and willing to drive an hour or so, Carter’s Mountain is a perfect way to do that this fall. Carter’s mountain is lined with apple orchards and beautiful panoramic views of Charlottesville. Perfect for apple picking, photos and a fun time with friends. Plus, they have delicious apple cider doughnuts that’ll leave you excited to go back again next fall. This one is definitely worth the drive to Charlottesville.

Photo: Lindsay Stevens

5. Hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains—Humpback Rock

Once again, this one is a longer day or weekend trip, but completely worth the drive! Take a day this fall to drive along the picturesque Skyline Drive and hike the Humpback Rocks. Located at the northern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Humpback Rocks is an area full of scenic beauty and abundant hiking trails. Great photos and good times with friends are guaranteed.

Photo: blog.needsupplyco.com

6. James River Pipeline Walk

If you’re looking for some adventure in your own backyard, look no further than the James River pipeline walk. This walk runs more than a mile (1.6 kilometers) through downtown Richmond over the rapids of the James River. The entrance to the pipeline is at the end of S. 12th St. downtown, just past the floodgate. If you don’t mind climbing down a small metal ladder and walking along a thin pipeline, the walk is an unexpected treat in the middle of the city. Better yet, the pipeline leads you to the pedestrian footbridge that’ll take you over to the beautiful Bell Isle.

Photo: Lindsay Stevens

7. Graze on Grace

On Nov. 8 from 12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., be sure to visit Grace Street for sample dishes from over 25 of Richmond’s best restaurants. Admission is free and sample plates are just $3, so if you want to eat local food on a budget, this event is for you. Food booths will cover the span of almost four blocks from 4^th Street to 7^th Street, so there will be something for everyone to try! Go to www.grazerva.com for event information.

Photo: rvablog.org

Don’t have a car but want to try some of these fun Richmond activities? Campus has a free shuttle service for all UR students. Visit http://transportation.richmond.edu/bus-shuttle/ for more information.

Contact contributor Lindsay Stevens at lindsay.stevens@richmond.edu