Virginians Head To These 3 Spots To Get Their 'Fall Fix': Survey

Autumn is in full swing in Virginia, and whether it's an apple orchard, a leaf-peeping trip or strolling through a pumpkin patch, residents all have a favorite way — and a favorite place — to get their fall fix.

A recent survey conducted by Gunther Volkswagen in Delray Beach, Florida, asked just over 3,000 respondents where residents of their state prefer to get their true “fall fix.”

"Pumpkin spice isn’t just a flavor - it’s shorthand for all the cozy, seasonal stops that make an autumn drive feel complete," the survey authors wrote. "From coffee shops to cideries, bakeries to roadside cafés, the question is: when cravings hit, do Virginia locals stick with familiar national chains or seek out local gems along the way?"

It turns out Virginians like to keep it local, according to the survey.

The No. 1 place Virginians go to get their fall fix is Mudhouse Specialty Coffee Roasters, which has multiple locations across the state. The company is planning to open its newest store in Alexandria.

"Mudhouse hums with an easy, thoughtful calm that deepens once autumn settles in," the survey authors wrote. "The scent of fresh espresso, the murmur of students and locals, and the golden light through the windows all create a space that feels tuned to the season. A latte here isn’t just a drink — it’s a small pause, a way of letting fall slow the pace of the day."

Coming in at No. 2 was Carter Mountain Orchard in Charlottesville.

"Carter Mountain feels like a hillside celebration of autumn. The rows of trees stretch out under crisp skies, the Blue Ridge Mountains rise in the distance and the air carries the unmistakable scent of apples and spice," the survey authors wrote. "A visit here feels less about filling a bag and more about stepping into the rhythm of fall — colorful, unhurried and timeless."

Finally, Virginians head to Hardywood Park Craft Brewery in Richmond.

"Hardywood takes on a warm, festive glow once the evenings grow cooler. Long tables fill with laughter, the pours lean into rich, malty flavors, and the space hums with a sense of belonging,"n the sruvey authors wrote. "Spending time here feels less about the beer itself and more about the atmosphere — a social, cozy rhythm that makes autumn in Virginia come alive."

The full list of favorite fall spots can be found online.

“As much as pumpkin spice and cider define fall, it’s really the journey that ties it all together,” said Joseph Gunther IV of Gunther Volkswagen. “Whether you’re pulling off at a favorite café or making a detour to a pumpkin patch, those stops become part of the drive itself. Fall isn’t just about where you end up - it’s about enjoying every mile along the way.”