MATPRA Admin

(Mid-Atlantic Region, December 14, 2021) — A new year is upon us and it’s time to start making new travel plans. The Mid-Atlantic Region boasts a plethora of new and exciting experiences opening (or re-opening) in 2022. We have rounded up a list of spectacular attractions across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia that highlight each region’s newest reasons to take a road trip and explore.

For more information on any of the following, contact the destination marketing organization listed below. For general information on the Mid-Atlantic, visit MATPRA.org.

Delaware

Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley
The reimagined Delaware Museum of Natural History will reopen as the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science in May. March 22 marks the opening of the Delaware Art Museum’s Louis Comfort Tiffany exhibition. Starting May 7, Winterthur will host an exhibition highlighting the partnership between Jackie Kennedy and Henry Francis du Pont to restore the White House interiors. Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jennifer Boes, VisitWilmingtonDE.com, [email protected]

Maryland

Allegany
Allegany County recently joined “George Washington Trail 1753,” which begins in Pennsylvania and is now making its way through the Maryland mountains. Visitors are invited to explore three Allegany County locations that offer a significant piece of the story of George Washington’s first military and diplomatic venture through the region. Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, Mindy Bianca, mdmountainside.com, [email protected]

Calvert
From sweet kettle corn made right before your eyes, to extreme milkshakes, to hot, fresh baked goods right out of the oven, the brand new Calvert County Sweet Treat Trail satisfies any sweet tooth! To locate spots on the trail, use the interactive Sweet Treat Trail map on our website. Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, www.ChooseCalvert.com, [email protected]

State of Maryland
In 2022, take a road trip in Maryland along the newly designated All-American Road Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway, with certified Chesapeake Bay Storyteller tours along the way. Travel along the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Scenic Byway to celebrate Harriet Tubman’s 200th birthday. Maryland Office of Tourism, Matthew Scales, VisitMaryland.org, [email protected]

Wicomico
Take a drive on the Chesapeake Country All-American Road, which received that designation in 2021. In Downtown Salisbury, visit the new Lynching in Wicomico County Historic Marker or see a show at revival. Grab a brew at Burnish Beer Co. in north Salisbury, which opened this past fall. Wicomico County Tourism, Vanessa Junkin, WicomicoTourism.org, [email protected]

Pennsylvania

Juniata River Valley
Find fun and solitude in the Juniata River Valley’s waterways. The ‘Waterways of the Juniata River Valley’ 20-page directory is full of fishing information about the Juniata River and its tributaries. The book includes stream characteristics, access points, and best bait and tackle to use. Floating and fishing guide service information included. Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau, Buffie Boyer, JRVVisitors.com, [email protected]

Lehigh Valley
Step back in time as you learn about Moravian culture in Bethlehem. Recently named to the U.S. Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage designation, this National Historic Landmark District is home to more original colonial structures than anywhere else in the U.S. A host of guided historical tours are available. Discover Lehigh Valley, Alicia Quinn, DiscoverLehighValley.com, [email protected]

Lancaster
Lancaster County’s fresh offerings in 2022 include Sight & Sound Theatres’ electrifying debut of “David,” a reopened Southern Market Center and new food hall, and the latest water experiences from kayakLanCo touring, Sickman’s Mill tubing, and Susquehanna National Heritage Area’s river tours aboard its new historic electric boat “Chief Uncas.” Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, [email protected]

Virginia

Harrisonburg
Enjoy a basketball game in the new Atlantic Union Bank Center at James Madison University just recently accepted in the Sun Belt Conference. During your stay, visit the newly opened and expanded Mineral Museum with its destination collection featuring some of the finest mineral examples in the world. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitor Services, Jennifer Bell, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com, [email protected]

Loudoun
Whet your appetite in Loudoun County in 2022. With more than 40 wineries, 35 craft breweries, distilleries and a slate of world-class “Earth to Table” restaurants, this history-laden county in the lush foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is fast becoming one of the leading epicurean destinations in the US. Visit Loudoun, Jen Sigal, visitloudoun.org, [email protected]

Richmond
The Virginia Museum of History and Culture will complete a major renovation in spring 2022 and will debut a new exhibit, Our Commonwealth. This extensive marquee exhibition will provide an in-depth exploration through Virginia and will feature stories and artifacts from partner organizations and cultural institutions throughout the state. Visit Richmond VA, Meghan Gearino, VisitRichmondVA.com, [email protected]

Shenandoah
Find Your Way Back to four seasons of outdoor adventure with over a quarter of the County covered in National and State Forest. Climb the Woodstock Tower, and ski the slopes of Bryce Resort. Go underground at Shenandoah Caverns and discover the whimsical parade floats at American Celebration on Parade. Visit Shenandoah County, Brenda Black, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, [email protected]

Virginia’s Blue Ridge
Downtown Roanoke’s first boutique hotel, The Liberty Trust, will open in January 2022. Elegantly restored from an early-20th century bank, the hotel features a walk-in vault turned Tasting Room and the building’s original copper doors that were repurposed for the lobby on an episode of DIY Network’s “Salvage Dawgs.” Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Taylor Spellman, VisitVBR.com, [email protected]

Take a look at images from across the Mid-Atlantic. Please be sure to provide photo credit to the appropriate DMO.

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The group serves travel journalists by creating a regional resource that ignores geographical boundaries to better promote common threads, offering story ideas about the Mid-Atlantic region as a whole. For more information, visit MATPRA.org.

(Mid-Atlantic Region, November 5, 2021) — Destinations across the Mid-Atlantic are busy decking the halls and putting regional touches on small town business districts and suburban shopping areas to welcome visitors for the annual celebration of this special season! Annual and special events across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia highlight each region’s traditional celebrations with modern and unique takes on classic yuletide greetings.

Whether celebrating the splendorous tidings of Christmas, the soulfully illuminating lights of Chanukah or the thoughtful reflections of Kwanzaa, destinations across the region offer a wide variety of events and attractions for visitors, as well as their families, friends and loved ones to consider when planning travel this December!

For more information on any of the following, contact the destination marketing organization listed below. For general information on the Mid-Atlantic, visit MATPRA.org.

Delaware

Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley
Explore the holiday splendor of the famed du Pont estates featuring dazzling light displays, bejeweled trees, and a festive Gingerbread House contest. Take a ride through the scenic Brandywine Valley with the big guy himself on the Wilmington & Western Railroad’s Santa Claus Express or step back in time with a Little Women-themed yuletide house tour in Historic Odessa. Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jennifer Boes, VisitWilmingtonDE.com, [email protected]

Maryland

Allegany County
With hundreds of elves taking over downtown Frostburg, Storybook Holiday is a kid-centric, action-packed day of winter fun. The annual event celebrates children’s literature and features such festive activities as breakfast with the elves, elf Olympics, storybook readings, an elves’ secret workshop, letters to Santa, a cookie contest and more. Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, Mindy Bianca, mdmountainside.com, [email protected]

Baltimore
Tis the season for ice skating, hot chocolate and light-adorned landmarks in Baltimore. The Washington Monument celebrates its 50th lighting ceremony with music, food trucks and fireworks. For more festive fun, visit the Christmas Village at the Inner Harbor and the rooftop ice rink at the Four Seasons Baltimore Hotel. Visit Baltimore, Tracey Johnson, Baltimore.org, [email protected]

Calvert County
It’s the most magical time of year! Annmarie Sculpture Garden is transformed into a twinkling wonderland of enchanted woods with glowing light sculptures and installations. Head to the towns of Chesapeake Beach and North Beach to the decorated boardwalk, play I-Spy with the lighted crab who hides around town! Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, [email protected]

State of Maryland
Maryland is “Open for the Holidays,” with deals and discounts on accommodations, attractions, restaurants and shops to make the season more magical. Enjoy holiday performances, light displays, train experiences, holiday arts and crafts shows, along with other seasonal festivities that are full of Maryland holiday cheer. Maryland Office of Tourism, Matthew Scales, VisitMaryland.org, [email protected]

Prince George’s County
Prince George’s County sparkles to life with bright lights and colorful decorations when beloved celebrations for the holidays return. See the Festival of Lights in Watkins Regional Park; experience magical trail rides and horse-drawn carriages in Brandywine; visit National Harbor’s nightly tree lighting and Gaylord National Resort’s So Much Christmas! Experience Prince George’s, Kaletha Henry, ExperiencePrinceGeorges.com, [email protected]

Talbot County
The second weekend in December heralds in Christmas in St. Michaels! The tree-lined streets illuminate shops brimming with gifts and goodies, and Lighted Boat Parade brings Santa into town. Plus the seasonally decorated Tour of Homes, Breakfast with Santa, downtown parade, and many other festivities help shepherd in the holiday. Talbot County Office of Economic Development and Tourism, Krista Boothby, TourTalbot.org, [email protected]

Wicomico County
Wicomico County is a festive place during the holidays, with light displays and numerous events. In Downtown Salisbury, visitors can see a Christmas tree, Hanukkah menorah and Kwanzaa kinara. Attend the tree lighting, take part in events at the Salisbury Zoo or visit the town of Mardela Springs. Wicomico County Tourism, Vanessa Junkin, WicomicoTourism.org, [email protected]

Pennsylvania

Bradford County
One of northern Pennsylvania’s favorite holiday events kicks off on Nov. 26 at 6:30 p.m when the annual Sayre Christmas parade takes to the streets of this historic city. Floats, bands, and an array of lighted displays make this kickoff to the holiday season a “don’t miss” event in beautiful Bradford County! Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency, Morgan Christopher, VisitBradfordCounty.com, [email protected]

Butler County
Drive through Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland at the Big Butler Fairgrounds. This award-winning Christmas light and music extravaganza is unlike any show you’ve ever seen. Tune in your radio and watch the magic unfold while driving through nearly one million brilliant LED lights dancing in synchronization. Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, Tiffany Hernandez, VisitButlerCounty.com, [email protected]

Columbia-Montour Counties
Millions of lights, animatronics, Santa, & holiday fun! Visit Berwick & Elysburg this December to witness amazing drive-thru holiday light displays. A time-honored tradition, the Berwick Christmas Boulevard is celebrating its 75th Anniversary. Or start a new tradition at Knoebels Amusement Resort’s Joy Through the Grove, in its second year. Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau, Linda Sones, itourcolumbiamontour.com, [email protected]

Endless Mountains
Celebrate An Endless Mountains Christmas between Thanksgiving and New Year’s when the region’s two spectacular drive through light shows, holiday festivals, small town shopping and famous tree farms welcome visitors to share the nostalgic joy of a mountain holiday! Pick out a fresh tree or wreath to take the memories home. Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Morgan Christopher, EndlessMountains.org, [email protected]

Juniata River Valley
The Festival of Ice kicks off the holiday season in the Juniata River Valley! Throughout the festival, visitors can watch large sculptures come to life as expert carvers chisel, saw and torch giant slabs of ice. Family-friendly activities include a live nativity, a petting zoo, kids’ games, caroling, vendors, the Chillin’ 4K, and a crazy parade. Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau, Buffie Boyer, JRVVisitors.com, [email protected]

Lancaster County
‘Tis the season for Discovering Christmas in Lancaster County, home to several American yuletide traditions – like the mischievous Belsnickle – and brimming with festive history events, fantastic holiday shows, great shopping deals, seasonal family activities, and cut-your-own Christmas tree farms. Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, [email protected]

Laurel Highlands
A holiday season visit to Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands isn’t complete without a stop in Ligonier! This charming Norman-Rockwell–esque town has enough holiday spirit to warm even the Grinch’s heart. Explore the 50+ boutique shops while classic carols ring throughout town. Your Instagram page definitely needs a shot of beautifully decorated Ligonier Diamond! Go Laurel Highlands, Anna Weltz, GOLaurelHighlands.com, [email protected]

Lehigh Valley
Bethlehem, PA is known as “Christmas City” and with the annual Bavarian-style Chriskindlmarkt, it’s easy to see why. Nearby Easton features its own winter village complete with a skating rink, boutique huts around the square, and the peace candle. Allentown’s Lights in the Parkway provides a nightly magical drive-thru experience. Discover Lehigh Valley, Alicia Quinn, LehighValleyHolidays.com, [email protected]

Pocono Mountains
Stroudsburg is a true winter wonderland with its magical Netflix Lights Display and 40 life-size snowmen, while Hawley’s Winterfest is a sure way to celebrate the season. Jim Thorpe is decked out Victorian style for its Olde Time Christmas. Or take in the snowy scenery aboard a Santa Claus Train. Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, Brianna Strunk, PoconoMountains.com, [email protected]

Potter – Tioga Counties
Dickens of a Christmas and Christmas on Main Street are annual holiday events that draw visitors to the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon region. “Dickens” transforms Main Street into a Victorian Marketplace while the following weekend’s Christmas on Main Street celebrates the nostalgic charm of Shiny Brite ornaments that were created in Wellsboro! Visit Potter-Tioga, Morgan Christopher, VisitPotterTioga.com, [email protected]

York County
York County Parks celebrates the holiday season with Christmas Magic – A Festival of Lights. Located at Rocky Ridge Park, this is a half-mile ADA walking trail that meanders along a wooded hilltop through nearly 600,000 twinkling LED lights and animated scenes! It’s a truly magical experience for young and old! Explore York, Chrissy Tobias, YorkPa.org, [email protected]

Virginia

Bedford County
The Festival of Trees is an annual event held at the Bedford Area Welcome Center. Festive and family-friendly, this event celebrates the season while helping causes important to the community. 30 local businesses will participate with a tree decorated to the theme “A Storybook Christmas”. Bedford Area Welcome Center, Nicole Johnson, DestinationBedfordVA.com/event/, [email protected]

Giles County
The Palisades Restaurant hosts their holiday tea that includes four courses of Appalachian contemporary cuisine and Narrows is twinkling from the Duck Pond to downtown with Christmas décor and lights! We have the coziest lodging in waterside cabins or our historic lodge and you will still find hiking and cross-country skiing through the mountains of the Giles. Giles County, VA Tourism, Cora Gnegy, VirginiasMtnPlayground.com, [email protected]

Harrisonburg
Enjoy Winter Wonderfest in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley in Downtown Harrisonburg beautifully decorated for the holidays. Enjoy live performances, competitions, holiday shopping, beautiful window displays and fun for all ages. Don’t miss the cookie tour including half a dozen local bakeries and a dozen or more stops. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitor Services, Jennifer Bell, visitharrisonburgva.com, [email protected]

Lexington & Rockbridge
Celebrate a “small-towns, big backyard” Christmas in Lexington, Buena Vista, and Rockbridge County, VA. Shop amidst the sweetest, walkable downtowns all dressed in the spirit of the season! Parades, performances, and magical light displays—such as Luminary Nights and carriage rides at Natural Bridge State Park—entertain as the nights grow dark. Lexington & Rockbridge Area Tourism, Patty Williams, LexingtonVirginia.com, [email protected]

Loudoun County
Celebrate in Loudoun, home to the iconic Christmas in Middleburg parade where scarlet-jacketed riders on horseback stroll historic downtown. Don’t miss two new light shows- the east coast debut of Holiday Road at Morven Park and Tinsel! an interactive light festival. Finish with lighting of the vines at Bluemont Vineyard. Visit Loudoun, Jen Sigal, visitloudoun.org, [email protected]

Norfolk
Join in on all the Holiday fun throughout Norfolk! Winterfest on the Wisconsin is back again this year with even more lights and holiday-themed entertainment. Warm-up by the Holiday Yule Log Bonfire, explore Zoolumination with the family or enjoy the Million Bulk Walk through Norfolk Botanical Gardens. VisitNorfolk, Sarah Hughes, VisitNorfolk.com, [email protected]

Orange County
It’s time to indulge in seasonal wines and holiday feasts at Barboursville Vineyards. Orange and Gordonsville transform into “hallmark” holiday villages, James Madison’s Montpelier is adorned with vintage 19th century holiday customs and the Market at Grelen offers wreath making workshops and PYO Christmas trees in their enchanting rural setting. Visit Orange Virginia, Lori Landes-Carter, VisitOrangeVirginia.com, [email protected]

Prince William County
One of the best small towns to spend this holiday season in is Historic Occoquan, Virginia. Located just 30 miles from Washington D.C., visitors can grab a hot cocoa and attend a traditional Christmas tree lighting, holiday parade and they won’t want to miss the arrival of Santa Claus by boat! Visit Prince William, Virginia, Nicole Warner, VisitPWC.com, [email protected]

Richmond
Enjoy the tacky light scene in the Richmond region! Take a tacky light tour with Discover Richmond Tours or put on your best tacky sweater and join the CarMax Tacky Light Run, a 6k course which shows off Midlothian, VA’s best display of tacky lights. VisitRichmondVA, Meghan Gearino, VisitRichmondVA.com, [email protected]

Shenandoah County
The holiday season in Shenandoah County is festive and relaxing. Drive through the light display and stay for the winter carnival in Woodstock, enjoy small-town tree lighting and the reverse parade in New Market. A plethora of unique gifts, art, culinary delicacies, and craft beverages can be found all season. Visit Shenandoah County, Brenda Black, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, [email protected]

Staunton
Experience the most wonderful time of year in Staunton, Virginia. Do something different and spend it in the past at the Frontier Culture Museum’s Lantern Tours. Enjoy the timeless Christmas classic, A Christmas Carol, at American Shakespeare Center. Fill your holidays with warmth and light this December! Staunton, Virginia, Jessica Williams, VisitStaunton.com, [email protected]

Virginia’s Blue Ridge
The charming mountain towns of Virginia’s Blue Ridge light up during the holidays. Off the Blue Ridge Parkway, enjoy 500,000 dazzling lights on a wooded walking path at Explore Park’s Illuminights. Admire over-the-top trees on the historic Fincastle Tinsel Trail and at The Hotel Roanoke’s Fashions for Evergreens. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Taylor Spellman, VisitVBR.com, [email protected]

West Virginia

Hampshire County
Nestled in the mountains of Hampshire County, West Virginia, you’ll find small villages brimming with holiday cheer! Follow our winding country roads from Capon Bridge to Augusta to Romney and beyond. Discover holiday treasures along the way, including Elf Hunts, Twinkling Lights and The North Pole Express! Hampshire County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Tina Ladd, ComeToHampshire.com, [email protected]

Take a look at images from across the Mid-Atlantic. Please be sure to provide photo credit to the appropriate DMO.

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The group serves travel journalists by creating a regional resource that ignores geographical boundaries to better promote common threads, offering story ideas about the Mid-Atlantic region as a whole. For more information, visit MATPRA.org.

(Mid-Atlantic Region, October 1, 2021) — Destinations across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia feature some of the best craft beverage businesses in the country. What better way to celebrate local haunts than with a pint in your hand? We’ve rounded up places around the Mid-Atlantic region that are getting into the “spirit” of Halloween with a micro-itinerary that includes both a local brewery or distillery and haunted place that is sure to be high on your spooky road trip bucket list.

For more information on any of the following, contact the destination marketing organization listed below. For general information on the Mid-Atlantic, visit MATPRA.org.

Delaware

Wilmington, Delaware and the Brandywine Valley
Featured on “Ghost Hunters,” the 1800s-era Rockwood Mansion gives off gothic vibes. Remnants of an old playhouse on the property once belonged to a young boy who continues to haunt his childhood home. If you dare, grab a ticket to Rockwood’s Paranormal Investigation. Afterward, head to Bellefonte Brewing Company nearby for a Halloween appropriate pint of Claymonster. Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jen Boes, VisitWilmingtonDE.com, [email protected]

Maryland

State of Maryland
The C&O Canal Experience offers some of the best brews (and boos) in the region. Travel along the C&O Canal Libations Trail for brews dedicated to the C&O Canal and then check out a few of the region’s ghost tours for a spooky good time. State of Maryland, Matthew Scales, VisitMaryland.org, [email protected]

Allegany County
Grab your flashlight and hike or bike through the Paw Paw Tunnel, an architectural marvel located along the historic C&O Canal towpath. Reward your bravery with a gulp of Douglas’ Ditch beer, which honors the canal and is available at Dig Deep Brewing, located close to the trail. Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, Mindy Bianca, MDMountainside.com, [email protected]

Annapolis & Anne Arundel County
Grab a cold brew from Forward Brewing Company, Crooked Crab Brewing Company, Pherm Brewing, and more before exploring dark alleys, spooky side streets, and haunted sites of historic Annapolis on a Historic Hauntings or Annapolis Ghost Tour. If you dare, follow a spirited guide on a haunted pub crawl. Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Susan Seifried, VisitAnnapolis.org, [email protected]

Calvert County
Maryland’s smallest county plays a big role when it comes to the fine art of fermentation. Roam the Calvert County Wine & Ale Trail and sample superb wines and brews in a restored tobacco barn, on the slopes of a rolling vineyard or along the banks of a pristine creek. Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, [email protected]

Charles County
Get into the Halloween spirit with a visit to Charles County and Blue Dyer Distilling Co. Stop in for a Smoked Old Fashion made with Blue Dyer Whiskey and take a tour of this newly renovated industrial space and learn how it’s all made. Sit back with friends and sip your libations while you snack on smoked chicken nachos from the Chuckwagon Food Truck in the Scratch Bar. Charles County Government, Department of Recreation, Parks, & Tourism, Maggie Boyden, ExploreCharlesCounty.com, [email protected]

Hagerstown, Washington County
Get spooky with a ghost tour of the Hager House, then go grab an adult beverage at one of the breweries or distilleries, found in our online Grapes & Grains Guide. All are locally crafted, with excellence. Visit Hagerstown, Betsy DeVore, VisitHagerstown.com, [email protected]

Howard County
Visit Historic Ellicott City & Historic Savage Mill, some of the country’s most haunted places. Tour the historic mill town’s paranormal activity and unlock the spirit at Ellicott Distillery. Enjoy rounds of hops and storytelling. Howard County, Maryland is filled with stories that will sure knock your boots off. Visit Howard County, Crystal Abrom, VisitHowardCounty.com, [email protected]

Montgomery County
Did you know that portions of the 1999 film “The Blair Witch Project” were filmed in Montgomery County, Maryland? Spend the afternoon exploring Seneca Creek State Park (aka Blair Witch Woods) and then enjoy a pint from a local farm brewery in the Agricultural Reserve along the Tastemakers Trail. Visit Montgomery, MD, Cory Van Horn, VisitMontgomery.com, [email protected]

Talbot County
Talbot County celebrates the bounty of fall with OysterFest on Oct. 30 at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels. Savor Chesapeake Bay wild and aquaculture oysters served steamed, raw, fried, and grilled. Lyon Rum Distilling Company will serve a specialty rum cocktail, plus oyster shooters and Chesapeake-style Bloody Marys. Talbot County Office of Economic Development and Tourism, Krista Boothby, TourTalbot.org, [email protected]

Pennsylvania

Bradford County
Learn the tales of ghoulish hangings that took place in the very prison courtyard where you begin your tour of the Bradford County Historical Society Museum before visiting some of the county’s popular tasting spots like Grovedale Winery, Antler Ridge Winery and Pickering Winery to sample the area’s seasonal favorites. Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency, Morgan Christopher, VisitBradfordCounty.com, [email protected]

Columbia-Montour
Spooky tales abound about Katy’s Church in Washingtonville, Pennsylvania. According to legend, the ghost of Katy Vandine is sometimes seen near the church, crying for the married man who betrayed her. Afterward, visit Old Forge and Rock God Brewing Companies to enjoy seasonal fall brews and settle those ghostly jitters. Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau, Linda Sones, ITourColumbiaMontour.com, [email protected]

Erie
Join us in October for Haunted History Tours of Union Station at The Brewerie-Erie PA. What lies beneath the halls of Union Station? There have been dozens of tragic and untimely deaths in and around the station throughout its long history. Strange and unexplainable things happen regularly at Union Station. Sign up for this 60-minute tour and sample an Apparition Amber Ale. VisitErie, Christine Temple, Brewerie.com, [email protected]

Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau
There’s a trick to visiting the Endless Mountains this October. Tantalize your taste buds with a spook-tacular treat from Deep Roots Hard Cider to sample beverages crafted with locally grown apples from Millers Orchard, then head to Chocolates by Leopold for ghoulishly delicious Halloween treats from this award-winning confectioner. Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Morgan Christopher, EndlessMountains.org, [email protected]

Lancaster County
Get your October brew and fright all in one place in Lancaster County at Bube’s Brewery in Mount Joy, which offers regular ghost tours, murder mystery dinner theater, and paranormal investigations. It is the only 1800s brewery complex still intact in the U.S. Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, [email protected]

Lehigh Valley
Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, has many “spook-tacular” attractions. Taste the nation’s original spirit, Applejack, at Eight Oaks Farm Distillery and see historic hauntings from the 18th century up close on a thrilling ghost tour in Bethlehem. Finally, spend the night at Historic Hotel Bethlehem that claims ghosts as guests. Discover Lehigh Valley, Alicia Quinn, DiscoverLehighValley.com/Fall, [email protected]

Pocono Mountains
Here & Now Brewing Company on Main Street in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, has amazing craft beers and local, seasonal, whimsical pizzas and other delicious items. It’s just down the street from Ghost Tours planned for Oct. 9 and 10, which leave from Central Park and take a candlelight walking tour of the historic and spooky past. Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, James Hamill, PoconoMountains.com, [email protected]

Potter County – Tioga County
Flying saucers, UFOs, and extraterrestrial beings have long captured the imagination of sci-fi movie fans. After a craft brew at the Hotel Crittenden in Coudersport, let your imagination run wild by viewing the dark skies from one of the best spots in North America to see them — Cherry Springs State Park. Visit Potter-Tioga, Morgan Christopher, VisitPotterTioga.com, [email protected]

Virginia

Harrisonburg
Experience Haunted Harrisonburg this October, from the haunted 18th century manor house at By the Side of the Road Getaway Lodging to the Virginia Quilt Museum’s reported ghost of Joseph Latimer. End the evening at Sage Bird Cider’s spooky movie night. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitor Services, Jennifer Bell, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com, [email protected]

Lexington & Rockbridge
Cauldrons of small-batch brews swirl at Heliotrope Brewery, a stop on the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail. After some liquid courage, join the Haunting Tales Ghost Tours on an eerie candlelight walk of the dark alleyways of downtown Lexington. Witness something unexplainable at the Oak Grove Cemetery, the final resting place of General Jackson. Lexington & Rockbridge Area Tourism, Patty Williams, LexingtonVirginia.com, [email protected]

Norfolk
Experience an October like no other in Norfolk. Sip your way through Town Point Virginia Wine Festival as you take in the waterside views or bring the family to enjoy the Annual Children’s Festival. Art lovers will not want to miss the NEON Festival or the Museum of the Moon. VisitNorfolk, Sarah Hughes, VisitNorfolk.com, [email protected]

Prince William County
There are tales of the parlor piano playing on its own as well as sightings of Benoni, who guided the home’s restoration in the 1800s. A glass of wine sits out in the Tasting Room for his ghost each day to ensure no mysterious phenomena occurs while open to the public. Visit Prince William, Virginia, Nicole Warner, WineryAtLaGrange.com/about/history/, [email protected]

Staunton
Join us for Dark Tales & Haunts of the Queen City. Visit Blackburn Inn to walk the grounds of what once was known as Western State Asylum and then hear the spirits at Thornrose Cemetery. Grab a fall brew like Moriarty or Sweet Potato Pie Porter at Redbeard Brewing Company. Staunton, VA, Jessica Williams, VisitStaunton.com, [email protected]

Virginia’s Blue Ridge
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Virginia’s Blue Ridge mountains, Downtown Salem is the perfect place to uncover spirits of all sorts. Tour centuries-old cemeteries with the Salem Museum, sip craft spirits in a historically renovated taproom at Olde Salem Brewing Company, or browse endless antiques along Main Street shops. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Taylor Spellman, VisitVBR.com, [email protected]

West Virginia

Hampshire County
Located in one of West Virginia’s oldest counties within one of the state’s largest organic farms is veteran-owned Flying Buck Distillery. During this Halloween season, you can enjoy tasting their spirits before seeing ghosts and goblins at House of the Setting Sun and the Haunted Barn. Hampshire County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Tina Ladd, ComeToHampshire.com, [email protected]

Take a look at images from across the Mid-Atlantic. Please be sure to provide photo credit to the appropriate DMO.

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The group serves travel journalists by creating a regional resource that ignores geographical boundaries to better promote common threads, offering story ideas about the Mid-Atlantic region as a whole. For more information, visit MATPRA.org.

(Mid-Atlantic Region, September 7, 2021) — From weekend getaways to long road trips to short scenic drives, the Mid-Atlantic is a leaf peepers’ paradise. Visitors flock to the region’s popular fall foliage destinations to see leaves change from the lush greens of summer to the bright golds, oranges, and reds of autumn. Special events and local landmarks across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia highlight the region’s transformation from summer to fall.

For more information on any of the following, contact the destination marketing organization listed below. For general information on the Mid-Atlantic, visit MATPRA.org.

Delaware

Delaware’s Quaint Villages
Experience the seasonal spectacle of wildlife that makes its way through Delaware’s Quaint Villages as birds of every variety migrate south during the fall season. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, located in the heart of Delaware, is a nationally recognized bird watchers and photographers’ paradise. Kent County Tourism, John Doerfler, VisitDelawareVillages.com, [email protected] 

Greater Wilmington
This region is one of the country’s most undiscovered fall foliage destinations. Explore the country roads of Chateau Country, taking in the stunning hues of changing leaves while exploring the region’s grand estates and gardens, scenic river, and covered bridges. Or, leave the car behind and take a fall foliage-themed ride on the historic Wilmington & Western Railroad. Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jen Boes, VisitWilmingtonDE.com, [email protected]

Maryland

State of Maryland
Visitors fall in love with Maryland during the autumn season, with the beautiful foliage in the mountains to the colors gleaming off the Chesapeake Bay. Stroll along the C&O Canal towpath, head to Maryland’s horse country and then indulge in a crab feast, as crabs are heaviest in October. Maryland Office of Tourism, Matthew Scales, VisitMaryland.org, [email protected]

Allegany County
Enjoy fall in Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, by riding through the leaves … literally! From rail biking with Tracks and Yaks to excursions on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, from driving through Green Ridge State Forest to bicycling the Great Allegheny Passage, there’s a ride for everyone! Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, Mindy Bianca, MDMountainside.com, [email protected]

Annapolis & Anne Arundel County
The Bay Bridge Paddle, Anne Arundel County Fair, Maryland Seafood Festival, Lifeline 100 Bicycling Event, and Maryland Renaissance Festival are great reasons to visit Annapolis this fall. Along with farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and First Sunday Arts Celebrations, they beckon you to enjoy the beauty of nature’s autumn glory. Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Susan Seifried, VisitAnnapolis.org, [email protected]

Calvert County
Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center in Solomons, Maryland always hosts whimsical events! Enjoy 175 artist booths, 35 performers on four stages, street performers, bubble artists and musicians at “Artsfest,” and indulge your love of all things weird, wild, and wonderful and bizarre at their “Monster Market.” Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, [email protected]

Cecil County
Experience beautiful autumn countryside and world class equestrian competition at “Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill”, Oct. 14th – 17th. One of only 7 such events world-wide, it offers food, fun, vendors, international equestrian competition, and more. Come early to enjoy Cecil County’s small towns, Chesapeake Bay cuisine, scenic waterfront, and outdoor recreation. Cecil County Tourism, Sandy Turner, SeeCecil.org, [email protected]

Harford County
King and Queen Seat, a 190-foot-high rock outcrop overlooking Deer Creek in Rocks State Park, provides a spectacular vantage point to see leaves change color. Stroll Eden Mill or Ma and Pa Trails as the leaves fall on your path. An illuminated fall event, Garden Glow, returns to Ladew Gardens in October. Visit Harford, Mindy Schneider, VisitHarford.com, [email protected]

Kent County
A getaway to Kent County is an amazing way to make memories! Explore quaint waterfront towns on a bike ride or embark on a sunset cruise to view the hues of fall. Enjoy art galleries, specialty shopping, and an award-winning farmers’ and artisans’ market. Sip and savor home-grown wines and spirits, harvest ripe grapes or horseback ride through the rural landscape. Kent County Tourism, Jana Carter, KentCounty.com, [email protected]

Talbot County
On Maryland’s Eastern Shore, the Chesapeake Bay glistens with fall colors, migrating birds rest their wings, and autumn traditions are celebrated during Talbot County’s 50th Waterfowl Festival in downtown Easton! This unique family fall festival features diving dog and retriever competitions, art vendors, tastings, calling contests, decoy auction, and more! Talbot County Office of Tourism, Krista Boothby, TourTalbot.org, [email protected]

Pennsylvania

Allegheny National Forest
Enjoy the amazing colors of fall from the Kinzua Sky Walk, “One of the top 10 most scenic skywalks in the world,” stretching 624 feet into the Kinzua Gorge. Enjoy “leaf peeping” as you cruise along the Longhouse National Scenic Byway located in the Allegheny National Forest in northwestern Pennsylvania. Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau, Linda Devlin, VisitANF.com, [email protected]

Bradford County
Travel Route 6 across beautiful Bradford County to capture spectacular scenery of the season! From panoramic views at Marie Antoinette Overlook to the colorful mountains experienced from Wyalusing Rocks, the county is the place to celebrate autumnal splendor. Small towns along the route make Bradford County a fantastic fall destination! Bradford County Tourism, Morgan Christopher, VisitBradfordCounty.com, [email protected]

Butler County
Moraine State Park features stunning fall foliage. Capture breathtaking views on Preston’s Pearl, a new tour boat at the Park. This enclosed pontoon boat has an upper deck for outdoor viewing, and offers cruises on weekends through October where passengers will learn about the Park’s history and wildlife. Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, Tiffany Hernandez, VisitButlerCounty.com, [email protected]

Clearfield County
With the changing of the weather brings a joyous time among Clearfield County that many local residents and tourists get excited about. The hillsides are painted with bright hues of red, orange, and yellows which make Clearfield County one of the top places for a beautiful Fall scenic visit. Visit Clearfield County, Josiah Jones, VisitClearfieldCounty.org, [email protected]

Cumberland Valley
Explore scenic backroads and hundreds of miles of hiking trails this autumn to find an array of fall colors in the Cumberland Valley. Experience several fall festivals nearly every weekend from mid-September to late October like Apple Festival and Pumpkin Fest. Mid-Late October is peak fall foliage. Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau, Aaron Jumper, VisitCumberlandValley.com, [email protected]

Endless Mountains
Scenic byways of the Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania feature some of the most spectacular foliage on the East Coast. Waterfall trails at Ricketts Glen, vistas at Worlds End State Park, trails in Loyalsock Forest and the D-H Rail Trail offer visitors an autumn oasis in this part of Pennsylvania! Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Morgan Christopher, EndlessMountains.org, [email protected]

Erie
Fiery oranges and reds, warm browns, splashes of purple and radiant golds transform Erie Pennsylvania into a dazzling display of colors. Ideal fall foliage views include Presque Isle State Park, historic Pennsylvania Route 6, Great Lakes Seaway Trail and Erie’s sprawling countryside. For the best views, visit us mid-October! Visit Erie, Chris Temple, VisitErie.com, [email protected]

Gettysburg
Travel Adams County’s country roads through orchards, valleys and the Historic Gettysburg National Military Park all brimming with colorful fall foliage. Sip on craft hard cider, pick an apple or two, eat apple cider donuts and attend perfect sweater weather festivals such as the National Apple Harvest Festival to round out the perfect fall Gettysburg getaway. Destination Gettysburg, Rachel Wright, DestinationGettysburg.com, [email protected]

Lancaster County
In the heart of beautiful Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster County’s fall foliage season is primarily late September through early November. Great ways to experience leaf-peeping here include hiking, a covered bridge driving tour, a round on the (golf) links, and views from a hot air balloon, zipline, or electric scooter. Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, [email protected]

Laurel Highlands
Mountain vistas, historic highways, fertile farmlands and thousands of acres of unspoiled state parks, Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands is the ideal destination for a fun, family leaf-peeping getaway. Take a drive under a canopy of colors on scenic byways and through picturesque covered bridges. GO Laurel Highlands, Anna Weltz, GoLaurelHighlands.com/fall, [email protected]

Lawrence County
A fall foliage driving tour of Western Pennsylvania’s Amish Countryside provides a glimpse of life into the Old Order Amish. Drive the back roads through Banks Covered Bridge, past Amish farms, schoolhouses and craft shops. There is never a shortage of beauty in the Amish Countryside. Visit Lawrence County, Janet Falotico, VisitLawrenceCounty.com, [email protected]

Lehigh Valley
The autumn months wash Lehigh Valley in brilliant reds and vibrant oranges, the air crisp and full of new opportunities. From apple orchards beckoning for you to pick your own varieties to corn mazes just waiting to get lost in – Lehigh Valley does fall right. Discover Lehigh Valley, Alicia Quinn, DiscoverLehighValley.com/fall, [email protected]

Potter County – Tioga County
The difference between Arizona’s & Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyons? Being covered with trees, the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon is the better one to enjoy the beauty of Fall Foliage each year! From the parks at each rim of the canyon, to an Ole Covered Wagon ride along Pine Creek Trail on the floor, this is the premiere destination to celebrate the season. Visit Potter-Tioga, Morgan Christopher, VisitPotterTioga.com, [email protected]

Pocono Mountains
The Pocono Mountains are ablaze with hues of red, orange and yellow come autumn, thanks to the area’s 127 species of indigenous trees, plants and shrubs. From hopping in the car to climbing aboard a fall foliage train or chairlift, there are many ways to enjoy autumn across the region. Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, Brianna Strunk, PoconoMountains.com, [email protected]

Reading, Berks County
There’s no better place to experience the spectacular colors of fall than Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. From the lookouts of Hawk Mountain Sanctuary to the trails of Hopewell Big Woods at French Creek State Park, you’ll be surrounded by color. For an exceptional leaf-peeping journey, plan a visit to Berks County, Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania’s Americana Region, Lisa Haggerty, VisitPaAmericana.com, [email protected]

Virginia

Charlottesville and Albemarle County
With close proximity to scenic drives like the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, Charlottesville & Albemarle County make for the perfect leaf peeping destination. The leaves also pop with color on the pedestrian Downtown Mall, the University of Virginia, vineyards, and the area’s historic sites. Charlottesville & Albemarle County CVB, Brantley Ussery, VisitCharlottesville.org, [email protected]

Lexington & Rockbridge County
Get your motor running in Lexington and Rockbridge County, VA! Leaf-peepers will be awe-struck by the vibrant fall colors from iconic byways and overlooks, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, Daniel Boone’s western migration route the Great Wagon Road, and the Appalachian Waters Scenic Byway following the Maury River into WV. Lexington & Rockbridge Area Tourism, Patty Williams, LexingtonVirginia.com, [email protected]

Loudoun County
Celebrate fall in DC’s Wine Country where vine-covered slopes along the Blue Ridge Mountains turn a beautiful red and gold. Enjoy harvest events at some 40-plus wineries during Virginia Wine Month (October), meet farm animals, pick pumpkins and get spooked at Shocktober- named one of the country’s scariest haunted houses. Visit Loudoun, Jennifer Sigal, VisitLoudoun.org, [email protected]

Norfolk
Head over to Norfolk Botanical Gardens to take in the seasonal foliage and bring your favorite furry friend to their Sunday Dog Days events. For a little extra adventure, enjoy the beautiful colors of the clouds on the water with a sunset kayaking excursion. Visit Norfolk, Nicole Nussbaum, VisitNorfolk.com, [email protected]

Orange County
The Fall season in OCVA is like your favorite sweater, cozy and comfortable, it feels like home. Scenic drives with blue ridge mountain views, lush craft beverages, farm fresh comfort foods, small town strolling, steeplechase racing, PYO orchards and bucket list activities; the largest corn maze in the US! Orange County, Virginia Tourism, Lori Landes-Carter VisitOrangeVirginia.com, [email protected]

Prince William County
Sip on apple cider, a pumpkin spice latte, or craft beer while picking a pumpkin at a local farm. Take a scenic drive, bike ride or hike through Prince William Forest National Park and explore over 5,000 acres of fall foliage or choose to leaf peep from the Potomac River. Prince William County Office of Tourism, Nicole Warner, VisitPWC.com, [email protected]

Shenandoah County
The word Shenandoah evokes a sense of beauty. Shenandoah County is filled with a blend of spectacular fall foliage, and sweet small town charm. Immerse yourself in the landscape, visit family farms, the corn maze or go pumpkin picking; shop for local art, and indulge in the flavors of fall. Shenandoah County Tourism, Brenda Black, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, [email protected]

Shenandoah Valley
Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway are iconic mountain drives that crest the Blue Ridge Mountains, looking across the Shenandoah Valley and the Shenandoah River below. Hundreds of miles of spectacular hiking, cycling, and paddling adventures await. Gorgeous small cities, museums, orchards, vineyards and breweries delight at every turn. Shenandoah Valley Travel Association, Kathy Moore, VisitShenandoah.org, [email protected]

Staunton
Fall is coming and there’s no better way to welcome the sweater weather than by traveling to Staunton, VA! A trip to the Queen City has plenty to offer craft-beer-connoisseurs, adventure-seeking outdoor lovers, and seasonally-inspired foodies—or just about anyone looking for an excellent weekend getaway. Visit Staunton, Jessica Williams, VisitStaunton.com, [email protected]

Virginia’s Blue Ridge
From trails to towns, Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains make the perfect backdrop for every fall adventure. Explore 1000+ miles of trails, including the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail, or attend GO Outside Fest as it makes a big move to Downtown Roanoke with stunt shows, beer gardens and more. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Taylor Spellman, VisitVBR.com, [email protected]

West Virginia

Hampshire County
Travel through Hampshire County’s 2 lane paradise from Capon Spring through Capon Bridge to Romney and experience the multi-colored world of rolling hills and old forests. Explore fall foliage by foot to scenic overlooks, by kayak/canoe down river or by train through a natural trough where bald eagles nest. Hampshire County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Jonathan Bellingham, cometohampshire.com, [email protected]

Take a look at fall foliage images from across the Mid-Atlantic. Please be sure to provide photo credit to the appropriate DMO.

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The group serves travel journalists by creating a regional resource that ignores geographical boundaries to better promote common threads, offering story ideas about the Mid-Atlantic region as a whole. For more information, visit MATPRA.org.