A Cozy October Weekend in Gloucester, Virginia
The Perfect Escape for Outdoor Enthusiasts
October in Gloucester, Virginia, is the perfect time to enjoy crisp mornings, colorful foliage, and cozy evenings by the fire. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or a romantic retreat, this charming county along Virginia’s Middle Peninsula has just the right mix of outdoor adventures, local dining, and seasonal fun. Here’s your guide to making the most of a long fall weekend in Gloucester.
Cozy cabins available for rent.
Stay: Camp Cardinal Before the Weather Turns Cold
Activity Center at Camp Cardinal
Kick off your weekend by checking into Camp Cardinal, a riverside retreat that’s ideal for soaking in the great outdoors while staying warm and comfortable. Choose from cabins and cottages if you want extra coziness, or go all-in on the camping spirit with RV and tent sites.
Fall at Camp Cardinal is especially festive. Fire pits are primed and ready for cooking up smores. Each Saturday night, the campground transforms into a spooky scene with their Haunted Trail—perfect for getting into the Halloween spirit. Between ghostly thrills and crisp autumn nights under the stars, this will be a stay to remember.
Fuel Up: Where to Eat in Gloucester
Seasonal pancakes.
Gourmet pizza.
Porter’s special lavender margarita.
Breakfast at Gloucester Pancake House
Start your mornings right at this local favorite, tucked just off Main Street and Route 17. Expect traditional hearty breakfasts—think eggs, bacon, and hashbrowns—but don’t skip the seasonal pancakes. In October, pumpkin or apple-spice stacks pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee.Casual Dinner at Mobjack Tavern
For a relaxed, family-friendly evening, head to Mobjack Tavern. Their menu covers it all—juicy steaks for the adults and delicious pizzas that kids (and kids at heart) can share.Special Night at Porter’s On Main
If you’re celebrating a special occasion—or just want a night of elevated dining—make a reservation at Porter’s On Main. This newcomer to Gloucester’s dining scene is quickly making waves with its refined menu and impressive drink specials. It’s the perfect spot for an anniversary or date night.
Must-Do Activities in October
Paddle the Waters of Gloucester
Bring your kayak—or rent one right at Camp Cardinal—and put in to Gloucester’s calm tidal waters. As you glide along, take in the serene nature views and keep an eye out for marine life swimming nearby. It’s a peaceful way to experience fall from the water.
Person in kayak with safety gear.
Want to explore even more? Head to Beaverdam Park, where you can paddle across a freshwater lake surrounded by trees bursting with autumn color. This is one of the best spots in Gloucester to see local wildlife—turtles sunning on logs, birds swooping over the water, and if you’re lucky, maybe even a bald eagle overhead. Rentals are available here too, including kayaks, paddleboards, and jon boats, so you can choose your adventure.
Hike and Explore Beaverdam Park
After your time on the water, lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. Choose a short 0.32-mile nature walk to stretch your legs or the full 8.5-mile loop for a longer trek. Either way, you’ll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of fall in Virginia.
Autumn trees at Beaverdam
Autumn trees at Beaverdam
Shop Local
The Bulb Shoppe at Brent and Becky’s Bulbs
No trip to Gloucester in the fall is complete without a visit to Brent and Becky’s Bulbs. October is the perfect time to plan ahead for spring blooms, and their extensive catalog will help you find just the right bulbs to make your garden the envy of your neighbors. Take a stroll through their beautiful display gardens, then pop into the gift shop for a gardening keepsake or a unique memento from your trip.
Stop by Saturday morning to catch one of their 10AM talks by Master Naturalist or the legend himself, Brent Health.
You can also take advantage of Gloucester’s Secondhand Saturdays, where all the best thrift shops, antique stores, and vintage curated finds are already mapped out for you.
A Perfect October Weekend in Gloucester
From paddling through fiery fall foliage to savoring fine dining on Main Street, Gloucester offers something for every traveler. Stay cozy at Camp Cardinal, dive into local flavors, explore scenic parks, and don’t miss the chance to shop at Brent and Becky’s Bulbs. With Halloween fun, peaceful waters, and vibrant landscapes, it’s the perfect destination for a long weekend before the chill of winter sets in.