One of the largest collections of golden trees in the nation is located just 1.5 hours west of Washington, D.C., and its seasonal display is peaking right now. Every autumn, the Blandy Experimental Farm ginkgo grove transforms into a massive canopy of brilliant yellow, drawing visitors from across the region to witness the short-lived spectacle.
Home to the State Arboretum of Virginia in Boyce, this expansive property offers a stunning fall escape. With more than 300 ginkgo trees currently showing considerably more yellow than green following a November 1 update, early November is the prime viewing window to catch the leaves before they drop to form a golden carpet.
Celebrating Ginkgo Gold Weekend
To mark the peak foliage, the farm is hosting its final Ginkgo Gold Weekend on Saturday, November 7, and Sunday, November 8, 2026.
During these two days, special visitor services will run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Guests can enjoy on-site food and coffee vendors, shop for ginkgo-themed merchandise, and even find opportunities to sponsor a tree. Extra restrooms are also added to the grounds to accommodate the peak-season crowds.
Exploring the 170-acre arboretum
Beyond the famous Virginia ginkgo grove, the property features more than 170 acres of gardens, expansive tree collections, and numerous walking trails. Entering the grounds is completely free, though donations are welcomed to support the arboretum’s research, education, and conservation work.
When you arrive, plan for a short walk. Visitors should park in the designated lots near the historic Quarters building. From there, it is approximately a 10-minute walk each way to reach the grove, so comfortable shoes are highly recommended. During peak-season weekends, this specific route becomes pedestrian-only, though a limited number of parking spaces closer to the trees are reserved for visitors with limited mobility.
How to visit
- 📍 Where: Blandy Experimental Farm (State Arboretum of Virginia), 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Boyce, VA
- 📅 When: Open daily; final Ginkgo Gold Weekend is Nov 7–8, 2026
- 🕒 Hours: Grounds open daily from dawn until dusk; special weekend services run 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- 💰 Price: Free admission
- 🎟️ Tickets: No tickets required
