Fall is just around the corner, bringing crisp autumn breezes, colorful leaves, and plenty of pumpkins. It’s arguably the best weather for spending time outside with family. Check out our favorite fall activities featuring fresh air.
Decorate jack-o’-lanterns
Although carving pumpkins is the traditional method, smaller children can still enjoy creating jack-o’-lanterns with paint, glitter, and googly eyes. You can even take it a step further by heading to a pumpkin patch to pick them yourselves! A trip to the pumpkin patch will also most likely feature hayrides, corn mazes, and treats. If you’re lucky, you might also find some farm-fresh fall produce for sale such as squash, figs, or brussels sprouts. A thick autumnal soup or roasted vegetables will be a great post-pumpkin-decorating meal.
Have a bonfire
Bonfires are a great way to enjoy the fresh air and bond over scary stories. An indoor fireplace, outdoor fire pit, or even a portable campfire will do the trick. It’s easy to get creative with a s’mores smorgasbord too! Try using peanut butter cups, peppermint patties, or caramel filled chocolates instead of the old-school milk chocolate bar. Everyone will love creating their own s’mores masterpiece, and it’s a great way to sample some Halloween candy.
Go apple picking
If you’re feeling restless, plan a walk along rows of sweet-smelling apple trees. The whole family can enjoy finding the ripest fruit and maybe even meet some farm animals. Many orchards allow kids to feed goats, pet pigs, and even approach alpacas! After you’ve accidentally picked entirely too many apples, it’s time to try out some fall recipes. Apple pie, apple butter, apple cake, and caramel apples are just the start of infinitely delicious autumn delights.
Take a drive
Load up the car with a thermos of hot cocoa and a camera to take advantage of America’s plethora of winding roads filled with foliage. Stop along the way at a designated pull-off area to snap pictures of the colorful leaves and identify the surrounding species of trees. Younger kids might enjoy collecting their favorite fallen leaves for later crafts. Painting the leaves and stamping them onto paper makes artful prints, or glue them to a strip of paper or fabric to make a leaf crown!
For more fall activities that are sure to create lasting memories, check out this list.