Devin Jacobs
As autumn transforms the United States into a canvas of golden leaves and crisp air, a world of cozy adventures and stunning landscapes comes alive. This season invites you to immerse yourself in vibrant foliage, charming small towns, and festive harvest events. So, bundle up and explore 15 unforgettable activities that will make your autumn extraordinary.
Apple Picking
Autumn is known for its apple orchards, and the Northeast is the perfect place to indulge in this seasonal tradition. Visit Silverman’s Farm in Connecticut or Applecrest Farm Orchards in New Hampshire to pick your own apples, sample fresh cider, and enjoy homemade donuts.
Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park displays one of the best fall scenery in the country. As the leaves change colors, the park’s extensive network of hiking trails provides beautiful panoramic views of the vibrant autumn foliage. Its crisp, cool air and diverse wildlife add to the charm of this natural wonder.
Fall Festivals
As the harvest season approaches, the Midwest comes alive with fall festivals. Chicago’s Apple Fest and Kansas City’s festivals are two highlights. These festivals feature local artisans, live music, and delicious seasonal treats. They are also a great way to enjoy outdoor activities like pumpkin carving and corn mazes.
Salem’s Halloween
Salem, Massachusetts, transforms into a Halloween hotspot each October. The town hosts haunted tours, costume parades, and historical reenactments that look into its spooky past. Its blend of history and Halloween festivities makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to cherish the season’s eerie charm.
Blue Ridge Parkway
For a scenic drive through the heart of autumn, the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia is unparalleled. This 469-mile route winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering countless viewpoints and access to hiking trails. The foliage along the parkway peaks in mid-to-late October.
Napa Harvest
Napa Valley, California, is prominent for its wine, and autumn is the perfect time to experience the region’s harvest season. Join a wine tour or tasting at vineyards to celebrate the grape harvest with wine, food, and live music. These vineyards, against a backdrop of fall colors, make for a memorable visit.
Acadia National Park
Located in Maine, Acadia National Park offers a mix of coastal and mountainous landscapes. This park’s trails, such as the Jordan Pond Path, provide incredible views of the fall foliage and the Atlantic Ocean. Acadia’s autumn leaves and fresh, crisp air create the ultimate playground for anyone itching for outdoor adventure.
Haunted Houses
For a spine-tingling experience, visit one of the South’s many haunted houses. The Dark Manor Haunted House in Louisville and a few others are known for their chilling attractions and immersive experiences. These haunted houses provide a thrilling way to celebrate Halloween and test your courage.
Washington Wine Country
Washington State’s wine country, particularly around Walla Walla, is beautiful in the fall. As the grape harvest takes place, many wineries offer tastings and harvest celebrations. With its vineyards and crisp autumn air, Washington’s wine country is the perfect place to sip and savor the season’s best vinos.
Foliage Cruise
For a unique perspective on autumn colors, take a fall foliage cruise in New England. Cruises along Lake Champlain provide breathtaking views of the changing leaves from the water. These cruises often include onboard commentary and the opportunity to see historic sites and scenic landscapes.
Balloon Fiesta
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is an autumn event held in New Mexico. This annual festival features numerous colorful hot air balloons, which create a mesmerizing sight to remember. It includes balloon rides, glow events, and cultural activities.
Pumpkin Patches
No autumn is complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch. Farms across the country, from Illinois to Pennsylvania, offer pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and hayrides. These patches provide a fun, family-friendly experience and the chance to pick the best pumpkin for carving or decorating.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
The Atlanta Botanical Garden dazzles in autumn with its Garden Lights, Holiday Nights event, featuring over a million LED lights from mid-November through January. Visitors can enjoy fall foliage, seasonal plant displays, and festive light installations like the “Ice Goddess.”
Corn Mazes
Corn mazes are a beloved autumn tradition. These expansive mazes, carved into towering cornfields, offer a playful challenge for visitors of all ages. Each maze features designs and twists that make crossing through them an exciting adventure. It’s a fantastic way to soak up the crisp fall air and enjoy the seasonal fun.
Shenandoah Valley
Skyline Drive, running through Shenandoah National Park, offers a scenic 105-mile route with views of the changing leaves. The drive features numerous overlooks where you can pause to take in the soak in the colors of fall. This is an ideal spot for a relaxing drive or outdoor adventure.