by Rachel Wells
There’s just something magical about fall! Between the crisp morning air, warm sunny afternoons, and colorful leaves, it’s the perfect season to get outside and make memories with your family. Fall always seems to fly by, so now’s the time to squeeze in some fun before the winter chill arrives.
Of course, we all love the classic fall activities—decorating the house, picking out Halloween costumes, and heading to the apple orchard. But if you’re looking to mix things up, we’ve rounded up some fresh and fun fall bucket list ideas for the whole family. These simple activities are a great way to slow down, spend quality time together, and soak up all the fall magic before the holiday hustle begins!
Read on for 20 fun fall family activities to consider.
1. Take a fall nature walk.
Crunch through the fallen leaves, and enjoy the beauty that fall trees offer.
2. Take a family bike ride.
Get outside, try a new trail, or head around the neighborhood to look at decorations.
3. Have a backyard bonfire with s’mores.
Fall is the best time of the year for a cozy bonfire with family or friends.
4. Have an outdoor movie night.
Grab all the cozy blankets, make some kettle corn and hot chocolate and enjoy an outdoor movie under the stars.
5. Visit a pumpkin patch.
Whether you go to a small pumpkin patch or a patch that doubles as an amusement park – nothing says fall like a trip to the farm.
6. Go apple picking.
Enjoy the process of picking your own apples and then make some tasty treats at home with your haul.
7. Go on a hay ride.
After you pick apples or pumpkins head out on a hay ride to take in the views of autumn.
8. Get lost in a corn maze.
Create family memories as you struggle to find your way out together!
9. Decorate pumpkins.
Try a new way to decorate your pumpkins this year – carve, paint, bedazzle, add flowers, the possibilities are endless.
10. Hit up a fall festival or carnival.
From Oktoberfest celebrations to spooky carnivals, outdoor festivals are great for families.
11. Go to a football game.
Whether it’s an NFL game, a college matchup, or your local high school team, there’s nothing like cheering on the home team!
12. Visit a farmer’s market.
Fall is the perfect time to visit a farmers’ market. Let kids explore the stands, discover seasonal produce and baked goods, and check out fun fall crafts along the way.
13. Plan a weekend getaway.
Who says vacations are just for summer? Hop in the car and explore a charming new town for the weekend. Discover local restaurants, shops, festivals, playgrounds, and all the little things that make a new place special.
14. Try new recipes.
Break out the crock-pot, try some new soups, and enjoy all the pumpkin and apple flavored treats.
15. Deck out your front door or porch.
Create a house that people smile at when they walk past. Remember you don’t need to spend a lot of money – crafts and a few lights can have a big impact.
16. Have a fall photoshoot.
Take advantage of those beautiful fall colors and snap some family photos! They’re perfect for updating your photo wall or getting a head start on your holiday cards.
17. Send an unexpected note.
We’re headed into the season on gratitude, so why not get a head start and send a handwritten note to someone you care about – it’s a guaranteed way to make their day.
18. Make fall gingerbread houses.
Who says gingerbread houses are just for winter? Grab some graham crackers, frosting, and your favorite fall candies, and spend an evening creating a festive fall-themed house complete with colorful leaves, pumpkins, and all the cozy autumn touches!
19. Jump in a pile of leaves.
Raking leaves isn’t the most fun fall activity, but jumping in them sure can be.
20. Create a fall scrap-bowl.
Scrapbooks are adorable… but who has time to keep up with one? Grab a cute bowl, plop it on the coffee table, and toss in your favorite family photos from the season. It’s like a little bowl of happy memories —and a great conversation starter when friends and family stop by.
