Autumn is the perfect season to get outside and enjoy simple, family-friendly fun. From pumpkin patches to cozy reading afternoons, these activities are full of green and low-cost options — and you don’t even have to travel far to soak up the bounty of the season. Whether your kids are adventurous or prefer quieter moments, this list has something for everyone to make fall and memorable.
1. Go Leaf Peeping
Take a drive or walk through neighborhoods or parks to admire the changing leaves. Bring along a camera or your phone to snap photos — the colors make for instant autumn memories. Bonus: kids can collect leaves for crafts or scrapbooks.
2. Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Pick pumpkins of all shapes and sizes for decorating or carving at home. Many pumpkin patches also have hayrides, corn mazes, and petting zoos, making it a full day of family fun. It’s a great way to get kids outside and active.
3. Go Apple Picking
Head to a local orchard to pick your own apples — it’s a tasty way to teach kids about where food comes from. Bring baskets and enjoy snacks or a picnic while you’re there. Homemade apple treats afterward are a bonus!
4. Take a Nature Hike
Even a short hike lets kids explore the outdoors and burn off energy before school or bedtime. Look for acorns, pinecones, or animal tracks along the trail. Layer up in cozy clothes and enjoy the crisp air.
5. Have a Bonfire
Whether in your backyard or at a local fire pit, roasting marshmallows and telling stories is a classic fall activity. Make it extra cozy with blankets and hot chocolate. It’s a simple way to enjoy the season with family.
6. Visit a Local Festival or Fair
Autumn is full of free or low-cost events celebrating harvests, arts, and community. Many towns host craft fairs, farmers markets, and music events perfect for kids. Check community calendars for family-friendly options nearby.
7. Decorate Your Home for Fall
Get kids involved with simple seasonal decorations like wreaths, pumpkins, or garlands. Crafting together sparks creativity and adds instant fall vibes indoors. Plus, it makes your home feel festive and welcoming.
8. Take a Bike Ride
A crisp fall day is perfect for family bike rides. Routes through parks, trails, or quiet streets offer safe ways to enjoy the outdoors. Encourage kids to spot wildlife or collect small natural treasures along the way.
9. Go on a Scavenger Hunt
Create a simple list of fall items — colorful leaves, pinecones, acorns, or squirrels — and hunt for them together. It keeps kids engaged, moving, and observing nature closely. Turn it into a fun competition or cooperative game.
10. Have a Cozy Reading Afternoon
Pick fall-themed books or stories to read together by a window or near a fire. Layer in blankets, warm drinks, and comfy seating. This is a quiet way to celebrate the season and wind down after outdoor adventures.
From outdoor adventures to quiet moments at home, these activities are perfect for making the most of autumn as a family. Mix and match them to create seasonal memories that your kids will cherish — and enjoy the simple pleasures that fall has to offer.