55+ Best Fall Activities in the US (for 2024)
When the morning air starts to get a chill in it or your favorite coffee spot comes out with its fall drink lineup, it’s time to start getting excited about fall activities! Whether your family enjoys apple picking, leaf peeping, or attending festivals, there are all kinds of fall activities and fun events going on just a short drive away.
If you’ve been searching online for the “best fall activities near me,” I’ve got you covered! Below is the holy grail of fall activities. It’s a collaboration with bloggers resulting in a collection of the best fall activities in the US. Everyone has shared their favorite activities, so you can find fun things to do in the fall near you!
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Fun Things to Do in the Fall Around the US
Autumn in the United States looks different everywhere. From the cactus of Arizona to the colorful leaves changing in the Midwest, you’re sure to find beauty around the country. Here are some of the best fall activities for families in the US.
Arizona
Tucson
With cooler weather, Tucson comes alive without door activities and events! Starting in early September, this college town kicks off with opportunities to see the University of Arizona Wildcats play at home!
Enjoy all of your favorite fall activities, like finding the perfect pumpkin at the Marana Pumpkin Patch . Or take on the largest corn maze in Arizona at Apple Annie’s in Wilcox.
Phoenix
The best time to visit the greater Phoenix area is in the fall. Scottsdale’s Old Town Farmer’s Market kicks off in October. It offers a wide variety of local produce, honey, handcrafted items, and other treasures. There’s also a Spooktacular Baloon Festival at Salt River Fields!
Get into a festive mood by exploring the best fall foliage drive from Phoenix to Sedona. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning red rock formations and vibrant red and gold Oak trees.
California
Sacramento
If you’re looking for fall activities in Sacramento, you’re in luck! A must-visit is the annual visit to Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm. It’s perfect for couples and families alike, with a wide variety of activities for all ages!
You’ll also want to check out Apple Hill. This is a group of top-notch farms, apple orchards, and wineries in nearby Camino that you can explore year-round.
San Diego
You won’t see much change in San Diego weather during the fall months. With year-round mild weather, most of the trees don’t even shed their leaves.
What the city lacks in autumn weather, it makes up for with fun fall activities and festivals! Take advantage of Kids Free San Diego, which runs for all of October with free admission at dozens of attractions across the city. Or enjoy all the family-friendly fall events found at LEGOLand, Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and more!
Napa Valley
Fall is the height of harvest season in Napa Valley, which means food and wine festivals and harvest parties galore!
Many of them are family-friendly, with fun activities that the kids can join in on like grape stomping, vineyard walks, wagon rides, and food tastings. Two excellent options are Belden Barns and Landmark Vineyards.
Colorado
Looking for great, colorful Colorado hikes and drives after the summer travelers have faded away?
The Aspens turn to gold and fall colors start changing in Colorado from mid-September through mid-October. So fill up the gas tank, pull up your driving map, and tug on those hiking boots. We’ll show you 20+ fantastic places in Colorado to go searching for fall colors. – Rad Family Travels
Breckenridge
After the summer crowds have gone and before the ski masses arrive, autumn is the best time to visit Breckenridge, Colorado. There are so many adventurous ways to view the stunning fall colors in Breckenridge. Bike, drive a boat, hike, or try them all! – Travels with Eli
Colorado Springs
Fall is the peak time for autumn leaves in Colorado, so consider heading to Colorado Springs to take in its outdoor adventures. Stay at The Broadmoor and you’ll be within walking distance of Seven Falls, a series of waterfalls within a box canyon.
Take a hike and find yourself admiring the views of the stunning landscape with unique rock formations and vibrant fall colors. There are plenty of fall colors along Chamberlain Trail. In the fall, this colorful hike is perfect for hiking, walking, trail running, and nature trips with kids.
Durango
Historic Durango, Colorado celebrates cooler days and stunning fall foliage with all types of cultural events open to the whole family. Take a scenic train ride on the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which offers a variety of themed rides.
Another fun event is the annual Durango Autumn Arts Festival, which celebrates the town’s thriving art scene.
Connecticut
Norwich
Norwich and its surrounding areas boast several family-friendly farms that host your favorite fall activities. From hayrides and pumpkin picking to corn mazes and petting zoos, these farms offer a perfect blend of autumn fun and rural charm.
You’ll find the best fall foliage tour along CT-169, from Norwich to Woodstock. The scenic route takes you through quaint towns and boasts breathtaking views of the leaves. Cider mills can be found along the way offering freshly pressed apple cider and seasonal treats like caramel apples.
West Hartford
While you’re searching for “fall activities near me,” CT locals will want to check out Downtown West Hartford. This town offers quite a bit of urban charm with its fall festivities!
Families can stroll down Farmington Avenue, lined with trees displaying their seasonal color.
Nearby, the Fall Festival in Blue Back Square happens one weekend every October. The family-friendly event features live music, a fall market, arts and crafts for the kids, and more.
DC
Washington, DC doesn’t shut down when summer is over. There are loads of events in and around the city, from Oktoberfest to oyster festivals, apple picking, and new museum exhibits.
It’s a bit quieter around town too, as kids are back in school, but field trips haven’t quite begun. So, if you have ever wanted to see Washington, D.C. with fewer crowds, now is your chance. – DC Travel Mag
Florida
Fort Myers
Fort Myers hosts some of the best fall activities in the US, with a wave of community events, farmer’s markets, and craft fairs.
Don’t miss neighborhood gems like Lakes Park’s Scarecrows in the Park event, where kids can see their favorite characters and compete for a first-place prize!
If you’re visiting in November, head to Manatee Park to catch a glimpse of manatees that migrate to the area for the warm waters.
Pensacola
Families can enjoy white sand beaches and historical sites in the northern Florida panhandle year-round! But fall in Pensacola means cooler weather and exciting special events.
At the end of September, head to the Pensacola Seafood Festival, or have tons of classic fun at the Pensacola Interstate Fair in October! Throughout the fall season, you can visit local farms for pumpkin patches and hayrides.
Georgia
Atlanta
You’ll find some of the best fall activities in the US right in Atlanta, Georgia. Get yourself in the fall mood with a scenic fall foliage ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway.
Have all the fall fun at the Beer Garden in Helen for Oktoberfest! Or enjoy all the lovely Georgia State Park fall events, from haunted tours and moonlit hikes to astronomy paddles.
Hawaii
Spookiest Haunted Places in Hawaii – Hawaii’s history is full of supernatural experiences and unexplained events. From Hawaii’s legendary Night Marchers to the ghost of Pele who has been spotted all across the islands, Hawaii is the perfect place to look for ghosts. There are several ghost tours in Hawaii worth adding to your autumn bucket list. – Hawaii Travel with Kids
Illinois
Chicago
If you live in Chicago or plan to travel there and you Google “fall activities near me,” you’ll find you have your work cut out for you! Chicago in fall does not disappoint, with tons of pumpkin patches, apple orchards, and more.
Start with the Richardson Adventure Farm, where you can explore the world’s largest corn maze! Or load up a bushel of apples at one of the many apple orchards in the Chicago suburbs or beyond.
Springfield
Springfield offers an array of outdoor activities to embrace the beauty of the fall season. Take a stroll through Washington Park, where the vibrant foliage provides a stunning backdrop for picnics and people-watching.
Explore historic sites like Lincoln’s Tomb and the Old State Capitol, where the cooler weather makes guided tours a pleasant experience.
Don’t miss the Henson Robinson Zoo, where the animals come out to play in the crisp autumn air!
Kansas
Kansas City
Grab a pumpkin spice latte and embrace the fall spirit in Kansas City, Kansas. A visit to the local Louisburg Cider Mill will leave you satisfied with hot apple cider donuts and fresh apple pie.
The year-round Overland Park Farmers’ Market is especially bustling this time of year with harvest season!
Another favorite activity is admiring the changing leaves at the Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center, where you can enjoy picturesque trails and educational programs.
Kentucky
Louisville and Lexington
This double threat means you’ll have endless fall activities to choose from in the country and the city!
You’re just a short drive away from stunning fall foliage hikes, like Dupree Nature Preserve or the Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest.
And you’ll want to get your tickets early for the ever-popular Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in Louisville.
Louisiana
Baton Rouge
After the humid days of summer have passed, you can enjoy the fall season in Louisiana by exploring all the walkable attractions in Baton Rouge.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Louisiana by exploring antebellum homes like the Magnolia Mound Plantation.
The cooler weather makes it the perfect time to stroll along the Mississippi River or even the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center.
Plus, fall is your chance to see an LSU home game at Tiger Stadium!
New Orleans
Cooler fall days make this the ideal time to explore the vibrant city of New Orleans. Milder days create the perfect climate for strolling through the historic French Quarter.
Fall also ushers in a wave of lively festivals, like the National Fried Chicken Festival and the Bayou Bacchanal, as well as a myriad of neighborhood festivals.
This is the perfect time of year to go on haunted tours and visit historic sites without the crowds.
Maine
Portland
As far north as Maine, the foliage peaks as early as late September or early October. Soak in the crisp beauty of fall by taking a scenic ferry ride to Peaks Island, where you can explore the charming village, rent bikes, and enjoy panoramic views of the colorful foliage along the coast.
Back on the mainland, a visit to the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum offers train rides through the fall landscape.
Boothbay Harbor
There’s something cozy about bundling up and heading to a bayside town for the weekend like Boothbay Harbor!
What’s better than enjoying piping hot clam chowder and fresh lobster at local restaurants with views of the bay? And if you’re searching for “fall festivals near me,” make sure you add Boothbay’s Fall Foliage Festival to your list.
Maryland
Annapolis
Like much of the mid-Atlantic, fall in Annapolis means there are still warm days to hit the area beaches and go on hikes without multiple layers!
Best of all, the mosquitos generally die off as the humidity drops, making it perfect for a stroll along the charming streets of downtown Annapolis. Families will love exploring the unique boutiques and shops.
Don’t miss Homestead Gardens, which hosts fall festivals with hayrides, pumpkin patches, and a corn maze for hours of family fun.
Frederick
Just north of Washington, DC, Frederick is perfect for families seeking autumn adventures. Enjoy a leisurely hike through Cunningham Falls State Park, with its gorgeous waterfalls surrounded by vibrant fall colors.
Don’t miss the Great Frederick Fair in late September. This highlight of the season features carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, and live entertainment for all.
Massachusetts
Old Sturbridge Village
Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts is perfect to visit in autumn! Learn history from a “living museum” while strolling the paths through the foliage — and even taking a tranquil boat ride. – Around the World “L”
Plimouth Plantation, Plymouth
One of our favorite things to do in the fall in the USA is visit Plimoth Pawtuxet (formerly Plimoth Plantation) in Massachusetts.
My kids love learning about the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe of Massachusetts. Plus, you can have Thanksgiving dinner there!
We also love stopping by Plimoth Rock and touring the Mayflower replica. – Bon Voyage with Kids
Minnesota
Minneapolis
The first thing you’ll notice about Minneapolis in the fall is the numerous apple orchards in the region, and there are some excellent ones to choose from!
Two at the top of the list are Minnetonka Orchards and Aamodt’s Apple Farm.
You’ll also find some of the best fall activities in the US all around Minneapolis, like the super fun Twin Cities Harvest Festival and Maze.
For older kids, you’ll find tons of truly bone-chilling haunted corn mazes and haunted houses across the area, like Scream Town in Chaska!
Montana
Whitefish
For outdoor lovers, Whitefish is a treasure trove of fall activities. You can ride the scenic Whitefish Mountain Resort chairlift for panoramic views of the colorful landscape and enjoy hiking trails at the top.
Visit Whitefish Lake State Park for picnics, hiking, and serene lake views.
Being so close to Glacier National Park, don’t miss the opportunity to take a scenic drive on Going-to-the-Sun Road for sweeping views before the road closes for the winter! Additionally, Whitefish hosts the popular Great Northwest Oktoberfest at the end of September.
New Hampshire
Kancamagus Highway
The Kancamagus Scenic Byway is one of the most scenic road trips in New Hampshire. Especially popular with leaf peepers during fall foliage season, the Kancamagus Highway is a 34-mile scenic stretch in the White Mountain National Forest.
The drive is pretty at any time of year, but especially during the autumn when the leaves are changing colors and the mountains become a carpet of fiery oranges, reds, and yellows. There are numerous places to stop and enjoy the view, from scenic overlooks and covered bridges to short waterfall hikes. – We 3 Travel
North Conway
In North Conway, families can revel in the vibrant fall foliage by taking a scenic ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad, offering stunning views of the White Mountains. The nearby Diana’s Baths trail is perfect for autumn hikes, leading to picturesque waterfalls.
Early October brings the Fryeburg Fair, just over the border in Maine, where kids and parents alike can indulge in rides, games, and delicious fair food.
New Mexico
Albuquerque
Every October, people flock to Albuquerque for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This highly-anticipated festival showcases hundreds of hot air balloons taking flight against the stunning desert landscape. You can witness the awe-inspiring Mass Ascensions, where balloons of all sizes and designs ascend into the early morning sky.
The event also features Night Glows, where balloons illuminate the night with synchronized flames, creating a breathtaking scene that captures the imagination of visitors from around the world!
New York
Sleepy Hollow/Tarrytown
Visiting Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow in the Hudson Valley is a journey into history and Halloween magic. The area is steeped in Washington Irving’s legendary tale, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” and offers a rich cultural experience.
Don’t miss the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, where thousands of intricately carved pumpkins light up the night in a mesmerizing display!
You can also enjoy a variety of hiking trails in the region that offer stunning views of the Hudson River and the surrounding fall foliage.
Seneca Lake
Exploring Seneca Lake in the fall is a feast for the senses. The vineyards along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail showcase the vibrant colors of autumn, providing the perfect backdrop for wine tastings.
Nearby, Watkins Glen State Park enchants with its cascading waterfalls and intricate gorge trails, offering a breathtaking scene.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also hike the Finger Lakes National Forest trails and enjoy the serene beauty of the season.
North Carolina
Asheville
Did you know that in the fall, the Biltmore Estate offers bright fall foliage and special activities for kids?
And if you find yourself searching for “fall activities near me,” simply consider a scenic leaf-peeping drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway!
There’s also the Western North Carolina Nature Center that provides an opportunity for kids to learn about local wildlife. You don’t have to go far to find great fall activities in this beautiful city!
Ohio
Columbus
Autumn foliage, crisp sweater weather, and plenty of fun activities make Columbus, Ohio a great fall destination. In addition to traditional favorites like apple picking and pumpkin patches, Columbus has lots of festivals and events throughout the fall season. – Zen Life and Travel
Cleveland
In Cleveland, families can enjoy the fall season with a visit to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, which hosts a Boo at the Zoo event with trick-or-treating and animal exhibits.
Additionally, you can head to Cuyahoga Valley National Park to witness the vibrant fall foliage and catch a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
Oregon
Portland
Families in Portland, OR can explore the Portland Japanese Garden, where the fall foliage transforms the serene landscape.
The nearby Sauvie Island offers some of the best fall activities in the US, with pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and apple picking.
Back inside the Portland city limits, the Portland Nursery Apple Tasting event features a variety of apple varieties to sample and purchase, along with festive entertainment for all.
Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
Fall in Philadelphia and its suburbs boasts a wide range of seasonal activities. Explore Valley Forge National Historical Park, where the changing leaves provide a scenic backdrop to Revolutionary War sites.
In Bucks County, there’s an apple orchard for every Saturday and Sunday in the fall!
And in Delaware County to the south, Linvilla Orchards is a great place to enjoy pumpkin picking, hayrides, corn mazes, and more.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh’s location in Western Pennsylvania makes it the perfect fall destination in the US. Between the beautiful fall foliage and the farms filled with pumpkin patches and apple picking, the fall activities in Pittsburgh, PA can’t be missed! – Toddling Traveler
Harrisburg
If you live in central PA and find yourself Googling “fall festivals near me,” I suggest the renowned National Apple Harvest Festival near Harrisburg.
This annual event held over two weekends provides a quintessential autumn experience, with yummy food, craft vendors, live music, apple picking, a petting zoo, children’s games, and so much more!
Rhode Island
Newport
As the summer crowds dwindle in Newport, RI, it’s the perfect time to explore the historic charm of the coastal Newport Mansions against the backdrop of autumn foliage!
In nearby Middletown, the Norman Bird Sanctuary boasts 7 miles of scenic trails, perfect for enjoying the fall’s crisp air and vibrant colors.
If you’re looking for the best places for scenic fall foliage drives, head further into Newport County to Tiverton or Little Compton.
South Carolina
Columbia
When the trees start to change in mid-October, head to the South Carolina State Fair! This beloved autumn tradition features carnival rides, live entertainment, and a wide array of food vendors.
Families looking for fall activities near me can also explore the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, which hosts the Boo at the Zoo event for Halloween-themed fun.
Darlington
October in Darlington means it’s time for the South Carolina Sweet Potato Festival, celebrating all things sweet potato-related.
Come enjoy live music, arts and crafts, and of course, delicious sweet potato dishes! The festival offers a taste of local culture and a vibrant atmosphere for all ages to enjoy.
Tennessee
Nashville
Nashville offers a lively fall experience with the changing leaves as a backdrop to the city’s infamous music scene.
Head to the Cheekwood Harvest Festival in September, featuring pumpkin displays and seasonal activities.
Get outdoors with a stroll along the scenic Shelby Bottoms Greenway with picturesque views of the Cumberland River and fall foliage.
Pigeon Forge
Kick off the fall at Dollywood’s Harvest Festival with musical performances, pumpkin-flavored treats, and fall-themed entertainment.
Nearby, you can also visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for breathtaking fall hikes amidst the iconic Smoky Mountains scenery.
Texas
San Antonio
San Antonio’s warm fall weather makes it perfect for outdoor exploration. Families can visit the San Antonio Zoo, where the cooler temperatures create a comfortable environment for observing animals.
The city’s historic River Walk is perfect for strolls along the scenic waterway. October also offers a haunted house for every age across Alamo City and some of the best pumpkin patches in Texas!
Kerrville
Visiting Lost Maples State Natural Area outside of Kerrville is a rare treat in South Texas for experiencing vibrant fall foliage. This unique gem offers a stunning display of trees turning brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.
Families can explore scenic trails that wind through the picturesque canyons and offer sweeping views of the Texas Hill Country.
Dallas/Fort Worth
The Dallas/Fort Worth area offers a plethora of the best fall activities in the US. A visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards is entertaining any time of the year, but there’s something festive about watching the cattle drives on chilly fall days!
There are plenty of pumpkin patches and corn mazes in Texas, so there is always something fun for families.
And a must-do in October is the State Fair of Texas in Dallas, a beloved annual tradition with rides, live entertainment, and classic fair food.
Utah
Park City
Park City’s fall charm is undeniable, with the surrounding mountains painted in oranges, reds, and gold! Take the scenic chairlift ride at Park City Mountain for panoramic views of the fall foliage.
October is when everyone comes for the Park City Wine Festival. This family-friendly event offers wine tastings, cooking demos, and live music.
Salt Lake City
SLC families Googling “fall festivals near me,” will have plenty to do this fall! Cornbelly’s is a seasonal staple if you’re from Salt Lake Valley.
You can find a variety of other quality pumpkin patches and orchards, like the historic Petersen Family Farm or Gibson’s Green Acres Dairy.
Fall is the best time to hike Big Cottonwood Canyon, with the fleeting beauty of the changing leaves!
Virginia
Colonial Williamsburg
In the Fall, Colonial Williamsburg holds its annual Haunting on DoG street event with trick or treating, fun entertainment, and more. And the whole family can take part in the Ghost Walk Jr. walking tour of Colonial Williamsburg. – Skylar Aria’s Adventures
Washington
Seattle
Seattle weather is always unpredictable, so while you may have figured out that the summers are glorious, what you don’t know is that Seattle in autumn is just as good, if not better.
The public gardens start to show their fall colors, the rain is merely a mist when it blows in, and hiking is still the number one sport for families to enjoy when kids aren’t in school. – Walking on Travels
Wyoming
Jackson Hole
You’ll find a diverse range of fall activities for all ages in and around Jackson Hole, WY. The entire town is dripping with fall foliage and local breweries offer yard games and warm fires along with brews.
Families can explore the nearby Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, where the autumn landscapes shine!
Don’t miss the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival in September showcasing local artistry, live music, and cultural exhibits that everyone will enjoy.
Hopefully, you’ve discovered fun fall activities in your neck of the woods! Whether you’re looking for pumpkin carving, an apple festival, or spooky ghost tours, there’s something near you!
