As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, autumn invites us to slow down and savor the season’s many delights. Whether planning a weekend getaway, enjoying a staycation, or simply looking to make the most of fall, an autumn bucket list is the perfect way to ensure you don’t miss out on the season’s magic.
Here are 20 must-do activities to help you create lasting memories this autumn.
1. 🍏 🍎 Go Apple Picking at a Local Orchard
Spend a day picking fresh apples and enjoy the crisp taste of the season. Don’t forget to bring home enough to bake a pie or make homemade cider!
2. 🚙 Take a Scenic Drive to See Fall Foliage
Plan a road trip to a nearby area known for its vibrant fall colors. Seeing golden, red, and orange leaves will leave you in awe.
Visiting the New England Area this fall? Explore our family’s favorite scenic drives:
We've assembled a collection of our top scenic drives that our family loves, perfect for discovering the beauty of New England. Whether craving stunning fall foliage, charming small towns, or breathtaking coastal views, these routes offer something special for everyone.
Conway, New Hampshire
Kancamagus Highway (Route 112). This 34.5-mile drive through the White Mountain National Forest, which runs from Conway to Lincoln, is considered one of the best places in the world to see fall foliage.
Mad River, Vermont
The Mad River Byway in Vermont is a 36-mile scenic drive along Routes 100 and 100B and offers views of forests, farmland, and downtown areas.
Green Mountain, Vermont
The Green Mountain Byway travels from Route 100 in Waterbury to Stowe.
Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic Country and the Coast, This eastern Connecticut drive takes you through the region known as Mystic Country and gives you great views of the shoreline in fall.
Are you still looking to book a fun fall adventure? It's not too late! Our community of Airbnb hosts still have some dates available that you can take advantage of.
3. 🎃Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Find the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating your home. Many pumpkin patches also offer hayrides, corn mazes, and other fun fall activities.
Our favorites for apple and pumpkin picking in and around New England include:
Massachusetts:
Honey Pot Hill Orchard, Stow, MA
Kimball Fruit Farm, Pepperell, MA
Parlee Farms, Tyngsborough, MA
Red Apple Farm, Phillipston, MA
Smolak Farms, North Andover, MA
Belkin Family Lookout Farm, Natick, MA
Brooksby Farm, Peabody, MA
New Hampshire:
Mack’s Apples, Londonderry, NH
Applecrest Farms, Hampton Falls NH
Carter Hill Orchards, Concord NH
Vermont:
Green Mountain Orchards, Putney, VT
Dutton Berry Farm, Newfane, VT
Pro Tip: If you want to avoid the crowds while pumpkin and apple picking, try going on an early release day with friends and family. During peak fall season, many farms become packed, leading to long lines and a bit of stress. Instead, plan a mid-week trip for a more relaxed and enjoyable fall day at the farm—fewer crowds, more fun, and all the autumn vibes!
PS. If you're planning a weekend getaway filled with fall activities, don't miss out on a stay at the Kitzof Inn in West Dover, VT. After a day of apple picking at Dutton Berry Farms, you'll love unwinding in the cozy charm of the inn. For a unique twist, join the special paranormal investigation on October 19th at the Kitzof Inn, adding an unforgettable experience to your autumn escape. Be sure to book your Vermont getaway soon before spots fill up!
4. 🪵Host a Cozy Bonfire Night
Gather friends or family for an evening around the fire pit. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy the warmth of the fire under the stars.
Extend the Fun with this Pro Tip: Discover the Magic of Fall with Your Favorite People!
There’s nothing like experiencing autumn in a new place, surrounded by close friends and family. 🍁 Whether planning a cozy cabin retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, our multi family vacation blog has everything you need to make this season unforgettable.
P.S. Don't forget your s'mores fixings! 🍫🔥 Check out my blog where I share five creative recipes to put a delicious twist on your s'mores-making experience. Your campfire treats are about to get even sweeter! 😋
And don't forget to purchase your marshmallows from Vermont Marshmallow! This will no doubt elevate your s'mores experience.
5. Make Homemade Pumpkin Spice Lattes
Skip the coffee shop and make your PSL at home. Experiment with different recipes to find the perfect blend of spices.
6.🥾 Go on a Hike to Enjoy the Crisp Air
Choose a trail that offers beautiful views of the changing leaves. Bring a hot cocoa thermos for a warming treat along the way.
Here are☕ 7 Hot Cocoa Recipes That'll Keep You Warm and Cozy. Try them and let us know which is your favorite!
And if you’re looking for a hike in the New England area, we recommend:
Arethusa Falls, Crawford Notch State Park, NH
Lonesome Lake, Franconia Notch, NH
Lincoln Woods Trail, Lincoln NH
Moxie Falls, West Forks ME
Jesup Path, Bar Harbor ME
Snake Mountain, Addison Vermont
Camel's Hump, Duxbury, VT
Sugarloaf Mountain, South Deerfield MA
Black Point Trail, Narragansett, RI
Pro tip: Be sure to pack all your hiking essentials to ensure you're fully prepared for your adventure. Don’t forget to share your location and time frame with family or friends so they know your plans and can check in if needed. For extra peace of mind, check out our curated list of hiking and safety gear to make sure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable hike!
7. 🎃Carve Jack-O'-Lanterns
Get creative with pumpkin carving. Whether you go for a spooky design or something more playful, it’s a fun activity for all ages.
8.🎡 Attend a Local Fall Festival or Fair
Attend a local festival to immerse yourself in the season. Enjoy live music, seasonal foods, and a craft market.
9.🥧 Bake a Homemade Pie or Grab One Ready-Made
Nothing says fall quite like the aroma of a freshly baked pie. If you love baking, choose your favorite—apple, pumpkin, or pecan—and enjoy it warm from the oven. Not much of a baker? No worries at all! Pick up a delicious ready-made pie from a local farm stand, farmer's market, or your nearby grocer. Don't forget to top it off with some whipped cream or ice cream for that extra touch of deliciousness.
10. 👻Visit a Haunted House or Go on a Ghost Tour
If you love a good scare, explore a local haunted house or take a ghost tour to learn about the spooky history of your area.
👻 Are you fascinated by paranormal activity? Saturday, October 10th the Kitzhof Inn is hosting the Paranormal Investigators of New England for an exciting and eerie event. The team will demonstrate the cutting-edge technology they use during their investigations and share some of their most chilling experiences. Attendees will then have the unique opportunity to join the investigators in a series of short ghost hunts throughout the inn. Book a night at the Kitzhof Inn and immerse yourself in the spooky charm of Vermont inns while uncovering the mysteries that lurk within!
11.🎨 Create a Fall-Themed DIY Craft
Get crafty with a fall-themed project. Make a wreath for your door, paint some pumpkins, or try candle-making.
12. 🎬Get Cozy This Fall with the Perfect Date Night Movies
Looking for the ideal way to spend a crisp autumn evening? Check out our curated list of the ultimate fall-inspired movies for your next date night! From heartwarming classics to atmospheric thrillers, these picks will set the perfect mood for a cozy night in. Grab some popcorn, snuggle under a blanket, and dive into the best fall cinema.
13. 🍎 🍏 Make Caramel Apples
Indulge your sweet tooth by making caramel apples at home. Customize them with toppings like nuts, chocolate, or sprinkles.
14. 🚗 Take a Day Trip to a Nearby Town or City
Explore a new place during its most picturesque season. You will discover charming shops, historic sites, and local eateries.
A few of our favorite places that are within 1-3 hours of Boston are:
Portland, Maine
Freeport, Maine
Kennebunkport, Maine
Littleton, New Hampshire
North Conway, New Hampshire
Woodstock, New Hampshire
Mad River Valley, Vermont
West Dover, Vermont
Newport, Rhode Island
Provincetown, Massachusetts
Salem, Massachusetts
Newburyport, Massachusetts
Cape Ann, Massachusetts
Rockport, Massachusetts
Stow, Massachusetts
Mystic, Connecticut
15. 🍁 Decorate Your Home with Autumn Decor
Bring the season indoors by decorating your home with fall-inspired items, such as pumpkins, gourds, candles, and cozy blankets.
We love cozy blankets. Our favorite blankets can warm up any space!
16 🍷 . Go Wine or Cider Tasting
Visit a local vineyard or cidery to taste the flavors of fall. Pair your drinks with some seasonal snacks and enjoy the atmosphere.
17. 🏈 Watch a Football Game
Football is a fall tradition worth enjoying, Whether at a stadium, a local high school game, or from the comfort of your couch.
Pro Tip: 🏈 If you live near a high school with a football team, go out and support them! It's a fantastic opportunity to check out local talent, and strengthen community bonds, and it's super affordable. 🎉🙌
18. 🍜 Try a New Soup or Stew Recipe
Warm up with a hearty bowl of homemade soup or stew. Experiment with seasonal ingredients like squash, sweet potatoes, and root vegetables. Once the fall sets in, I jump at the chance to make one of my favorite soup recipes, Hippie Soup, which is adapted from Mollie Katzen’s originally named Gypsy Soup. It is my go-to when the cool air sets in, noses start to run and we need a delicious and filling soup!
19. 📸 Take Family or Couple Photos in the Fall Foliage
Capture the season's beauty with a photo session among the colorful leaves. These photos make great memories and holiday cards.
Ready to capture the magic of fall? Visit my new page to explore a glimpse of my work and easily book your session to secure beautiful, lasting memories. Don't wait—autumn won't last forever!
20. 📚 ☕️ Spend a Day at a Cozy Café with a Good Book
Take some time for yourself by spending a relaxing day at a café. Order your favorite fall drink and lose yourself in a good book.
Pro Tip: 📚 Enhance your cozy café experience by choosing classic books that perfectly capture the essence of autumn. Here are some recommendations to stock your reading nook:
"Anne of Green Gables" by L.M. MontgomeryImmerse yourself in the vivid autumn landscapes of Prince Edward Island. This beloved novel celebrates the beauty and transformative power of the season through the eyes of the imaginative Anne Shirley.
"Little Women" by Louisa May AlcottSet in New England, this enduring story of the March sisters highlights themes of family bonds and personal growth. Its warm, inviting narrative is perfect for fall reading.
"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" by Washington IrvingAdd a touch of spookiness to your autumn afternoons with this iconic short story. It offers a mix of mystery and folklore set against the eerie atmosphere of a small town in autumn.
"The Wind in the Willows" by Kenneth GrahameEmbrace the whimsical and adventurous spirit of fall with Mr. Toad and friends. This tale captures autumnal scenes filled with themes of change and nostalgia.
This autumn bucket list includes activities that embrace the season’s charm and warmth. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these ideas will help you create a fall to remember.
So grab your sweater, step outside, and check off these must-do activities for an unforgettable autumn!
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