As soon as the air gets crisp and the leaves start turning, I’m all in on fall. Don’t get me wrong, I live for summer and a beach day in a bright bikini, but once autumn hits? You’ll find me in a cozy sweater, knee-high boots, and a pumpkin pie martini in hand, fully leaning into the season. The colors, the cozy vibes, the excuse to say yes to every fall-themed activity? I can’t resist. Watching the trees shift from lush green to fiery reds, golds, and burnt oranges is my official sign to slow down and soak it all in.
I’m Sierra, a travel blogger and content creator with 8 years of experience creating travel guides, itineraries, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and destination tips from my travels around the world. While I’m writing from Indiana, there are countless fall-related activities, experiences, and destinations to enjoy throughout the season.
So, whether you’re here in Indiana like me or just looking for fall activities in your own hometown, these are a few of my favorite ways to make the most of this time of year. Grab a warm drink, throw on something cute, and get ready to romanticize your autumn.
The blog post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one I may make a small commission at absolutely no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support!
28 Things to Do in the Fall to Make the Most of the Season
Once September hits, I roll out my annual “best time of the year” Instagram post and fully welcome the season with open arms. The Halloween decor, grocery stores overflowing with apples and pumpkins, cinnamon and spice filling the air—it doesn’t get any better. And honestly? That’s my cue to start planning all the cozy fall things.
Every season, I like to make a little bucket list of festive things to do. Sometimes it’s with my husband, sometimes it’s with friends, and sometimes it’s just me and a pumpkin chai latte in hand. So if you’re ready to soak up every bit of autumn magic, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite fall activities to inspire your own seasonal to-do list. Whether you’re in full cozy mode or just looking for a few fun ideas, there’s something here you’ll love.
What to Do in the Fall for the Ultimate Seasonal Bucket List
Fall Activities That Are Actually Free
Go for a hike in a state park.
Lace up your sneakers—it’s the perfect time for a long walk or a scenic hike through your local state park. Fall weather means no more sticky heat, just crisp air and crunchy leaves underfoot. It’s one of my favorite ways to recharge, clear my head, and soak in all that dreamy autumn color. Whether you’re wandering solo or bringing a friend along, it’s a simple (and free!) way to feel grounded and connected to the season.
And the best part: you can pretty much find a hiking spot no matter where you live or where you’re headed to. But if you need a little inspiration on a place that has some top-tier spots, I definitely recommend checking out my full guide on where to stay in Hocking Hills. The foliage is incredible, the weather is perfect, and you can find tons of fun seasonal events.
Have a bonfire night.
Cool fall nights were made for bonfires. There’s just something about sitting around the crackling flames with friends, swapping spooky stories, roasting marshmallows to golden perfection, and sipping on an apple cider Moscow mule or apple cider Aperol spirtz that feels like peak autumn. It might even stir up some core memories. Camping trips, scout nights, or backyard hangs growing up. Cozy, nostalgic, and effortlessly fun… this is one fall tradition that never gets old.
Bonus points if you each bring a fun and yummy treat to enjoy around the bonfire! Think: stuff for s’mores, caramel corn, hot dogs, campfire nachos (don’t knock it ’til ya try it!), smoky cheeses, and seasonal fruits like cinnamon apples, pears, and pomegranates.
Bake something fall-inspired.
The return of baking weather might be one of the best parts of fall. After spending all summer refusing to so much as turn the oven on unless you absolutely have to, suddenly having something warm and cozy baking in the kitchen sounds like a dream.
Pick a recipe that feels aggressively seasonal: pumpkin bread, apple crisp, cinnamon rolls, pumpkin cookies, apple cider donuts, pumpkin cheesecake, snickerdoodle, or whatever you’ve had saved on Pinterest since last October. Make coffee, put on a playlist, and give yourself an afternoon to actually enjoy the process instead of treating it like another thing you need to get done.
And if baking from scratch is absolutely not your thing? Boxed pumpkin bread still counts. We’re here for the vibes, not strict rule-making.
Plan a fall photoshoot.
Fall gives you about three weeks where the trees look incredible, the weather cooperates, and you can wear layers without either sweating or freezing. Take advantage of it!
Grab a friend and head somewhere with pretty foliage for a little fall photoshoot. You don’t need a professional photographer or an elaborate location. A park, tree-lined neighborhood, pumpkin patch, or even a cute coffee shop can work. Wear something you feel good in, bring a couple of outfit options if you want, and make an afternoon out of it.
Worst-case scenario, you spend sometime outside with your friend and make fun memories. Best-case scenario? You finally have photos you like when someone asks for a recent picture of you.
Have a fall picnic.
Summer gets all the credit for picnics, but I personally think fall is the much better season for them. You’re not sweating, there are fewer bugs trying to steal your food, and everything outside just looks prettier. What more could you want?
Pack a blanket and a few easy snacks, throw together a few sandwiches, and find a park with good fall foliage. Bring apple cider, wine if it’s allowed, or a thermos of something warm once the temperatures start dropping. It makes such an easy fall date because there’s really nothing to plan beyond food and a location, and, of course, it’s free!
Go leaf peeping.
Leaf peeping sounds like something you should have to travel to New England to do, but you really just need trees. Once the leaves start changing in your area, pick a pretty park, trail, or neighborhood and go for a long walk with absolutely no agenda.
If you do live near somewhere known for its fall foliage, turn it into a scenic drive and make a day of it! Check when peak color usually happens before you go because the window can be surprisingly short. Bring coffee, make a fall playlist for the dive, and stop whenever you see somewhere worth exploring. It’s simple, it’s free, and it’s one of the few seasonal activities that really does disappear if you keep saying you’ll “do it next weekend.”
Take a fall bike ride.
Before it gets too cold to comfortably spend an afternoon outside, take your bike out for one good ride. Fall is arguably the best biking weather anyway! You’re past the brutal summer heat but you haven’t reached the point where the wind hurts your face.
Pick a trail, park, or quieter neighborhood with plenty of trees and take your time. This doesn’t need to become an intense workout… unless you just want it to be. Stop for pictures, grab coffee along the way, or pack a snack and find somewhere pretty to sit for a while. If you already own a bike, you’ve got an easy fall activity that costs you absolutely nothing.
Fall Activities for Couples
Take a scenic road trip.
In my opinion, fall is the best time to hit the road and travel. If you’ve been dreaming of a cozy, scenic getaway, nothing beats a fall road trip. (Don’t worry, I have a full guide for this in my article, “Where to travel in the Fall.”) Picture this: winding through tree-lined roads with vibrant leaves above you, your favorite playlist on, hot coffee in hand, and a car full of friends or riding shotgun with your beau. Pure autumn magic.
The best part? You can stop in cute little towns along the way. Think: local fall festivals, cider tasting, or a spontaneous pumpkin patch photo op.
Not sure where to go? I’ve rounded up my favorite fall foliage destinations to help you plan your route. And if you’re new to road trips, don’t miss my Road Trip Travel Tips I Wish I Knew Sooner. Trust me, a good playlist and snacks matter more than you think.
Go apple picking.
Apple orchards are the move in the fall. As soon as apple season hits, I’m grabbing my husband (or a few friends) and heading straight to the trees. There’s just something about choosing your own apples that makes baking a pie or crumble later feel extra special. Like, yes, these are my apples, hand-picked and full of pride.
And let’s be real, it’s not just about the apples. Most orchards go all out this time of year with hayrides, petting zoos, and those warm, sugary apple cider donuts that should honestly win awards. (Yes, I’m talking about Dull’s Tree Farm again! If you’ve had their donuts before, I know you get it.) You can totally turn it into a whole day of fall fun.
Attend a fall festival.
With that crisp fall air and cozy vibes in full swing, this is the time to hit up a local fall festival. Between the live music, small-town charm, and booths full of handmade goodies, it’s basically a fall lover’s dream. You’ll find local wine, craft beers, artisan treats, and plenty of snacky stops to munch your way through town while soaking up festive energy.
If you’re in Indy, don’t miss the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival, it’s such a (spooky) vibe. And if you’re down for a day trip, the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival is a must. It’s the biggest fall festival in the state and totally worth it just to see those dreamy bridges dressed up in autumn colors. Or if you’re headed to New York for a weekend trip (which I highly recommend!), make sure to explore my NYC fall activities post to add all the things you want to add to your itinerary.
I talk more about these spots (and more!) in my post: “Festive Fall Spots to Visit Around Indy.”
Host a Friendsgiving.
Thanksgiving is great, but Friendsgiving might be even more fun because there are fewer rules! Pick a night before everyone else’s holiday schedules get chaotic, invite your favorite people over, and have everyone bring something to share.
You can do a traditional Thanksgiving spread or completely ignore the tradition and serve whatever your group actually wants to eat. The point is to get everyone around the same table. Light some candles, make a playlist, open a bottle of wine, and use it as an excuse to slow down and catch up before the holiday rush starts. You can even make it an annual tradition and rotate who hosts each year.
Test your bravery at a haunted house.
I don’t know about you, but I live for spooky season. Fall just isn’t complete without a little Halloween thrill. And what better way to get your scare on than braving a haunted house? Whether you’re into full-on scream fests or just love the eerie vibe, haunted attractions are the perfect way to lean into the season.
Live around Indy? Make sure to check out Indy Scream Park, The Thirteenth Hour or Nightmare on Edgewood. Go on a weeknight with friends (trust me, the vibes are vibing and the screams are louder). It’s the kind of night that’ll have you laughing, screaming, and grabbing your friend’s arm in the dark.
I share a more personal experience in my post, “Thirteenth Hour Haunted Attraction in Indy.” Make sure to check it out if you’re on the fence and wondering if it’s worth the visit! (Spoiler: it absolutely is.)
Visit a farmer’s market.
A farmers market on a cool fall morning? Yes, please! Grab a coffee and wander around without rushing anywhere. Depending on where you live, you might find apples, squash, pumpkins, fresh flowers, baked goods, local honey, bread, and all kinds of seasonal things you probably didn’t play on buying.
You can also turn it into a little challenge for you and your partner: you each pick one ingredient you’ve never cooked with before and figure out what to make with it when you get home. Or if you’re not great in the kitchen, skip the cooking entirely and buy the fresh bread and pastry! Either way, it’s a nice excuse to get outside and support local vendors while fall produce is at its best.
Visit a pumpkin patch.
Let’s be real, fall doesn’t officially start until you’ve made a trip to the pumpkin patch. There’s just something so fun about wandering through the rows, searching for that perfect pumpkin. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to get together with your partner, have friends over, and host a fall-themed get-together.
If you’re in Indy, Piney Acres Farm in Fortville is one of my go-tos. Technically, you don’t have to spend any money here! You can wander through the rows, take pictures, and enjoy the vibe. But if you do decide you want to enjoy some of the what the farm has to offer, expect 73 acres of full-on fall fun—think pumpkins for days, hayrides, corn mazes, and plenty of kid-friendly activities. It’s a full fall experience, and then some.
Aside from Piney Acres, there are so many other good places to choose from. In fact, I even created an Indy Apple Orchard & Pumpkin Patch Guide! Make sure to check it out to plan a season full of fun.
Go tailgating.
Football tailgating is basically its own fall holiday, so grab your partner and friends and go tailgating at least once this season. Whether you actually have tickets to the game or you’re mostly showing up for the snacks and socializing, it’s such a fun way to spend a crisp fall Saturday.
Make it as simple or elaborate as you want. Bring folding chairs, throw together a cooler, and have everyone contribute a game-day snack or drink. If you’re hosting at home instead, set up the TV, make chili or sliders, and call it a tailgate anyway! I’m firmly of the opinion that you don’t have to know what’s happening on the field to enjoy football season.
Hand out Halloween candy.
You don’t have to go anywhere on Halloween to have a good night. Staying home and handing out candy can honestly be one of the most fun ways to celebrate, especially if your neighborhood gets a lot of trick-or-treaters.
Get candy you actually like (this is important for leftover purposes), turn on a Halloween movie or playlist, order dinner, and make a night of seeing all the costumes that come up to the door. If you and your partner want to (and can), you could even set up a small projector on the front porch, turn on a kid-friendly Halloween movie, and sit outdoors as you greet everyone and fill their baskets.
Go to a bourbon or wine tasting.
If you need a fall date idea that isn’t another dinner reservation, plan a bourbon or wine tasting! Fall is such a good time to visit a winery, vineyard, or distillery, especially somewhere with outdoor seating and a view.
Book a tasting, take your time trying a few things, and learn a little about what you’re drinking instead of automatically ordering your usual. If you live near wine country, make a full day of it and visit a couple of different spots. If you don’t, look for tasting rooms, local distilleries, or wine bars closer to home. This is also a great double-date idea when you want something that gives everyone an activity but still leaves plenty of time to talk.
Celebrate Halloween with friends.
You’re never too old to celebrate Halloween—trust me. Whether you’re hitting up the bars, throwing a spooky little party, or braving a haunted house with friends and a partner, there’s always fun to be had. And of course, don’t skip the costume! You never know when a costume contest might pop up. If you didn’t know this about me, I’m fully committed when it comes to dressing up for Halloween. Seriously, just check out some of my favorite costumes from the past years. Or, even better, check out my creative Halloween costume ideas.
Get lost in a corn maze.
A corn maze sounds like an activity designed exclusively for kids until you’re 20 minutes in, completely lost, and arguing with your partner about who insisted you turn left three intersections ago. In other words? Corn mazes can be surprisingly difficult! But that’s exactly why you should do one.
Look for a local farm that has a corn maze and make an afternoon out of it. During the day, it’s a fun excuse to get outside and enjoy the fall weather. If you want something a little more chaotic, some farms offer haunted corn mazes after dark during October! Either way, wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty and maybe designate you or your partner to actually remember where you’ve been already.
Take a hayride.
While you’re at the pumpkin patch or farm, don’t skip the hayride. It’s one of those activities that immediately makes you feel like you’re actually doing all of the fall things you put on your must-do list in the beginning of the season.
Hayrides are especially fun when the weather’s finally cooled down enough that you can comfortably wear a sweater without regretting it 10 minutes later. Grab a cider or some hot chocolate, pile on with your partner, friends, and family, and enjoy getting driven around somewhere pretty without having to do anything but enjoy the experience.
Indoor Fall Activities for Rainy Days
Host a fall movie marathon.
One of the best parts of fall? Leaning all the way into cozy season, and nothing says cozy like a fall movie marathon in your softest loungewear. I’m talking throw blankets, fuzzy socks, and a full lineup of classics.
Maybe you’re in the mood for a little nostalgia. If so, hit play on The Addams Family or Remember the Titans. Prefer something a little witchy? You can’t go wrong with Beetlejuice or Practical Magic. Or, of course, you could opt for an all-weekend Harry Potter binge—who wouldn’t want that? Ultimately, there’s no shortage of fall favorites to queue up.
And you can’t forget all the things that make a movie marathon SO fun. Whip up a seasonal snack board, shake up a festive cocktail, toss some extra pillows on the couch, and light that pumpkin spice candle. Movie night magic: activated. Check out my post about How to Make a Fall Charcuterie Board for your next fall movie marathon!
Embrace the flavors of fall through food and drink.
There’s no better way to soak up the season than through its flavors. And, maybe I’m biased, but fall might just be the tastiest time of year.
Whether you’re in the mood to tie an apron and bake a pumpkin pie or apple fritters, simmer up a cozy pumpkin chili, or shake up a festive cocktail, fall is full of delicious possibilities. Try one of my seasonal favorites like a Pumpkin Spice White Russian or Apple Pie Punch—they never disappoint. Or, if you want to skip going out for a seasonal coffee and make one at home (because yes, it can be just as exciting), check out my homemade pumpkin spice creamer recipe. It’s equal parts sweet and cozy.
And let’s be honest, fall flavors are even better when shared. Host a fun Friendsgiving potluck or bring a fall-inspired dessert to Thanksgiving dinner. However you enjoy them, those warm, spicy, cinnamon-y flavors are a must this season.
Carve a pumpkin.
Pumpkin carving deserves its own night. Invite a fews friends over, order takeout, put on a Halloween movie, and turn it into an actual event instead of rushing through it the night before Halloween. You can go with a traditional jack-o’-lantern face, attempt one of those wildly ambitious designs you found on Pinterest, or make it a competition and let everyone vote on the winner. (Bonus points if you post a poll on IG.)
Personally? I think the slightly terrible pumpkins are usually more fun anyway; don’t take yourself too serious! And if dealing with pumpkin guts sounds like your personal nightmare, painting them is equally as fun. They’ll last longer, there’s less cleanup, and you can still use them as decor afterward!
Have a Fall Craft Night.
Hear me out: a fall craft night where you’re not trying to make everything perfect. Get a few friends together, open a bottle of wine, put something cozy on TV, and make something you wouldn’t mind keeping as a piece of fall decor! You could paint mini pumpkins, make a fall wreath, decorate taper candles, press leaves into frames, paint wine glasses, or attempt one of the other 400 DIYs living on your Pinterest board.
You absolutely don’t need to be artistic for this to be fun. In fact, it might be better if nobody knows what they’re doing! Pick up inexpensive supplies beforehand, put out some snacks, and embrace the possibility that your homemade fall decor may look nothing like the inspiration photo (and that it’s okay!).
Decorate your home.
There’s truly nothing better than a breezy, rainy fall day where you can clean up, light some candles, and get ready to dress your house in all things autumn. And you don’t have to cover every available surface with tiny pumpkins to make your home feel cozy for the fall! A few small swaps can completely change the mood.
Bring out the cozy fall blankets, switch to warmer pillow covers, set out your favorite fall candles, and add a few seasonal touches around the house. I love using things that don’t scream “Halloween” so they can stay out from September through Thanksgiving. Think: warm colors, dried flowers, branches, baskets, and single pumpkins. And before buying a whole new collection of decor, shop your own closet first. You’d be surprised what you already own that feels completely different once fall comes around!
Go thrifting for sweaters.
The first cool day of the year always makes me want to find an entirely new wardrobe, which is exactly why this is the perfect time for a thrift-shop trip. Give yourself an afternoon to hunt for oversized knits, cardigans, vintage sweatshirts, jackets, boots, or anything else that can work its way into your fall rotation.
Don’t be afraid to look outside your usual size or section, either! The best oversized sweater might just be hiding somewhere you’d never normally shop. It’s much more fun than scrolling through the same sweaters online, and finding something genuinely good feels like winning a very low-stakes competition.
Have a cozy reading day.
When fall gives you one of those gray, rainy days when leaving the house sounds terrible, don’t. Make staying home the plan! Pick the book you’ve been meaning to read, put your pone somewhere you won’t automatically reach for it every few minutes, make coffee or tea, and get comfortable.
Light a candle, grab the softest blanket you own, and give yourself permission to do absolutely nothing productive for a few hours. (Or, honestly, the full day! No judgment here). If you’re normally someone who can’t sit still without feeling like you should be accomplishing something, consider this your official excuse. A rainy fall afternoon spent reading on the couch is not wasted time; it’s practically a must.
Rewatch Gilmore Girls.
At this point, rewatching Gilmore Girls when fall arrives is practically a seasonal obligation. Something about Stars Hollow, endless cups of coffee, and Lorelai and Rory walking around in sweaters just feels right when it’s chilly and rainy outside.
Start from season one, naturally. Then, make something warm to drink and settle in for an episode… or six. As someone who’s currently starting their own annual Gilmore Girls binge-watch, this is easily one of my favorite fall activities. I literally look forward to it every year!
When Does Fall Actually Start?
Technically, fall begins with the autumnal equinox, which actually falls around September 22nd or 23rd in the Northern Hemisphere. But depending on where you live, it may not actually feel like fall for a few more weeks. Sweater weather has a mind of its own.
Fall foliage follows on its own schedule, too. Leaves can start reaching peak color as early as late September in parts of northern New England and other cooler northern regions. Peak foliage generally works its way south throughout October, while warmer areas of the South may not see their best color until late October or November. If leaf peeping is on your fall bucket list, check a local foliage tracker before making plans since timing can shift slightly from year to year.
As for pumpkin patches, apple orchards, corn mazes, and other seasonal attractions, many start opening in September and run through October or early November, although the exact dates vary by location and weather. Apple-picking seasons can begin even earlier depending on the variety, while haunted attractions tend to get going closer to October.
Basically, you don’t have to wait for the first official day of fall to start enjoying it. Once the cider is flowing and the pumpkin patches are open, I say the season has begun!
What Is Good About Fall Season?
Cool Weather
After a summer of sticky heat and way too much time hiding in the AC, fall shows up like a breath of fresh air—literally. The mornings are crisp, the afternoons are warm, and suddenly being outside feels so much more doable (and actually enjoyable!).
It’s that perfect in-between weather where you can throw on a light jacket, grab your coffee, and soak up the last bits of sunshine before winter rolls in. Hit a hiking trail, head to a local fall festival, or just curl up with a book on the porch. Fall is the perfect time to be outdoors.
Seasonal Flavors
If you’ve been around for a bit, you already know that I’m a big fan of fall flavors. Give me all the pumpkin spice, apple everything, and seasonal cocktails, and I’m in heaven. You can find me whipping up something sweet like my pumpkin fluff dip or picking up an apple cider donut from Dull’s Tree Farm. (A personal local favorite!) I love finding little ways to add that seasonal magic to my day.
You don’t have to be a kitchen pro, either. Just adding one fall-flavored treat into your routine can totally shift your mood and help you soak up all the cozy vibes this season brings.
Autumn Colors
Fall is when the world turns golden. The leaves start showing off in vibrant shades, making it the perfect excuse to go on a road trip through New England to see the fall foliage this time of year.
But those fall colors don’t just show up in the trees. You’ll see them in cozy outfits, too. Whether you’re layering up in rust and olive or sipping a cider under a canopy of changing leaves, this season is meant to be embraced. So, however you’re showing off your fall colors this year—go all in.
Need a little inspiration? Check out my posts on “Paris Fall Outfits” and “NYC Fall Outfits!” Even if traveling isn’t in your itinerary this season, each look fits the fall vibe perfectly, wherever you’re spending it. And if you do decide to travel, I highly recommend investing in a fall travel capsule wardrobe. It makes packing, planning, and getting on the road SO much easier.
Festive Vibes
This time of year? It’s all about the festivity. Between Halloween parties, harvest festivals, and cozy Thanksgiving dinners, it honestly feels like there’s something to celebrate every weekend. (Here’s some Thanksgiving tablescape inspo, by the way!)
Maybe you’re out strolling a fall street fair, grabbing seasonal goodies and fall-flavored treats. Or instead, you might be rewatching Gilmore Girls for the hundredth time (As I mentioned earlier, guilty!). Whatever you’re up to, this season just knows how to bring the magic.
It’s time to fill your calendar with fall activities to embrace the season and make memories!
Whether you’re staying local this season or planning a trip to chase fall foliage autumn is the perfect time to slow down and soak up the magic. From pumpkin carving to indulging in fall flavors, now you have a whole bucket list of activities to enjoy this harvest season!
Craving more travel inspo? Don’t miss my blog posts, “Best Places to Visit in the Fall” and “Paris in the Fall”—they’re packed with dreamy ideas. And if you’re not already hanging out with me on Instagram, come say hi @sierrainthecity for real-time adventures and fall vibes!
What’s On Your Fall Bucket List?
Don’t forget to comment below and let me know what you have planned for this fall season! Are you rewatching Gilmore Girls (and still secretly hoping they’ll tie up that HUGE plot hole at the end of the spin-off?!) Are you painting mini pumpkins and DIY-ing your first painted wine glass? Or are you doing both at the same time? I’d love to know which pumpkin patches you go to, any apple orchards you swear by, and all the fun haunted house experiences you have.
Happy fall season!
