As the crisp air of autumn sets in and the leaves begin to change, it’s the perfect time to get outdoors with your kids and enjoy nature’s vibrant colors. Autumn offers a variety of family-friendly activities that let you embrace the season and make lasting memories. Whether you’re exploring local parks, embarking on new adventures, or trying out water sports, there’s something for everyone. Here are seven outdoor activities you can enjoy with your kids this fall.
1. Nature Walks and Leaf Collecting
Autumn is the ideal season for family nature walks. The cooler temperatures make for comfortable hiking conditions, and the colorful foliage adds an extra layer of beauty to your surroundings. Take your kids to a nearby park or forest and encourage them to collect different types of leaves. You can turn it into a fun scavenger hunt by identifying various leaf shapes and colors.
Once you’ve gathered a collection, bring the leaves home for a creative project like leaf rubbings or making a scrapbook. It’s a simple way to get kids excited about nature while spending quality time outdoors. Plus, walking in nature has proven benefits for both physical and mental health, making it a win for the whole family.
2. Pumpkin Picking and Corn Mazes
No autumn is complete without a visit to a local pumpkin patch. Many farms offer more than just pumpkin picking—corn mazes, hayrides, and petting zoos are often part of the experience. Corn mazes are a great way to engage your kids’ problem-solving skills as they navigate their way through, and the thrill of finding the perfect pumpkin adds to the excitement of the day.
Pumpkin picking isn’t just fun—it can also be educational. Teach your kids about different types of pumpkins and gourds, or get them involved in planning how they’ll carve and decorate their pumpkins once you get home. It’s a festive fall activity that combines creativity and adventure.
3. Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding isn’t just a summer activity. In fact, autumn can be an ideal time to hit the water with your kids, thanks to the peacefulness and stunning reflections of fall foliage on lakes and rivers. Paddleboarding is a great way to get kids active while also enjoying the beauty of nature from a different perspective. For beginners, the calm waters of autumn make for a smoother learning experience.
If your family is new to paddleboarding, you’ll want to make sure you’re properly equipped. Start by checking out helpful tips for new paddlers to ensure you’re ready for the water. Make sure to dress in layers for the cooler weather, and always prioritize safety by wearing life jackets. Many paddleboarding rental spots also offer lessons, making it easy to get started even if you’re a first-timer.
4. Apple Picking
Apple picking is a classic fall activity that’s fun for all ages. Heading to an orchard gives your family a chance to enjoy the crisp fall air while gathering fresh, delicious apples right from the tree. Many orchards also have kid-friendly attractions like petting zoos, pony rides, and cider tastings, turning the day into a full autumn adventure.
Beyond the picking, apple orchards provide a great opportunity to teach kids about farming, seasonal fruits, and where their food comes from. Once you’re home, you can continue the fun by baking apple pies, making apple sauce, or even crafting with apple stamps.
5. Campfire and S’mores Night
As the days grow shorter and the evenings cooler, gathering around a campfire can be the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors with your kids. Find a safe, designated spot to build a campfire—whether it’s at a local campsite, in your backyard, or a public park with fire pits.
Roasting marshmallows and making s’mores is a fall tradition that never gets old. While you’re at it, you can teach your kids how to build a fire safely and responsibly. The cozy warmth of the fire, paired with the smell of toasted marshmallows, creates a memorable experience. Don’t forget to share some spooky ghost stories or sing campfire songs for an extra fun night.
6. Outdoor Art with Natural Materials
Autumn is full of natural materials that can be used for art projects, and kids love getting hands-on with creative activities. Head outside and gather acorns, pinecones, colorful leaves, and twigs. Once you’ve collected your materials, you can bring them home and create seasonal crafts like leaf collages, pinecone animals, or homemade wreaths.
You can also try nature-inspired photography. Give your kids a camera or smartphone and let them capture their favorite fall scenes, from trees ablaze in autumn colors to close-ups of unique leaves. It’s a great way to encourage their artistic side while teaching them to appreciate the details of nature.
7. Bike Rides Through Scenic Trails
Fall is a fantastic time to take family bike rides along scenic trails. The cool air and changing leaves make for a beautiful ride, whether you’re exploring your local park or venturing a bit further afield to more rural paths. Many parks have designated bike trails that are safe for families, with areas to stop for a picnic or play.
To make the ride even more exciting, plan a route that takes you past points of interest like streams, bridges, or even playgrounds where your kids can take a break and play. For younger children, make sure to choose flat, smooth trails and bring along plenty of water and snacks to keep everyone energized.
Autumn is a wonderful season for families to get outdoors and enjoy time together. From leaf collecting and pumpkin picking to paddleboarding and bike rides, there’s no shortage of activities that can help you and your kids connect with nature and each other. As you embark on these adventures, don’t forget to check out helpful tips for new paddlers if you’re trying out paddleboarding for the first time—it’s a fantastic way to experience the beauty of fall on the water.
These activities not only create fun, lasting memories but also encourage physical activity and a deeper appreciation for the world around us. So, grab your kids, bundle up, and get ready to embrace the beauty of autumn!
