Fall has been my favorite season since I was a child. There is just something about it that makes it uniquely special. There is a level of energy and excitement, from being back to school, preparing for the holiday season, and having a fresh start after summer. And, there is a level of coziness and calm, with darkening evenings, cooler days, and pumpkin spice everything. As we enter the fall, I always have a list of 5 things to this fall season that I want to do, places I want to go, and experiences I want to have.
Here are the five things that I recommend incorporating into your fall plans this year.
Be a leaf peeper.
New England offers some of the best foliage viewing in the world. Whether it’s in your own backyard or traveling to another part of the region, spend time enjoying the leaves as they change colors. Be sure to keep an eye on the leaf report across New England, so you can plan for peak season wherever you are. On my list, this year is a day trip to Woodstock, VT, which is one of the best New England towns for fall foliage.
Enjoy a local farm.
In the fall, there are few things better than a morning or afternoon spent at a local farm that is filled with pumpkins, apples, entertainment for kids, and enjoyment for adults. Some of my favorites include Tougas Farm, Houlden Farm, Carlson Orchards, and Red Apple Farm. Pick apples, grab a few pumpkins, and enjoy the seasonal offerings – I know I never arrive home without apple cider and donuts for the family.
Enjoy the spooky decorations.
New Englanders know how to celebrate Halloween, and there are some awesome places to do so. On my list this year, is the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at Roger Williams Zoo in Rhode Island, my yearly trip to Salem, and Phantoms by Firelight at Sturbridge Village. There are so many fun places to see. Looking for a fun game with the kids? Count the number of 12-foot skeletons you can find throughout the season (and yes – I finally got my own after three years of waiting!).
Go on a hike.
Fall is a perfect time to hike with the family, so grab your gear and head outside. Whether you go for a short walk at a local spot (like Prospect Park in Shrewsbury), a more involved hike (like Purgatory Chasm in Sutton), or a true mountain experience (like the White Mountains), there is something for every family. Not sure where to go? Join us in our upcoming hiking series, where you’ll get to connect with other local moms!
Plan a cozy night in.
While I love all of the adventures that fall offers, I also love cozy nights at home. Plan a family night (or date night!) ‘in’ and make it extra fall. Set the crockpot in the morning with a yummy stew. Then, bake cookies together and cuddle up to watch a family favorite, like Hocus Pocus or Halloweentown. Before you hit play, stir up my absolute favorite fall cocktail (easy to make into a mocktail) and enjoy!
We would love to hear – what are YOUR favorite fall activities? Share in the comments and tag us on social!
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[…] are always looking for family adventures like new things to do, places to explore, and foods to try. Deerfield, MA is one town that we have […]