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Ultimate Fall Family Bucket List: 20 Must-Do Activities this Autumn

Fall is the perfect time to create a memorable fall bucket list with your family.

Embrace the season with a range of exciting activities that highlight the beauty and fun of autumn.

From exploring pumpkin patches and enjoying scenic drives to embarking on cozy cabin getaways, there’s no shortage of ways to savor the season.

Boy laying on a log surrounded by colorful leaves on the ground.

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Discover my handpicked list of fall adventures that will inspire your family to get outside and embrace the magic of the fall.

As a family, you can choose just a few activities or take on all 20 items on this fall family bucket list. 

It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season, try new things, and make unforgettable memories together. 

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1. Go to a Pumpkin Patch 🎃

One quintessential fall activity is visiting a pumpkin patch- a tradition our family never misses each year.

From jumping pillows and farm animals to making mud pies, a pumpkin patch is the perfect place to start checking off your fall family bucket list.


Plus, there’s something extra special about picking out your own pumpkin right from the patch. It’s an experience that adds a touch of magic to the season and brings out the joy of being outdoors together.

We absolutely LOVE visiting Howell’s Pumpkin Patch, located just outside our hometown of West Des Moines, Iowa.

2. Take a Hayrack Ride 🚜

Nothing beats the simple joy of a hayrack ride on a crisp autumn day-it’s truly magical.

You can often find hayrack rides at pumpkin patches or orchards, adding a fun rustic touch to your visit. 

If you’re heading to one of these spots, be sure to set aside time for a hayrack ride. It’s a relaxing way to take in the fall scenery and soak up the season’s charm.

Expert Tip

Make sure you are dressed appropriately for the weather. Consider bringing an extra blanket or two if it is cool outside.

3. Pick Apples at an Orchard 🍎

Apple picking at an orchard is another fantastic fall activity for families.

Check the orchard’s website beforehand because many orchards host special events on weekends that your family might enjoy.

It’s a great chance to not only pick fresh apples but also take part in other classic fall activities that make a day at the orchard even more memorable.

4. Have a Fall Themed Picnic 🧺

Imagine this: a crisp fall evening, the sun beginning to set, and vibrant autumn colors all around you. It’s the perfect setting for a fall-themed picnic with your family.

Pack some seasonal treats like fresh apples, pumpkin bread, apple muffins, and warm apple cider to make the experience even more enjoyable.

With the cool air and beautiful scenery, a fall picnic is a wonderful way to savor the season as a family.

Expert Tip

Bring a football or other ball to toss around with your family.

5. Roast Marshmallows 🔥

Roasting marshmallows on a crisp fall evening is a perfect way to savor the magic of the season.

If you don’t have a fire pit at home, check with local orchards or pumpkin patches- some offer campfire reservations where you can rent a cozy campfire spot for the evening.

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6. Go on a Fall Hike 🥾

This is my absolute favorite fall activity. 

For a memorable hike, find a state or city park with plenty of trees showing off their colorful fall foliage. 

Alternatively, you can stroll through a neighborhood filled with mature trees.

The key is to get outside, stay active with your family, and soak in all the beauty of the fall season.

Expert Tip

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking and and bring along some water to stay hydrated.

In my local area in Iowa, we love hiking at Ledges State Park. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy the fall colors and immerse yourself in nature.

7. Do a Nature Scavenger Hunt 🍂

My kids go nuts for a good scavenger hunt!

For younger kids, you can incorporate a scavenger hunt into a short hike to keep their minds engaged and their little legs moving.

For slightly older kids, it’s often better to separate the hike from the scavenger hunt.

There are many printable scavenger hunts available online or you can create your own. 

You can even involve the kids in making the list to make it more exciting!

8. Take a Scenic Family Bike Ride 🚲

A scenic bike ride is another fantastic fall activity for the whole family.

We often spend a weekend morning loading up our bikes and heading to the High Trestle Bridge in Madrid, Iowa.

The bridge offers stunning views of the Des Moines River Valley.

Look for a bike trail nearby, or make a day of it by driving a few hours to find the ultimate fall scenic route.

9. Attend a Fall Festival 🎡

Fall is the season for a variety of festivals and farmers’ markets.

These events are perfect for embracing the season and enjoying fall flavors.

Find a local festival or market to visit with your family, where you can savor seasonal treats and participate in fun activities.

Many of these events feature attractions and activities that the kids will love, including bounce houses, parades, and more.

10. Visit a Corn Maze 🌽

Navigating a corn maze is a super fun and memorable family activity.

Working together to find your way through the maze can be a great bonding experience.

While it might be challenging for young kids, they often enjoy standing and running through the towering corn stalks.

Older kids, however, will find the maze especially exciting and engaging.

It’s a fantastic way to enjoy an outdoor adventure.

11. Take a Fall Scenic Train Ride 🛤

A scenic train ride is a wonderful fall bucket list item that let’s your family fully embrace the season.

We’re lucky to have the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad just a short drive away. 

The Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad offers a Pumpkin Express train on select weekends during the fall.

Additionally, they provide a rail explorers tour on rail bikes on certain days and times. 

MORE ON RAIL EXPLORERS: Boone Iowa Rail Explorers

This is a perfect way to see the fall colors and enjoy the great outdoors with your family.

Expert Tip

Often, these special train rides sell out early, so make sure to check the train company’s website well in advance to reserve your spot and purchase your tickets.

12. Enjoy a Cozy Cabin Getaway 🍁

Another incredible fall family bucket list item is a cozy cabin getaway.

Whether you’re looking for a nearby retreat or planning a quick road trip, a cabin stay can provide the perfect fall experience.

This is an activity you’ll need to plan in advance.

Find cabin rentals near you or venture out a bit further for a weekend escape. Enjoy a night or two immersed in a fall setting with your family.

DISCOVER MORE: Top 8 Fall Vacation Destinations for Families

13. Go to a Halloween Themed Event 🎃

Attending a Halloween-themed event is another memorable and fun activity to enjoy as a family.

Most towns and cities host various Halloween events, offering something for everyone.

You can dress up in a costume or simply go as you are!

Many of these events feature trick-or-treating and other Halloween-themed fun.

Our local zoo, the Blank Park Zoo, for example, has a Halloween event called Night Eyes where kids can trick or treat and explore the zoo in the evening while dressed up- they love it!

Beyond zoos, many attractions like science museums, children’s museums, theme parks, and even local libraries and churches also host Halloween-themed events.

There are plenty of options to choose from, ensuring a fun and spooky time for the whole family!

14. Go Canoeing, Kayaking, or Take a Scenic Boat Ride 🛶

Experiencing the vibrant fall colors from the water is a wonderful way to embrace the beauty of the season.

Whether you choose to go canoeing, kayaking, or take a scenic boat ride, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors with your family.

15. Plan a Fall Trip to a National Park or State Park 

Fall is an ideal time to visit most national or state parks, as the cooler weather and stunning fall colors make for a perfect backdrop. 

Choosing a national or state park to visit each fall is a wonderful way to experience this magical season in some of the most beautiful locations. 

It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore new places, go on a fall hike, and even spot some wildlife.

Whether you’re surrounded by mountains, forests, or lakes, a fall trip to a park can create unforgettable family memories.   

16. Go Horseback Riding or Take a Horse Drawn Carriage Ride

Horseback riding is a unique outdoor adventure to experience with your family this fall. 

The ride typically takes you through scenic areas, whether winding through the woods or exploring the countryside, offering breathtaking views of the fall colors.

Most guided horseback rides come with a few tour guides who will provide you with all of the knowledge and information you need to for a safe and enjoyable ride.

If horseback riding isn’t your thing, consider a horse-drawn carriage instead. These rides offer a relaxed and charming way to take in the fall scenery, making it a great option for families.

17. Take a Scenic Drive that Showcases Stunning Fall Foliage

Map out a drive that winds through some of the most picturesque areas, highlighting the breathtaking fall colors.

Look for routes that offer scenic viewpoints where you can pull over, stretch your legs, and capture some beautiful photos of the vibrant fall foliage. The kids will appreciate the opportunity to get out for a few minutes too!

Consider planning your drive to pass through charming towns where you can stop for lunch or enjoy a fall treat. 

This is a relaxing way to soak in the fall scenery and make the most of a beautiful autumn day with your family.

18. Stay Overnight in a Treehouse Surrounded by Fall Colors

Staying in a treehouse is on our family’s bucket list, and for good reason- it offers a fun and adventurous experience that creates lasting memories.

How incredible would it be to immerse yourself in nature like this, surrounded by the vibrant colors of fall?

I’ve been eyeing the Hocking Hills Treehouse Cabins in Ohio, which is one example of the amazing treehouse accommodations available.

There are plenty of unique options out there for a memorable family adventure!

19. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Stunning Fall Foliage

A hot air balloon ride is another unique fall adventure to add to your family’s bucket list.

Imagine floating above the treetops, taking in the breathtaking views of colorful leaves and the stunning landscape below.

Must Know Information

The required ages for passengers on a hot air balloon ride may vary depending on the company, and there may be other restrictions as well. Be sure to check the company’s website for specific details before planning your trip.

20. Do a Fall Road Race 🏃‍♀️ or Fun Run with Your Family

Fall is a fantastic time to train for and participate in a road race or fun run with your family.

Many small towns and cities host these races during the fall season, often featuring beautiful routes lined with vibrant foliage.

To make it even more special, consider planning a trip around an out-of-town race, turning it into a fun fall getaway!

There are also plenty of themed races, such as pumpkin runs, Halloween-themed road races, or turkey trots, happening throughout the country.

Expert Recommendation

Look for a race in a new city or area you’d like to explore- it’s a great way to combine fitness with travel and adventure while making some unforgettable memories with your family.

I hope this fall family bucket list inspires your family to get outside together and discover new adventures. 

Download the free printable fall bucket list below!

Let me know what your favorite activity was from this fall family adventure bucket list.

May you LOVE your adventure. KW

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