Create the ultimate autumn bucket list with fun seasonal activities like apple picking, hiking, enjoying bonfires, and attending fall festivals. Who’s ready to embrace the magic of fall?
Autumn’s arrival brings crisp air, stunning landscapes, and an opportunity to embrace the beauty of the changing season. Whether you’re spending time outdoors or cozying up at home, fall offers countless ways to enjoy the little moments and make lasting memories.
Here’s the ultimate autumn bucket list with activities designed to help you fully savor this magical time of year. Enjoy!
1. Pick Apples at a Local Orchard
Nothing says autumn like a visit to a local apple orchard. Strolling through rows of apple trees, plucking ripe fruit from the branches, and filling your basket is a perfect way to enjoy the season. Apple picking isn’t just about the fruit—it’s about the experience. Many orchards offer hayrides, cider tastings, or farm-fresh doughnuts to make your visit even more memorable.
Once you’ve picked your apples, the possibilities are endless. From snacking on fresh, crisp apples to using them in pies or sauces, the fruits of your labor will last all season long.
Insider Tip: Early to mid-October is often the best time for apple picking, as the apples are at their peak and the orchards are still brimming with festive activities.
2. Carve a Pumpkin
Carving a pumpkin is an essential autumn tradition. Whether you go for a classic jack-o’-lantern or try your hand at a more intricate design, this activity is a fun and creative way to get into the fall spirit. Gather your friends or family, pick up a few pumpkins, and host a carving session at home. Display your creations on your front porch to greet trick-or-treaters or to enjoy the festive look all month long.
Carving pumpkins isn’t just about Halloween—it’s about welcoming the season with a creative, hands-on activity that brings joy to both kids and adults.
3. Try a New Soup this Autumn
When the air gets chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. This autumn, challenge yourself to try a new soup recipe using seasonal ingredients like squash, root vegetables, or hearty beans. Whether it’s a creamy butternut squash soup, a chunky vegetable stew, or a warming tomato bisque, soups are a perfect way to bring the essence of autumn into your kitchen.
And when you’ve mastered a new recipe, share it with friends and family at your next gathering. Nothing says autumn like a pot of soup simmering on the stove, filling your home with delicious aromas.
4. Go on a Picnic in the Park
Autumn’s cool, crisp air and vibrant foliage make it an ideal time to pack a cozy picnic and head to the park. Bring your favorite seasonal foods, a thermos of warm cider or cocoa, and a soft blanket to sit on. Find a scenic spot under a tree or by a pond to take in the beauty of fall.
Picnics are a great way to enjoy nature, whether with loved ones or during solo time. The peaceful surroundings and fall colors make this simple activity feel extra special.
5. Go for a Hike in the Autumn Foliage
One of the best ways to experience autumn’s beauty is hiking through the woods. As the trees turn golden and red, the trails become a wonderland of color. Hiking not only lets you enjoy the fresh air and gorgeous views, but it’s also a great way to stay active during the cooler months.
Whether hiking a new trail or revisiting an old favorite, fall offers the perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. Don’t forget your camera—there will be many photo-worthy moments along the way!
6. Eat S’mores by a Bonfire
Gathering around a bonfire with friends or family is a classic autumn experience, made even better by adding s’mores. Toasting marshmallows over the fire, assembling the perfect graham cracker sandwich, and enjoying the gooey, chocolatey goodness is pure autumn bliss.
Bonfires provide warmth, light, and a perfect backdrop for sharing stories and laughter on a cool autumn evening. If you don’t have a bonfire setup at home, check out local parks or campgrounds that offer designated fire pits for public use.
7. Forage for Natural Craft Supplies
Autumn is the ideal time to go foraging for natural items for crafts and decorations. Instead of focusing on edibles, explore your local park or forest for treasures like pinecones, acorns, colorful leaves, and branches/sticks. These items are perfect for creating autumn-inspired DIY projects.
You can use your finds to make:
- Leaf Garlands: String together vibrant leaves for a nature-inspired garland to decorate your mantel or windows.
- Pinecone Centerpieces: Combine pinecones with candles, berries, and small pumpkins to create a beautiful table centerpiece.
- Branches make great fillers for fall arrangements. Use sticks to craft rustic photo frames, wreaths, or even simple sculptures for your home. For example, this charming rustic stick vase.
Not only is foraging fun, but it also brings a sense of nature into your living space, making it feel more connected to the season.
8. Watch a Football Game
Fall and football go hand in hand, making it the perfect season to attend a game or host a watch party at home. Whether you’re a passionate fan or enjoy the camaraderie, football games provide a festive atmosphere full of energy and excitement.
Tailgating before the game, donning your team’s colors, and enjoying classic game-day foods like nachos or chili add to the experience. If you prefer watching from home, cozy up with a blanket and invite friends for a fun afternoon cheering on your favorite team (Go Chiefs!).
9. Attend an Autumn Festival
Fall festivals are an excellent way to celebrate the season. From pumpkin festivals to harvest fairs, these community events are packed with activities that capture the essence of autumn. Many festivals feature hayrides, live music, craft booths, and seasonal treats like caramel apples or hot cider.
Exploring a fall festival is fun and a great way to support local artisans, farmers, and small businesses. Check out what’s happening in your area and participate in the festive spirit!
10. Bake a Homemade Pie
Baking a pie is one of autumn’s most satisfying traditions. Whether you’re making a classic apple pie, a pumpkin pie, or something more adventurous, the process of baking brings warmth and comfort into your home. Even if you’re not an expert baker, pies are reasonably simple to make and can be a great way to use seasonal fruits and spices.
The smell of a pie baking in the oven is synonymous with fall, and sharing it with friends or family is a sweet way to celebrate the season.
11. Enjoy a Seasonal Beverage
Autumn is the perfect time to indulge in seasonal drinks that warm your hands and heart. A cozy beverage, such as a spiced chai latte, hot apple cider, or rich hot chocolate, is a must during the cooler months.
While autumn is often associated with warm drinks, I don’t want to forget the cold beverages, too! Seasonal favorites like pumpkin cream cold brew, iced chai lattes, or apple cider spritzers offer the perfect balance of fall flavors and a cool, invigorating sip. These cold drinks bring all the cozy autumn flavors in a refreshing form. They’re perfect for those sunny, crisp fall afternoons while enjoying the seasonal festivities. I love the pumpkin cream cold brew at Starbucks right now. So good.
Making your own seasonal drinks at home can be a fun and creative way to experiment with flavors. Add a cinnamon stick or a dollop of whipped cream for a little extra indulgence as you settle into the cozy fall vibe.
12. Wear a Flannel Shirt
Nothing says autumn like slipping into a comfortable flannel shirt. The soft, warm fabric is perfect for layering on cool days, whether you’re headed out for a hike, running errands, or enjoying a bonfire. Flannel is practical and a fall fashion staple that gives off that cozy, rustic vibe we all love this time of year.
Pair your favorite flannel with jeans and boots for the ultimate autumn look—perfect for all your seasonal adventures.
13. Take an Autumn Scenic Drive
A scenic drive is a peaceful and relaxing way to take in the full beauty of autumn. Head out to the countryside or take a winding route through the mountains. Either way, the brilliant colors of the fall foliage are a sight to behold. Bring a camera, a cozy playlist, and perhaps a warm drink to enjoy as you drive.
Some of the most beautiful drives in the fall can be found along scenic byways or national parks. Wherever the changing leaves may be, they create a natural masterpiece. Make a day of it, stopping at local spots for a bite to eat or a short hike to fully immerse yourself in autumn’s splendor.
Other Fall Bucket Lists and Inspiration:
Must-Wall Fall Movies
Reasons to Love Fall Printable
Halloween Bucket List
Pumpkin Spice Printable (with Recipe)
Printable Fall Bucket List Ideas
Printable Autumn Bucket List
Please Note: All printables and downloads from Live Laugh Rowe are for personal use only. Modifying the files or claiming them as your own is not allowed. Selling digital or printed versions is prohibited.
SAVE OR DOWNLOAD AUTUMN BUCKET LIST
Autumn offers many opportunities to slow down, enjoy nature, and savor the season’s simple pleasures. From outdoor adventures like hiking and apple picking to cozy nights by the bonfire with s’mores, there’s something for everyone on this autumn bucket list.
So grab your favorite flannel, step outside, and embrace the magic of fall. What will you check off your autumn bucket list this year?
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