Looking to make the most of the coziest season of the year? Whether you’re craving cool and crisp outdoor adventures, pumpkin-spiced everything, or just want an excuse to buy fluffy pajamas and light a cinnamon candle, this fall activities list is for you.
This ultimate collection of 2025 autumn bucket list ideas will help you soak in every golden leaf, spooky night, and apple-scented moment. From scenic drives and seasonal crafts to Halloween movie marathons and cozy self-care rituals, use this as your go-to guide for an unforgettable autumn.
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Nature & Outdoor Adventures
Apple picking
There’s nothing like the simple joy of wandering through colorful orchards, filling your basket with crisp, sun-warmed fruit straight from the tree. It’s a wholesome way to celebrate the season – complete with cider, hay rides, and the satisfying crunch of your first bite. Here’s 21 Apple Picking Tips to help you enjoy your day.
Scenic Fall road trip
Experience the mild weather and the tranquility of fewer crowds – compared to summer – while witnessing the stunning autumn foliage. Road trips in general provide flexibility and a sense of adventure, allowing for spontaneous stops and exploration. Road trips also provide the opportunity for excellent fall landscape photography opportunities.
Foggy morning walks
An early morning walk in the fog wraps the world in a hushed stillness, where every sound is softened and distant. The mist clings to the air like a blanket, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere that feels both mysterious and deeply calming. For an extra creepy vibe, head to your local cemetery on a foggy morning.
Explore a pumpkin patch
There’s nothing like wandering through rows of plump pumpkins, crisp air in your lungs, and the scent of hay and cider all around you. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgic fun and seasonal magic – and let’s be honest, your fall photos will thank you. Here’s 15 tips for your pumpkin patch visit and some tips to take perfect photos at the pumpkin patch.
Fall hiking
A scenic fall hike offers a peaceful escape, with winding trails lined by trees ablaze in shades of amber, crimson, and gold. As leaves drift gently from the branches and sunlight filters through the canopy, the world feels slower, quieter – like nature is inviting you to simply breathe and be. If your location doesn’t have a fire lookout, climb to the highest point for the best view and photos. Here are 21 beginner tips for fall hiking.
Fall boat tour
A boat tour in fall offers a front-row seat to the season’s most breathtaking show – vibrant leaves reflecting off the water in fiery shades of red, orange, and gold that make your photos the winner on social media. With cooler air, fewer crowds, and peaceful surroundings, it’s the most serene and spectacular way to soak in autumn’s beauty before the boats go into storage.
Explore botanical gardens
Botanical gardens are exceptional in the fall because they showcase a stunning variety of plants and trees at their peak autumn color, creating a living mosaic of rich reds, oranges, and golds. The cooler air and quieter paths make it the perfect time to slow down, explore, and appreciate nature’s artistry in a peaceful, curated setting. Find a botanical garden near you!
Celebrate National Mushroom Month
Mushroom foraging in the fall turns a simple walk in the woods into a magical treasure hunt, with earthy scents, vibrant fungi, and the thrill of discovery around every mossy corner. It’s a grounding way to connect with nature, learn something new, and maybe even find ingredients for a cozy autumn meal. Here’s some mushroom harvesting tips for beginners.
Enjoy a photography walk
Fall is the best season for taking pictures because the natural light is softer and warmer, perfectly complementing the rich, vibrant colors of changing leaves. With golden hours that seem to linger and landscapes bursting with texture and contrast, every shot feels like a postcard-worthy moment. These simple fall photography tips will help you capture the best images.
Visit a farmers market
Fall farmers markets burst with seasonal treasures like crisp apples, hearty squash, pumpkins, and root vegetables that aren’t available in summer. They also offer unique autumn treats like fresh apple cider, spiced baked goods, and cozy preserves that capture the true flavors and spirit of the harvest season. To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early for the best selection, bringing reusable bags and cash, and exploring the variety of seasonal produce and other goods. Don’t be afraid to ask farmers about their products and how to best use them.
Go on a local ghost tour
A local ghost tour combines spooky thrills with fascinating history, revealing eerie stories and hidden secrets about your own town that you never knew. It’s a fun, immersive way to explore places after dark, where the past feels alive and the chills come with a side of laughter and local lore. To enhance your ghost tour experience, remember to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, arrive early to avoid rushing, and bring a camera or smartphone to capture any potential paranormal activity. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and consider bringing an umbrella or sunscreen. Most importantly, keep an open mind, and be respectful of the location and the spirits.
Attend a Fall Fair or Festival
Fall fairs and festivals bring the whole community together to celebrate the harvest with vibrant sights, delicious seasonal foods, and lively entertainment that captures the spirit of autumn. From thrilling rides and craft booths to cozy moments enjoying warm treats, it’s a joyful blend of nostalgia, fun, and festive tradition. Here’s some tips to make the most of your fall fair experience.
Visit Amish country
Visiting Amish country in the fall is like stepping into a simpler, slower-paced world where vibrant autumn colors frame charming farms and rustic landscapes. You’ll enjoy fresh, homemade treats, seasonal festivals, and the unique chance to experience time-honored traditions against a breathtaking harvest backdrop. It’s important to respect your hosts, so here’s some tips for visiting Amish county.
Get lost in a corn maze
A corn maze turns a crisp autumn day into an exciting adventure full of twists, turns, and friendly challenges as you navigate your way through towering stalks. It’s the perfect mix of playful teamwork, laughter, and just a little bit of suspense. Plus, it’s a great way to feel like a kid again! If you’re worried you’re really going to get lost, here’s a foolproof guide to escaping a corn maze.
Attend a Halloween-themed amusement park
A Halloween-themed amusement park combines thrilling rides with spooky decorations, live entertainment, and festive treats that immerse you fully in the Halloween spirit. It’s a unique blend of adrenaline, fun scares, and family-friendly festivities that make every visit feel like a magical, unforgettable autumn experience. Here’s everything you need to know about theme parks at Halloween.
Join a harvest potluck in your local community garden
A community garden harvest potluck is a wonderful way to celebrate the season’s bounty while strengthening local connections and sharing homemade, fresh-from-the-garden dishes. It fosters a sense of teamwork, gratitude, and joy – turning hard work into a festive gathering full of laughter, stories, and delicious food.
Leaf Peeping from the air
Whether by plane or helicopter, flying over autumn landscapes offers a breathtaking, bird’s-eye view of endless patchworks of fiery reds, golds, and oranges that you simply can’t fully appreciate from the ground. Though it may be pricey, the unforgettable, sweeping panoramas and unique perspective make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s truly worth every penny.
Mountain Biking
Fall mountain biking is spectacular because the crisp, cool air and vibrant foliage create a stunning backdrop that energizes every ride. Trails are often less crowded, the ground is firmer, and the colors exploding all around make each twist and turn feel like an adventure through a living work of art. Get started with these 10 great mountain bike trails to ride in the fall.
Beach Vacation
A beach vacation in early fall is the BEST because the summer crowds have cleared out, giving you more space to relax and enjoy the scenery in peace. The weather is still warm enough for swimming and sunbathing, but cooler evenings and lower prices make it feel like a secret seasonal sweet spot that your wallet will love! Here’s a beach day checklist you can take with you to make the most of your day.
Fall Camping
Cooler temperatures mean fewer bugs and better sleep for fall camping, while the vibrant foliage creates a stunning natural backdrop. Campgrounds are quieter, making it the perfect season for peaceful hikes, cozy campfires, and star-filled skies. Find a campground near you!
Entertain At Home
Fall themed murder mystery night
Hosting a fall-themed murder mystery night allows for creative costumes, decorations, and even menu options. You can choose from pre-packaged murder mystery games or create your own based on popular fall themes like a harvest festival gone wrong, a spooky hayride accident, or a mystery surrounding a local legend.
Halloween Movie or Series Night
Mix cozy vibes with spooky fun— it’s perfect for bonding over scares, snacks, and laughter. Whether you’re into creepy classics or silly thrillers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy together. Add blankets, popcorn, and pumpkin-themed treats, and it becomes a low-key, festive way to celebrate the season. Make it a potluck and ask your guests to bring something that fits the theme. Here’s a list of popular Halloween movies and shows to get you started.
Horror Movie Fright Night
Jump scares and eerie moments are way more fun (and less scary) when you’re screaming and laughing together. It turns into an instant bonding experience, complete with inside jokes and nervous giggles. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to cuddle up, eat comfort snacks, and embrace the spooky side of fall. Use this list of 200 best horror movies to curate your horror movie playlist and these spooky starters for a spine-chilling Halloween movie night.
Halloween Party
Throwing a Halloween-themed party is the perfect excuse to get creative with spooky decor, fun costumes, and themed treats. It brings people together for a night of laughter, scares, and memories that capture the spirit of the season. Plus, it’s a festive way to make the most of autumn before winter sets in. Here are 7 things to have a killer Halloween party!
Creative & Crafty Fall
Fall themed crafts
Fall-themed crafts are fun because they let you get creative with cozy colors, natural materials like leaves and pinecones, and festive themes like pumpkins and Halloween. It’s a relaxing way to embrace the season and decorate your space with handmade touches. Plus, it’s a great activity for all ages to enjoy together. Here are some fall craft ideas to get you started.
Send a fall-themed care package to family or friends
A fall-themed care package for a loved one could include cozy and comforting items like a soft blanket or fuzzy socks, a fall-scented candle (like pumpkin spice or apple cinnamon), seasonal snacks like caramel popcorn, maple cookies, or spiced tea, and small goodies like a mini pumpkin, fall-themed mug, or hand cream. You can also add a handwritten note, a fall activity list, or even a DIY craft kit to make it extra thoughtful and personal.
Fall and Halloween Decor
Decorating your home with fall and Halloween-themed decor makes your space feel warm, festive, and inviting as the weather cools down. It helps you celebrate the season’s cozy vibes and spooky fun, bringing a little joy and excitement into your everyday routine. Plus, it’s a creative way to mark the transition from summer to the holidays. You can get lots of cool items online, or here are some fall home decor ideas that don’t look like you did it yourself. And to ramp up your Halloween spooky aesthetic, here are 37 Easy and Cheap DIY Halloween Home Decor Ideas.
Fall Baking
Fall baking fills your home with warm, comforting scents like cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin spice that instantly set the mood for the season. It’s a cozy, nostalgic activity that brings people together—whether you’re making apple pie, pumpkin bread, or spiced cookies. Plus, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall and slow down as the days get cooler. Try some of these 64 Fall Baking Recipes Cozier Than a Chunky Sweater.
Fall Harvest Cooking
Fall cooking is all about comfort, warmth, and heartiness – from simmering soups to baked squash and spiced desserts. It’s the season to slow down, savor rich flavors, and enjoy the rhythm of preparing meals that warm both body and soul. With seasonal ingredients like apples, pumpkins, and root veggies, every dish feels like a celebration of autumn’s harvest. Try some of these fall harvest recipes – or create your own!
Can Your Fall Harvest
Canning lets you preserve the bounty of the harvest—apples, tomatoes, pears, and more—so you can enjoy those fresh, seasonal flavors all year long. It’s a satisfying, hands-on tradition that connects you to the rhythm of the seasons and gives you a pantry full of homemade goodness. Plus, it’s a cozy way to spend a crisp afternoon, filling your kitchen with the smell of simmering fruit and spices. Here’s a list of good things to can in Autumn.
Join a pottery class
Pottery classes are especially cool in the fall because they tap into the cozy, creative vibes of the season—there’s something satisfying about working with your hands as the weather cools down. Shaping clay and making something from scratch feels grounding and relaxing, like a warm drink for your soul. Plus, you can create fall-themed pieces like mugs, candle holders, or little pumpkins to use or gift all season long.
Make candy apples
Candy apples are a hands-on, nostalgic treat that captures the sweet and crunchy essence of the season. You get to dip fresh apples into glossy caramel or colorful candy coatings, decorate them with toppings, and enjoy a classic fair-style snack at home. It’s a festive activity that’s perfect for kids, parties, or just getting into the autumn spirit. Try this recipe and feel the vibe.
Write seasonal poetry
The season’s beauty—colorful leaves, crisp air, and golden light—naturally inspires reflection and creativity. The slower pace and cozy atmosphere make it easier to pause, feel deeply, and put emotions into words. Fall invites you to romanticize the little things, making it the perfect backdrop for heartfelt writing. Here are some poetry writing tips to get you started.
Inktober
Participating in Inktober helps boost your artistic skills by encouraging daily creative practice and overcoming creative blocks with fun prompts. It also connects you to a global community of artists, offering inspiration and feedback as you share your work. Plus, completing the challenge builds a strong portfolio that showcases your growth and dedication. Get more information here!
Carve pumpkins or make jack-o’-lanterns
Carving pumpkins is so ubiquitous in fall because it’s a classic tradition that combines creativity, nostalgia, and seasonal celebration. It’s a fun, hands-on way to enjoy the harvest and get into the Halloween spirit, whether you’re going for spooky, silly, or artistic designs. Plus, the whole process—from picking the pumpkin to lighting it up—just feels like fall. Here are 21 pumpkin carving tips to make it easier to do like a pro!
Cozy At-Home Vibes
Fall Deep Cleaning
Fall cleaning and decluttering helps you reset your space before spending more time indoors during the colder months. Clearing out clutter and deep cleaning creates a cozier, more functional home—perfect for hosting, relaxing, or just enjoying the season stress-free. Start with a declutter session, then do a big fall cleaning to prep your space for fall and winter nesting. This guide to fall cleaning can help keep you on track.
Sip hot drinks by the fire or campfire
It’s the perfect way to warm up and unwind as the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter. The cozy combo of a steaming mug and flickering flames creates a comforting ritual that feels like a hug for your soul. It’s a simple pleasure that captures the essence of autumn’s slower, more peaceful pace. Here’s some cozy fall drinks to make you warm & toasty from the inside out.
Enjoy candlelit baths
Candlelit baths feel exceptionally good in the fall because they enhance relaxation and sensory pleasure. The warmth of the water helps soothe sore muscles and ease tension, while the aromatic essential oils often found in lush bath bombs can further promote relaxation and improve mood, creating a cozy and comforting atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to unwind during the colder months.
Fall candles
Fall candles and their warm, cozy scents—like pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, and vanilla woods—instantly make your space feel comforting and seasonal. Lighting one creates a calming atmosphere that pairs perfectly with crisp air, soft blankets, and quiet evenings with a book. They bring the essence of autumn indoors, even if it’s just a regular Tuesday. You can pick your favorites here.
Jigsaw puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles on a rainy fall day offer a calm, screen-free way to focus your mind while the world slows down outside. The soft sound of rain, a warm drink nearby, and the steady rhythm of fitting pieces together create a cozy, almost meditative vibe. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and quiet accomplishment.
Watch the fog roll in
Watching the fog roll in on a fall day softens the world, quieting the noise and creating a peaceful, almost dreamlike atmosphere. The muted colors and slow movement invite stillness and reflection, making it feel like time is momentarily paused. It’s nature’s way of encouraging you to slow down and simply be present while journaling or reading.
Make a gratitude list to stay positive through the darker days
The fall season naturally invites reflection, with its slower pace and cozy moments encouraging you to look inward. Writing down what you’re thankful for helps you appreciate the little things—crisp air, warm drinks, good company—and boosts your mood as the days get shorter. It’s a simple habit that grounds you and brings more joy into your everyday life.
Read a seasonal novel
Reading a novel set in fall during autumn feels extra immersive—you’re experiencing the crisp air, golden leaves, and cozy settings right alongside the characters. The seasonal backdrop deepens the mood, making mysteries feel spookier and romances feel warmer. It’s like wrapping yourself in a story and a blanket at the same time. Here’s a list of books to read in autumn.
Get a seasonal mug
A seasonal mug to enjoy warm fall drinks adds a little extra joy to your daily routine—it makes every sip of coffee, tea, or cider feel festive and cozy. It’s a small, affordable way to celebrate the season and bring those comforting autumn vibes into your home. Plus, there’s something satisfying about wrapping your hands around a cute, fall-themed mug on a crisp day. Here’s a selection to choose from.
Style, Self-Care & Wellness
Update your wardrobe
The changing weather calls for layers, warmer fabrics, and cozy essentials like boots, sweaters, and scarves. It’s also a chance to refresh your style, embrace seasonal colors, and feel more comfortable and confident as the temperatures drop. Plus, there’s just something fun about bundling up in cute, comfy clothes that match the autumn vibe. Here’s some ideas to start with.
Join a book club
Fall is a great time to join a book club because the cooler weather encourages cozy indoor gatherings perfect for thoughtful discussions and connection. With longer nights and a slower pace, you’ll have more time to dive into books and share your love of reading with others. Plus, it’s a fun way to beat the fall blues and make new friends around a shared passion.
Treat yourself to some new cozy pajamas
Cozy, fuzzy pajamas are the ultimate cozy upgrade for chilly nights, wrapping you in warmth and softness as the temperature drops. They make lounging, reading, or sleeping feel like a comforting hug, perfectly matching the season’s relaxed, homey vibe. Plus, they’re a little everyday luxury that turns simple moments into self-care. Here are some options if you’re convinced.
Update your hair color
Dyeing your hair a different color in fall is a fun way to refresh your look and embrace the season’s rich, warm tones like deep reds, chestnuts, or caramel highlights. It matches the changing landscape and mood, giving you a cozy, stylish boost as you transition into cooler months. Plus, it’s a bold way to express yourself and shake up your routine before the holidays.
Treat yourself to a relaxing massage
A fall massage helps your body relax and reset after the busy summer and prepares you for the colder months ahead. The cooler weather can cause stiffness and tension, and a massage is the perfect way to warm up, boost circulation, and relieve stress. It’s a cozy act of self-care that aligns perfectly with fall’s slower, more nurturing vibe.
Enjoy comfort food
Comfort food is especially good in fall because it warms you up from the inside out, perfectly matching the season’s chill and cozy vibes. Roasted meats, hearty soups, casseroles, and baked treats bring a sense of nostalgia and home, making you feel grounded and cared for. It’s the ultimate way to nourish both your body and your mood as the days get cooler.
Discover a cozy bookstore
Exploring a cozy bookstore on a rainy fall day is the perfect escape—there’s something magical about being surrounded by books while the rain taps softly outside. The warm lighting, quiet atmosphere, cozy seating and smell of books create a calming, nostalgic vibe that invites you to slow down and wander. It’s a simple pleasure that feels like stepping into your own little autumn story.
Give yourself Fall Nails
A manicure and pedicure in fall is important because cooler weather can dry out your skin and nails, so a little extra care keeps them healthy and polished. It’s also a cozy form of self-care that lets you slow down, relax, and feel put-together—even if you’re just lounging in fuzzy socks. Plus, fall colors like deep burgundy, burnt orange, and moody neutrals make nail care extra fun and seasonal.