Fall is a magical time of year. The air turns crisp, the leaves explode into brilliant shades of orange and red, and suddenly, it feels like the perfect time to get outdoors for some family fun. 

Whether your family already loves the outdoors or you’re just looking for new ways to spend quality time together, fall offers plenty of options to enjoy nature.

But with so many possibilities, it’s easy to wonder where to begin. Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with the top 12 outdoor family activities for fall that everyone will love.

So, lace up your boots, grab a sweater, and get ready to make some memories.

1. Go on a Family Hike (Fall is Leaf-Peeping Season!)

Nothing says “fall” like taking in the vibrant foliage. A family hike is a great way to appreciate the beauty of nature while also burning off some energy.

Whether you live near a national park or a local trail, leaf-peeping is one of the best outdoor family activities to enjoy the season.

Tip: Look for kid-friendly trails that aren’t too steep, especially if you’re hiking with little ones. 

Bringing a kids camera can add some fun—kids love taking pictures of the leaves they discover. You can also ask them to seek out the most colorful backgrounds they can find for family selfies.

2. Visit a Pumpkin Patch

There’s something timeless about visiting a pumpkin patch in the fall.

It’s a perfect family-friendly activity that combines the fun of exploring with the excitement of choosing the perfect pumpkin to take home.

Some farms even offer corn mazes, hayrides, and petting zoos to round out the experience.

Tip: Make a day of it! Pack some snacks and plan to carve your pumpkins as soon as you get home. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even make pumpkin pie from scratch.

Pumpkin patches are fantastic for families because there’s something for everyone—whether you’re taking adorable fall photos or diving into the pumpkin carving afterward.

3. Go Apple Picking

Another quintessential fall activity is apple picking.

Not only is it a fun outdoor family activity, but it’s also a chance to teach kids about where food comes from.

Most apple orchards are family-friendly, with opportunities to sample fresh cider, apple donuts, and other fall treats.

Tip: Research orchards ahead of time to find out what varieties of apples they offer and the best time to visit. Some orchards have additional attractions like hayrides and playgrounds for the kids.

4. Attend a Fall Festival

Many communities host fall festivals packed with family-friendly activities like crafts, games, live music, and food stalls.

These events are perfect for getting out and enjoying the crisp fall air while experiencing a bit of everything the season has to offer.

Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds, and check the event schedule for activities geared toward younger kids, like face painting or storytelling.

Fall festivals often have something for everyone—making them a great way to spend an afternoon or even a whole day outside with the family.

5. Have a Backyard Bonfire

If you’re looking for a more low-key activity, how about building a backyard bonfire?

Gather around the fire with the family to roast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy each other’s company.

It’s a cozy and intimate way to enjoy fall evenings together.

Tip: Keep it safe! Make sure the fire is contained, have a bucket of water nearby, and supervise kids closely. You can even cook dinner over the fire—foil-wrapped potatoes and hotdogs are always a hit.

Nothing beats wrapping up in a blanket next to a crackling fire on a cool fall evening.

6. Explore a Corn Maze

Corn mazes are a favorite fall tradition for many families. They provide a fun way to get lost (literally!) in the fall spirit.

Many farms feature mazes that vary in difficulty, so you can choose one that suits your family’s abilities.

Tip: Bring snacks and water for longer mazes, and if you’re visiting in the evening, don’t forget flashlights or glow sticks for the kids.

If you want a little adventure mixed in with your family fun, a corn maze is the perfect fall activity.

It also encourages teamwork as you all work together to find your way out!

7. Go Camping

Camping is an outdoor family activity that’s great year-round, but fall camping has a certain magic to it.

Cooler nights are perfect for snuggling into sleeping bags, and there’s nothing like waking up to a crisp fall morning surrounded by nature.

Tip: Make sure to pack warm layers and plan meals that are easy to cook over a fire. Prepping hot cocoa packets can be a fun bonus for cool mornings or nights by the fire.

Fall is one of the best times to go camping, especially since you get to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy more of Mother Nature’s beauty.

8. Take a Scenic Drive

If hiking isn’t your thing, taking a scenic drive to admire the fall colors can be just as rewarding. Pack the car with snacks, some good music, and your camera to capture the views along the way.

Tip: Plan your route in advance and look for scenic byways known for fall foliage. Stopping at small towns along the way for a cozy coffee or hot cider can make the drive even more special.

A scenic drive is the perfect low-effort way to soak up the beauty of the season with the family.

9. Bike Ride Through a Park

Biking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise.

Riding through a park with the family lets you experience fall up close, with leaves crunching beneath your tires and the cool air rushing past.

Tip: Choose a trail that matches your family’s skill level, and don’t forget to pack helmets and plenty of water.

Biking through a park during the fall is a refreshing way to explore nature while spending quality time with loved ones.

10. Have a Picnic in the Park

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy a picnic with the family. The weather is cooler, and the scenery provides a beautiful backdrop for your meal.

Whether it’s in a local park or even your own backyard, spreading out a picnic blanket and enjoying some seasonal snacks can be a fun way to spend an afternoon.

Tip: Pack hearty sandwiches, apples, pumpkin-flavored treats, and thermoses filled with hot cider or cocoa to keep everyone warm.

Having a picnic is a simple but effective way to enjoy the fall with your family. Plus, the kids will love the novelty of eating outside!

11. Go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt

If your kids love exploring, a nature scavenger hunt can make your outdoor time even more fun. 

Make a list of things to find—like different colored leaves, acorns, pinecones, or animal tracks—and then head outside to see how many your family can check off.

Tip: You can print out a premade scavenger hunt list or make your own depending on where you’ll be exploring.

Adding a prize for the person who finds the most items is a great way to keep kids excited.

It’s an interactive way to help kids connect with nature and burn off some energy while you enjoy the fall atmosphere.

12. Attend a Football Game

Fall is football season, and attending a local or professional game can be an exciting way to spend time outdoors.

Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or just enjoying the game-day atmosphere, it’s an activity the whole family can get behind.

Tip: Dress in layers and bring blankets if the temperatures drop. Stadium snacks are always a hit, but packing your own can be more cost-effective if you’re feeding a larger family.

Football games offer the perfect blend of excitement and community, making it a great way to round out your fall family adventures.

Conclusion

Fall is the ideal season to get outside and enjoy quality time with your family. With so many outdoor family activities to choose from, there’s something for everyone, no matter their age or energy level.

From the quiet moments of a bonfire to the thrill of corn mazes and camping, fall offers endless opportunities for bonding and making memories that will last a lifetime.

So, what’s next on your fall family activity list? Whatever you choose, you’re sure to make the most of the season by simply being together and enjoying everything the great outdoors has to offer.