10 Fun Fall Activities For Families

Need some fun and easy ideas for fall activities?

When I tell my kids we are going to see fall leaves, they groan and quickly remind me how carsick they get. They think that a fall drive sounds like an arduous journey where mom and dad restrict the electronics and tell them to look out the window for hours.

My ideal October outing is a long drive in a convertible with the cool wind whipping my hair while I enjoy the majestic scenery. I have five kids, so that isn't usually my reality. I've discovered ways to get my leaf-peeping fix while planning fall activities that keep my kids happy and excited to be outdoors.

Here are my favorite ideas for fall activities with kids.

Take a Hike

Take the kids hiking to a fun destination. You can be surrounded by fall leaves for hours. One of my favorite places to see fall leaves with my family is Shenandoah National Park, which has several fun hikes to waterfalls.

Related: Favorite Hikes for Families in Shenandoah National Park

Go Horseback Riding

Find a trail riding outfitter and take your family horseback riding. There are some outfitters who will take children as young as 3 years old, so be sure to find a guide who can work with your family. Enjoy fall leaves while your children experience horseback riding.

Go Camping

Take a fall vacation and go camping among the fall leaves. The weather is often crisp, but still pleasant – especially if you pack the right gear.

Related: 4 Tent Camping Tips for First-Timers

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

For a unique way to enjoy fall leaves and make a lasting memory, try a hot air balloon ride. Check for age and height restrictions. Most children over 8 will be allowed to ride in a hot air balloon with an adult, and some companies will take children as young as 5.

Related: Tips for Your First Hot Air Balloon Ride

Go Zip Lining

Families with kids over age 5 can enjoy most zip line experiences. Flying through the trees will excite the kids, plus you get beautiful views. I took my kids zip lining in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. I am afraid of heights, but the safety harnesses eased my fears and we had a great day enjoying the treetops. Zip lining is a perfect way for kids and adults to enjoy fall foliage together.

Related: Best Fall Leaves in the Washington D.C. Area

Visit a National Park

Fall is a great time to visit a national park, and so many parks boast amazing fall foliage. Kids will be entertained by great hikes, amazing vistas, and the National Park's Junior Ranger program. Fall is a good time to visit national parks because they will be less crowded than in the summer months.

Related: Best Places to See Fall Leaves in Utah

Visit a Fall Festival or Corn Maze

Find a fall festival or corn maze to enjoy with the kids, and chances are you can find one near some beautiful fall leaves. Kids love festivals with pumpkins, games, and outdoor activities and are often willing to take quite the drive to arrive at a festival. 

Related: Utah's Best Halloween Activities for Families

Ride a Train

Years ago I rode the Mt. Hood Railroad in Oregon on a crisp fall day and never forgot how much I loved that train ride. Kids love trains, so take your ride in the fall when leaves are changing and you can enjoy cool weather and fall leaves.

Related: What to Expect at Nevada Northern Railway

Ride a Gondola or Tram

Ski resorts make great fall foliage destinations. Many ski resorts have fall activities for families looking to enjoy the mountains, and riding a gondola or tram to the top of the mountain is something kids will love. You can usually bike or hike down. Many resorts also offer zip lines, slides or other fun activities for kids in the fall.

Related: Tips for Visiting Snowbird Resort for Oktoberfest

Pick Apples

Kids love picking fruit, and apple orchards are often nestled in the most beautiful surroundings. Find an orchard near you and enjoy apple picking and fall leaves.

Related: 5 Fun Things to Do at Capitol Reef National Park

Conclusion

No matter how you choose to see fall leaves, make a memory your kids will enjoy by adding an activity to your drive. Whatever you do, get out and enjoy a beautiful fall.