Although the weather doesn't reflect it lately, we are still in the heart of Autumn. There are so many things worth doing during this time of year that is fun and surprisingly cheap! Here are some of the things I have been able to do this year, along with things I recommend and have done before. Choose your favorites and give them a spin!
01. Go Apple Picking
There are so many orchards near NYC, and most places are pretty cheap and you can easily spend a whole day there, learning about different types of apples, and all the ways you can enjoy them. From apple pie to apple cider; perhaps you prefer them as apple cinnamon doughnuts.
02. Go Pumpkin Picking
You should consider doing this in October. Find a pumpkin patch near you and go look for that perfect pumpkin for your Jack-o-lantern. Since it is currently November, some fresh homemade pumpkin pie would be the next best thing. I also heard that people like to toast pumpkin seeds in spices.
03. Watch a Football Game
Because 'Merica
04. Visit a Renaissance Fair
Every year I try to go to the renaissance fair located in Fort Tryon Park at the end of September. People go above and beyond by dressing up in medieval attire. They hold jousting events as well as cute magic shows hosted by Merlin for kids (and adult kids alike). Did I mention they sell huge turkey drumsticks?
05. Drink Apple Cider
Yumms, I mean do I really have to explain this one?
06. Sit Around a Bonfire and Tell Stories
I got to do this one in October when I worked on an overnight camping trip. We sat around a campfire with all the kids and their parents and read to them Pale Green Pants, by Dr. Seuss. For a bunch of 5-year-old's, it was pretty spooky!
07. Wear Leather Boots
Always a favorite of mine, but I need to get my hands on a new set this season, preferably flat boots.
08. Take a Foggy Morning Walk
I accidentally managed to take this off my list one morning when I had to get to work a bit earlier than usual. I managed to catch the morning fog over the vast open field and it was hauntingly beautiful.
09. Go on a Hayride
These are fun, though the haunted hayrides can be even better. I must warn you, the hay feels itchy! Wear thick layers and you should be fine.
10. Shop for New Fall Clothes
It is getting chilly so it might be a good idea to update your wardrobe with some warmer layers. A new sweater or two wouldn't hurt.
11. Find Autumn Themed Candles for the House
Something with a cinnamon scent, or apple pie, or anything gingerbread smelling. Pumpkin spice!
12. Visit a Corn Maze
They are A-MAZE-ING! The corn stalks are so tall that making a maze out of them seems like a scene from Signs! Cool way to get a good scare out of some friends or even yourself! Awesome photoshoot options too!
13. Roast Marshmallows
Another one I managed to knock out at work. There was a S'mores event where I think I consumed more than enough melted chocolate with gooey marshmallows, squished between golden graham crackers.
14. Go Hiking
Although I get paid to go hiking, I truly love this activity. The best part is, this isn't only for Autumn. Going on the same trail at different points in the year is a wonderful way to enjoy and appreciate nature in all its forms. It is a great opportunity to meditate and workout at the same time!
15. Have a Family/Friends Game Night
This one I'm still planning to do this season. Game nights are a fun way to relax and bond with others while still keeping the competitive rush. (Just avoid Monopoly if you are playing with people you like).
16. Have a Fall Photoshoot
Pile some colorful leaves together and jump into them. With a few camera trick shots, you have an awesome seasonal picture. Even if you don't want to be the focus of it, the world around us is changing so rapidly, that capturing it in an image is like trapping an insect in resin.
17. Visit a State Fair
This one I have never done before but will definitely try to get it off of my bucket list one day. Greasy deep-fried foods, carnival rides, and endless fun. Sign me up.
18. Decorate the House
The holiday season is never-ending during Autumn into Winter. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years….then the year is over. So why not have some fun along the way? I love to decorate around the house even if it is just some window stickers of bats one month, and snowflakes the next. Give the season an extra kick of festivities.
19. Star Gazing
One of the most beautiful aspects of Autumn is the crisp, clear night skies. Especially city people, we don't get the chance to see the stars as often as we should. Take a moment one night and reflect on how vast the universe is compared to us. I hope it helps dissipate your stress and worries.
20. Visit an Oktoberfest
This is a must-do if you are 21 years or older. Usually taking place in September, despite its namesake, Oktoberfest is a German celebration with ridiculous amounts of beer, ale, lager, mead, stouts, IPA, and many other variations. Add a slow-cooked sausages and protein-heavy meals, and you'll be ready to go!
One place I came across in my research is Manor Oktoberfest in upstate New York. Maybe next year I can check it out! 8028 Cooper Ave, Glendale, NY 11385
Ive always wanted to go to a renaissance fair