Fall is my absolute most favorite time of year. I love the cooler weather, falling leaves, the smells, and more. I love attending craft shows, festivals, and harvest fests. Unfortunately, most of these events have been canceled due to the virus. Though the fall may look different this year, I can assure you there is still plenty to do and see this season. Here are five fun fall activities to do this season.
One of our family traditions is apple picking. With over 80 pick your own orchards in Massachusetts, each a bit different, it is hard to decide where to go. We have a family favorite, Honey Pot Hill Orchards, in Stowe, MA. Back in September, we headed over to Honey Pot for our annual tradition. We had to make a reservation and wear our mask, but otherwise, things were the same. Oh, and the cider donuts, just as good as the year before.
Inspired by my friend Karen, we started to explore many of the Massachusetts state parks and wildlife sanctuaries this summer. Summer is a great time to visit the parks, but fall is even better! With cooler weather and the leaves starting to turn, going for a hike is the perfect fall activity. This past weekend we hiked the Natural Bridge State Park and Bash Bish Falls State Park. We could get our daily dose of vitamin D, some exercise, and enjoyed some great views.
Why not spend a day driving around looking at the fantastic foliage. Depending on where you live, there is still plenty of colors to see. I suggest researching routes in your area and picking a few stops on the way. In western Massachusetts, Jacob’s Ladder Trail Scenic Byway is a perfect route to follow. The byway starts in Russell, MA, winds through the small towns of Russell, Huntington, Chester, Becket, and Lee, providing views of the Westfield River along the way. It ends at the Lee/Lenox town line in Berkshire County.
Our economy has taken a hit over the last six months. In particular, small local businesses have bee hit hard during the pandemic. These businesses need us now more than ever. Why not head to your local coffee shop and grab a hot drink. The holidays are around the corner. Perhaps get a head start on your holiday shopping and see what the local retailers have to offer. We spent yesterday walking the streets of Stockbridge and Lenox, MA. We grabbed some coffee, visited a local chocolate store, poked around a country store, and found a Christmas gift for our nephew. With the fall decor on the buildings, a chill in the air, and the color exploding around us, it was a perfect fall afternoon.
Sometimes the universe sends us a sign. If you are like me, you are always on the go. And why not? There is so much to do and see in this world. If there is one thing this pandemic had shown me, it is sometimes okay to slow down. It is okay to stay home and do nothing. Why not put on a hoodie, grab a blanket, a book, and a warm drink, and head outside. Find a comfortable spot for the next couple of hours and read. Not into reading? Then how about sitting in a comfortable place and just be.
Whatever it is you choose to do this fall, I hope you have an amazing time.
The end of summer and the beginning of fall is apple picking season in Massachusetts…
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March 7, 2021
kmf | 12th Oct 20
These are all fun fall activities that I embrace fully! Especially loving the leaf-peeping and hiking this season.
Heather | 13th Oct 20
The leaf-peeping is amazing this year.
Lisa Manderino | 12th Oct 20
This has been one of the best falls in a long time . Our weather has been unbelievable like 80 degrees until this week. Even now it is still nice to be outside!
Heather | 13th Oct 20
Yes, we have had an amazing fall as well.
Michele | 13th Oct 20
Fall is my favorite time of year because of the activities that go along with it! I still think New England would be the best place to visit for fall foliage. Hoping to make it there soon!
Heather | 13th Oct 20
I may be biased, but I think it is the best place to see the foliage.
Cindy Mailhot | 15th Oct 20
Great ideas! Last deck style dinners and picnics too!
Heather | 16th Oct 20
Yes! Perfect ideas.
Taquia | 15th Oct 20
Oh, how I love the fall! These are all great activities. I would love to take a trip to the mountains right now and do some leaf peeping!
Heather | 16th Oct 20
We have enjoyed all the leaf-peeping this year.
Barbara | 15th Oct 20
Fall colors are so amazing! The brilliant colors bring much joy!
Heather | 16th Oct 20
The fall is amazing for sure.
Melissa | It's a Joyous Journey | 15th Oct 20
We’re hoping to see some great fall foliage in Southeastern Oklahoma next week! Someday, I’d love to make it up north during this beautiful season.
Heather | 16th Oct 20
Have a blast!
Denise Tricia Snow | 15th Oct 20
This looks awesome! I am really missing our fall trip this year. Now I am regretting not making plans. #GOFALL!
Heather | 16th Oct 20
The only downside to fall is it ends much too quickly.
Donna Garrison | 15th Oct 20
Stowe in Fall is on my bucket list. I will have to add apple picking a the Honey Pot Hill Orchards, and apple cider donuts sound delicious. Hiking and leaf peeping at the same time is definitely one of my favourite fall activities.
Heather | 16th Oct 20
It is a great orchard. I love looking back at our photos from prior years.
Laura Kelly | 16th Oct 20
Great ideas! I always enjoy a good book!
Heather | 16th Oct 20
Me too!
Cathy Boatright | 16th Oct 20
Fall is my favorite season, and your pictures definitely show the beauty of the season. And you had me at ice cream. 🙂
Heather | 16th Oct 20
Ice cream is perfect any time of the year.
Cindy Moore | 16th Oct 20
I’m so grateful fall was not cancelled! I love this time of year and we needed some normalcy in our lives.
Heather | 16th Oct 20
Agree 100%!
Tonya Nicole Denmark | 27th Oct 20
I’ve always wanted to do apple picking. Seems like such a fun fall activity to do.
Heather | 2nd Nov 20
It is one of our favorite activities.
Alexis Farmer | 2nd Nov 20
I love posts like these! A lot has been cancelled, but not everything good is gone 🖤
Heather | 2nd Nov 20
Thanks! Yes, there are still ways to have a good time.