Your Fall Bucket List: The Ultimate Guide to Autumn Bliss

As the leaves begin to turn and a crisp chill fills the air, it’s time to embrace the cozy charm of autumn. Here are our top picks from Better Homes & Gardens, “25 Festive and Cozy Fall Bucket List Ideas for This Season” by Emily Williams. Head over there to see all 25 of their top picks.

1. Go Apple Picking
   Kick off your fall adventures with a trip to a local orchard. Apple picking is more than just harvesting fruit; it’s an immersive autumn experience. As you wander through rows of trees laden with crisp, juicy apples, you’ll breathe in the scent of fall and feel the season’s magic. Many orchards offer hayrides, corn mazes, and fall treats like apple cider donuts. It’s a perfect outing for families, couples, or friends. Don’t forget to bring a basket or bag for your pickings – you’ll want plenty for all the fall recipes you’ll be inspired to try!
2. Bake an Apple Pie
   Once you’ve returned from the orchard with your bounty, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and create the quintessential fall dessert. Baking an apple pie from scratch is a rewarding experience that fills your home with the comforting aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and baked apples. Start by making a flaky, buttery crust, then fill it with sliced apples tossed in sugar and spices. As your pie bakes, the scent will draw everyone to the kitchen. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate autumn indulgence. This activity is not just about the end result – it’s about the process, the togetherness, and the tradition.
3. Visit a Pumpkin Patch
   No fall is complete without a trip to the pumpkin patch. These festive fields offer more than just a chance to pick out the perfect jack-o’-lantern candidate. Many pumpkin patches have transformed into full-fledged fall festivals, featuring corn mazes, hayrides, petting zoos, and seasonal treats. As you wander among the vines, searching for that ideal pumpkin, you’re surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of autumn. It’s a photographer’s dream, with endless opportunities for Instagram-worthy shots and family photos. Whether you’re looking for a giant pumpkin for carving or tiny gourds for decorating, you’ll find a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to suit your autumn aesthetic.
4. Take a Nature Walk
   As the landscape transforms into a canvas of reds, oranges, and gold, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in nature. Find a local park, nature reserve, or hiking trail and set out on a leisurely walk to admire the fall foliage. The crisp air and crunching leaves underfoot create a multi-sensory experience that epitomizes autumn. Bring a camera to capture the beauty, or simply take mental snapshots of the scenic views. This is also an excellent opportunity for bird watching, as many species migrate during this season. A fall nature walk isn’t just about exercise; it’s a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with the changing seasons.
5. Carve a Jack-o’-Lantern
   Transform your pumpkin patch find into a grinning guardian for your porch. Pumpkin carving is a beloved fall tradition that lets your creativity shine. Start by sketching your design on paper, then transfer it to your pumpkin. Whether you opt for a classic grinning face, an intricate pattern, or a pop culture reference, the process is both fun and rewarding. Don’t forget to save the seeds for roasting – a tasty snack to enjoy while you work. Once your masterpiece is complete, place a candle inside and watch it glow in the twilight. It’s a magical moment that captures the spirit of the season and adds a festive touch to your home.
6. Sip on Warm Apple Cider
   As the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a mug of warm apple cider. This quintessential fall beverage can be enjoyed in various ways. Make a batch at home by simmering apple juice with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices. For an adult version, add a splash of rum or bourbon. Many orchards and fall festivals offer fresh-pressed cider, often served hot. The sweet-tart flavor and aromatic spices embody the essence of autumn. Sip it while watching the leaves fall, reading a book by the fireplace, or enjoying an outdoor bonfire with friends.
7. Create a Fall Craft
   Embrace your artistic side with some autumn-inspired crafting. Fall crafts are a wonderful way to decorate your home and get into the seasonal spirit. Try making a wreath using dried leaves, pinecones, and acorns collected on your nature walks. Create leaf rubbings with crayons for a simple yet beautiful art project. Or, paint mini pumpkins in metallic colors for an elegant fall centerpiece. Crafting is not only a fun indoor activity for chilly days, but it also allows you to personalize your space with unique, handmade decorations that capture the colors and textures of fall.
8. Plan Your Thanksgiving Menu
   While it might seem early, planning your Thanksgiving feast well in advance can turn a potentially stressful event into an enjoyable process. Start by deciding on your main dishes – will you go traditional with roast turkey, or try something new? Research recipes for sides and desserts, keeping in mind dietary restrictions and preferences of your guests. Create a timeline for shopping and prep work. This is also a great time to try out new recipes, giving you plenty of time to perfect them before the big day. By planning ahead, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the holiday with your loved ones, rather than feeling overwhelmed in the kitchen.
9. Roast Marshmallows
   As the evenings grow cooler, gather friends and family around a fire pit for a cozy outdoor experience. Roasting marshmallows is a simple pleasure that brings out the kid in everyone. Prepare skewers or find long, sturdy sticks, and let each person perfect their roasting technique. Some like their marshmallows lightly golden, while others prefer them charred. For an extra treat, have chocolate and graham crackers on hand to make s’mores. The combination of gooey marshmallow, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham cracker is irresistible. This activity is about more than just the treats – it’s about the conversations, laughter, and warmth shared around the fire on a crisp autumn night.
10. Jump in a Pile of Leaves
    Sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most joyful. After raking your yard (or finding a pile in a local park), take a moment to indulge in this childhood favorite. The satisfying crunch of leaves, the earthy smell, and the sheer abandonment of adult reservations make this activity pure fun. It’s a great way to get kids (and adults) outdoors and active. Plus, it’s an opportunity for fantastic fall photos. After the jump, you can turn leaf-collecting into an educational activity by identifying different types of leaves or using them for craft projects. Remember, it’s not just about the leap – it’s about embracing the playful spirit of the season and creating lasting memories.

Each of these activities offers a unique way to experience the sights, smells, tastes, and feelings of autumn. Mix and match them throughout the season to create your perfect fall experience!

Head over to the original post at Better Homes & Gardens, “25 Festive and Cozy Fall Bucket List Ideas for This Season” by Emily Williams to see their 15 additional ideas.