51 Exciting Fall Bucket List Ideas

Make the Most of the Season

As the air turns crisp and leaves begin to change color, it’s the perfect time for a Fall Bucket List filled with fun and exciting activities.

No matter the weather, fall always holds a special place in my heart. From the joy of the great outdoors to the comfort of my favorite blanket, there’s a personal touch to every aspect of this spooky season.

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Whether you’re a fan of indoor coziness or outdoor adventures, this pumpkin season offers many activities. So if you’re looking for some inspiration on what to do this fall, get ready to be excited. I’ve put together a list of activities that will surely pique your interest.

Here are my 51 exciting fall bucket list ideas that will allow you to savor every moment of this breathtakingly beautiful season.

Fall Bucket List Ideas

Outdoor Fall Bucket List Activities

Fall offers an abundance of exhilarating outdoor activities, providing an excellent opportunity to bond with loved ones while savoring the bountiful harvest.

1. Take a scenic drive to admire the fall foliage.

Along the way, make a stop at a local orchard to pick fresh apples.

2. Visit a pumpkin patch and pick your perfect pumpkin.

As you finally select your perfect pumpkin, you can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and connection to the season’s bountiful harvest.

3. Get lost in a corn maze.

Every dead end is an opportunity to backtrack and try again, making the journey as thrilling as the destination.

4. Host a cozy bonfire night with friends.

Prepare a selection of delicious snacks—think marshmallows for toasting, hot chocolate with whipped cream, and perhaps some savory treats like cheese and crackers.

5. Go apple picking at a local orchard.

After filling your basket, you might find a cozy spot to enjoy a picnic, savoring the fruits of your labor along with some freshly baked apple pie or warm cider.

6. Bake a homemade apple pie.

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and enjoy the comforting, homemade goodness.

7. Attend a fall festival or fair.

The sense of community and joy is palpable, making this fall festival an unforgettable experience.

8. Go on a hayride.

It’s a perfect way to celebrate the season, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

9. Take a hike through a forest in full autumn color.

If you haven’t had the chance to visit yet, make sure to put the Smoky Mountains at the top of your fall bucket list!

10. Visit a haunted house or spooky attraction.

A fall bucket list isn’t complete without including some spooky activities. It’s a thrilling blend of fear and fascination.

11. Go camping and enjoy the crisp fall air.

Cozy up in a warm blanket at night and gaze at the twinkling stars in the sky.

12. Have a picnic in a park surrounded by colorful leaves.

Spread out a checkered blanket under the shade of a towering oak tree, and unpack a basket brimming with delicious treats.

13. Plant bulbs for spring flowers.

Select a variety of bulbs, such as tulips, daffodils, and crocuses, to ensure a vibrant and diverse display.

14. Take a scenic bike ride.

All your worries will melt away.

15. Roast marshmallows and make s’mores.

It’s a simple yet magical experience that makes everyone feel connected.

16. Attend a football game.

Wrap yourself in a warm, snug sweater and savor the collective happiness of the season.

17. Visit a winery and enjoy a wine tasting.

A wine tasting at a winery in the fall is a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of flavors and scents while taking in the beautiful autumn scenery.

18. Jump into a Pile of Leaves

Don’t forget this essential fall activity: gather the whole family to make a big pile of leaves and then enjoy playing in the autumn foliage together.

19. Collect leaves and make a scrapbook.

Over time, this collection will turn into a treasured keepsake just for you.

20. Enjoy a sunrise or sunset hike.

Don’t forget to bring a thermos of hot cocoa or tea to enjoy at the peak

21. Visit a farmer’s market for seasonal produce.

You might find some cool new ingredients and recipes to test out in your kitchen!

22. Go star gazing on a clear, cool night.

Enjoy the solitude and peace that comes from connecting with the cosmos.

23. Take a family photo shoot with the fall backdrop.

Remember to take some individual shots as well, highlighting the unique personalities within your family.

24. Knit or crochet a cozy scarf.

Choose a soft, warm yarn in your favorite color or a blend of shades that bring you joy.

25. Go for a horseback ride through the countryside.

This is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a chance to reconnect with nature and find peace in its simplicity.

26. Attend a local harvest festival.

The harvest festival is a celebration of community, tradition, and the simple pleasures that make this time of year so special.

27. Visit a botanical garden to see the fall displays.

Don’t miss the special exhibits featuring local nature-inspired art and the children’s area with pumpkin carving and leaf-rubbing activities.

28. Go to a drive-in movie theater.

You will have a night filled with excitement, laughter, and just the right amount of fear.

29. See Local Fall Decorations.

Driving around the neighborhood and checking out the houses with the coolest decorations is a lot of fun!

30. Go fishing in a quiet lake or river.

As you sit patiently, waiting for that elusive bite, you have time to reflect, to appreciate the simple beauty around you, and to simply be.

31. Go on a ghost tour in a historic town.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, a ghost tour promises an unforgettable adventure filled with suspense, history, and a touch of the supernatural.

32. Attend a cooking class focused on fall ingredients.

By the end of the class, you’ll leave with a repertoire of new recipes and the inspiration to bring the flavors of fall into your own kitchen.

33. Take a scenic train ride through the countryside.

It is a relaxing way to appreciate autumn’s charm while traveling

34. Enjoy a day of thrift shopping for cozy sweaters.

You might stumble upon some really cool and unique stuff that will give your wardrobe a whole lot of character.

Indoor Fall Bucket List Activities

When the temperatures drop, there’s nothing better than snuggling up with some cozy indoor activities.

35. Give your wardrobe a makeover!

Start by decluttering and organizing your existing clothes.

36. Treat yourself to a nice, cozy sweater!

Sweaters are a fall must-have. Get a cozy one to match your style, size, and color preferences.

37. Decorate your home with autumn-themed decor.

Ad cozy throw blankets and pillows in warm, earthy tones like burnt orange, deep reds, and golden yellows.

38. Lighting up some autumn-inspired candles.

Your home will be filled with the scents of fall with these specially crafted candles, perfect for this time of year.

39. Carve or paint pumpkins.

Woman Carving A Pumpkin-fall bucket list

Both activities are perfect for getting into the festive spirit of autumn.

40. Have a movie night featuring classic fall films.

Halloween isn’t complete without a spooky movie marathon! It’s the perfect excuse to gather with friends and family and enjoy some scary movies.

41. Make a batch of pumpkin spice lattes.

Every fall bucket list needs a pumpkin treat!

42. Try your hand at making homemade cider.

Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

6-8 pounds of fresh apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties works best)
1 packet of cider yeast (or champagne yeast)
1 gallon of water
1 cup of sugar (optional, for a sweeter cider)
Equipment: large pot, apple press or juicer, fermentation vessel, airlock, siphon tubing, bottles

Instructions:

Preparation: Wash the apples thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. Cut them into quarters, removing any bad spots.
Juicing: Use an apple press or juicer to extract the juice from the apples. Alternatively, you can blend the apple pieces and strain the pulp through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to get the juice.
Sterilization: Sterilize your fermentation vessel, airlock, and any other equipment that will come into contact with the cider to avoid contamination.
Fermentation: Pour the apple juice into the fermentation vessel. Add the yeast according to the package instructions. If you prefer a sweeter cider, dissolve the sugar in a small amount of warm water and add it to the juice. Stir well to combine.
Sealing: Attach the airlock to the fermentation vessel to allow gases to escape while preventing contaminants from entering. Store the vessel in a cool, dark place at a consistent temperature (around 60-70°F or 15-21°C).
Fermenting Time: Let the cider ferment for about 1-2 weeks. You will know it’s ready when bubbling in the airlock slows down significantly or stops.
Bottling: Once fermentation is complete, use the siphon tubing to transfer the cider into sterilized bottles, leaving sediment behind. Seal the bottles tightly.
Conditioning: Allow the bottled cider to age for another 1-2 weeks in a cool, dark place to develop a more complex flavor. Refrigerate before serving.

Enjoy your homemade cider responsibly!

43. Host a potluck with fall-inspired dishes.

Think hearty dishes like butternut squash soup, creamy pumpkin risotto, or a classic green bean casserole. For dessert, consider spiced apple pie, maple pecan bars, or a decadent pumpkin cheesecake.

44. Make homemade chili or stew.

Serve your homemade chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheese, or enjoy your hearty stew with a slice of crusty bread. Bon appétit!

45. Make caramel apples.

You’ll need some fresh, crisp apples, wooden sticks, caramel candies, and a bit of water or cream to make awesome caramel apples!

46. Create a fall-themed playlist.

The playlist will capture the cozy, reflective, and vibrant essence of the fall season, providing the perfect soundtrack for crisp mornings, colorful leaves, and warm evenings by the fire.

The warmth and aroma of freshly baked goods will surely bring smiles to their faces.

48. Enjoy a spa day with fall-scented products.

Woman reading book while resting in bathtub

Treat yourself to the cozy smells of pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and apple cider as you take some time to pamper yourself from head to toe.

49. Make a cozy reading nook and dive into a good book.

Add a soft blanket and a few plush pillows to create the perfect spot for relaxation.

50. Try a new fall-inspired cocktail or mocktail.

Elevate your autumn evenings with a delightful cocktail recipe. It’s the perfect way to raise your glass and toast to the season! Cheers!

51. Make a fall wreath for your front door.

Get ready to add a touch of autumn elegance to your home by hanging up a stunning fall wreath on your front door. Embrace the season with flair and charisma!

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Whether you’re venturing outside or enjoying the comforts of home, this 51 Exciting Fall Bucket List Ideas is your guide to embracing everything that autumn has to offer. Mark your calendar, gather your loved ones, and make this season unforgettable!