With the advent of September, our minds naturally wander towards all things fall-related. Autumn officially starts on September 22, signalling a splendid time to map out enjoyable activities to celebrate the arrival of fall. Unquestionably, the most appealing part of fall is when the leaves start to transform their colors. As refreshing as it is to see trees laden with verdant leaves emerging after a harsh winter, nothing beats the mesmerizing colors of fall blanketing the surrounding woodlands. If you’re eager to appreciate the transformed landscapes during this period, rest assured there’s an abundance of ways to relish the view without planning elaborate and costly trips. Here, we propose some enjoyable autumnal activities that will enable you to indulge in the stunning fall foliage on a budget.
1. EMBARK ON A DRIVE
Assuming you live in an area with appealing scenery, or nearby locales with abundant woodlands and a plethora of trees, a leisure drive can be an excellent way to appreciate the autumn hues. While there may be some gas expenses depending on your destination, largely, this is a cost-free activity. Switch on your favorite music and immerse yourself in the captivating surroundings. This is an excellent way to relish in outdoor scenery while staying cozy, with potential stopovers at scenic overlooks adding extra charm. If you don’t have a car or the weather isn’t too frosty, biking could be an alternate choice, offering a bonus of healthy physical activity.
2. APPLE PICKING
As common knowledge suggests, apples grow on trees, and where there are apple trees, there’s plenty of foliage, providing a fantastic opportunity to witness the fall leaves. Given the abundance of apple orchards around the U.S., locating a good one should be achievable. Entry fee to most orchards is minimal, with further costs entirely up to your preferences. Whether you wish to take home apples, buy snacks, or engage in other activities, apple picking is an enjoyable yet inexpensive means to relish the autumn weather and scenery, either alone, with friends or family.
3. RAKING LEAVES
While this might sound like another mundane chore, just bear with us. Sure, if you have a yard, raking leaves is a routine autumnal task, but it doesn’t necessarily have to feel like one. It can be an opportunity to step outside and breathe in the crisp fall air without spending a dime. Plus, the initial few times might not feel so monotonous when you’re marveling the vibrant red leaves. Alongside the work, incorporate play by turning your leaf piles into fun jumping spots to rekindle childhood memories!
4. PLAN A SHORT GETAWAY
If your residing place doesn’t offer a fantastic view, a quick escape can be your ticket to enjoying the magnificent fall foliage. Although slightly more costly than previous activities, it won’t drain your savings. With schools back in session and football season starting, chances of great deals are high. As summer’s tourist peak winds down, hotels, rentals, and attractions drop their prices. Consider a budget-friendly B&B in the countryside for a tranquil weekend amid the autumnal landscapes.
5. ORGANIZE A BONFIRE
With autumn, bonfires become a delightful part of evenings, even when it’s not totally dark. As temperatures cool down, arrange a bonfire gathering with friends and family to enjoy the dramatic color change of the leaves, all while crunching down on a s’more or two. This shouldn’t be expensive; you might need to buy wood, and perhaps bricks if you’re setting up a fire pit. Stay within budget by asking your guests to bring s’mores ingredients, hotdogs, or beverages.
6. ATTEND A FESTIVAL OR VISIT A FARM
Autumn is synonymous with outdoor festivals. Whether it’s a pumpkin, beer, harvest-moon, wine, or any fall-themed festival, an evening of fun awaits, complete with the brisk weather and crunching of leaves. Like apple orchards, most festivals only charge a token entry fee, leaving you to decide whether and how much to spend thereafter. Many festivals also offer free entertainment, ensuring fun without breaking the bank.
Without a doubt, fall’s main attraction is its gorgeous outdoors, presenting a spectacle when trees radiate bright red, orange, and yellow hues. For fall enthusiasts, there’s no finer sound than leaves crunching underfoot. Thankfully, numerous budget-friendly ways let you indulge in the marvelous fall foliage. So, what’s your favorite fall activity that helps you relish the foliage? Is a captivating landscape just around the corner, or does it require some traveling?
