20 (Realistic) Fall Bucket List Ideas for Families
Fall is the perfect time to create lasting memories with your family. The season is packed with festive activities full of opportunities for fun. While it might be tempting to “do it all” – that could also be a recipe for meltdowns and frustration. Instead, keep things simple by choosing just a few must-do’s for your family’s fall bucket list and add them to the free printable I made for you.
Looking for some easy ideas that will give you all the fall vibes you’re looking for without leaving you so stressed out you wish you would have just stayed home and watched an episode of Gilmore Girls?
Scan the ideas below along with your local community events calendar to create your own Autumn Bucket List.
Pace yourself and remember that doing just a few of these activities will make them feel special! This list includes ideas that have been some of my famiy’s favorites over the years and includes options whether your kids are toddlers or teens.
1. Paint Pumpkins
Forget the mess of carving—grab some paints and get creative with pumpkin painting. It’s safe and fun for all ages! Need some inspiration? Check out these painted pumpkin ideas.
2. Make Apple Cider Punch
Bring the family together in the kitchen to make a delicious apple cider punch. It’s a refreshing treat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for an after-school treat!
3. Buy a Pumpkin Pie at Costco
Who doesn’t love pumpkin pie? Head to Costco and grab one of their famous pumpkin pies for a delightful family dessert.
4. Read Fall-Themed Books
Visit your local library or bookstore and pick out some fall-themed books to read together. It’s a great way to spend a rainy day indoors.
5. Visit a Local Fall Festival
Many communities host fall festivals with fun activities like hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches. It’s a great way to get outdoors and support local businesses.
6. Gather Leaves for an Art Project
Go on a nature walk and collect different types of leaves. Then, use crayons, paint or chalk to make a work of art. There are so many easy ideas on Pinterest, just do a quick search and you’ll find tons of options.
7. Bake an Apple Crisp
Another delicious treat to make with the family is apple crisp. It’s a warm and comforting dessert (or breakfast) that smells amazing while it’s baking. If you’ve got the time, go ahead and make it from scratch, or if you’re like me, try this semi-homemade version that uses canned apple pie filling.
8. Fall I-Spy
Take a walk in a nearby park or neighborhood and see how many fall items you can see. Pumpkins, scarecrows, black cats and pumpkin spice lattes are out there to be found!
9. Have a Family Movie Night
Find a kid-friendly Halloween movie and snuggle up for a cozy night in. Don’t forget the popcorn!
10. Bake Pumpkin Bread
Fill your home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked pumpkin bread. It’s a fun baking project that kids of all ages can help with. We love this version that has a Nutella swirl. Yumm-o!
11. Take a Scenic Drive
Pack some snacks and hit the road to enjoy the beautiful fall leaves as they change color. It’s a relaxing way to spend time together soak up the colors of the season.
12. Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Spend a day at a local pumpkin patch picking out the perfect pumpkins. Many patches also offer additional activities like hayrides and petting zoos.
13. Create a Fall Craft
Gather some craft supplies and make fall-themed decorations. Think leaf garlands, acorn necklaces, and pinecone animals. There are seriously SO many options.
14. Make a Leaf Pile and Jump In
Seriously, is it even fall if you’re not jumping in a leaf pile? Rake up a big pile of leaves in your yard and take turns jumping in. It’s a classic fall activity that never gets old.
15. Decorate for Halloween
Get the whole family involved in decorating your home for Halloween. Set up spooky decorations, carve jack-o’-lanterns, and hang up cobwebs.
16. Make or Buy Caramel Apples
Dip apples in caramel and add your favorite toppings. It’s a tasty treat that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat. Not down with the mess? I totally get it! Try these Carmel Apple Nachos instead.
17. Make Your House Smell Good
Simmer cinnamon sticks, cloves, and apple peels on the stove for a natural and cozy fall scent. Get the kids involved by gathering up the simmer pot supplies and putting together little gift bags to give to their teachers, friends and neighbors. You can get a copy of my favorite fall simmer pot recipes here.
18. Decorate Your Porch for Fall
Head to a local thrift store, Home Goods or TJ Maxx and pick up some affordable decor for your front porch. Grab a wreath, doormat and anything else that will add some fall vibes to your curb appeal.
19. Go to a Football Game
Grab your sweatshirts and gather up the fam as you head out to support your local high school or college football team by attending a game. Don’t forget to wear your team’s colors and enjoy some hot cocoa while cheering them on.
20. Make a Cozy Fall Family Dinner
Fill your bellies with the flavors of fall. Check out one of these kid-friendly fall dinner ideas or find your own.
Grab this Free Printable Fall Bucket List
and create your own personalized checklist of activities.
Fall will come and go in the blink of an eye. Instead of rushing around and trying to do too much, keep things simple and doable. Prioritze a few quintessentially fall activities and turn them into your family’s fall traditions to make lasting memories.