The Ultimate Fall Bucket List: 15 Fun Activities for Fall 2023

Written By Erica Calhoun
It's finally that time of year when the air turns crisp, the leaves change colors, and we can cozy up in our favorite sweaters. This magical season, often known as "sweater weather," "spooktober," and "pumpkin latte season," brings with it a plethora of fun outdoor activities to enjoy. Whether you have your tried-and-true fall traditions or you're looking to spice up your routine, this list of fun-filled activities is sure to provide you with plenty of inspiration for your very own Fall Bucket List. And for my fellow Georgia peaches, I've made sure to include some spots to visit in our beautiful state for this seasona's adventure. So grab your scarves, pack your thermoses, and let's make this autumn one for the books!

15 Fun Activities to do This Fall

  1. Pumpkin Patch 

Visiting a pumpkin patch is not just an opportunity to capture picture-perfect moments for your social media feed during the gorgeous autumn season, but it also presents an ideal moment to fulfill one more item on your bucket list - the timeless tradition of pumpkin carving. And the good news is, you won't have to travel far to experience the enchantment and excitement of choosing the perfect pumpkin, for the lovely state of Georgia boasts an abundance of delightful pumpkin patches just waiting to be explored this fall!

Click to download the full Fall in Georgia Location List

2. Pumpkin Carving

 Have you ever wondered where this strange tradition came from?  You can probably guess the origin story of pumpkin carving has something to do with scaring away bad spirits, and you would be right.  Carving faces into round vegetables originated in Ireland possibly due to the cautionary tale of Stingy Jack.  The story goes, the mischievous Stingy Jack tricked the devil and was banned from heaven and hell upon his death.  The Irish spread the myth that Jack’s spirit then wandered the Earth and they carved frightening faces into vegetables to scare his spirit away.  Once the Irish came to America and discovered pumpkins, the Jack O'lantern was born.

3.  Corn Maze. 

Ah, corn mazes - timeless pleasures that bring smiles regardless of age. The joy of the experience is unparalleled. Stumble upon a hair-raising corn maze, and it's icing on the cake. As autumn breezes sweep, whispers of adventure beckon to enchanting corn mazes. These labyrinths often appear with pumpkin patches and bountiful orchards, creating a magical atmosphere where two delights combine.

4.  Hayride

What is fall if you don't get to experience the joy of a hayride at least once?  Sitting on a bale of hay with a warm cup of cider in hand while being gently driven around in the cool weather is one of the more relaxing items on this list.  A great place to find a ride would be a local fall festival, which is another bucket list item.

5. Drive in Movie

This has been on my to do list for the longest time, but I finally made it a priority for my Fall Bucket List.   There's no better time than the present to tackle this one. The days of drive-in movies are almost gone, as there are only 5 drive-in theaters left in Georgia. I plan to make my trip one way or another this fall.  

6. Hiking 

Thanks to the majestic trail of mountains known as the Appalachians, Georgia is undeniably blessed with countless exceptional hiking spots that nature enthusiasts like myself can't resist exploring time and time again. As an avid hiker, I find myself intrigued not only by the prominent locations nestled within the Appalachian range, but also by the lesser-known gems tucked away further south.  My favorite local hikes are Indian Springs State Park, High Falls State Park, and the Ocmulgee Indian Mounds.  As autumn turns the vibrant foliage into a breathtaking tapestry of hues, the anticipation of witnessing this annual spectacle is enough to make me get out my hiking boots.

7. Cabin Trip

The Appalachian mountains have also made Georgia a great place to plan a cabin vacay. The beauty and serenity of these majestic mountains create the perfect backdrop for a truly unforgettable weekend escape with your best girlfriends. Picture yourselves nestled in a charming, cozy cabin, surrounded by nature's wonders, breathing in the crisp mountain air. The thought of spending quality time together, bonding over laughter and stories, while being rejuvenated by the tranquil mountain vibes, is absolutely enticing. It's a heavenly getaway that I have been longing for, and the time has come to indulge in the much-needed relaxation and adventure that a cabin getaway has to offer.   

8.Winery

While on your cabin vacay, maybe you could add a visit to a nearby winery.  Since my first visit to a winery two years ago, it’s been one of my favorite memories so far and I’ve been itching to get back ever since.  There’s no end to amazing wineries in Georgia, so take your pick!  

 9. Fall Picnic

I love picnics - no matter the season.  However, the idea of chilling on a cozy blanket with a warm latte and sweet pastries sounds like a wonderful time to me.  Whether it's a solo trip or friends and family outing, a fall picnic is sure to make unforgettable memories.

10.  Fall Festival 

Now is the time for fall festivals to begin and I’m sure there will be plenty near you.  With a single google search I saw no end to local fall festivals in my area.  The only dilemma is choosing which one or how many to attend!

11. Bonfire and S’mores

One tradition my family keeps is to break out the mini outdoor fire pit and roast some marshmallows as soon as the weather cools.  S’mores are a must-have but you can also roast hotdogs, sausages, and more.  This is one of the only ways I know how to get my brothers unglued from their gaming chairs for some quality family time.  

12.Drink Hot Chocolate or Pumpkin Spice Lattes

Some of you have been waiting all year for your favorite fall drinks, especially your favorite pumpkin spice drink.  Don’t stop at just pumpkin spice flavors, try adding a gingerbread or butter pecan to your preferred drink.  I’ve been waiting to break out my Nestle hot chocolate to drink while reading Stephen King's new book, Holly.  

13. Bake an apple or pumpkin pie

With Thanksgiving less than a month away, it’s the perfect time to put your culinary skills to the test and dive into the world of baking. As the crisp autumn air starts to settle in, there's something truly magical about the scent of freshly baked goodies wafting through the house. While I must admit that I'm not exactly a seasoned baker myself, I was pleasantly surprised to discover just how straightforward and enjoyable it can be, especially when it comes to crafting delectable pies. One of my personal favorites has to be a classic apple pie, with its warm and inviting aroma that seems to encapsulate the essence of fall. There's nothing quite like the comforting combination of tender baked apples, spices dancing on your taste buds, and the flaky, golden crust. So, why not channel your inner pastry chef and try your hand at pie-making this fall? It's a delightful way to create fond memories and indulge in the simple pleasures of the holiday.

14. Haunted House or Tour

Living just a few hours away from one of the most haunted cities on Earth, Savannah, Georgia, will undoubtedly spark a desire within you to embark on a thrilling adventure and explore its eerie and mysterious haunted locations. The mere thought of potentially encountering ghostly apparitions and ethereal beings, like the friendly and mischievous Caspar, can send an exhilarating surge of adrenaline coursing through your veins, compelling you to immerse yourself in the supernatural realm. Thankfully, Savannah is not the only city in Georgia that boasts a rich and haunting history; in fact, you may be surprised to discover that almost every city in this enchanting state offers its own haunted tours and paranormal experiences. Whether it's strolling through dimly lit streets shrouded in legend or venturing into centuries-old buildings that whisper secrets of the past, the options are plentiful and the allure irresistible. So, if you find yourself seeking an unforgettable adventure filled with spine-tingling tales and hair-raising encounters, look no further than the haunted locations scattered across the hauntingly beautiful state of Georgia.


15. Scary Movie Marathon

If you're a scary movie fan like me, then you've probably already started your eagerly anticipated 31 days of terrifying films marathon. There's just something about the hair-raising ambiance of horror movies from the 1970s-80s that captivates me unlike anything else. In this day and age, it seems that many of today's horror films fail to capture the same essence and intensity as their older counterparts. However, despite this, I remain hopeful that there are still hidden gems awaiting discovery.

My most recent watch was the creepy classic known as "The Sentinel." This iconic horror film, released in 1977, continues to haunt audiences with its cleverly crafted storyline and masterful cinematography. The suspenseful plot revolves around a young woman who moves into a Brooklyn brownstone, only to discover that her new home holds a horrifying secret.

So, if you're seeking a spine-tingling experience, I highly recommend adding "The Sentinel" to your list of must-watch horror movies. Allow yourself to be transported to a bygone era where horror films held an unmistakable charm and an unparalleled ability to grip your soul. Trust me, you won't be disappointed in the bone-chilling journey that awaits you. Happy movie night!


There you have it, fifteen fun items to add to your own bucket list this fall. The key to getting it all done is planning! Make sure to mark your calendars for this year’s events whether you’re in Georgia or not. Let this season be filled with fun, appetizing delights, cherished memories, and new explorations! Leave a comment on what you plan to add to your Fall Bucket List or what you’ve already accomplished.




Erica Calhoun
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