Fall is here, and there’s no need to break the bank to enjoy the season! 🍂 From sipping homemade pumpkin spice lattes to exploring scenic trails, fall activities can be as fun as they are affordable. Whether you’re looking for cozy indoor activities or outdoor adventures, the fall season is packed with exciting things to do without blowing your budget.
20 Things to do in the fall season
Looking for fun and wallet-friendly things to do in fall? Here are some easy and affordable options to get you into the seasonal spirit:
1. Carve pumpkins
It’s been done before, but you should do it again – for the sake of tradition! Head to your local grocery store or pumpkin patch to grab a pumpkin (or two) 🎃. Carving pumpkins is one of the classic fall activities that everyone loves. All you need is a carving kit, which you can find for cheap, and some creativity. The best part? You can roast the pumpkin seeds afterward for a tasty snack.
If you’ve never carved a pumpkin before, this is your sign! Do it.
2. Make your own pumpkin spice latte
Instead of hitting up pricey coffee shops, why not make your own PSL at home? You’ll save a bit of money by brewing it yourself. Grab some pumpkin puree, milk, spices, and coffee, and you’ve got yourself a homemade pumpkin spice latte that rivals anything from the café. ☕
3. Go apple picking
Apple picking is not only a fun outing but also an inexpensive way to get fresh produce. 🍏Many orchards let you pay by the pound, and you can use your apples for everything from pies to cider. Plus, it’s a great excuse to enjoy the crisp autumn air.
4. Visit a pumpkin patch
A visit to a local pumpkin patch is a staple of fall celebrations. It’s typically free to walk around and take in the fall vibes, and if you want to pick up a pumpkin or some fall decorations, you can do so on a budget.
5. Take a scenic drive to see fall foliage
One of the best (and free!) fall activities is simply going for a drive to see the beautiful fall colors. Pack a thermos of hot chocolate and head out to a nearby park or scenic highway to enjoy the view. 🚗
6. Attend a local fall festival
Check your community calendar for free or low-cost fall celebrations. Many local festivals 🎡offer fun games, live music, and seasonal food. It’s a perfect way to embrace the fall season without spending a fortune.
7. Make homemade apple cider
With just a few apples, cinnamon sticks, and some sugar, you can make your own apple cider at home. 🍎 It’s the perfect cozy drink for a chilly fall evening, and making it yourself is a fraction of the cost of buying it from a store.
8. Decorate your home for fall
You don’t need to splurge on expensive decor to give your home a cozy fall vibe. Collect colorful leaves, pinecones, and pumpkins to create your own DIY fall decorations. A little creativity goes a long way in transforming your space for the season.
9. Bake pumpkin pie
Nothing says fall quite like the smell of a pumpkin pie baking in the oven. 🥧 Pumpkin puree is affordable, and most of the other ingredients are pantry staples, making this a budget-friendly treat that’s sure to please everyone.
10. Go on a nature hike
Hiking is a fantastic way to enjoy the fall weather, and it’s completely free! Find a local trail and take in the changing leaves and fresh air. It’s also a great way to get some exercise while soaking up the fall season.
11. Have a picnic in the park
Pack some sandwiches and snacks, grab a blanket, and head to a local park for a fall picnic. It’s a simple way to enjoy the crisp autumn air and take in the beauty of the season without spending much.
12. Visit a corn maze
🌽 Corn mazes are a fun and challenging activity for all ages, and they’re typically affordable. Check out a local farm or festival hosting a maze, and get ready to wander through the cornfields while enjoying the fall atmosphere.
13. Roast pumpkin seeds
After carving your pumpkins, don’t throw away the seeds! Clean them up, season them with spices, and roast them for a healthy and delicious snack. It’s an easy and tasty way to make the most of your pumpkin purchase.
14. Make leaf art
Collect leaves of different shapes and colors and use them to create beautiful fall artwork. This is a fun and free activity that’s perfect for kids and adults alike, and you can display your creations around the house to add some fall flair. 🍂
15. Go bird watching
Fall is the perfect time to grab some binoculars and go bird watching. Many species migrate during the season, and you can enjoy spotting them in local parks or even your own backyard. 🐦
16. Plant bulbs for spring flowers
If you want a beautiful garden 🌷 in the spring, now’s the time to plant bulbs. It’s a low-cost activity that pays off later when your yard is full of colorful flowers next year.
17. Make a scarecrow
Use old clothes and some hay to build your own scarecrow for the yard. It’s a fun craft project and a great way to decorate for fall on a budget.
18. Go on a hayride
Many farms offer hayrides during the fall season, and they’re often reasonably priced. It’s a fun, family-friendly activity that gives you a chance to take in the sights and sounds of fall.
19. Make Halloween costumes
Instead of buying a costume, why not make your own? You can save money by using items you already have at home. For more Halloween ideas, check out MoneyLion’s guide to last-minute Halloween ideas.
20. Plan your holiday spending
As fall turns into the holiday season, it’s important to start planning your holiday budget. Make a list of upcoming expenses and get organized with the MoneyLion App to keep your finances on track through the end of the year.
You can track all your fall adventures and seasonal expenses with ease using the MoneyLion App! Set up a personalized budget to make sure you enjoy all your favorite fall activities without overspending.
Embrace the fall without breaking the bank
Whether you’re carving pumpkins, sipping homemade cider, or taking in the stunning fall foliage, these fall activities will help you enjoy the season without spending a fortune. From cozy indoor activities to adventurous outdoor fun, there are countless ways to make the most of the fall season. So grab your sweater, and start checking off these budget-friendly things to do in the fall today!
FAQ
What is the best fall activity?
The best fall activity depends on your preferences, but popular ones include pumpkin carving, hiking, and visiting a local fall festival.
How can I be active in the fall?
You can stay active in the fall by going for nature hikes, attending outdoor festivals, or even doing some yard work like raking leaves or planting bulbs for spring.
How do you embrace the fall season?
Embrace the fall season by participating in fall celebrations, decorating your home, and enjoying seasonal foods like pumpkin pie and apple cider.
