As the air cools and the leaves start to change, the autumn months bring plenty of opportunities for fun without breaking the bank. Whether you're planning activities for your family, a day with friends, or some solo adventures, check out our 10 ideas below for budget-friendly activities you can enjoy this season.
1. Go Apple Picking
Head to your local orchard for an afternoon of fresh air, picking crisp apples straight from the trees. Many orchards offer family-friendly activities like hayrides, corn mazes, or apple cider tastings. Afterward, turn your bounty of apples into delicious treats like apple pie, apple crisps, applesauce, or caramel-covered apples. Or save some to pack in your lunches for a week’s worth of fresh, budget-friendly snacks.
2. Visit Your Local Library
Nothing compares to spending a chilly fall day wrapped in a blanket while reading a book. Your local library remains a treasure trove and one of the best ways to source your free entertainment.
Whether you prefer diving into a new book, binge-watching a DVD series, or borrowing an audiobook for a long autumn drive, there’s something for everyone at the library. Some libraries even host free fall-themed events, such as story hours, DIY craft sessions, or movie screenings. If you’re feeling adventurous, borrow fall-themed movies and host your own cozy indoor movie night with friends, or set up an outdoor projector to enjoy the fall weather while you watch.
3. Go for a Hike
Autumn is one of the best times to get outside and enjoy nature. The cooler temperatures and colorful leaves make hiking or walking the perfect weekend activity. State parks host many different trails, ideal for immersing yourself in nature while getting some exercise and fresh air.
Add to your adventure by hiking in an area you’ve never visited before. Ask friends or family members for suggestions and consider new ways to tackle your trail – whether by bike, horse, or ATV. Just make sure to check beforehand that the trail is designated for your method of travel.
If you're not into long hikes, a simple stroll around your neighborhood or nearby park can still offer a beautiful experience. Bonus points if you pack a picnic with homemade goodies to enjoy along the way.
4. Roast Hot Dogs and Make S’mores
Nothing says fall like a crackling bonfire on a chilly evening. Gather your friends and family, throw some logs on the fire, roast hot dogs and marshmallows, and make s’mores. Want an out-of-this-world s’more? Swap the usual chocolate bar for something more adventurous, like a peanut butter cup or your favorite cookie.
You can play backyard games, such as cornhole, tell ghost stories under the stars, or sit around the fire and enjoy the company of friends and family. Add some blankets and pillows for an extra cozy vibe. If a bonfire isn’t an option, create a fire pit experience in your backyard with candles or a tabletop fireplace.
5. Arrange a Scavenger Hunt
Get together with your neighbors to plan a scavenger hunt for your neighborhood. You can hide everything outside or place things in homes’ windows to make them visible from the street.
Incorporate fall themes into your scavenger hunt to make it even more festive. Ask people to count how many pumpkins are located on a certain street or hide the winner’s prize in an apple tree. You can even make it more competitive by setting a time limit. Make sure to have a prize ready for whoever wins!
6. Pumpkin Carving
Get your home ready for Halloween with all the spookiest decorations. Pick up a few pumpkins from a local farm or store and gather your tools. Whether you go for a classic jack-o’-lantern design or something more elaborate, the creative possibilities are endless. Take extra time to carve your pumpkin and try organizing a neighborhood contest to showcase the best jack-o’-lanterns. Ask neighbors to vote for their favorites on social media. Offer categories such as scariest, funniest, and most artistic.
If carving isn’t your thing, try painting and decorating pumpkins with glitter, stickers, or other craft supplies.
7. Roast Pumpkin Seeds
Don’t let those pumpkin seeds go to waste! After carving your pumpkin, save the insides and turn them into a delicious, high-protein vegan treat. Roasted pumpkin seeds are easy to make. Separate the seeds from the rest of the pumpkin, then wash the seeds and pat them dry. Spread the seeds on a cookie sheet and roast on low heat until they become crispy.
To give the pumpkin seeds a new twist, try sprinkling fun seasonings on them, such as cumin or sugar and cinnamon.
8. Jump in the Leaves
One thing that will never change about fall is the leaves – and the need to rake them. After you put in the work, channel your inner child.
When you have a big pile of leaves, jump in. You’ll feel just like a kid again. If you have kids, they’ll love joining in the fun.
Before you jump, make sure your pile doesn’t sit on top of anything like a grate or sewer opening. Also, check for sticks. You want to have fun, but safety takes priority. Afterward, spend time collecting the most beautiful leaves to press in books or use for crafts.
9. Find the Best Fall Food
Make it your family’s goal to find the best fall-flavored treats offered in your hometown. Decide on a fall-themed dish, such as anything made with apple or pumpkin.
Try turning your sampling into a Friday night tradition. You don’t have to cook, and your family will love trying new dishes.
10. Take Your Hot Drinks Outside
There’s something magical about sipping a steaming cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate outside as you soak in the brisk fall morning. Set up a cozy outdoor seating area in your backyard with blankets and cushions for a peaceful start to your day. More of a night owl? Combine your hot drink with a stargazing session or a nighttime walk - it's a budget-friendly way to embrace the season’s chill.
These fall activities are not only family-friendly but budget-friendly as well. Although many activities on our list are free, some do come with a modest cost. When you shop for these or other items, use a cash rewards* credit card like our Founder’s Rewards Card to earn back some of what you spend. You must be a PSECU member to apply for the card. Visit psecu.com/founders for more information.
*Some exclusions may apply. See the Visa® Founder's Card and Visa® Alumni Rewards Card Rewards Program Terms and Conditions for full details.
