As the weather becomes colder and the leaves change color, fall offers unique opportunities and a variety of activities that celebrate the season without breaking the bank. There are plenty of free or inexpensive options to explore this season. Here’s a list of options to help you make the most of autumn without emptying your wallet.
Some of the best ways to enjoy fall are by leaf peeping and nature walks. Many parks and trails offer stunning views of autumn foliage. With wonderful trails nearby like the Hemlocks Bluffs Nature Preserve and company mill trailhead, the scenery and vibrant colors are sure to be beautiful.
Check your local event list for fall festivals, which often include free or low-cost entertainment like craft booths, live music, and games. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal treats and the festive spirit of the season. The town of Cary hosts a Harvest Fest at the Good Hope Farm, there are farm tours, children’s activities, live music, brews and bites, and harvest-fresh bounty from the farm to your tables at home from our farmers’ produce booths. It will be hosted on 11/16 from 12 pm-4 pm.
If you prefer to take in the fall colors from the comfort of your car, consider planning a scenic drive. It is easy to find designated routes that showcase the beauty of fall leaves. Pack some hot cider or coffee and enjoy the views. Many routes nearby are great for viewing the colors but the best views come from Blue Ridge Parkway, which is surprisingly close
Corn mazes are a fun fall activity and often have affordable admission fees. Navigating through a maze can be a fun challenge, and many farms also offer additional activities like hayrides or petting zoos, making it a full day of entertainment. While there are many corn mazes nearby, they are open for a short amount of time. Currently, Ken’s Korny Maze has one more weekend of the maze and they also have many other fall activities.
For those who enjoy a scare, our region hosts a lot of fear farms and haunted attractions during the fall. Such as haunted corn mazes, and haunted houses. While some might have an admission fee, many also offer other affordable options, especially on certain nights. Gather a group of friends for a fun scare. Sophomore Tom Bai shared his experience at Phillips Farm, saying, “My friends and I went to Phillips Farm and it was a lot of fun, we went to the corn maze, the wagon ride to the gore house, it was pretty scary and the actors were good.”
Fall offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and celebrate the season without breaking the bank. Whether you’re taking a scenic drive to take in the vibrant leaves, navigating a corn maze with friends, or enjoying the festivities of a local fall festival, there are lots of options to fit any budget. Remember to check out local events and attractions to make the most of this season. So get out there to experience all that Fall has to offer!
