Fall Activities for Teens to Try This Autumn (2024)
I feel every September that something changes in the air, the lights become different, and summer is irreversibly over 😊 For some reason – maybe as school started for me on the 1 September every year as a kid – I always felt that with autumn a new beginning is arriving 😊
And it is also the start of the season coming with amazing fall activities, that families can enjoy together!
How to Choose Fall Activities for Teens
Choosing fall activities for teens can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming with all the fantastic options available. The fall season is the perfect time of year to explore a corn maze, pick apples at a local orchard, or sip on a pumpkin spice latte while enjoying the crisp air. With so many fun things to do, it’s a great way to spend quality time with your teens.
Whether it’s a spooky haunted house, a pumpkin carving contest, or even volunteering at a soup kitchen, there’s no shortage of fun fall activities to keep everyone entertained. Embrace the fall colors and create your own bucket list of fun fall activities that are perfect for kids of all ages, and you’ll find that this is the best time of year to make some unforgettable memories.
What Fall Activities Can You Do With Your Teens in Autumn?
Families and kids – especially teens 😅 – are pretty different… so I brought you some great autumn activity ideas that you can choose from, to set up your own fall bucket list with your teens!
Outdoor Activities
- Apple Picking
Spend a day at a local apple orchard where you can wander through rows of apple trees, picking ripe apples directly from the branches. Many orchards also offer additional activities like hayrides, petting zoos, and farm stands selling apple-related products.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a hands-on activity that combines the thrill of a treasure hunt with the satisfaction of bringing home fresh, delicious apples. Perfect for a family outing or a fun date.
- Equipment Needed: Basket or bag for apples, comfortable shoes for walking, and perhaps a reusable water bottle.
- Corn Maze
Challenge yourself to navigate through a large maze carved out of a cornfield. These mazes can range from simple designs to complex puzzles that can take over an hour to complete.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a mix of adventure and brain-teasing fun that requires teamwork and problem-solving skills, making it an engaging group activity.
- Equipment Needed: Comfortable clothes and shoes, a map (if provided), and a flashlight for nighttime mazes.
- Pumpkin Patch Visit
Visit a local pumpkin patch where you can choose pumpkins for carving, baking, or decoration. Many pumpkin patches also offer hayrides, corn mazes, and other fall-themed activities.- Why it’s Fun: It’s an iconic fall activity that’s perfect for capturing those festive autumn photos. It also provides the raw materials for creative activities like pumpkin carving or baking, if your teens are crafty.
- Equipment Needed: Sturdy shoes, a wagon or bag for carrying pumpkins, and a camera for pictures.
- Scavenger Hunt
Organize a scavenger hunt in your local park or neighborhood. Create a list of fall-themed items to find, like specific types of leaves, acorns, or even specific Halloween decorations.- Why it’s Fun: It’s an exciting and competitive way to explore the outdoors and can be tailored to different age groups. It encourages participants to observe their surroundings more closely.
- Equipment Needed: Printed scavenger hunt lists, bags or baskets for collecting items, and a small prize for the winner.
- Bike Ride
Plan a scenic bike ride through areas with beautiful fall foliage. Choose a route that includes parks, trails, or quiet backroads to fully enjoy the vibrant colors of the season.- Why it’s Fun: Biking is a great way to get exercise while enjoying the crisp autumn air and the stunning scenery. It’s also a wonderful way to explore new areas.
- Equipment Needed: Bicycles, helmets, a map of the route, and perhaps some snacks and water for breaks.
- Camping Trip
Organize a camping trip to a nearby state park or campground. Enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and sitting around the campfire roasting marshmallows.- Why it’s Fun: Camping is a great opportunity to disconnect from daily life and bond with family or friends while enjoying the beauty of nature in the fall.
- Equipment Needed: Tent, sleeping bags, cooking supplies, warm clothing, and camping gear.
- Fishing Trip
Go fishing at a local lake or river. Fall is a great time for fishing as many fish are more active in cooler waters.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a relaxing way to spend a day outdoors, and you might even catch dinner! It’s also a good way to teach patience and appreciation for nature.
- Equipment Needed: Fishing rods, bait, a fishing license (if required), and appropriate clothing.
- Outdoor Movie Night
Set up a projector in your backyard or local park and watch a favorite fall movie under the stars. Don’t forget the blankets and snacks!- Why it’s Fun: It combines the charm of an old-fashioned drive-in movie with the coziness of fall. It’s a perfect way to gather friends and family for a relaxed evening.
- Equipment Needed: Projector, screen (or a white sheet), blankets, lawn chairs, snacks, and perhaps some hot chocolate.
Creative Activities
- Pumpkin Carving Contest
Host a pumpkin carving contest with friends or family. Provide various tools and stencils for everyone to use.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a fantastic way to showcase creativity and have a little friendly competition. Plus, you end up with great decorations for Halloween.
- Equipment Needed: Pumpkins, carving tools, stencils, and a designated workspace.
- DIY Halloween Costumes
Are your teens still up-to a Halloween party? Design and create your own Halloween costumes. Use items from home or visit a craft store for additional materials.- Why it’s Fun: Making costumes can be a fun and imaginative activity. It’s also a great way to recycle old clothes and materials.
- Equipment Needed: Fabric, sewing supplies, glue, scissors, and various crafting materials.
- Fall-Themed Baking
Spend a day baking fall treats like pumpkin pie, apple pie, and cinnamon rolls. Involve your teens in the baking process for some quality time.- Why it’s Fun: Baking is a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall. It’s also a great opportunity to teach teens some kitchen skills.
- Equipment Needed: Baking ingredients, recipes, and kitchen tools.
- Homemade Candles
Make your own candles using fall scents like pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, or vanilla. It’s a fun craft that results in lovely home decor or gifts.- Why it’s Fun: Candle making is both creative and practical. It’s satisfying to make something beautiful and useful.
- Equipment Needed: Wax, wicks, molds, scents, and a double boiler.
- Fall Photo Shoot
Plan a photo shoot with fall backgrounds. Use props like leaves, pumpkins, and cozy blankets to set the scene.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a great way to capture the beauty of the season and create lasting memories. Teens can also share their best shots on social media.
- Equipment Needed: Camera or smartphone, props, and a scenic location.
- DIY Hot Chocolate Bar
Set up a hot chocolate bar with various toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate chips, and cinnamon sticks. Enjoy while watching your favorite movies.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a cozy and delicious way to enjoy a chilly fall evening. Perfect for a family night or small gathering.
- Equipment Needed: Hot chocolate mix, toppings, mugs, and a comfy space to enjoy.
- Pumpkin Seed Roasting
After carving pumpkins, save the seeds and roast them with various seasonings for a tasty snack.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a great way to reduce waste and create a healthy, homemade snack. Plus, it’s fun to experiment with different flavors.
- Equipment Needed: Pumpkin seeds, baking sheet, seasonings, and an oven.
- Fall-Themed Face Painting
Get face painting kits and create fall-themed designs like pumpkins, leaves, or spooky Halloween images.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a fun and creative way to celebrate fall festivals or Halloween parties. It also allows for artistic expression.
- Equipment Needed: Face paint kits, brushes, and mirrors.
Volunteer Activities
- Soup Kitchen Volunteering
Spend a day helping out at a local soup kitchen or food bank. Teens can assist with preparing and serving meals.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a rewarding way to give back to the community and meet new people. It also teaches valuable lessons in empathy and service.
- Equipment Needed: Comfortable clothes, a willingness to help, and possibly food handling gloves.
- Animal Shelter Help
Volunteer at a local animal shelter. Duties might include walking dogs, cleaning cages, or helping with adoption events.- Why it’s Fun: Spending time with animals is therapeutic and enjoyable. It’s also a great way to support the well-being of pets in need.
- Equipment Needed: Comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, and possibly a volunteer orientation.
- Community Clean-Up
Organize or join a community clean-up event at a park, beach, or other public area. Pick up litter and help beautify the space.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a productive way to spend time outdoors and make a visible difference in your community. It’s also a fantastic way to bond with others.
- Equipment Needed: Trash bags, gloves, and possibly grabbers or shovels.
- Senior Center Visits
Visit a local senior center to spend time with the elderly. Activities might include playing board games, sharing stories, or helping with crafts.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a heartwarming way to brighten someone’s day and learn from their life experiences. It also promotes intergenerational connections.
- Equipment Needed: Any materials needed for activities (games, crafts), and an open heart.
- Clothing Donation Sorting
Volunteer at a clothing donation center to sort and organize donated items. Assist with setting up displays or packaging clothes for distribution.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a hands-on way to help others and ensure that donations reach those who need them. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded volunteers.
- Equipment Needed: Comfortable clothes, gloves, and a willingness to sort and organize.
- Library Assistance
Help out at your local library with tasks like shelving books, organizing events, or reading to younger kids.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a quiet and rewarding way to support your local community. Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity for book lovers to spend more time in their favorite place.
- Equipment Needed: Comfortable clothes, possibly a library card, and a love for books.
- Neighborhood Leaf Raking
Offer to rake leaves for elderly neighbors or those who might need assistance. Make it a group activity with friends.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a simple yet impactful way to help out your neighbors and enjoy the fall weather. Plus, it’s good exercise!
- Equipment Needed: Rakes, leaf bags, and possibly gloves.
- Holiday Cards for Troops
Create and send holiday cards to deployed military personnel. Include heartfelt messages and drawings.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a touching way to show appreciation for the troops and spread some holiday cheer. It’s also a great indoor activity on a chilly day.
- Equipment Needed: Cards, markers, stickers, and postage.
Festive Activities
- Halloween Costume Party
Host a Halloween costume party with friends. Include games, spooky decorations, and a costume contest.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a fantastic way to celebrate Halloween with creativity and fun. Everyone gets to show off their costumes and enjoy the festivities.
- Equipment Needed: Costumes, decorations, snacks, and music.
- Autumn Festival Visit
Attend a local autumn festival that features food stalls, live music, carnival games, and craft vendors.- Why it’s Fun: Festivals are lively and full of diverse activities that cater to all ages. It’s a great way to experience local culture and enjoy seasonal treats.
- Equipment Needed: Comfortable clothes, spending money, and a camera for memories.
- Haunted House Visit
Visit a professionally designed haunted house for a night of scares and thrills.- Why it’s Fun: It’s an exhilarating way to celebrate the spooky season and test your bravery. Haunted houses often have impressive special effects and actors.
- Equipment Needed: Tickets, comfortable clothes, and maybe a friend to hold onto.
- Thanksgiving Potluck
Organize a potluck dinner where each person brings a dish. Focus on traditional fall and Thanksgiving foods.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a great way to share favorite recipes and enjoy a communal meal. Perfect for bringing friends and family together.
- Equipment Needed: Dishes to share, serving utensils, and perhaps some decorations.
- Fall-Themed Movie Night
- Description: Set up a cozy movie night with fall-themed movies like “Hocus Pocus” or “Harry Potter.” Include lots of blankets and snacks.
- Why it’s Fun: It’s a relaxing and nostalgic way to spend a fall evening. Perfect for winding down after a busy day.
- Equipment Needed: Movies, TV or projector, blankets, and snacks.
- Bonfire Night
Host a bonfire in your backyard or at a local campsite. Include storytelling, s’mores, and perhaps some spooky tales.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a classic fall activity that’s perfect for cool nights. The warmth of the fire and the company of friends make it special.
- Equipment Needed: Firewood, matches, seating, s’mores supplies, and blankets.
Indoor Activities
- Board Game Night
Organize a night dedicated to playing board games. Choose a variety of games to keep everyone engaged.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a fantastic way to bond with family or friends. Board games can be competitive, strategic, and loads of fun.
- Equipment Needed: A selection of board games, snacks, and a comfortable playing area.
- Reading Marathon
Have a cozy day dedicated to reading your favorite books. Create a reading nook with blankets and pillows.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a peaceful way to enjoy a chilly fall day. Perfect for book lovers and those looking to escape into different worlds.
- Equipment Needed: Books, blankets, pillows, and maybe some hot chocolate.
- Indoor Scavenger Hunt
Organize a scavenger hunt inside your home. Create clues and hide items for participants to find.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a fun and engaging way to spend time indoors. It encourages problem-solving and teamwork.
- Equipment Needed: Clues, hidden items, and a small prize for the winner.
- Movie Marathon
Have a marathon of your favorite fall movies or series. Include classics like “Hocus Pocus,” “Harry Potter,” and more.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a cozy and nostalgic way to spend a day or evening. Perfect for relaxing and enjoying some downtime.
- Equipment Needed: Movies, TV or projector, blankets, and snacks.
- DIY Fall Decor
Create your own fall decorations like garlands, centerpieces, and window clings.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a creative way to personalize your home for the season. Plus, making decorations can be very satisfying.
- Equipment Needed: Craft supplies, ideas, and a workspace.
- Cooking Class
Take an in-person or online cooking class focused on fall recipes. Learn to make dishes like butternut squash soup or pumpkin ravioli.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a fantastic way to learn new skills and enjoy delicious food. Great for those who love to cook or want to learn.
- Equipment Needed: Cooking ingredients, kitchen tools, and a computer or tablet.
- Puzzle Time
Work on a challenging puzzle together. Choose a fall-themed puzzle for extra seasonal fun.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a relaxing and collaborative activity that can be very rewarding. Great for spending time together.
- Equipment Needed: Puzzle, table, and patience.
- Hot Chocolate Tasting
Set up a hot chocolate tasting station with different flavors and toppings. Experiment with recipes and enjoy!- Why it’s Fun: It’s a delicious and cozy way to warm up. Perfect for a chilly fall day.
- Equipment Needed: Hot chocolate mix, toppings (marshmallows, whipped cream, etc.), mugs, and a comfy spot to enjoy.
Sporty Activities
- Basketball at the Park
Head to a local park with a basketball court and shoot some hoops or play a game.- Why it’s Fun: Basketball is a fun and energetic way to spend time outdoors and stay active.
- Equipment Needed: Basketball, appropriate shoes, and access to a court.
- Soccer Match
Gather friends or family for a casual soccer match. Set up goals in a park or open field.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a fantastic way to stay fit, improve coordination, and enjoy teamwork.
- Equipment Needed: Soccer ball, goals (or makeshift goals), and sportswear.
- Jogging/Running
Go for a jog or run through scenic trails or parks. Enjoy the crisp fall air and colorful leaves.- Why it’s Fun: Running is a great way to clear your mind, stay healthy, and appreciate the beauty of fall.
- Equipment Needed: Running shoes, comfortable workout clothes, and possibly a running app.
- Hiking Challenge
Plan a challenging hike on a local trail or nature reserve. Aim to reach a scenic viewpoint.- Why it’s Fun: It’s a rewarding way to experience nature and push your physical limits. Perfect for adventure seekers.
- Equipment Needed: Hiking boots, water, snacks, and possibly a map.
- Skating
Visit a local roller or ice skating rink. Enjoy gliding around and maybe even trying some tricks.- Why it’s Fun: Skating is a fun way to stay active and improve balance. It’s also a great indoor activity for cooler days.
- Equipment Needed: Skates (roller or ice), protective gear, and access to a rink.
- Rock Climbing
Try rock climbing at an indoor climbing gym or outdoor climbing spot.- Why it’s Fun: Rock climbing is an exhilarating sport that builds strength and confidence. It’s also a great way to challenge yourself.
- Equipment Needed: Climbing gear (shoes, harness, chalk), access to a climbing spot, and possibly a guide.
- Yoga in the Park
Attend a yoga class in a local park or set up your own session with friends.- Why it’s Fun: Yoga is a relaxing and beneficial way to stretch and strengthen your body. Doing it outdoors adds a refreshing element.
- Equipment Needed: Yoga mat, comfortable clothes, and maybe a water bottle.
Takeaway
Autumn brings lots of new opportunities to bond as a family, and spend some time with your teens! The weather is not so hot, so you might opt for outdoor adventures together, but also enjoy warm fall evenings inside with a hot chocolate and some great board games!
Enjoy fall and let me know what activities landed on your bucket list 😊
