It is FINALLY September! We are ready for all the cozy vibes, colorful leaves, and pumpkin-flavored everything! What about you?
If you’re anything like us, we LOVE this time of year and always look for ways to make the most of the season with our family. So, we’ve rounded up the ultimate fall bucket list that’s packed with fun, adventure, and just a touch of spooky.
So grab your favorite flannel! We’re jumping into all the amazing things you can do this fall!
1. Hit Up a Pumpkin Patch
Pumpkin picking is a must-do, and lucky for us, there are some awesome spots around Hickory, NC to find your perfect pumpkin!
Check out Henry River Farms in Morganton! The pumpkin season is open every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday starting September 21 through the end of October!
You’ll be able to grab a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch, take a walk through their maze, jump on their jumping pillow, take a hayride, enjoy the playground, and make so many amazing memories!
Don’t forget to grab an apple cider slushy before you head home!
2. Get Lost in a Corn Maze
The corn mazes around here are seriously so much fun and perfect for a family adventure!
Try out the maze at Johnny Wilson Farm in Granite Falls—it’s three acres of getting-lost fun! They also have a hay maze, complete with a fun hay tunnel!
While you’re there, don’t forget to swim around in the Corn Crib, take a 20-minute tram right across the farm, visit the Farm House, and say hello to the farm animals!
Their 2024 season opens September 28!
3. Go Leaf Peeping on the Blue Ridge Parkway
We’re so lucky to have the Blue Ridge Parkway practically in our backyard, especially during fall when the leaves turn those stunning shades of red, orange, and gold.
Pack some snacks, load up the car, and take a scenic drive to soak in the views this time of year. Don't forget to stop at the overlooks, take a ton of photos, and just breathe in that fresh autumn air.
Trust me, it’s the perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon.
4. Join the FUN at a Fall Festival
Fall festivals are where the magic of fall truly comes to life, and Hickory has some of the best!
You can’t miss Hickory’s Oktoberfest—it’s got everything from live music to arts and crafts, plus all the yummy food you could want.
And another awesome event to check out is the Claremont Daze Festival - Live music, a car show, an awesome Kid’s Zone, and I hear those incredible, from-scratch donuts from One Sweet Farm will make an appearance! You will not want to miss this one!
5. Make It Spooky at a Haunted Trail
If your family loves a good scare, you’ve got to check out a haunted trail or house this fall!
With all kinds of fan-favorite awards, Lake Hickory Haunts is THE place to be if you’re looking to jump out of your own skin (in the best way).
Open from September 13 through November 2, you’ll be able to experience 13 different attractions in one location! Including THREE new attractions for the 2024 season! Make sure you grab your tickets fast if you want to enjoy a spooky night out!
6. Have a Picnic at Bakers Mountain Park
Cooler weather means it’s prime time for picnics!
Bakers Mountain Park is the perfect spot to spread out a blanket and dig into some tasty fall treats. Think apple slices, caramel dip, and maybe a thermos of hot cocoa.
After you’ve had your fill, hit the trails to explore and take in those jaw-dropping views of the Catawba Valley. It’s the kind of day that just screams “fall!”
7. Pick Apples at a Local Orchard
Apple picking is pretty much the ultimate fall activity, and Apple Hill Orchard in Morganton is the place to do it.
Not only do they have fantastic apple cider donuts, but you get to wander through the orchard, take family photos, and fill up your basket, all at the same time! The kids will love it, and you’ll go home with enough apples to make pie, applesauce, or just snack on all week.
8. Plan a Family Movie Night
Sometimes, the best fall fun happens right at home. Plan a family movie night with your favorite fall movie. We love to watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” this time of year!
Grab a giant bag of the BEST popcorn from Carolina Theatre on the way home, then pile on the blankets and just enjoy a chill night in with the people you love most.
It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day full of fall adventures.
Time to Make Some Memories!
Fall in Hickory, NC, is bursting with family-friendly activities that you’ll be talking about all year!
So what are you waiting for? Start checking off this bucket list and make this fall one your family will never forget!
