Each year we sit down as a family to plan fun activities that we can do together during the fall. There are some traditions that we want to do each year–like apple picking. Other items on our list may come from our Boston Bucket List, our children’s current interests (I’m looking at you, dinosaur museum from a few years ago!), or our family’s priorities (getting out into nature, being unplugged, etc.).
I generally display the list on our refrigerator (mostly because the Type A part of me likes to check things off….) so that we can plan our weekends. It’s fun to make memories together while we are intentional about the time we spend together.
Here is:
Our Family’s 2018 Fall Fun List
1.Go Camping in New Hampshire
We have already booked our spot for Columbus Day weekend at a state park in New Hampshire. The park is on the northern edge of the Presidential Range in the White Mountains, so it should be gorgeous! There are a couple of moderate trails in the park that look just right for our family. We will also cook our meals over the fire–a perennial kid favorite!
2. Hike around Walden Pond
We are so fortunate to live in Boston, near so many historic sites. Walden Pond is on our way to church, just a 20 minute drive away. There is a lovely hike around the pond and a replica of Thoreau’s cabin. It should be a relaxing way to spend a fall afternoon.
3. Go Apple-Picking
With so many apple orchards within an hours drive, the problem will be choosing a place to go! We have been apple-picking every year since our oldest son was born. It’s always a fun outing, plus there are apples to eat for weeks. Which leads to the next item on the list….
4. Make Homemade Applesauce
I have found a new recipe for homemade applesauce in the crock pot that I would love to try. Here’s hoping it’s a keeper!
5. Visit the Beach
While most people flock to the beach in the summer, the fall is actually our family’s favorite time to go. It’s cool, not crowded, and the perfect time to explore tide pools. The kids wade while we watch contentedly from the shore.
6. Have a Picnic Under a Beautiful Tree
This is a simple goal that we could fill many different ways. We could simply have a picnic on campus under one of the many trees. Or, we could find a nearby park to explore. Or, we could go find a new place to hike and pack a picnic along with us. So many options!
7. Tour the John F. Kennedy House
We live almost literally next door to the John F. Kennedy House–the former president’s childhood home. There is no entrance fee and absolutely no excuse as to why we shouldn’t go! The house closes to tours during the winter, so we have decided to make this a priority for the fall.
8. Go to the Boston Public Library for an Event
The central Boston Public Library is an architectural gem (and a designated National Historic Landmark) filled with museum exhibits, a courtyard with free outdoor concerts, children’s events, public lectures, and thousands of books. We need to make our way down there!
What would you like to do this fall?
