Fall is full of little opportunities to make memories with the kids, whether you have a free Saturday for a family outing or just 20 minutes to fill before dinner. From exploring North Texas nature trails to making leaf crafts around the kitchen table, these simple activities are a fun way to connect with the season without needing an elaborate plan. Check back throughout the fall as we add more ideas!
Outdoor Fall Fun
Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Pick out the perfect pumpkin and enjoy some seasonal fun at a local farm. Check out these pumpkin patches that are within 30 minutes!
- Preston Trail Farms - Big Orange Pumpkin Farm | Gunter, TX
- Sunset Trail Farm | McKinney, TX
- Pumpkins on the Prairie | Frisco, TX
- Blase Family Farm | Rockwall, TX
Explore North Texas Nature Trails & Preserves
Enjoy the cooler weather with a family hike. North Texas has plenty of trails to explore, with opportunities to spot wildlife, discover native plants, and enjoy a little fresh air.
Some of our favorites:
- Heard Natural Science Museum & Nature Preserve
- Bonnie Wenk Outer Loop
- Cottonwood Creek Greenbelt Trail
Go on a Fall Nature Scavenger Hunt
Create a list of things to find outdoors, such as a yellow leaf, an acorn, a pinecone, a feather, or something rough. Younger kids can use a picture checklist, while older kids can look for different leaf shapes or signs of wildlife. Here's a great one to use!
Take a Walk to See Halloween Decorations
Turn an evening walk into a Halloween adventure! Explore the neighborhood and see how many spooky skeletons, friendly ghosts, and fun inflatables your family can find. Make it a game by seeing who can spot the most creative display.
Indoor Fall Fun
Try Pretend Camping
Rainy day? Set up a blanket fort or pitch a tent in the living room. Grab sleeping bags, flashlights, and snacks for an indoor camping adventure.
Host a Fall Family Movie Night
Pile on the blankets, pop some popcorn, and settle in for a seasonal favorite. Try It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, Curious George: A Halloween Boo Fest, or Winnie the Pooh: Seasons of Giving for a fall-themed movie night.
Bake Something Pumpkin-Flavored
Make something together, with plenty to share! If you can't think of what to bake, check out this list of yummy pumpkin treats to choose from.
Fall Crafts & Hobbies
Make a Fall Leaves Wreath
Collect colorful fallen leaves and attach them to a cardboard ring or wreath form to make a simple autumn decoration for your front door. Here's a how-to!
Create a Family Tree With Leaves
Draw a tree trunk and branches, then use fallen leaves to represent family members. Write each person's name on a leaf to create a seasonal family keepsake.
Make Fall Apple Stamping Art
Cut an apple in half to reveal its star-shaped center, dip it in washable paint, and press it onto paper to make something Fall. Here are some instructions to make a cute pumpkin together.
Decorate Mini Pumpkins
Skip the carving and let the kids decorate mini pumpkins with paint, stickers, markers, or googly eyes. Turn them into silly faces or little fall decorations for the house. Need some inspiration? Check out some favorites here.
Have a favorite fall activity to add to our list? Check back for more ideas throughout the season!
