Fresh Air Fall Fun: Four Activities Perfect for the Season 

We’re thrilled that fall is here! The season of pumpkins and leaves changing colors is a fantastic time of year to try out new activities and spend time outdoors. We are excited to share four of our favorite fall activities and hope you enjoy them with your friends and family! 

#1 Carve a pumpkin 

Pumpkin carving is always a fun family activity! Select a design that stands out to you and start carving away! If you need some creative inspiration, try carving a spooky cat, friendly ghost or scary face. And, of course, remember to always check with an adult first! Once you’re finished, take all the extra seeds and roast them. Roasted pumpkin seeds are a healthy and delicious fall snack. Another fun idea — try painting your pumpkin! 

#2 Enjoy the fall foliage 

Fall is a special time to enjoy a walk in nature. Did you know New York City is home to more than 1,700 parks! Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx is the largest and is 2,785 acres. Below are a few of our favorite parks to go for a walk and admire the changing leaves. 

• Manhattan: Central Park, Fort Tyron Park, Riverside Park 
• Brooklyn: Prospect Park, Highland Park, Owl’s Head Park 
• Queens: Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Forest Park, Woodhaven 
• Bronx: Bronx Park, Van Cortlandt Park, Pelham Bay Park 
• Staten Island: Greenbelt Nature Center, Clove Lakes Park, Snug Harbor 

Click here to find even more parks in your area! 

Mark your calendar — after you finish appreciating the beautiful colors of the leaves, it is always fun to return in a few weeks after they have all fallen and jump into leaf piles! 

#3 Watch a Halloween movie 

With Halloween right around the corner, there’s no better activity than watching a Halloween movie. Set the mood by popping some popcorn, pouring a mug full of hot chocolate and bundling up with cozy blankets. Maybe you’ll even find inspiration for a Halloween costume! 

#4 Try local fall foods from a farmers market 

Farmers markets are one of the best places to find fall foods local to your area. From butternut squash to pumpkin, you can find vendors selling fresh and seasonal produce. Farmers markets also have a lot of sweet treats! Apple cider donuts, pumpkin pie and carrot cake are some of our favorites. 

If you’re looking for a farmers market in your area, check out this map of NYC’s farmers markets! 

P.S. – Excited for more fall activities and crafts? Check out some more Fresh Air Fund favorite fall activities at this link.