Alternatives to Pumpkin and Apple Picking This Fall

I hate to admit it, but I am not a fan of apple picking in the Fall. Well, that's not exactly true. I am not a fan of apple and pumpkin picking during the weekend in the Fall. Why, you ask?  Because everyone and their mother is in those apple orchards on a sunny day in the Fall!  And I know some people don't mind the crowds, but I can't take it. I'd rather hit the local orchard after school with the Jersey Momma's Boy if I can (that does exclude Mr. Jersey Momma, but he's okay with that). Or I'd rather find an alternative. So here are some ideas for fun things to do besides apple and pumpkin picking this Fall.

There are so many ideas for Fall fun in our state, so get out there and explore! I'm always updating and adding to this list, so be sure to Pin it for future use!

Visit a Reservoir or State Park 

Almost all of them are free off-season.  Most of them are dog-friendly.  You can picnic, hike, go on a leaf walk (follow-up with some easy leaf pressing!), bike ride and even play in the sand at some of them.  My favorites?

Spruce Run Reservoir in Clinton.  There are trails, beaches, paths, playgrounds, and water.  What more can you ask for?  And it's free.

Merrill Creek in Washington, NJ.  There are paths to hike/walk on here, water to skip stones in, and a fun little nature building with interactive exhibits.  Free, free, free!

Round Valley Reservoir in Lebanon.  Bring the beach toys and a sand chair!  Ride your bike, play on the playgrounds- it's a great place to spend the afternoon and the trees are amazing in the Fall, so bring your camera!  Also, FREE!

Environmental Education Center at Lord Stirling Park - Basking Ridge, NJ

I love the EEC's amazing educational room in their main building. They have interactive displays, games, books, and so much more for little ones. There are paths and trails, classes, events, boating opportunities and fun activities for kids. Check out their website and see for yourself!

2.  Go Down the Shore

Many people forget that the shore is still a fun place once the summer has ended!  Especially on a warm, sunny day.  Check out Island Beach State Park or stroll on the boardwalk at Point Pleasant.  If you're lucky, the sun will be warm and you can still have an amazing time on the beach.

3.  Visit The Raptor Trust

Outdoors and totally free (all they ask for is a donation), you can walk the gravel paths and look at their beautiful birds of prey.  Check out my past blog entry about the Raptor Trust to learn more about it.  If you have time remaining, you can even swing by the Great Swamp for a nature hike.

4.  Go Hiking!

New Jersey has endless opportunities for hiking, from simple trails to challenging courses. Some fun places to explore include Hacklebarney State Park, Buttermilk Falls and Mt Tamanny at Delaware Water Gap. But do me a favor and wear good shoes! I can't tell you how many people in flip flops we have seen on family hikes. 

5. Visit a Creamery or Vineyard

We visited Valley Shepherd Creamery in Long Valley this past Spring, and we vowed to return in the Fall for one of their harvest tours. Check out their website or visit my blog post about our experience there to see how much fun it can be (think sheep, cheese, farm animals and more).

There are so many vineyards in and around the state of New Jersey, and they're all pretty family friendly. Many of them have family events, food truck festivals, concerts and much more. Some of our favorites include Beneduce Vineyards in Pittstown, Old York Cellars in Ringoes, and Laurita Winery in New Egypt.

BONUS IDEA:  Play Miniature Golf

Laugh if you must, but this is one of the most fun Fall activities you can plan on a weekend.  Stress-free, inexpensive and fun, there are so many to choose from around the Garden State!  My favorites?

Al Bohem's Golf Center in Lebanon (small, but sweet, and has great italian ice!)...

Jimmy's Ice Cream & Holey Moley Golf Course in Milford....

Other Ideas

Although they can get crowded, too, there are other fun, outdoor places to visit throughout the state (and close by) in the Fall.  The always adorable Turtle Back Zoo even has Halloween activities in October.  The Lehigh Valley Zoo (in PA) is also cute and affordable.  If you're willing to spend some extra money, try out Hersheypark in the Dark (PA) or The Count's Spooktacular at Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA.

Happy Fall, y'all!