Grand Rapids Fall Bucket List 2018

With the weather getting cooler and pumpkin spice everything popping up it’s officially starting to feel like fall. So it’s about time to make the most of this season with a fall bucket list! Let’s embrace this season to the fullest with friends and family spending time outdoors, sipping hot cider and savoring those amazing pumpkin spice donuts. Happy fall ya’ll! PS see the link below to print out or download a checklist for this fall bucket list.

ArtPrize

I can’t believe ArtPrize starts next week! If you live in Grand Rapids or if you’ve traveled to see ArtPrize you know this is a big deal for our city. If you’re planning to visit for the first time you will absolutely love exploring the city with the incredible art. This year is the 10th year for ArtPrize and it runs from September 19 – October 7. This is a great time to be a tourist in your own city and maybe try a new restaurant while you’re walking around downtown GR.

Take a Drive

We are so fortunate to live in state that has amazing fall weather and color tours. Take a road trip with friends or significant other to visit your favorite place up north or explore someplace new. Either way don’t miss out on the amazing display of trees turning color. You can check out the Pure Michigan website to see where the colors are turning and plan your fall getaway.

Go Apple Picking

We have such amazing apple orchards in and around Grand Rapids! Sure it’s great to get local apples at the store, but why not try picking your own apples? This is such a fun activity to try with friends this fall. Remember to call the orchard before you go to check availability!

Enjoy a Hayride

I know what you’re thinking a hayride is for little kids. Well yes, the kids love a hayride but it’s just as fun for adults. This is a great group activity for the whole family and a fun way to see the orchards. I really love the hayride at Robinette’s!

Try a Corn Maze

If you haven’t tried a corn maze you’re really missing out! A corn maze is great for a group of friends or family and many apple farms in the area offer this fun activity.

Carve Pumpkins

Obviously carving pumpkins is a must for Halloween. I try to get my pumpkins locally and always try something different each year with my pumpkin carving. I’ve gone to the extremes of using power tools, different cutouts and I’m always trying to think out-of-the-box each year. This is also a great opportunity to get your friends or family together and have a pumpkin carving party and vote on your favorites. What are some of your favorite ways to carve pumpkins?

Robinette’s Donut

Most of you know I’m slightly obsessed with Robinette’s pumpkin spice donut. I always find some type of excuse to drive out there if only for a donut and cup of apple cider. If you haven’t tried one before move this to the top of your fall bucket list. Trust me.

Make a Fall Recipe

Maybe it’s because the weather is getting cooler, but this time of year I crave being in the kitchen making muffins, cookies, and all thinks pumpkin or apple. Even if you’re not big into cooking or baking try something new for your family or friends. I love the local blog Rachel Cooks to find some fall inspired recipes like Pumpkin Bran Muffins, Pumpkin Spice Candied Walnuts, or Apple Cheesecake Shortbread Cookies.

Chili Cook-off

When I think of fall I think of comfort food and chili is one of my favorites. My family’s tradition is to make chili on Halloween and each year we’ve added more people to our family we’ve started a little competition for the best chili. My sister and I are both vegetarian so we love creating new chili recipes that we make throughout the season. If you have a great chili recipe leave a comment below!

Great Pumpkin Run

Mark your calendars because the Great Pumpkin Run is September 22 at Klackle Orchards. This is a great 5k to run with friends and enjoy the fall scenery!

Oktoberfest

Don’t miss out on Oktoberfest at John Ball Zoo happening on September 28th and 29th! With so many fun events, live music, great food and drinks this is the great way to spend a fall afternoon.

Meijer Gardens

I absolutely love visiting Meijer Gardens during the summer especially to see the live music, but fall is my favorite time to walk the gardens. They also have a giant pumpkin patch that’s a must see as well as some great events for the whole family.

Sip Some Cider

Pick up some local apple cider for your next fall party or just to enjoy at home (it’s the best). My family has a debate about whether it’s best served warm or cold and my vote is cold…what do you prefer?

Farmers Market

I absolutely love walking to the Fulton Street Farmers Market on Saturday mornings during the fall for fresh apples, pumpkins or squash. What are your favorite produce items during the fall?

Cooking Class

When the nights get a little too chilly to be outside and you’re looking for something to do inside why not try a cooking class? The Downtown Market offers some great classes during the fall like Pie Crust To Be Thankful For and Stew & Brew.

Vander Fest

Vänder Fest is happening on October 6th at Vander Mill in Spring Lake! This is such a fun fall event with live music, great food, hard cider, and local beer.

Pumpkin Patch

It just isn’t fall without a trip to the pumpkin patch. Support a local pumpkin patch this year and get pumpkins for your front step or for carving!

Harvest Festival

There are many harvest festivals happening this season! Grab your friends or family members and check out one in your area. I really love the Harvest Fest in Rockford!

You can download this Fall Bucket List here to keep track of your must-do things this season. Enjoy!