With the weather slowly becoming cooler it’s time to embrace all things Fall. In order to make the most of this season I’ve created a list of 15 ways you can truly enjoy this Fall season in Grand Rapids. Bring on all the apples, pumpkins, changing colors and crisp weather.
1. ArtPrize
This is a no-brainer, but ArtPrize is a Fall must in Grand Rapids. Starting on September 21 the city becomes an artist destination filled with spectacular art. Stay tuned for more ArtPrize posts on what to see and what to do while downtown.
2. Take a road trip up north
A Fall color tour in northern Michigan is the perfect opportunity to take a little road trip. Spend a long weekend up north soaking in all the gorgeous colors and stop at some local wineries or breweries along the way.
3. Enjoy a pumpkin spice donut from Robinette’s
If you’ve never had a donut from Robinette’s you’re truly missing out. These donuts are a Fall staple paired with a glass of warm cider.
4. Go apple picking at Ed Dunneback & Girls Farm
Sure you can find local apples at the grocery store during the Fall season, but spending some time picking your own apples in the orchard is a perfect weekend activity. Head to Ed Dunneback & Girls Farm to pick your own apples and then enjoy a fresh cinnamon roll and glass of apple cider.
5. Have a pumpkin carving party
Host a pumpkin carving party with your friends with pumpkins from Koetsier’s. Grab a few bottles of wine with some Fall appetizers and get creative carving pumpkins.
6. Enjoy a hayride
Need a fun date idea or something to do with your kids? A hayride through the apple orchard at Schwallier’s is a great way to spend a Fall afternoon.
7. Try a new Fall recipe
Apples, pumpkins and cinnamon oh my! Try a new recipe this season like these Apple Sandwiches or Whole Wheat Pumpkin Apple Muffins from The Lemon Bowl.
8. Great Pumpkin run
If you love running you’ll love the Great Pumpkin Run at Klackle Orchards on October 1. This 5k run or walk is fun for the whole family and includes apple cider, a small pumpkin and entry to the farm.
9. Chili cook off at the Cottage Bar
There’s nothing better than a warm bowl of chili on a cold Fall day. Head to the Cottage Bar for a fun chili cook off featuring 40 local cooks and live music.
10. Pumpkin cooking class at Sur La Table
A cooking class at Sur La Table is the perfect idea for girls night out. This Fall you can try a pumpkin cooking class to celebrate all things pumpkin.
11. Rockford Harvest Fest
Enjoy a chili cook off, beer tent, and have fun making a scarecrow at the Rockford Harvest Fest. This is a fun event for families and the perfect way to kick off the Fall season.
12. Oktoberfest West Michigan
Mark your calendar for Oktoberfest West Michigan on September 25 and 26. Head to John Ball Zoo and enjoy a beer and pretzel.
13. Vander Fest
Vänder Mill in Spring Lake is hosting Vander Fest 2016 on October 1. With live music, food trucks and over 50 beers and ciders on tap this is the place to be.
14. Corn maze
Get lost in a corn maze this Fall at Crane Orchards. Crane Orchards is featuring a 20-acre corn maze celebrating their 100 anniversary this season that’s fun for everyone to enjoy.
15. Fall painting night at Brush Studio
Head downtown to Brush Studio with some friends and sip some wine while painting a Fall Barn. On a cold Fall night this is a great idea for getting creative and having some fun.
Ummm I want to do it all! This fall is crazy for us but maybe next fall the family and I will tackle this bucket list.
Thank you!