Can you believe it’s fall already? I don’t know about you, but I’m so ready for cute sweaters, pumpkin spice everything, and those gorgeous autumn colors.
But let’s be real – we’ve all seen those picture-perfect fall bucket lists on Pinterest that make us feel like we need to do ALL THE THINGS to have the perfect autumn.
Well, I’m telling you that’s not necessary and I’m sharing my realistic fall bucket list with you.
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These activities are actually doable, won’t break the bank, and will still give you all those warm and fuzzy fall feels. Curious? Let’s dive in!
1. Visit a local pumpkin patch
Nothing says fall quite like a trip to the pumpkin patch! It’s a classic for a reason, and it’s usually pretty affordable.
Grab a pumpkin to carve or pick up a few cute mini pumpkins to decorate your home. Don’t forget to snap a few pics for the memories!
2. Try a new fall-inspired recipe
I’m not talking about anything fancy here. Maybe it’s a simple pumpkin bread or a hearty soup. The goal is to fill your home with those comforting fall scents and flavors.
Plus, it’s a great excuse to use that crockpot that’s been collecting dust in your cabinet!
3. Have a cozy movie night
Pick a fall-themed movie (Hocus Pocus, anyone?), grab some snacks, and snuggle up under a warm blanket.
It’s the perfect way to spend a chilly autumn evening without spending a dime.
4. Take a nature walk
Fall is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the changing colors. Find a local park or trail and take a leisurely stroll.
It’s a great way to get some exercise and appreciate the beauty of the season. Plus, it’s totally free!
5. Create a fall playlist
Music has such a powerful way of setting the mood. Put together a playlist of songs that give you those cozy fall vibes.
Think acoustic guitars, warm vocals, and maybe a dash of melancholy. It’s the perfect soundtrack for all your autumn activities.
6. Decorate your home with simple fall touches
You don’t need to go overboard here. A few mini pumpkins, some autumn-colored throw pillows, or a fall-scented candle can make a big difference.
Check out your local dollar store for budget-friendly decor options.
7. Have a bonfire and make s’mores
If you have access to a fire pit, this is a must-do fall activity. Gathering around a fire on a cool autumn night with family and friends is a lot of fun.
And let’s be honest, s’mores are delicious any time of year!
8. Go apple picking
This is another fall classic that’s usually pretty affordable. Many orchards offer hayrides and other fun activities too.
Plus, you’ll come home with fresh apples for all your fall baking needs!
9. Try a new fall-inspired coffee or tea
Whether you’re Team PSL or prefer something a little less sweet, fall is the perfect time to try a new warm beverage.
You could even experiment with making your own at home to save some cash.
10. Have a game night with friends
As the weather gets cooler, it’s the perfect time for indoor activities with friends. Dust off those board games and invite some pals over for a game night.
Don’t forget the fall-themed snacks!
11. Take a scenic drive
If you live in an area with beautiful fall foliage, take advantage of it! Pack some snacks, queue up your fall playlist, and hit the road.
It’s a low-cost way to enjoy the beauty of the season.
12. Have a fall photoshoot
You don’t need a professional photographer for this one. Grab a friend or set up your phone timer and have fun with it!
Find a pretty spot with fall colors and snap some seasonal pics for your socials or just for fun.
13. Make a fall-scented DIY
Whether it’s a cinnamon stick candle or a potpourri sachet, creating something that smells like fall can really get you in the autumn spirit. Plus, these make great gifts!
14. Have an outdoor picnic
Before it gets too cold, pack up some fall-inspired foods and have a picnic in a local park. It’s a great way to enjoy the crisp autumn air and changing leaves.
15. Volunteer or donate
Fall is a great time to give back to your community. Maybe volunteer at a local food bank or donate some gently used coats to a shelter.
It’s a meaningful way to spread some warmth as the weather gets colder.
16. Start a new book
There’s something about the season that makes me want to curl up with a good book. Hit up your local library or dust off that book you’ve been meaning to read.
It’s the perfect activity for a chilly autumn day.
17. Try your hand at leaf art
Remember pressing leaves as a kid? Why not give it a try again? Collect some colorful leaves and press them in a heavy book.
You can use them to make bookmarks, wall art, or just preserve a bit of fall beauty.
18. Have a fall cleaning session
I know, I know – spring cleaning gets all the glory. But fall is a great time to declutter and cozy up your space for the coming winter months. Plus, it’ll make you feel super productive!
19. Start a gratitude journal
As we head towards Thanksgiving, fall is the perfect time to reflect on what we’re grateful for.
Start a simple gratitude journal, jotting down one thing you’re thankful for each day.
20. Plan a staycation
If a fall getaway isn’t in the cards this year, why not plan a fun staycation?
Set aside a weekend to fully embrace all things autumn – watch fall movies, bake fall treats, and indulge in all your favorite fall activities without ever leaving home.
And those are just some of the ideas on my super realistic fall bucket list that won’t stress you out or break the bank.
Remember, the goal here isn’t to do everything on this list. It’s about embracing the season in a way that feels authentic and enjoyable to you.
I truly believe it’s the little things that make it special and are the moments that make autumn so wonderful.
It’s okay if your fall doesn’t look like the perfectly curated Instagram posts we see all over social media. Your autumn experience is unique to you, and that’s what makes it beautiful.
Don’t feel pressured to do all the things or spend a ton of money to have a “perfect” fall.
The most important thing is to slow down, appreciate the changing season, and find joy in the simple pleasures.
Remember, self-care is crucial during this transitional season. As the days get shorter and the weather gets cooler, it’s easy to feel a bit down.
Make sure you’re taking care of yourself – get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and don’t be afraid to say no to activities that don’t bring you joy or align with your energy levels.
I hope this list has inspired you to embrace all the cozy, wonderful aspects of fall in a way that feels authentic and achievable for you.
Whether you tackle one item or all twenty, I hope you have a fantastic autumn filled with warmth, joy, and plenty of pumpkin spice (if that’s your thing!).
P.S. Don’t forget to pin this post for later – you never know when you might need some fall inspiration!
