There may be no better time of the year than fall in Florida! We get to enjoy beautiful weather, amazing community events, and favorite fall traditions and activities.
With so many fun things for families to do inside and outside the house, it can be hard to decide where to start. As a First Coast Realtor, designer and long-time resident, here are my recommendations for the best fall activities for families in Northeast Florida.
Outdoor Adventures for the Family
Hike the trails & see the seasons change
Northeast Florida is known for its outdoor activities, and fall is no exception. Now is the best time to explore our state’s network of trails and parks. Hanna Park is an excellent 150-mile attraction for a wide range of interests, including freshwater fishing, beach walks, biking routes, hiking trails, camping and picnics.
Other great outdoor locations to visit include:
- Atlantic Beach: a variety of outdoor and beach activities
- Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens: a peaceful area to enjoy local flora
- Jacksonville Baldwin Rail Trail: 15 miles for biking, hiking and walking adventures
- Tree Hill Nature Center: interactive environmental programs for kids
Make a day trip to St. Augustine
Nothing says fall in the First Coast more than a fun trip to St. Augustine. Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the US, is the most well-known attraction and one that has entertained children for decades.
But St. Augustine has even more to offer, from unique local shops to some of the best restaurants in the state. Other attractions you won’t want to miss include the Lightner Museum and the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights also begins on November 20, during which 3 million lights cover the historic district. It’s truly magical to see!
Explore local farmers’ markets & shops
It’s harvest season, so make sure to explore and enjoy the fruits of our local farmers. Visit the St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market on Saturday or the Riverside Arts Market in Jacksonville during the weekend to view goods from farmers, artists, makers and bakers. Another great business where you can get fresh local produce is Freshfields Farm, known as the ultimate destination for the freshest produce and meats in Florida.
Cozy Activities at Home
Camp out in the backyard
Not all fall trips have to be far from home! As the temperatures start to dip, it’s a perfect time to go to the great outdoors – in your own backyard. Set up a tent in the backyard, light up the firepit, and enjoy s’mores and hot chocolate. This is an activity that kids love, and parents don’t have to worry about all the stresses of finding the right campsite and bringing everything you need.
Decorate your home & front porch
As an interior designer, one of my favorite parts of autumn is decorating your home to feel cozy and comfortable. Freshen up your space with warm accents, such as natural wood pieces, soft blankets and pillows, and earthy elements like a vase of wheat, pine cones, and fresh gourds.
Don’t forget to bring that same fall warmth to your front porch and backyard! Click here for some great ideas for fall porch décor.
Entertain kids with fall arts & crafts
Bring your kids or grandkids into the decorating action with fall crafts. Making fall-themed crafts are a great way to celebrate and educate children about the shift in seasons. Plus, you can incorporate their crafts into the home.
My tip for great fall crafts is to bring in elements from nature to make it the ultimate hands-on experience. Kids can use pine cones, fall leaves, pumpkins and more to create crafts – from painting pumpkins to creating feathered pine cone turkeys or leaf-based hedgehogs. You can check out great fall crafts and directions from mom bloggers here.
I hope you and your family enjoy a wonderful fall season and all that the First Coast has to offer!
