The best way to enjoy the fall weather is to get outside. Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind in nature, a new adventure, or a place to go for a walk, we’ve got you covered with the best places.
Rail Explorers
Peddle along the Scenic Valley Trail on a tandem or quad bike with Rail Explorers in Boone. The perfect fall activity, you can pedal past harvest season cornfields and beautiful autumn trees. On the 12.5-mile journey, take a relaxing break at one of the turnarounds and make sure to pack some snacks to fuel up. Check out the Evening Lantern Ride or Scenic Valley Fireside route, you can cozy up around a personal fire pit before continuing your journey back to the depot.
Brookside Park
There’s no better time to visit Brookside Park than autumn. Wander the paths beneath the changing leaves, enjoy a family picnic, or cheer on friendly competition at the pickleball, basketball, and tennis courts. Your youngest adventurers can race to the new fire-truck playground, and everyone can soak in the beautiful scenery.
Center Grove Orchard
Gather your family and friends and head to Center Grove Orchard for a day that’s packed with outdoor fall adventures. Pick your own pumpkins, race through the corn maze, and treat yourself to their famous apple cider donuts, served warm, lightly spiced, and made with fresh apple cider.
Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market
The Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market runs through October 17, making it a great way to enjoy crisp fall mornings while supporting local vendors and businesses. Grab a hot apple cider and take a walk through the market, enjoying the sights and smells of fall. Stop by one of the local vendors for fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items.
Reiman Gardens
Spend a day strolling around the gardens and taking in all the fall scenery. Walk through a variety of seasonal plants and flowers that show all the colors of fall. With so many fun events coming up that can’t be missed, attend the Spirits in the Gardens from October 9 through the 11.
Iowa State University Campus
Start or end your day by taking a walk around Iowa State University Campus, whether you’re going before a class, football game, or work. Walk the Golden Loop that goes around central campus, past Curtiss and Pearson Hall, behind Carver Hall, leading you back to the Campanile in Central Campus. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day.
Ada Hayden Heritage Park
There is no better way to enjoy the fall weather than going for a walk or run, enjoying a bike ride, kayaking, or fishing at Ada Hayden Heritage Park. There is a multitude of trails around the water, with scenic views, and you can make it a whole day adventure by packing a picnic.
Iowa Arboretum & Gardens
Located just outside of Ames in Madrid, Iowa, the Iowa Arboretum & Gardens has so many fun adventures this fall for your next outdoor activity. It’s perfect for your family as you can wander through the Treehouse Village and explore over 170 acres of botanical gardens making for a peaceful autumn adventure.
