As the vibrant leaves transform and the crisp air settles in, fall in Upstate New York offers a beautiful backdrop for creating cherished memories. For single dads and single moms, this season is the perfect opportunity to bond with your kids and share joyful experiences. From apple picking to scenic drives, here are 20 fantastic fall activities that will keep both you and your little ones entertained all autumn long.

1. Go Apple Picking

Wandering through a picturesque apple orchard is a classic fall experience. Many orchards, like Lyman Orchards in Middlefield, offer fun family activities such as hayrides and cider tastings. Did you know that New York is the second-largest apple producer in the U.S., yielding over 29 million bushels each year? Picking fresh apples not only promotes outdoor fun but also introduces kids to local agriculture.

2. Visit a Pumpkin Patch

A trip to a pumpkin patch is a must during fall. At Burnap’s Farm in Clifton Park, you can pick out the perfect pumpkin and enjoy fun activities like corn mazes and petting zoos. This year, an estimated 1.5 billion pounds of pumpkins will be produced across the U.S., providing endless opportunities for family festivities.

3. Take a Scenic Hike

There are countless trails in Upstate New York showcasing breathtaking fall foliage. Consider hiking in Watkins Glen State Park, where you can see stunning waterfalls and vibrant leaves. Make sure to pack snacks and a camera—don’t miss the chance to capture those beautiful views!

4. Host a Backyard Bonfire

Gather around your backyard for a cozy bonfire with your kids. Roast marshmallows for s'mores, tell ghost stories, and share laughter. It’s a simple yet effective way to spend quality time together under the stars.

5. Attend a Local Fall Festival

Explore local fall festivals, such as the Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival, where you can indulge in delicious food and enjoy live music. These events often include kid-friendly activities like games and crafts, making them perfect for a fun-filled day out.

6. Create Halloween Costumes Together

This fall, unleash your creative side by crafting Halloween costumes with your kids. Whether designing superheroes or spooky creatures, this activity helps build teamwork while ensuring that everyone has a unique costume for trick-or-treating.

7. Take a Scenic Drive

Plan a picturesque drive through the Adirondack Park to witness the beautiful fall colors. Consider packing a picnic lunch and stopping at stunning viewpoints to admire the landscape. In fact, the park attracts over 10 million visitors each year, showcasing its popular natural beauty.

8. Explore a Nature Center

Nature centers like the Cascadilla Gorge Trail in Ithaca provide educational experiences for kids. Participate in guided nature walks and learn about local wildlife. Many programs cater specifically to children, making it a fun and interactive learning experience.

9. Bake Pumpkin Treats

Get into the fall spirit by baking delicious pumpkin treats. Involve your kids in mixing up recipes for pumpkin muffins or pies. Baking together not only encourages teamwork but also results in tasty rewards to share!

10. Go on a Hayride

Experience the charm of a hayride at local farms like Indigo Lake Farm. It’s a fun way for kids to enjoy the outdoors while taking in the colors of fall. Many hayrides also provide hot cocoa, adding warmth to the chilly evenings.

11. Take Photos in the Leaves

Make a fun tradition of capturing the beauty of autumn. Dedicate an afternoon to raking leaves into piles, then jump in for playful photos. These moments create lasting memories and keep your family connected to nature.

12. Visit a Historical Site

Autumn is an ideal time to explore historical sites like Fort Ticonderoga. Not only do these sites offer guided tours, but they also provide a fun, hands-on learning experience that can captivate kids’ imaginations.

13. Craft Fall Decorations

Encourage creativity by crafting fall-themed decorations together. Activities like leaf rubbings or pumpkin paintings brighten your home while providing a creative outlet. These crafts can serve as gifts or cherished keepsakes.

14. Plan an Outdoor Movie Night

As temperatures cool, use a projector to watch a family-friendly movie outdoors. Snuggle up with blankets, prepare popcorn, and enjoy a cozy night under the stars. It’s a great way to create memorable experiences.

15. Go Fishing

Spend a relaxing day fishing at nearby spots like Cayuga Lake. It’s not only about catching fish but also a chance to bond, share stories, and teach kids essential fishing skills.

16. Have a Soup Cook-off

Involve your kids in a friendly soup cook-off at home. Each of you can create your own recipe using seasonal vegetables. Not only is it delicious, but it's also a fun way to learn about cooking together.

17. Take a Train Ride

Enjoy a scenic train ride with local companies such as the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. It offers unique views of fall foliage, making it an enjoyable outing for the whole family.

18. Experience a Local Corn Maze

Visiting a corn maze can be a delightful challenge for families. Farms often construct elaborate mazes that provide hours of entertainment while navigating through the farm's landscape together.

19. Visit a Haunted House

Check out local haunted houses if your kids are old enough for a little scare. Participating in spooky activities can be an exciting way to immerse yourselves in Halloween spirit.

20. Stargazing

As nights grow longer, take the opportunity to introduce your kids to stargazing. Lay on a blanket, look up, and talk about the constellations. It can be a magical experience that sparks wonder and curiosity.

Making Autumn Memories Together

Fall in Upstate New York is a wonderful time for single dads and their kids to engage in fun activities and adventures. By sharing these 20 exciting experiences, you’ll strengthen your bonds and enjoy the beauty of the season. Whether exploring nature or indulging in seasonal traditions, there is no shortage of wholesome fall activities to dive into. So gear up, grab your kids, and embark on a memorable autumn journey together!