The temperatures are finally starting to drop around the state and you know what that means? Fall is just around the corner! Within just a couple of weeks, people in many parts of Arizona will start wearing sweaters, drinking hot drinks, and seeing the leaves change colors. If you’re looking for some fun ways to enjoy the changing season, check out these day trip ideas.
1. Enjoy a short scenic drive on Flagstaff’s Hart Prairie Road.
This particular drive is just 7.5 miles long but when the leaves’ colors are rich tones of yellow, orange, and red, you’ll enjoy a color explosion here. Afterwards consider a short hike in the same area near the San Francisco Peaks or enjoy a day walking around town.
Address: Google Maps
2. Take a hike on one of Arizona’s most famous trails, West Fork of Oak Creek #108 near Sedona.
In the fall, this trail shows off just how lovely the season is in Arizona. You’ll be met with warm hues in the leaves, the surrounding red canyon walls, and chilly creek waters.
Details: U.S. Forest Service
3. Pick your own pumpkins at Rocker 7 Farm Patch in Buckeye.
Enjoy the cooler temperatures in October and a fall tradition of picking pumpkins for carving, eating, or decoration. It’s a great way to build memories with your family as well as enjoy a lovely fall day, even in the desert!
Address: 19601 West Broadway Road, Buckeye
Details: Rocker 7 Farm Patch
4. Or, alternatively, you can pick apples in an orchard like Apple Annie’s in Willcox.
Enjoy a refreshing morning picking your favorite fall fruits straight from the orchard. Apple picking at Apple Annie’s is a fun experience the entire family will enjoy and you’ll have several varieties to choose from during the season.
Location: 2081 Hardy Road, Willcox
Details: Apple Annie’s Orchard
5. Get lost in one of three corn mazes at Buckelew Farm in Tucson.
During their fall festival in October, this farm hosts three fun-filled mazes for kids of all ages. Take the little ones through the kiddie maze, check out a scavenger hunt maze, and even a haunted cornfield for those looking for a little fright just in time for Halloween.
Address: 17000 West Ajo Highway, Tucson
Details: Buckelew Farm
6. Enjoy a beautiful fall scene at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park.
Located about 10 minutes from Superior, the impressive tree collection at this state park shows off all the pretty colors of autumn. You’ll enjoy walking the many trails here and seeing nature’s impressive show this time of year.
Address: 37615 East US Highway 60, Superior
Details: Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park
7. Spend a day at the Arizona State Fair in Phoenix.
r is a fun way to spend a day! Enjoy a concert, rodeo, art shows, fried foods, and plenty of spinning rides.
Address: 1826 West McDowell Road, Phoenix
Details: Arizona State Fair
8. Enjoy a day of food, drink, and music at the Arizona Hops and Vines Oktoberfest in Sonoita.
This day-time event is the perfect way to begin enjoying fall festivities with German fare, drinks, music, and dancing. If you can’t find a sitter, you can bring your kids to the family-friendly Sober Shack for activities and a chance to pet some cool animals.
Address: 3450 Highway 82, Sonoita
Details: Arizona Hops and Vines
9. Hop aboard a hayride and explore Mortimer Family Farms in Dewey.
Make sure that your fall season is made complete with a leisurely hayride through a working farm in central Arizona. Relax after a fun-filled day of picking pumpkins, wandering through the corn maze, and ziplining by learning about the farm and Dewey on a tractor-pulled hayride.
Address: 12907 E. State Route 169, Dewey
Details: Mortimer Family Farms
10. Go for a joyride to check out some of the fall foliage in Arizona’s beautiful landscape.
The drive from Sedona up to Flagstaff isn’t particularly long but this road trip encourages you to slow down and enjoy the scenery. Stops include Red Rock State Park, Oak Creek Vista, The Arboretum at Flagstaff, and Lockett Meadow.
Details: Take This Gorgeous Fall Foliage Road Trip To See Arizona Like Never Before
Want to check out more fall-themed things to do around the state? Check out some of the festivals taking place over the next two months! Read 11 Harvest Festivals In Arizona That Will Make Your Autumn Awesome for some fun activities to enjoy with your family.
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