For this week’s blog, we decided to take a break from all the HVAC wisdom we’ve been dropping and instead focus on fun for a change (not that air quality isn’t an endlessly fascinating and important subject, but you get the point). More specifically, we wanted to share some of our favorite things to do in the Greater Philadelphia area this time of year. Here are 10 Fun Fall Activities in the Delaware Valley!

1. Leaf Peeping

Despite the summers and winters in the northeast being somewhat less than ideal, their extremes are broken up and partially made up for annually by beautiful autumns. Each fall season boasts an aesthetic that simply can’t be beat thanks to the vibrantly shifting colors of the region’s dense foliage. 

The changing leaves are so pretty, in fact, as to prompt the rising trend of tourists traveling to the northeast in fall just to see them – a trend that has been dubbed leaf peeping. Luckily for those of us who live in the region, we can enjoy all of this beauty locally almost everywhere we go, including many of the other activities listed below. 

2. Scenic Hiking

One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors is to embark on a scenic hike or nature walk on one of the region’s many trails and paths. The weather this time of year is perfect for getting outside and getting active, and hiking is a great way to take in the nature, have fun and spend time with others while you exercise. Some great trails in the Delaware Valley include Black Rock Sanctuary, Schukyll River Trail, Horse-Shoe Trail, and the Perkiomen River Trail. 

3. National Parks 

Another great place to enjoy fall in the Delaware Valley region is any one of its state or national parks and nature preserves. In addition to great hiking and walking trails, these parks are full of breathtaking scenery that will help you truly appreciate nature’s beauty. Some of these parks even hold historical significance, such as Valley Forge National Historical Park. Other great parks in the region include the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Wissahickon Valley Park and Ridley Creek State Park. 

4. Turkey Trots 

If you’re a runner who lives in the area, chances are you already know how nice it is to run outside in the fall – not too hot, not too cold, and of course the scenery. In addition to these ideal conditions, the fall season is a popular time for 5k and 10k fun runs. These runs are usually done for charity, so participating is a great way to get active in the community and do something for a good cause. 

5. Harvest Festivals

Harvest Festivals are a staple of autumn in the northeast. The festivals are rooted in agriculture and thus typically boast a bevy of seasonal produce and sweet treats, local vendors and artisans, petting zoos and hayrides, pumpkin patches and apple bobbing, plus all of the typical trappings of a county fair. A great way to spend a day with family and friends, these festivals have something for everyone, and any food lover will inevitably be a harvest festival lover as well. Shady Brook Farms, Peddler’s Village and Tyler Arboretum all hold awesome harvest fests every fall. 

6. Farmers Markets 

If you miss out on the local harvest fest or just couldn’t get enough, the region’s plentiful farmer’s markets offer much of the same fare (food, rides and all!), and most are open all season long. Check out Shady Brook Farms and the Market at DelVal for a great local farmers market experience. 

7. Historic Landmarks 

In addition to Valley Forge, the greater Philadelphia area is chock-full of cool historic landmarks. Some sites worth visiting include the Andalusia Historic House and Gardens, the Pearl S. Buck House and Historic Site, and the Bucks County Civil War Museum, all of which have something to offer for site seers and history lovers alike. 

8. Halloween Parades

When the time comes, kids and adults alike will have a ball at any one of the local Halloween parades, many of which allow attendees to participate and show off their costumes as they march along in the parade. The town of West Chester goes all out for their annual Halloween parade celebration, which is set to take place this year on Oct. 23 at 7 PM. 

9. Vineyards

Wine lovers will be happy to know that the Delaware Valley is home to a number of beautiful vineyards and wineries that are perfect local getaways for a fun afternoon. Some great vineyards in the area include Bishop Estate Vineyard and Winery, Buckingham Valley Vineyard and Winery, Crossing Vineyard and Winery and the Rose Bank winery. 

10. Haunted Attractions

For the more daring thrill seekers out there who don’t mind a good scare, the greater Philly area is full of world renowned haunted attractions that are sure to raise a few hairs, and fall is the perfect time to check them out. Some great spooky destinations in the area include Malfate Manor, Valley of Fear, Eastern State Penitentiary and Pennhurst Asylum, Fright Factory, Bates Motel and more!