Five of Our Fall Favorites

If the crisper air and falling leaves haven’t yet caught your attention, the scent of pumpkin-spiced latte wafting out of your nearest Starbucks may be your signal that fall has definitely arrived. Even with cooler temps and Covid keeping some people closer to home this season, fall activities are sure to keep your spirits high throughout the season. Here are a few of our favorite things to do this time of year:

1. TAILGATE: With fall sports underway, what better excuse is there to get friends together? Go to a game, be it professional or high school level, and cheer for your favorite team. Or, if getting there is not an option, host a driveway cocktail party. Even if you’re not a sports fan, there are many ways to safely gather outdoors and enjoy some cornhole, live music and a classic Old Fashioned made with one of my favorite Kentucky Bourbons, Woodford Reserve. If you’re up for a tailgate you won’t soon forget, consider visiting Lexington, Ky., for the Keeneland Fall Meet in October. Often debuting many horses running the Derby come spring, Keeneland is a wonderful spot to see thoroughbred horse racing in action.
2. CAMP: We know this one’s not for everyone. But if you’re interested in camping, there’s no better time than fall for sleeping outside enjoying the cool evening air. The pandemic has spurred an interest in backyard camping for those looking to sleep under the stars without traveling far. For high-end camping, check out Hipcamp. 
3. BIKE: Cycling is the perfect way to get your exercise while taking in some fresh fall air and enjoying the fall colors on display. Not sure where to bike? Check out Rails-to-trails Conservancy, an organization with the mission of ‘building a nation connected by trails.’ The website offers great tips on experiencing trails, and the Trail Store sells several regional guides to bike trails around the country. If you need the motivation of cycling with others, look around for organized rides in your area. When this post goes live, I’ll be at the starting line for the Apple Cider Century in Three Oaks, Michigan. Don’t be fooled by the name, I’ll likely log something closer to a quarter century 😉
4. HARVEST: Picking your own apples or pumpkins never gets old. Venture out to your favorite farm or local orchard. Many orchards now also include corn mazes, beer gardens and all sorts of sweet treats. Not sure where to go? Check out these suggestions from Travel & Leisure magazine.
5. BAKE: After all that time outdoors, here’s a great indoor activity to make the most of those apples you just picked. I love a tasty apple crisp, and this recipe from Quaker is still a favorite that I discovered early in my career when I was working for the company as a marketer. Pro tip: Best served warm with a little vanilla ice cream on top! If you’re not a big apple fan, substitute them with peaches. Just as yummy.