Ultimate Guide to Fall Fun in Boston

Discover the best autumn activities & family-friendly events in & around Boston.

From apple picking and pumpkin patches to scenic hayrides and corn mazes, our ultimate fall guide has everything you need to make the most of the season.

Fall in Boston is one of the most magical times of the year, filled with vibrant foliage, crisp air, and an abundance of family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, seasonal festivals, or classic fall traditions, BostonCentral has you covered. Explore our comprehensive list of the best places and events for fall fun, and make the most of autumn in and around Boston!

1. Apple Picking Near Boston

Nothing says fall like a trip to an orchard! Check out our guide to apple picking for the best spots near Boston to pick your own apples. Many orchards also offer hayrides, farm stands, and family-friendly activities to enjoy after filling your basket.

• Top Spots: Look for places like Honey Pot Hill Orchards, Belkin Lookout Farm, and more.

2. Pumpkin Patches and Pick-Your-Own Pumpkins

Pumpkin picking is a quintessential fall activity, and Boston offers some great spots to find the perfect pumpkin. Our pick-your-own pumpkin guide lists the top farms where you can gather gourds, snap some fall photos, and even carve your pumpkins on-site.

• Top Spots: Check out Parlee Farms, Hanson’s Farm, and Wilson Farm.

3. Fall Foliage Adventures in New England

Fall isn’t complete without soaking in the stunning foliage. Whether you’re planning a scenic drive, a hike, or a peaceful day trip, our fall foliage guide will point you toward the best spots to catch breathtaking autumn colors around New England.

• Best Foliage Viewing: Mount Auburn Cemetery, Minute Man National Historical Park, and the White Mountains in New Hampshire.

4. Hayrides Near Boston for Kids of All Ages

Hayrides are a fun way to experience the countryside and enjoy the fall season. Our hayrides guide lists farms offering scenic hayrides for families of all ages. Some locations even combine hayrides with petting zoos, corn mazes, and farm-to-table food.

• Top Locations: Smolak Farms, Cider Hill Farm, and Connors Farm.

5. Corn Mazes in Massachusetts

Looking for a challenge? Explore one of the many corn mazes in the Boston area. These mazes are fun for both kids and adults, and some even offer nighttime events for a spooky twist.

• Notable Corn Mazes: Check out Kimball Farm’s Corn Maze or Honey Pot Hill’s Giant Maze for an unforgettable adventure.

photo courtesy of Davis Farm Mega Maze

6. Pumpkin Festivals and Jack-O-Lantern Displays

If you love the glow of jack-o-lanterns, be sure to check out our guide to pumpkin festivals and jack-o-lantern displays near Boston. These events showcase thousands of carved pumpkins, often paired with fall foods, games, and activities for the whole family.

• Top Festivals: Don’t miss the annual Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in Providence, RI, or Pumpkin Nights at New England Botanic Garden.

photo credit: A McDonough | RWP Zoo

Plan Your Perfect Fall Day

Boston is bursting with fall events and activities, and with our guide, you’ll be able to make the most of the season. Whether you're venturing out for some apple picking, getting lost in a corn maze, or just enjoying the foliage, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Bookmark this guide and refer back to it throughout the fall for family-friendly inspiration!

There is certainly so much more to explore - so be sure to check out our guide to Free things to Do in Boston here, or our Rainy Day in Boston guide.  

We also have a number of popular guides ranging from Boston Outdoor Activities, and you can find lots more ideas for fall family fun in our September & October activities guide.  There are so many ways to enjoy the fall in Boston!

In addition, you can find family-friendly events near Boston each week on the BostonCentral calendar, and in our our popular things to do this week newsletter.

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Stacey Sao has been the Managing Director of the family-friendly events and activities website, BostonCentral for over 23 years.  She continues to enjoy discovering and exploring new places to visit in the Greater Boston area.