Five Low-Key Ways to Enjoy Fall Outdoors
Posted
by
WinterWomen
on Tuesday, October 14, 2014
 I don't want to sound cliché, but fall is my favorite time of the year. I love each and every one of the changes fall brings: the noticeable changes outdoors, like crunchy leaves on the ground and cooler, crisper, fresher air; and the less noticeable changes we experience, like longing for throwing on an over-sized, comfy sweater and eating a warm bowl of chili on a Sunday afternoon.
Fall slows us down--in a good way. It is a time to unwind, a time to reflect on our summer travels and to reconnect with the simple things. It's a time to reflect and restore our minds--whether that's by reading a book, watching a movie, or cooking a big dinner in the crock pot. The need to be out and about on the weekends or during any free time has disappeared (when it's warm and sunny outside, I can't find one good excuse to stay at home and do nothing) and suddenly, it's OK and acceptable to stay at home and relax.
As tempting as it is to light up a mega pumpkin spice candle and watch 12 hours straight of football every weekend, it's also important not to forget about the outdoors. One of the best things about fall is being outdoors! As long as you're properly dressed for the cooler temps, like making sure you are wearing a warm hat and a cozy insulator, you can still get outdoors and enjoy time with nature. Here are five low-key activities you can do outside--and still stay relaxed--this fall:
Take A Morning or Afternoon Walk
 Don't let temperatures in the 40s and 50s keep you inside. Bundle up appropriately and head outdoors to take in the scenery, because it won't be too long before the trees are bare. Take your significant other, a friend, your dog, or go by yourself. Breathe in the fresh air, let your feet crunch as many leaves as possible, and relish the fact that you can be outside without completely freezing your butt off (not yet!).
It doesn't matter whether you choose to walk in silence, chat with your friend, or throw in some earbuds and listen to some music. You're not only outside enjoying the fresh air--you're getting some exercise, too! And after your long walk? Head back in for a warm cup of tea.
Visit A Pumpkin Patch
 Want the true fall experience this October? Visit a pumpkin patch! Between the acres and acres of pumpkins to choose from, the hayrides and corn mazes, and the hot apple cider and baked goods, a pumpkin patch encompasses everything fall in one experience.
One of the best parts about a pumpkin patch is the endless options of unique pumpkins to choose from--in all shapes and sizes. Picking out pumpkins for your front porch is way more fun when done at a pumpkin patch than a grocery store--and I always try to pick out the strangest, but healthiest-shaped, pumpkin. Keep in mind that pumpkin patches can get very busy on weekends, so make sure to get there early to get your best picks before the crowds arrive!
Eat A Picnic Lunch Surrounded by Fall Colors
 Pack a hearty meal for the family and head to an outdoor spot where you can have a relaxing lunch surrounded by the beautiful, changing colors. For some, this may be in your neighborhood park; for others, this may be a 2-3 hour drive.
If it does take a while to get to the ideal destination, make it a Saturday adventure! If you're able to plan your route ahead of time, try and see if there's an apple-picking farm or pumpkin patch you can stop by on the way to or from the picnic. You can pick up some fresh apples from the farm, or pumpkin bread from the patch, and enjoy it during your picnic or in the car on the drive home.
Go To A Football Game
 This may be the least relaxing suggestion, but definitely the most fun. Football and fall go hand-in-hand, and there's no better way to enjoy a fall day outside than tailgating and going to a football game.
It doesn't matter whether it's your favorite NFL team, local college team, or neighborhood high school. It's fun to bundle up, cheer loudly, and eat stadium food. It's a fall event one must experience at least once a year!
Go For A Bike Ride
 As long as it's not raining, sleeting, or snowing, fall is the perfect time for a bike ride! You can either plan out you route ahead of time, or venture out spontaneously with no specific destination. You might end up at a park, river, lake, or restaurant for a nice break and snack.
If you don't own a bike, don't fret. Many locations around the U.S. have bike kiosks where you can rent a bike for a 24-hour period. Remember to dress appropriately so you stay warm, but also so you can comfortably cycle around the city or neighborhood.
What low-key activities do you enjoy outdoors during fall? Let us know in the comments below!
Categories:
Life & Style
Tagged: fall, nature, outdoor activities, outdoor, relaxing activities
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