Make the most of Syracuse fall, visit these apple orchards, pumpkin patches
Get out your glitter gel pens to cross off the items on The Daily Orange’s fall bucket list. We have your fall itinerary covered with activities like pumpkin picking and cider drinking. Julia Rodenberger | Contributing Illustrator
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The changing seasons come with a new wave of activities to indulge in. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip with fall foods and sights or a thrill-inducing night of Halloween horror, The Daily Orange’s bucket list is the perfect place to start your next fall adventure.
All Things Apple
Beak and Skiff Apple Orchards – A Syracuse staple, Beak and Skiff is a one-stop shop for fall attractions. Stop by the Apple Barn to hand-pick or purchase any of the 15+ varieties of fresh apples. After taking in the orchard, pop into the 1911 Tasting Room & Tavern for a hearty meal paired with a hard cider and live music on select dates. The kids treehouse area makes the attraction family friendly.
Abbott Farms – In Baldwinsville, just 20 minutes away from Syracuse University, is another charming farm. Abbott Farms’ annual fall festival takes place every weekend until Oct. 26, with fun themes like princess or superhero. Pick your own apples, pumpkins or sunflowers and then shop around the market, which features goods from local farms and companies.
Lafayette Apple Festival – This classic community event showcases local apples, crafters, nonprofit organizations and more. The festival runs Oct. 11 and 12 for its 52nd year. It offers rides, entertainment and fun contests, like an apple pie baking competition.
Reconnecting With Nature
Green Lakes State Park – This New York state park offers gorgeous views of two glacial lakes surrounded by miles of scenic trails and lush forests. Take in the views as the seasons shift and the trees change color. Or, schedule a tee time at the 18-hole golf course.
Skaneateles Lake – One of 11 glacier lakes in the Finger Lake region of New York, Skaneateles Lake is known for its clean water and beautiful scenery, nestled in the quaint town of Skaneateles. Relax on a boat tour and learn about the historic village, then stroll the piers and visit the boutiques, galleries and restaurants downtown.
Fillmore Glen State Park – Take a fall hiking trip in Fillmore Glen State Park’s cool, dense woods. The trails offer spectacular nature views, including five waterfalls and a rich botanical glen. Catch some fish at the Owasco Inlet in the park while you’re there.
Haunted Halloween and History
Fright Nights – If you’re looking for a haunted thrill, dare to enter one (or all five) of the houses at this state-of-the-art haunted attraction in an 82,000 square-foot factory. Featured on “USA Today’s Best 20 Haunted Attractions in the Northeast,” Fright Nights offers a variety of scares, with mazes like Penny’s Playhouse or 3D technology set in Lady Lamson’s Cursed Voyage.
13th Hour Rising Haunted Hayride – Take an eerie trip 30 minutes north of Syracuse to Fulton for a freaky hayride and an indoor maze with jump scares at every corner. Test your limits on the immersive hayride through the sinister woods.
Haunted History Trail of New York State – Spice up your knowledge of New York history by visiting the Haunted History Trail. Spend a night with ghosts at one of the 18 haunted inns, or take a guided tour of historically haunted sights. Take a lantern tour through local neighborhoods to learn more about the latest ghostly discoveries. The tours will take place this month through November on Fridays and Saturdays.
Pumpkin Patches
The Pumpkin Hollow – If you’re looking for pumpkins for all your fall needs, stop by this family-friendly Syracuse staple. Pick your own or grab some pre-picked pumpkins to carve or decorate. After exploring the patch, experience a tractor-pulled hayride and get lost in the corn maze. Finally, indulge in fresh cider donuts, hot chocolate and more from local shops.
Cicero “Pumkin” Patch – Cicero “Pumkin” Patch offers many pumpkins for decorating, as well as other fall decor, like gourds and cornstalks. Check out its hayride into the woods, with a ghost crossing, a visit from “Mr. Hermit” (the old man of the woods) and more.
Tim’s Pumpkin Patch – With authentic farm activities seven days a week, Tim’s Pumpkin Patch is the perfect fall destination. Besides being another pumpkin-picking spot, the farm offers a hay fort, an animal farm and more. Try some of their specialty bakery goods and seasonal drinks, like pumpkin whoopie pies or an apple cider float.
