As summer comes to a close, the inevitable Autumn crisp in the air signifies the change of season. It’s time to find your favorite flannel or sweater and embrace autumn, and what better way to truly appreciate it than spending time with the family.
No doubt, the kiddos are growing up fast and you want to cherish the precious (and probably chaotic, but still) moments. Luckily, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy this Fall. Here are a handful of things to do together this season in Buffalo in Western New York.
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1. A Trip to a “Super Fun” Pumpkin Patch
There are lots of great pumpkin patches around town just oozing with with family friendly activities for everyone to enjoy. Check out our full guide here!
One pumpkin picking haven you may not have heard of is Pumpkinville, located in Great Valley, south of Buffalo. This family-friendly adventure right outside of Ellicottville awaits your family and offers the perfect activity to pair with a trip to the adorable nearby town! There are an abundance of Fall activities available at Pumpkinville ranging from viewing farm animals, hayrides amidst beautiful Fall foliage, blasting apples out of a cannon, a corn maze, Happy Horse carousel and a spooky haunted house. Unwind over a cup of hot cider and pumpkin spice doughnut to cap off this magical autumn experience.
Pumpkinville
- Website / Where: 4844 Sugartown Road Great Valley NY, 14741
- When: This Fall everyday from September 11th until October 31st
2. Buffalo Bills Game
Start off the day by preparing a picnic basket, a cooler, and take note of the forecast. If it’s sunny be sure to bring sunscreen, if it’s cold be sure to wear layers, and bring an umbrella if it’s raining. We recommend the family section (225-227) that forbids drinking alcohol, has extra security, and a welcoming atmosphere to ensure a family-friendly setting where you can appreciate the game. You’ll no doubt experience an unmatched level of energy as fans return to Highmark Stadium this Fall. It’s taking pictures with Billy Buffalo, enjoying a delicious slice of La Nova Pizza, and Josh Allen plummeting into the end zone that make those memories that last a lifetime!
3. Apple Picking at Mayer Bros Cider Mill
1540 Seneca Creek Road Buffalo, NY 14224 / Facebook
This year, Mayer Bros Cider Mill is open to the public for their 169th season of operation. It’s no secret how this place has distinguished itself and earned its spot on the map throughout Western New York. When you walk through the inviting doors of Mayer Bros your nose will be greeted by the sweet scent of crisped apple, and the beautifully lit atmosphere is a sight to behold. Here, you can fulfill your sweet tooth and appreciate the ambiance of Fall at it’s finest!
Plus check out our full guide to apple picking orchards around WNY for more ideas near you.
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4. Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve
93 Honorine Road Depew, NY 14043 / Website
Share in Nature’s harmony alongside your family at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve this Fall. From September through November they will be offering several intriguing Fall programs. On Saturday, September 18th there will be a guided woods walk; the perfect experience for all ages. Upon the peak of Fall, October 16th, Reinstein Woods hosts the ‘Autumn Colors’ woods walk through acres of gorgeous scenery. “A blaze of color, from flaming oranges and reds to subtle yellows.” This experience promises to be breathtaking.
5. A Trip to Letchworth State Park
1 Letchworth State Park Castile, NY 14427 / Website
A Trip to Letchworth State Park in the Fall can certainly be one of the most breathtaking experiences you’ve beheld. Waves of changing color and gorgeous natural scenery are calling your name. Plus, the family-friendly campgrounds are a perfect getaway for the fam. Enjoy the charcoal grills while the kids race around the loop on their bikes. Adventure Calls Outfitters offers White Water Rafting for those who are seeking an adrenaline filled experience on the Genesee River. This Park is dog-friendly as well, so your four-legged friend will be a part of the adventure.
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6. Visit Knox Farms
437 Buffalo Road East Aurora, NY 14052 / Website
Imagine a feeling of pure bliss as gorgeous foliage outlines a path of paved tranquility. With one trip to Knox Farm, your imagination will come to life. Nestled within East Aurora, this is certainly a hidden gem of Western New York- especially during the Fall season. You’ll be in awe as you behold the strikingly colorful leaves illuminated by sunshine, and dancing gracefully in the wind.
The parking lot was just freshly renovated last year which makes for easy access. Also, this place is dog friendly so we encourage you to bring your four legged friend to enjoy a walk, bike ride, or picnic!
7. Visit Niagara Falls
332 Prospect Street Niagara Falls, NY 14303 / Website
Niagara Falls is gorgeous during every season, but if you’ve never been there during the Autumn you’re definitely missing out. The summertime crowds have subsided and this captivating wonder of the world is flowing right at our fingertips. The Maid of the Mist entails an enchanting front row seat to the waterfalls, while the Cave of the Winds is inviting thrill seekers to experience the hurricane like winds brewing at the base of the falls. Be sure to bring warm clothes to change into after!
8. Take a Chairlift Ride to Spruce Lake
6557 Holiday Valley Route 219 Ellicottville, NY 14731 / Website
While Holiday Valley is widely known for their ski resort during the Wintertime, there is definitely an appeal to visiting here during the Fall. Riding the chairlift amidst the colorful scenery is absolutely breathtaking making the perfect Fall experience come to life. This adventure is affordable and family-friendly; A ride up and down the mountain is $10 for an adult while children 6 and under can ride for free. When you summit the mountain be sure to check out Spruce Lake where you can hike scenic trails and witness nature at it’s finest!
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9. Hike the Eternal Flame
6121 Chestnut Ridge Road Orchard Park, NY 14127 / Website
During the Autumn, this hike is especially welcoming and can be described as a colorful abyss of nature leading to the natural wonder of the eternal flame. Prepare yourself with adequate hiking gear and layers if it’s cool outside. This scenic hike with the family will have everyone feeling all kinds of fall. When you reach the flame, you’ll have your kodak moment and an overall exciting experience your loved ones will love.
10. Buffalo Sabres Game
1 Seymour H Knox III Plaza Buffalo, NY 14023 / Website
With a fresh Sabres (or really any Buffalo Sports team) season comes new hope, new opportunity. Built around a young core of players there is potential for a breakout season for the boys in blue and gold. One thing is for certain: there will be plenty of action, big hits, and hopefully goals in 2021. Win or lose, an evening trip to Keybank Center is an special family experience. Enjoy a cold Canadian beer while the kids eat nachos with cheese in hopes to get a picture with Sabretooth. This atmosphere is one of a kind and definitely worth your while!