Best Fall Activities in Saint Louis, MO

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Fall is absolutely the best season, especially in the Midwest. I'm a sucker for summertime but the cooler temperatures and cozy sweaters are hard to beat. When the leaves start changing colors, it's time to blast Taylor Swift's Red album and find some fun fall activities. In this post, I’ve rounded up my favorite fall activities in Saint Louis. All of these activities allow for social distancing but that means you'll also need to make reservations for most of them. Be conscious of busy times (like Saturday afternoons) and avoid visiting popular destinations then, if possible. If you’re not from The Lou, you can definitely still get some inspiration from this post and find your own local favorites.

Pick Apples at Eckert’s

Apple picking is such a classic fall activity. Head out to one of Eckert's sprawling orchards to find the perfect apples. Choose your apples straight off the trees using the same standards you would in a grocery store. There are plenty of red apple varieties available throughout September but if you prefer Granny Smith (like me!) you’ll have to wait until October. Purchase field access in advance through the Eckert’s Farms website and then pay for the fruit you pick. Bonus points if you make your own apple pie or caramel apples!

Take a Scenic Drive to Grafton, IL

The Great River Road runs north-south across Illinois but the stretch between Grafton and Alton is not too far for Saint Louisans to enjoy. This scenic drive follows the Mississippi River. That’s right, you can see some beautiful fall foliage right here in the Midwest. Make a day out of it and stop by Pere Marquette State Park for a fall hike or enjoy one of the many local restaurants and bars in Grafton or Alton.

Check out Kirkwood Farmer's Market

This Farmer's Market is open year round but it is definitely worth a special fall visit as the market is turned into a pumpkin patch October 1-31. The pumpkin patch is open throughout the week but the Harvest Market is open under the shed on Saturday mornings. Conveniently located in downtown Kirkwood, head out to snap some fall photos and pick up seasonal produce and plants, like pumpkins, gourds and cornstalks. 

Go Hiking at Castlewood State Park

Before you really have to bundle up, head out to your favorite hiking spot. Castlewood State Park is a great park to see views of the trees as they change colors. The River Scene Trail loop and Lone Wolf Trail are great options to get above the trees! Grab your favorite flannel and leggings for the perfect fall hiking outfit. On colder days, layer up with a vest or light jacket. 

Pick a Pumpkin at Thies Farm

Is it even October if you don’t have an Instagram post at a Pumpkin Patch? Relive your childhood at Pumpkinland and get the perfect fall pic. Make reservations by phone for a time slot to ensure proper social distancing. Admission is $5 for adults. After you find the perfect pumpkin, bring it home to carve or paint.

Try a Local Seasonal Brew

Did someone say Pumpkin Beer? St. Louis is home to several big name breweries and dozens of microbreweries. Head to your favorite brewery to taste a pumpkin ale. You can also have an at home tasting with O’Fallon Brewery’s Pumpkin Pack, which includes four unique pumpkin brews. If you're not a big beer gal, you might also be intrigued by O'Fallon Brewery's Pumpkin Pie Fizz. That's right, a locally made pumpkin pie flavored seltzer. I'll report back soon!

Visit the Saint Louis Zoo

I always love to visit the Zoo in the fall. The summer crowds have thinned out and the cooler weather seems to encourage more animals to be out during the day. Timed reservations are required this year and hours are shortened since it isn’t the peak season but there’s plenty of time to visit the Zoo. Boo at the Zoo also runs October 16-31. 

Spend a day at a Winery in Augusta

Plan a girl’s day or enjoy a fun date at a local vineyard. Fall is harvest time so it’s the perfect season to visit wineries. Plus, you can sit outside and sip on your favorite wine without worrying about a sunburn! Some vineyards even have mulled wine or cider during the colder months. As temperatures begin to drop, many wineries also bring out heaters and enclosed tents.

Shop my outfit:

*My skirt is from Target about 2 years ago, but they don't sell the same one anymore. I would also wear this skirt with a sweater when it gets cooler. I linked a few similar options for each item! 

What is your favorite fall activity in your hometown? Drop a comment below and let me know!

xo,

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