Fall Activities in Central New York

As the leaves turn fiery red and stately yellow, thoughts turn to making the most of this lovely season. Central New York is one of the best locations to find fall activities. With eye catching views, plentiful fall events and homegrown food, what's not to like? If you are planning an Autumn visit to Central New York don't miss these Fall activities.

LaFayette Apple Festival
LaFayette, New York, October 10 & 11, 2009
This annual event has been know to cause lines of traffic in the rush to get to this fun fall festival. Here you will find a midway with rides, craft booths, a food court serving a nice variety of food, agricultural exhibits, pony rides and free entertainment. These are just some of the fall activities featured here. This is a fun Central New York event so don't miss out and don't forget to try the apple cider.

Green Lakes
A favorite outdoor fall activity is a walk around Green Lakes, Fayetteville New York,. Admission $7. The walking trail circles around Green Lake and her sister, Round Lake. A trek around both lakes is about 3 miles and the trails are rated easy. The lake really is a glassy green and Central New York Fall color only enhances a beautiful walk. The green color is partly because the lakes are deep. Another factor is they are meromictic. This means the water does not turn over or intermix. The cold bottom layer stays separate from the upper, warmer layer. This make the waters unusually clear and reflective.

Corn Mazes
There are more than a few farms in the Central New York area that offer corn mazes. If you have never been to a corn maze check one out. These are one of the best Fall activities around. Many have free or low cost admission and it is surprisingly challenging to find your way out.

Pumpkin Farms
Don't buy your pumpkins at the grocery store. Make a fun fall event out of it and visit one of many pumpkin farms in Central New York. You can find hayrides, farm animals, food and much more at any of these fall festivals. You are sure to find the perfect pumpkin ready to carve into a spooky mask. Don't forget to pick up colorful Indian corn to hang on your door.

Haunted Houses
My favorite fall activity is Fright nights at the New York State Fairgrounds. This fall festival features five haunted houses and a haunted hayride. New this year is the location within the fairgrounds. It is inside the barns so even if it is raining don't hesitate to go. The New York State Fair this year gave a preview with their circus of horror tent. We tried it out and found it worth the admission. The ghouls outside the tent are spooky enough before you even got inside.
Even though autumn is short, there are plenty of fall activities to take part in. Probably the easiest and prettiest outing is to just hop in the car and drive around looking for the best fall colors.