Raleigh Fall Bucket List
Things to do in Raleigh in the fall
Posted: September 24, 2024 by Jenn Cole
Here’s a fall bucket list specifically for Raleigh, NC, perfect for soaking in the season’s charm!
1. Visit the State Fair
The North Carolina State Fair (mid-October) is a must-do fall activity in Raleigh. Enjoy fried treats, fun rides, live music, and agricultural exhibits.
2. Explore William B. Umstead State Park
Take a hike through Umstead Park, where you can admire the beautiful fall foliage. Pack a picnic and spend the day outdoors.
3. Attend a Pumpkin Patch or Corn Maze
-Phillips Farms: Known for its fun corn maze, hayrides, and fall festival activities.
- Naylor Family Farm: Venture through a massive corn maze and pick the perfect pumpkin.
- Ken's Korny Corn Maze: Explore 5 acres with 3 sections of a-MAIZE-ing fun. This is their 25th anniversary season!
4. Enjoy Fall Festivals
Falling for Local: Dine from dozens of local food trucks & tents. Sample craft beer. Shop over 150 local, independent businesses at The Big Field at Dix Park
Layfette Village Oktoberfest: Grab your Lederhosen and enjoy a German Inspired festival complete with the 8th Annual Weiner Dog Races.
5. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art Park
Stroll through the museum’s outdoor park and enjoy the changing leaves while admiring the sculptures and artwork along the trails.
6. Go Apple, Pumpkin or Pecan Picking
Head to nearby Millstone Creek Orchards for a day of apple picking and indulge in their apple cider and fresh-baked apple goods.
7. Take a Scenic Drive
Cruise along the Blue Ridge Parkway, just a few hours from Raleigh, to experience some of the most breathtaking fall foliage in the state.
8. Tour Historic Oakwood Cemetery
Join one of the cemetery’s historic walking tours to learn more about Raleigh's history while enjoying the peaceful fall scenery.
9. Drink Fall-Themed Beers at Local Breweries
Visit local breweries like Trophy Brewing and Lynwood Brewing Concern to sample seasonal fall beers such as pumpkin ales or spiced porters.
10. Attend the North Carolina Symphony’s Fall Performances
Enjoy a classical music performance by the North Carolina Symphony as part of their fall season.
11. Visit Pullen Park
Take a relaxing train ride through the park while admiring the fall colors, or rent pedal boats on the lake for a unique view.
12. Go on a Ghost Tour
Get into the spooky season with a haunted walking tour of downtown Raleigh’s historic district. Raleigh Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour is a popular option.
13. Enjoy Fall Foliage at JC Raulston Arboretum
Stroll through the arboretum to see beautiful fall colors, rare plants, and seasonal blooms. Moonlight in the Garden is an amazing event!
14. Watch a Carolina Hurricanes Hockey Game
Cheer on the home team at PNC Arena when the NHL season kicks off in the fall.
15. Grab a Scoop or Milkshake
Sometimes it’s still warm in October in Raleigh. Swing by Andia’s Ice Cream for a S’mores Milkshake or a scoop of Pumpkin Pie ice cream.
