Everyone loves summer, except for all the crazy schedules and jam-packed weekends. The vacations are fun, but it’s really tough to figure out a regular routine—especially when it threatens to rain every Wednesday afternoon. But you don’t need to worry about that craziness anymore; now you need to worry about how to fill the days as they get shorter and colder.
And the answer is usually football, but that’s not always a fulfilling group event, especially for young families with kids bouncing off the walls. No, you need to leave your living room and experience the scenic glory of autumn all around you – and you can only do that outdoors.
With Halloween a few weeks away, it’s too early to start planning your trick-or-treat routes, but it’s never too early to experience some of the best autumn options out there.
Howloween At The Oregon Zoo
This special does not begin until the 19th and runs on weekends only, but you can mark it on the calendar now – and get advance tickets as required. There is no extra charge beyond standard admission, but they will have many things for the kids to do in addition to their normal attractions. All ages are welcome to come dressed in their favorite costumes and collect candy from various stops at the park. There will be special events and shows as well. This is not just a reason to chew your favorite candy while watching your favorite animals stroll around; this is a once-a-year experience, so don’t wait to claim your tickets now.
Check out their fun list of activities here –
https://www.oregonzoo.org/howloween
Spirit Of Halloweentown
Sure, you and your kids have seen the movie Halloweentown a million times, but have you ever visited the site where the movie was filmed? Even if you have been, it’s worth a return trip. But for those of you that have not ventured to the charming two of St Helens (in Oregon, not that Mountain missing its top up north) you will want to pack in the car and head over. Their events run the entire month, mostly on weekends, but there are a few weeknights trickled in. They draw a crowd, so make sure to plan for parking, have some cash on hand for local vendors, and make sure you know what color clothes your kids arrive in; it’s a busy place with lots of distractions and easy to get separated.
Check out their website for all the details –
https://www.spiritofhalloweentown.co/
Hood River Harvest Fest
The scenic beauty of Hood River is at its zenith during the year’s final chapter, and early fall is a great time to experience all they have to offer. Beer and wine for the grown folks, cider for all ages, panoramic views you can’t buy, and great food to go with it. You won’t want to miss this. It is just one weekend over the 11th-13th, so if you want to go, you must get tickets and mark them on the calendar fast.
https://www.hoodriverharvestfestival.com
Mt. Hood Railroad
Hood River is much more than a one-weekend or event kind of place, so they have more for you to do later in the month as well. Their fall train runs on select days this month and gives riders scenic views of the valley from downtown Hood River to the Fruit Company orchards. During your stop at the orchards, you can have a picnic, wander the wilderness, or visit their factory – you can even take a tractor tour. Tickets are limited, so don’t wait to book your trip if interested.
https://www.mthoodrr.com/train-rides/harvest-train
Want to ride the train but don’t want to wait for the “other” holidays to get here, and do you like dressing up? Then book your turn on the Halloween Train, where you will be treated to a once-in-a-lifetime (or perhaps not, if you’re lucky?) experience. Are your hosts from this life, the afterlife – or somewhere between? No one knows, or they aren’t telling. Take your chances with the Phantom of the Rails if you dare. Due to mature content, they recommend this tour for kids 13 or older.
https://www.mthoodrr.com/train-rides/halloween-train
French Prairie Gardens
If you’re seeking a more all-ages adventure but don’t want to stay too close to home or drive too far, check out French Prairie Gardens in St. Paul.
Their farm features so many amazing things to do and see. Where else will you find pig racing, a 12-acre pumpkin patch, a super slide, games, corn mazes, tractor rides, great food, beverages, animals, and treats for all ages – all under one scenic sky with just enough clouds? They really are a one-of-a-kind experience, and you won’t regret getting your pumpkins there. Your kids will thank you for the memories if they stay awake for the car ride home.
https://fpgardens.com/pumpkin-patch/
Casey Mabbott is a husband and parent first, and also an experienced and dedicated writer and researcher. Born and raised in the Portland area, when Casey is not spending time with his family gallivanting around Portland and the surrounding areas, he genuinely enjoys helping people (especially families) find the “hidden gems” in the Pacific Northwest. In today’s world of lightning fast information at our fingertips, it’s truly a wonder to stumble across a place, an experience, or an activity you’ve never heard of.