Fall is a favorite time of year for many, and it’s easy to see why. With cooler temperatures and beautiful fall color, everyone seems to want to be outside and it’s also the perfect time for a little family adventure. If you’re looking for a unique family outing this fall, we’ve got you covered!
Here are 9 unique fall adventures around Cincinnati:
Fall Farm Fun at Bonnybrook Farms (pictured)
Located northeast of downtown, Bonnybrook Farms is the ideal fall destination. This beautiful farm is your one stop shop for fall fun with pumpkin picking, an Adventure Wagon Ride, corn maze, giant slingshots, delicious food and much more. If you’re looking for one place this season that’s unique, yet still filled with traditional fall charm, check out Bonnybrook Farms.
Paddle at Fifty West Canoe & Kayak
You may not think of fall as a great time to get out on the water, but it’s actually ideal! Now you’ll probably want to stay in your kayak or canoe, unless it’s a hot day, but the scenery and cool breeze can’t be beat! Fifty West is great for families with its Mariemont location and nearby Pizellii’s pizza and Fifty West Brewing Company. Keep in mind that they are open Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 8pm and children under six are not permitted in a kayak. Children must be at least three to get in a canoe and must be accompanied by two adults over the age of 18.
Old West Festival
Running weekends in September and October, go back to the wild wild west at the Old West Festival, just 15 minutes east on 275 in Williamsburg. Your kids will love the authentic western town, train rides and charming cast of characters that roam the town. You’ll appreciate the history and efforts put into making this unique event entertaining and exciting.
The Fall Flyer Aboard the LM & M Railroad
Fall is the perfect time for a train ride and what better way to spend time with your family than aboard a historic train car, riding through the colorful foliage of Warren County? On select days in October, with multiple rides per day, you can enjoy a one hour and fifteen minute ride that leaves from the station in Lebanon. Children receive a small pumpkin at the station and can also try the miniature hay maze. Be sure to reserve your tickets soon, these rides do sell out!
Hike at The Cincinnati Nature Center
If you do anything as a family this fall, you have to get outside! There are many area parks to choose from, but the trails at the Cincinnati Nature Center are especially beautiful in the fall. Plus, the kids will love the Nature Playscape – just be sure to bring an extra set of clothes! Also head on over to their website and check out all of the fun family-friendly events that will take place this fall.
The Ohio Renaissance Festival
Visit the time-honored tradition of the Ohio Renaissance Festival, happening weekends now through October. This unique festival is filled with quintessential family fun, with a little adventure mixed in. Watch a full-armored joust, munch on a turkey leg, and go back in time at this popular fall event.
Ozone Zipline Adventures
If you’re looking to impress your older children with an adventure this fall, then Ozone Zipline Adventures is the destination for you. Riders must be at least 10 years old and weigh between 80lbs and 260lbs, so that’s something to keep in mind when making plans. Fall is arguably the best time to fly through the trees – the color and views are incredible! Ozone offers several different tours to meet your budget and thrill-seeking needs. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time!
Go Camping At Miami Whitewater Forest
You don’t have to go far from home for the ultimate camping experience. Just west of Cincinnati, Miami Whitewater Forest is a beautiful park with plenty to do, and also a great campground, perfect for family adventure! Fall is prime camping time, perfect for campfires and scenic hikes. Bring a camper or pile the family in a tent or two for a memorable fall experience.
Visit the Treehouse for Everybody
If you’ve never been to this hidden gem in Mt. Airy Forest, fall is the perfect time to check it out. The area’s only wheelchair accessible public treehouse is unique and incredibly beautiful. During the fall, the treehouse is surrounded by colorful foliage, making it even more magical and a must-see spot for every Cincinnati family.
Amidst all of the pumpkin spice, football games, and costume planning, be sure to make time for some family-friendly adventures this fall. Cincinnati is full of options! We’d love for you to check back in with us and share your family adventures! Most of all, enjoy this beautiful season with your family.
About Andrea:
A native Cincinnatian, Andrea has experienced life in all four corners of this city. After growing up on the west side, she headed north to attend Miami University, then moved east to Hyde Park and now lives in Northern Kentucky with her family.
When she’s not playing trains and doing the “hot dog dance” as a stay-at-home mom to her two toddlers, Andrea is busy writing for Cincinnati (and, ahem, Kentucky!) publications and brainstorming ideas for her next children’s book! With a newfound passion for fitness and overall health, she spends a lot of time at her family gym and loves to play outside.
Andrea worked in education for several years and has a special love for children’s literature. She loves showing her children all our city has to offer and enjoys sharing her finds with other parents. Her favorite spots include the Cincinnati Zoo (although she steers clear of the bird house), her local library and any playground.