Autumn Has Hit San Diego and Brought Fun Activities
Just because summer is over in sunny San Diego does not mean that fun is! The fall season brings different and unique experiences, from haunted trails to parade watching that are sure to liven up your days when we fall back from daylight savings. Here are some of our very favorite fall activities that will certainly make you “give thanks” for the season.
- Pumpkin Station
Nothing says fall more than a visit to the pumpkin patch! A timeless fall tradition is splendidly put on by Pumpkin Station. There are three Pumpkin Station locations and two live Pumpkin Farms in San Diego County that will put you in the mood for fun. You can get that picture-perfect Instagram post sitting among the rows of bright orange pumpkins or tend to the animal-sized hole in your heart at the petting zoos. The Pumpkin Stations are kid-friendly inflatable playgrounds, equipped with kiddie rides and huge slides that will create lasting memories for the children in your life. The Farms both feature a hay ride and a chance to wander an 8-foot-tall living corn maze, which is a fun event you’ll be glad you experienced.
- Ocean Beach Oktoberfest
Want to catch a surf sesh and follow it up with great bratwurst and beer? Trade in your wetsuit for a pair of lederhosen and head to Ocean Beach Oktoberfest! It’s set in the perfect location right by the ocean to supply you with salty air and beautiful sunsets, all while you’re chicken dancing your heart out to energetic bands. This beachside festival is one big party complete with corn hole competitions, live music, and drinking contests. The Brew Fest will offer crisp and refreshing beer options from local breweries across San Diego. Cruise down Ocean Beach to join in on the famous German celebration!
- The Haunted Trail at Balboa Park
Fall season in San Diego means something else: Spooky Season! Ending on November 2, the Haunted Trail at San Diego’s world-renowned Balboa Park will give you goosebumps and is sure to get you in the spooky spirit. Before guests walk the mile-long trail, they must escape the 3,500 square foot eXperiement maze where famous evil presences, including the Nun and Michael Myers, lie in wait to give the scare of a lifetime. The attraction is not recommended for children under 10, however, it’s a perfect way to spend an autumn night with a date or a group of friends.
- San Diego Botanic Garden
Put on your favorite fall sweater and take a stroll through the lovely San Diego Botanic Garden. The 37-acre urban retreat is made up of four miles of breathtaking trails that lead guests to 29 different gardens. This beautiful oasis-with-an-ocean-view is home to over 5,000 different species of plants originating from all over the world. The fall season brings beautiful (and bountiful) blooms including the vibrant perennial, Red Hot Poker, which acts as a hub for hummingbirds. If you’re wanting to tap into your creative side this autumn, the Botanic Garden also offers a variety of classes for adults ranging from succulent design, to painting with acrylic, to yoga among the trees! The San Diego Botanic Garden has gained great prominence, including being recognized as a winner of the Top Ten North American Garden Tourism Award, which is just one more reason to experience the gorgeous views for yourself this fall.
- Bird Rock Coffee Roasters
What better way to combat shifting weather from the heat of the summer to a chilly California winter than drinking some premier coffee? Pumpkin spice up your life this fall at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters. BRCR has six locations across San Diego County that proudly serve their customers high-quality coffee that goes beyond the ordinary. The superior coffee cart supports local artists through their live acoustic music/open mic series while also exhibiting local art at store locations. This is a coffee shop that cares about community and coffee at the highest degree.
- Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Rich in history and authentic Mexican food, Old Town hosts one of the best Día de los Muertos celebrations in California. During the first weekend of November at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, guests will be able to view several ornately designed remembrance altars dedicated to the people who made up Old Town in the 1800s. There will also be an alter open to the public to commemorate their own loved ones by leaving personal, meaningful vestiges. The celebrations will consist of traditional face painting, a parade, live music and dancing, and so much more. Along with being a cultural center for learning history and keeping traditions alive, Old Town is spot that houses some of the most delectable Mexican food restaurants in all of San Diego. Grab a fishbowl margarita during the festivities and feel free to treat yourself to some shopping at one of the many unique shops Old Town has to offer.
- Mother Goose Parade
Held every year on the Sunday before Thanksgiving for over 70 years, the Mother Goose Parade is a fun fall activity for children and adults alike. Over 400,000 onlookers fill the streets of El Cajon for the perfect view of magnificent floats with exciting and amusing characters. Live music is played throughout the streets and friendly clowns walk around providing warm smiles and fantastic entertainment. The event also features an equestrian ride that is two miles long and showcases different types of horses. The Mother Goose Parade is the perfect event to add to your pre-Thanksgiving celebration to-do list.
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