Consider these three unique destinations for family travel this fall.
© Hamilton County Tourism
As a hub for sunflowers, trade leaf peeping for sunflower spotting, with peak bloom in late August and early September. Through Sept. 8, check out Stuckey Farm Orchard and Cider Mill’s Sunflower Festival. Hamilton County also has a newly revamped trail system for biking, walking or running. Porchfest is held Sept. 15, as residents host live music performances right from their porches. Sept. 28–29, take in Carmel International Arts Festival.
As October nears, consider Conner Prairie’s Headless Horseman Festival, boasting hayrides and more at the Smithsonian-affiliated living history museum. There’s also plenty of harvest and U-pick farms for pumpkins, apples and more, or just enjoy exploring the area’s quaint charm.
© Visit Wisconsin
Leaf peep here as the fall foliage is in full bloom along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, or on historic trains like Mid-Continent Railway’s Pumpkin Special. Find quintessential fall experiences like apple picking at Apple Holler Orchard, spooky tours on Dells Ghost Boat and Oktoberfest in La Crosse.
Cranberries offer a unique family activity, with visits to bogs, Cranberry Discovery Center, Warrens Cranberry Festival and cranberry-flavored goodies on offer. For outdoor activities, consider High Cliff State Park, Willow River State Park or hot-air ballooning with Lake Geneva Balloon Company.
© Nebraska Tourism Commission
More fall colors and outdoor pursuits await in Nebraska, on view along Bridges to Buttes Scenic Byway, Fort Robinson State Park, Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway, Niobrara State Park, Ponca State Park, Indian Cave State Park and Chandron State Park. Take scenic drives along Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway, with Blackbird Scenic Overlook, and Heritage Highway Scenic Byway.
Get in the spirit of the season with Nebraska City’s Applejack Festival, or Junkstock: Harvest Edition in Waterloo. Sip wine amid the colors of fall at Miletta Vista Winery or find seasonal attractions on offer at Vala’s Pumpkin & Apple Orchard and Roca Berry Farm.
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