Traveling This Autumn? Five Fun Activities for the Frugal
Quietly nestled between summer’s swelter and winter’s wonderland lies nature’s most majestic season of all: autumn. The air turns crisp, the leaves diversify into a kaleidoscope of colors, and fruit bids farewell with the utmost flavor and freshness. We never quite know exactly when autumn will come, or how long it will stay (all the more reason to appreciate it), but when it finally arrives and waves its wand, it’s virtually impossible not to get caught under its seasonal spell.
Autumn (or fall, as it often called in North America) is a spectacular time of year to explore the outdoors and soak in some fun-in-the-sun before winter marches on in. There’s so much to see and do during this time of year, and best of all, this season caters to the cost-conscious: most activities cost less than $15, and many are even free. If you’re fortunate enough to be traveling this autumn, be sure to bask in these budget-friendly activities:
1. Visit a Pumpkin Patch
If autumn were a fruit, it would definitely be a pumpkin. These bloated, yet beautiful melons are cheap, delicious and versatile –- perfect for the traveler on a budget. Visiting a pumpkin patch is a must during autumn. Enjoy the fresh fall air while learning about the plump fruit’s past and foraging the farmland to pick out your very own pumpkin(s). Pumpkin prices vary, but most cost between $3 and $10.
So what can you do with these orange-tinted titans? Well, lots. If you’re feeling festive, you can carve them into jack-o-lanterns. The inside “guts” can be used for all sorts of delicious dishes, including pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread and spaghetti squash, to name a few. The seeds can be roasted and eaten, too, and often make a great substitute for pine nuts and/or sunflower seeds in recipes.
To find a patch near you, visit www.pumpkinpatchesandmore.org (Countries: United States, Canada, England, South Africa)
2. Take a Hike! (Or Ride a Bike)
What better way to enjoy fall’s fantastic foliage than walking or biking beneath it? Whether winding through trails on a bike or taking a leisurely stroll at sunset, getting out in nature is one of the simplest – and cheapest – ways to take advantage of autumn. The moderate temperatures will spare you the sweat and shivers of other seasons, while the gorgeous leaves will amaze your eyes and ignite your inner artist, be it in the form of a painting, a poem, or a picture.
3. Go Apple Picking
If pumpkins aren’t your passion, then try out autumn’s other fruit: apples. Apple orchards are in full bloom this time of year, and like pumpkin patches, they are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while stocking up on fresh fruit. From the sweet shades of red to the tart tastes of green, apples come in enough variety to satisfy any appetite. And since they can be peeled and eaten raw, apples make a healthy, clean and convenient snack for travelers on the road.
To find orchards in the US and Canada, visit http://www.allaboutapples.com/orchard/index.htm
4. Rent a paddleboat/canoe/kayak
End autumn with a splash! Now’s the (last) time to get out in the water before it freezes. Check local parks for paddleboat, canoe and kayak rentals. Often you get the option of renting for a half hour, hour or for the entire day – plenty of options to suit your budget, time and comfort level. Some paddleboats are as cheap as $5 (split between two or four people), making it a great way to indulge in the weather without thinning the wallet. It’s a great activity for families who are traveling, or the backpacking couple looking for some relaxation and romance.
5. Corn Maze Craze!
Corn Maize - Afton Apple
If you’re looking to stimulate your spatial and navigational skills, then here’s your autumnal answer: the corn maze. Like the name suggests, these life-sized obstacle courses are made up of corn stalks and landscaped into a labyrinth of intricate designs. If you’re feeling a little too clausterphobic or starting to resemble a frantic rat, don’t fret: most maizes employ “corn cops” to ensure safety (and fun) is had by all.
Check out The MaiZE – the world’s largest corn maize company. To find a maze near you, visit www.cornfieldmaze.com
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