Ah, October is finally here.
The leaves are completely changing. The air is extremely crisp and fresh. The holidays are quickly approaching.
As you celebrate a new month, feel free to participate in “normal” fall activities. Drinking cider. Eating donuts. Looking at leaves. Visiting pumpkin patches and corn mazes.
But feel free to be a little adventurous, too. Dare to take a break from the “norm” and enjoy some activities you may not have before, including the following 10.
Be Daring. Until October 19, you can participate in various activities at Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park. Whether you’re simply interested in hiking or archery or you want to try more adventurous undertakings like rock walls or zip lines, the sports park has something for everyone.
Celebrate Pulaski Days. During early October, Grand Rapids will host its annual Pulaski Days. On October 4, the event will also feature a parade, providing you an opportunity to experience Polish culture, colorful floats, and the beauty of fall.
Find the Spirit of the Woods. Later this month, the Calvin Ecosystem Preserve & Native Gardens’ Bunker Interpretive Center will host a guided lantern hike. Known as “Spirit of the Woods,” the hike will allow you to see animals and savor fall’s splendor under the stars.
Participate in a Cooking Class. Is the weather too cold for you to go outside? Perhaps have some fun indoors this fall instead—by being involved with a cooking class! You can have the class at your residence too, alongside your fellow Beacon Hill residents or even your grandkids.
Ride the Tram. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Farm Garden will host a guided tram tour on October 16. The tour—which costs $15 for members and $25 for non-members—will enable you to treasure autumn’s beauty at one of the United States’ most renowned gardens.
Spice it Up. In early October, you’ll be able to participate in Grand Rapids’ Pumpkin Spice Fest. Held at LMCU Ballpark, the festival will feature fireworks, horse-drawn hayrides, live music, a petting zoo, and professional pumpkin carvers.
Take a Train Ride. Nearly 200 years ago, the Coopersville and Marne Railway was created. To this day, you can still receive a train ride—for roughly seven miles and 90 minutes, all while enjoying fall at its peak.
Visit a Distinct Farm. There are few farms quite like Frozen Creek Farms, as it has freeze-dried floral and herbal arrangements. In fact, it’s one of the United States’ first three businesses to create the floral freeze dry industry. Bring your Beacon Hill friends or your loved ones with you for a full fall day!
Walk Amidst Vineyards. For the 13th year, Fennville will host its annual Fenn Valley Vine Wine’d. Held on October 4, the event features a 1-mile “race” that isn’t timed. Set on an easy course, the “race” allows participants to walk and soak in the views—of vineyards and fall leaves.
Wear Your Flannel. On October 4, Cedar Springs will host its 86th annual Red Flannel Festival. While savoring the sights of fall, you’ll be able to enjoy an arts and crafts fair, participate in a pie-eating contest, and witness a lumberjack show.
Simply put, the options for entertainment are practically endless in the Grand Rapids area this time of year. So, go ahead and think “outside the box.” Take a chance. Do something unusual.
And, above all else, fully embrace the pristineness of fall before Old Man Winter returns soon
