Fun Fall Activities with Kids in Los Angeles County

As the fall season starts in LA County, it brings cooler temperatures, festive vibes, and plenty of opportunities for family fun. Whether you're looking to get outdoors, explore local attractions, or embrace the harvest season, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best fall activities to enjoy with your kids in and around LA.

1. Visit a Pumpkin Patch

Nothing says fall like a trip to a pumpkin patch! LA is home to many family-friendly farms where you can pick out the perfect pumpkin, take a hayride, or enjoy corn mazes and petting zoos. Check out popular spots like Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark or Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch in Culver City for a full day of festive fun.

Pro Tip: Bring a wagon to carry pumpkins and little ones as they explore the patch!

2. Attend a Fall Festival

Fall festivals are abundant across LA and offer a variety of entertainment for all ages. These festivals typically feature live music, food trucks, carnival games, and seasonal crafts. The Harvest Festival in Ventura and the Calabasas Pumpkin Festival are annual favorites. Kids can enjoy everything from face painting to pumpkin carving, and parents can indulge in the many tasty fall treats.

3. Explore Descanso Gardens’ Enchanted Forest of Light

Take a magical nighttime stroll through the Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. This interactive experience features illuminated installations, mesmerizing lights, and a whimsical atmosphere that will leave both kids and adults in awe. The crisp evening air combined with the enchanting glow makes it a must-do fall activity.

Tip: Be sure to reserve your tickets early, as this event sells out quickly!

4. Take a Hike

Fall is the perfect time to explore some of LA's stunning hiking trails with the kids. Cooler weather means more comfortable trekking, and the changing foliage creates beautiful scenery. Eaton Canyon in Pasadena or the Griffith Park Trails are great options for family-friendly hikes. Pack a picnic and enjoy being outdoors!

5. Go Apple Picking

For a taste of fall, head to Oak Glen, a charming apple-growing region about an hour from LA. Spend the day picking apples, enjoying cider, and indulging in homemade apple pies. Many of the farms also offer activities like petting zoos, hayrides, and even apple pressing demonstrations. It's a fun and educational way to introduce kids to farm life while embracing the fall harvest.

6. Celebrate Halloween at Local Attractions

Los Angeles is full of Halloween-themed fun for kids! The LA Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo is perfect for young children with animal encounters, trick-or-treating, and spooky decor. For older kids, Knott’s Spooky Farm in Buena Park offers daytime Halloween fun, including costume contests, scavenger hunts, and live shows. Don’t forget Disneyland’s Oogie Boogie Bash for a Halloween night of magic and excitement.

7. Make Fall Crafts at Home

If you're looking for a cozy at-home activity, fall crafts are a fantastic way to get creative with the kids. Gather leaves, pine cones, and acorns during nature walks, and turn them into art projects like leaf rubbings, wreaths, or nature collages. You can also paint pumpkins or create DIY Halloween decorations to display around the house.

8. Bake Seasonal Treats Together

Get into the kitchen and whip up some delicious fall treats! From pumpkin muffins to apple pie, baking is a fun and hands-on activity that kids will love. Let them help with mixing, pouring, and decorating. After all, nothing beats the smell of freshly baked goods on a cool fall day. You can even head to a local farmer's market to pick up fresh ingredients.

9. Visit a Museum or Indoor Play Space

Fall in LA also brings the occasional rainy day, but that doesn’t have to stop the fun. Take advantage of indoor play spaces or visit a local museum. The California Science Center, Natural History Museum, and Kidspace Children’s Museum offer interactive exhibits that are perfect for curious little minds. Many museums also host fall-themed workshops and activities for families.

Fall in Los Angeles County offers an array of activities to enjoy with kids, from outdoor adventures to festive events. Whether you're picking pumpkins, hiking through scenic trails, or indulging in seasonal treats, the season is all about making memories with your family. Take advantage of the cooler weather and dive into these fun fall activities with your little ones!