Fall Fun on Long Island

Pumpkins are everywhere, from inside your coffee cup to outside your front door. Apple cider, caramel apples and apple pie are all on the menu. And trees across Nassau and Suffolk counties are putting on a foliage fashion show of brilliant oranges, reds and gold. It must be fall.

Fall on Long Island is a cornucopia of seasonal events, treats and traditions. It’s the ideal time to get outside and get moving.

Here are five ideas for outdoor fall activities to help get you started.

Pick Some Produce

Get your steps in for the day with a visit to one of Long Island's farms and orchards. Or spend the afternoon exploring a pumpkin patch. You will get fresh air and exercise. The produce you harvest will also be a healthy addition to your fall-friendly menu.

Get Festive

Long Island's fall festivals offer something for everyone. Pick up some handcrafted early Christmas gifts. Try some locally-made artisanal cheese. Or enjoy dancing to live music. Chances are good you won’t even notice you’re getting some exercise.

Take a Hike

You have many options for a solo adventure or a family fun day.

Check out the fall colors at one of Long Island’s parks or nature preserves. You can also explore hiking and biking options for nature trails in Nassau and Suffolk counties with a beach view or take you to the highest point on Long Island.

Visit a Farm or Farmers Market

Winding your way through a corn maze may not seem like exercise, but each step helps you stay physically active. Or pick up seasonal produce while going booth to booth at a farmers market and fill your pantry with healthy choices as you get some exercise.

Make Fall Chores Fun

Get the entire family involved with traditional fall activities such as raking leaves or putting your garden to bed for the winter to boost your activity level. Working together helps establish and strengthen your family bonds. Jumping (safely) in the leaf pile is a bonus.

As you enjoy fall on Long Island, remember not to take on any new physical activity that could cause overexertion or complicate an existing health condition. Check with your physician beforehand if you have any concerns.

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