It's the most wonderful time of the year. And no, I'm not talking about Christmas; I'm talking about fall!
The season brings us so many amazing views, colors, feelings, and super fun activities. It's my favorite time in Huntsville, and with a bit of preparation and planning, it will be yours too.
Apple Picking At Scott's Orchard
When it comes to apple picking, this is the place to be! Scott's Orchard, a family-owned and operated farm currently being run by third-generation farmers. It is one of the only places in North Alabama that allows you to pick your apples. While simply going to an orchard seeing where your apples come from is special, picking them yourself is always better.
Along with picking, the farm has plenty of attractions to keep your family entertained long after the last apple is picked. Enjoy the kid's area with pedal karts, slides, and bouncing, then head inside to purchase some of their tasty treats, including the famous Apple Slushie.
Don't forget to pack your camera; this is the perfect place to capture family pictures!
New this year, Scott's is offering a VIP behind-the-scenes tour of the farm, including a 1-hour long wagon tour, apple picking from the commercial orchard, and a walk through their coolers and pack line.
Stand With Sunflowers At Hubert Family Farm
Sunflowers are pretty much symbolic of fall. It's for that reason alone that you should run to Hubert Family Farm to walk the beautiful rows of flowers and pick your favorites to carry home. While kids may or may not care one way or the other, they'll love using the giant clippers to cut the flowers. Click here to read more about Hubert Family Farms Sunflower patch.
Show Off Your Pumpkins At Tate's Farm
At over 7,000 acres, Tate's Farm is a community staple we've all come to love!
From pumpkin picking, hayrides, and the beautiful barn playground, your family is sure to make many memories at Tate's annual Family Fall Festival! With so much to do and see, you could easily spend an entire day exploring the farm, taking pictures, and jumping from one activity to the next. Thankfully, there are concessions and a country kitchen on site serving up plenty of eats and treats to fuel you throughout the day.
Be sure to ask about their unusual and heirloom pumpkins not found in the field. They make for a great addition to your fall decor! The event runs from September 29th through October 30th, with Pumpkin Destruction and fireworks on the last day.
Take a Hike for some Fall Foliage
Some of our favorite experiences happen on hiking trails. One of the best trails to hike for families where you can get some amazing photos is the Madison County Nature Trail on Green Mountain. It has a covered bridge and is an easy hike for the whole family. The Three Caves Loop Trail from Land Trust and Monte Sano State Park are both great for families to see the leaves changing and explore the outdoors. Click here to see some more family friendly hikes.
Pumpkins, Slushies, and Veggies, oh my!
If you're looking for a more laid-back Fall experience, be sure to take a drive to Isom's Orchard on Hwy 72 in Athens, AL. My first taste of Isom's was many years ago when my parents visited me during one of AAMU's Homecoming games. On their way in from Chicago, they stopped at what they described as the "cutest vegetable stand" and picked up gourds and gallons of the best apple cider I've had to date. It took me years to venture out to Isom's on my own, but I discovered all the other wonderful things they carried when I did.
My family and I now make several trips during fall for seasonal veggies, mini pumpkins, fall color walks, and of course, apple cider. If you want to purchase your fall goodies without the hustle and bustle of hayrides and picking, Isom's is your best stop.
Tip: Want delicious stovetop popcorn at home? Buy the kernels when visiting Isom's. They make fantastic popcorn.
