Autumn in Syracuse is the most beautiful time of year! The weather is cool, the air is crisp and the fall foliage is breathtaking. Being a Syracuse local, I have found several places to enjoy, with several activities to do during the fall months. Whether you’re new to Syracuse or just looking for a fun experience, there’s something for everyone!
Critz Farms: Fall On the Farm
Critz Farms is a family-owned farm located in Cazenovia, New York (approximately 30 minutes away from campus). Their fall season runs from mid-September until the end of October, so you have plenty of time to plan your fall visit! There are several activities to do here, such as wander through their gigantic corn maze, hang out with some farm animals, take a wagon ride, pick some apples and pumpkins, or try some delicious food at their café. The farm is a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy the fall weather. Tickets are only $6 Monday through Friday and $9 on the weekends.
Pumpkin Spice Lattes
If you’re searching for the perfect pumpkin spice latte and wanting to shop locally, check out Café Kubal. Café Kubal has several locations around Syracuse and offers a variety of seasonal drinks and food! Their pumpkin spice is made in-house and goes great in lattes, cappuccinos, chai or matcha! Café Kubal also offers gluten-free and dairy-free options to fit any dietary restrictions. Enjoy the fall season with a hot pumpkin spice latte!
Beak and Skiff Apple Orchards
For over 100 years, Beak and Skiff has dedicated themselves to growing the best apples in New York! Beak and Skiff offers a tasting room, tavern, general store, bakery, apple barn and more. These amenities can keep you here all day long! If you aren’t up to apple picking, Beak and Skiff also offers yoga in the orchards! You can reserve your spot on their website. Spend a day at Beak and Skiff and participate in the fall tradition of apple picking!
Fall Foliage at Green Lakes
By the end of September, the fall foliage is in full bloom at Green Lakes State Park. Located in Fayetteville, New York (20 minutes away from campus), there’s a wide variety of places to hike, run, take pictures, or sit and look at the leaves changing colors! Green Lakes also has a delicious restaurant, Yards Grille, conveniently located next to the golf course that sits above both lakes. They offer an array of different food and drinks for anyone to enjoy. Grab a table outside with friends and take in the fall season!
Lafayette Apple Festival
Beginning Oct. 8 at 7 a.m., the Lafayette Apple Festival kicks off with a pancake breakfast! From there, guests can explore the midway, purchase crafts, watch live entertainment, see the farming and agriculture displays, and eat delicious food! This year the Apple Festival will have several different snacks to enjoy, ranging from apple popcorn to steak sandwiches! The festival runs Oct. 8-9, and there is truly something for everyone. With admission only $6, it’s a great way to fill your weekend with fun!
Brunch at Crazy Daisies
Another great place to spend an afternoon is Crazy Daisies. Their hilltop view gives you a great shot of the fall foliage as well as a variety of locally grown plants and pumpkins! The café is a great spot to sip on a latte, enjoy wood-fired pizza or listen to live music! During the fall, Crazy Daisies also offers a variety of workshops such as Yoga, Art Class, Pilates and Vintage Skills. Just be sure to sign up ahead of time on their website. Classes are inexpensive and allow you to meet new people outside of the Syracuse University community. Try something new!
Fall is a great time to enjoy nature and socialize with others before the cold winter months make us want to hibernate, so get out there and explore!
Written By Tessa Hodinger G’23, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications