Autumn in Central Ohio is a picturesque combination of red, orange, and yellow leaves, blazing brilliantly for a few weeks before falling to the earth like the world’s prettiest carpet. It’s the perfect season to hike through one of our 75 state parks or enjoy family time in a pumpkin patch.

If you’re in the Columbus area this year, welcome. This is the place to be for all things cozy, foodie, and fun. As a long-time resident and realtor, my top recommendation is to attend an OSU home game (GO BUCKS!!!), but beyond that, Central Ohio has plenty of autumn-themed activities to offer.

For a classic celebration of all things German, don’t miss Columbus Oktoberfest at the Ohio Expo Center. Admission is free (with the exception of $12 parking), and it’s the certified best combination of food, music, and drinks. They also have a beautiful German marketplace, games, and events for the kids.

And speaking of kids, they’ll love Boo at the Zoo, which is a “merry-not-scary” event for the whole family. Wear your Halloween costumes and head to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for three weekends of candy, jack-o-lanterns, a hay bale maze, and more.

Meanwhile, at Franklin Park Conservatory, you’ll be met with Harvest Blooms, including thousands of pumpkins, mums, and cabbages. There are two pumpkin houses to explore, plus a larger-than-life cornucopia. Go after dark to experience everything aglow!

One of my favorite events of the season is Backwoods Fest in Thornville. They offer tons of arts and crafts, plus bluegrass music and the most incredible food. Think homemade bean soup, smoked BBQ, kettle corn, and donuts to die for. It’s everything I want in a fall festival.

For an Instagram-worthy outing, check out Groovy Plants Ranch in Marengo. They have many varieties of pumpkins and fall flowers, just waiting for you to give them a home. Co-owners Jared and Liz are passionate about horticulture, and it shows—the Ranch is always welcoming and inspiring. (And their hippie van rocks!)

Now, in my world, autumn isn’t *real* until I’ve baked an apple pie, and to do that, I need excellent apples. My favorite local orchards include Branstool Orchards (they also have great pears!), CherryHawk Farm, Lynd Fruit Farm (they have a corn maze!), and The Orchard & Co. Any one of these locations is great, but I particularly love the variety of family-friendly activities at The Orchard & Co. Wagon rides, tire swings, zip lines—they have it all.

If your autumn itinerary is incomplete without a good pumpkin patch, you’re in luck. Central Ohio has some true gems. My favorites are Circle S Farms, Hann Farms, Hidden Creek Farms, Leeds Farm, Jacquemin Farms (they also have a bakery!), and Jim Kuhlwein’s Farm Market & Deli. (Honestly, I should make punch cards with all these locations listed. That would be the coolest fall challenge.)

When you’re in the Columbus area, every autumn is one to remember. Whether you prefer a peaceful orchard atmosphere or the hubbub of a Halloween party, Central Ohio has you covered. Get out there and enjoy!