A Guide to Autumn adventures
As summer gives way to the crisp, cool days of fall, the Corridor transforms into a vibrant canvas of rich reds, oranges, and golds. Fall in the Midwest is a time to relish the outdoors, where nature’s beauty is at its peak and the community comes alive with seasonal activities. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, here’s how to make the most of autumn in this beautiful region.
Hiking & Biking: Explore the Scenic Trails
Fall is the ideal season to hit the trails in the Corridor, with cool temperatures & stunning foliage.
Palisades-Kepler State Park in Mount Vernon offers trails that wind through woods & along the Cedar River, perfect for both leisurely strolls & more challenging hikes.
Cedar Valley Nature Trail, stretching from Cedar Rapids to Waterloo, is a long, paved path ideal for cyclists & hikers. The trail showcases the beauty of Iowa’s rural landscape with its mix of woodlands, prairies, & farmland.
Lake Macbride State Park in Solon, near North Liberty, features trails around the lake & through forests. Kayaking or canoeing on the lake offers a unique perspective on the fall foliage.
Apple Orchards & Pumpkin Patches: Savor the Season
A visit to a local apple orchard or pumpkin patch is a fall tradition that’s perfect for families & anyone looking to enjoy the season’s bounty.
Wilson’s Orchard & Farm in Iowa City offers apple picking, hayrides, & a farm store with fresh cider & donuts. Their fall festival events are a hit with families, featuring corn mazes & live music.
Allen’s Orchard in Marion is known for its variety of apples & welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a fall picnic. In addition to U-pick, you may enjoy their firetruck, swings, playground set, visiting the goats & yard games.
Bass Family Farms near Mount Vernon offers pumpkin picking & a farm market with locally grown produce. It’s a charming place to spend a crisp fall afternoon. Join them for their annual Fall Festival in September & October! Bring the family to enjoy a hay rack ride, pick out your pumpkins, or shop their specialty food store for a great tasting apple butter or a scoop of Snap O’ Lantern ice cream on a crunchy waffle cone!
Fall Festivals & Events: Join the Community Celebrations
The Corridor hosts numerous fall festivals & events that bring the community together to celebrate the season.
Northside Oktoberfest returns to Iowa City on Saturday, September 28th, 2024, for its 28th year! This beloved event transforms the Northside Marketplace into a festive hub, where you can immerse yourself in the Bohemian atmosphere while enjoying great craft brews, neighborhood German cuisine, & lively Oompa music. Highlights this year include BrewFest, Bier Hall, & SodaFest, along with beer games, comical contests, & plenty of opportunities to soak in the festive fall spirit.
Marion Oktoberfest happens on September 21st, 2024! Head to Uptown Marion & sample a wide variety of beer from 30 top breweries in Iowa & nearby areas. Enjoy live music by Lyle Beaver & the Brass Notes, games, a stein-holding contest, & hammerschlagen. Each attendee receives a commemorative tasting glass, beer samples, & complimentary water.
Lincoln Highway Arts Festival returns Saturday September 21st, 2024! This Festival has been a staple in Mount Vernon for over 15 years. Featuring artists booths & demonstrations, activities for kids, live music, food & more!
Football & Tailgating: Embrace the Game Day Spirit
Fall in the Corridor also means football season, & there’s no better way to experience local culture than by joining in on game day festivities.
University of Iowa Football: Hawkeye football games in Iowa City are a staple of fall, with downtown coming alive on game day. The atmosphere at Kinnick Stadium is electric, making it a must-experience event.
High School Football: Friday nights are dedicated to high school football across the Corridor. Local communities gather to support their teams, making it a great way to enjoy the fall evenings.
Farmers’ Markets: Discover Autumn’s Harvest
Farmers’ markets in the Corridor are bustling throughout the fall, offering seasonal produce & artisanal goods.
Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers’ Market is one of the largest in the region, featuring local produce, handmade crafts, & live entertainment. Fall brings an abundance of pumpkins, gourds, & apples. Check out the last market of the season on Saturday, September 21st.
Iowa City Farmers Market is held at the Chauncey Swan Ramp, offering a variety of fresh ingredients for cozy fall meals.
North Liberty Neighborhood Market at the Farm continues into the fall offering unique items like homemade jams, fresh bread, & seasonal decor.
Fall in the Corridor is a time of beauty, community, and celebration. Whether you’re hiking through colorful forests, picking apples, or cheering on the Hawkeyes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. So, grab your favorite sweater and a warm cup of cider, and explore all that the Corridor has to offer this autumn.
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