Bucket List: 20 Things To Do in LA This Fall

20 Things To Do in LA This Fall

Bucket List: 20 Things To Do in LA This Fall

Even though we don’t get real seasons in Los Angeles, this city goes all out when it comes to embracing the fall, and celebrating Halloween. From outdoor concerts, haunted hayrides, to hosting one of the United States biggest Halloween bashes, there are so many things to experience this time of the year. We’ve come up with a list of 20 things to do in LA this fall which will certainly put you into the autumn spirit!

Take a Scenic Drive

20 Things To Do in LA This Fall

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Los Angeles may not be known like other parts of the United States for its fall foliage, but that doesn’t mean it’s not here. Take a day trip to these 12 places where you’ll be sure to see amazing autumn colors!

Go Apple Picking

Head to Riley’s Farm to pick fresh apples, have lunch at The Hawks Head, and then attend the Colonial Faire where you can enter a “bustling New England village” while taking part in colonial crafts like candle dipping, and weaving.

12261 Oak Glen Rd, Yucaipa, CA 92399

Go on a Ghost Tour

For those that believe in the supernatural, Southern California is perceived to have a lot of haunted places. From the ghosts that are claimed to haunt the Colorado Street Bridge; to the “little girl in the blue dress” that roams the halls of the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, there are so many places that will give you chills. Here’s a list of some well-known haunts:

Get Spooked on a Haunted Hayride

The Los Angeles Haunted Hayride is back to celebrate its 10th year anniversary. The attractions include the haunted hayride and 4 scare zone mazes which start on September 29th and goes until October 31st. The hayride will be a popular attraction this season so get your tickets fast.  

Griffith Park (Old Zoo) 4730 Crystal Springs Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027

Visit a Pumpkin Patch

20 Things To Do in LA This Fall

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It’s not officially fall until you visit a pumpkin patch and pick your own pumpkin! Tanaka Farms is ideal because it has activities for all the members of the family. The pumpkin patch opens September 22 and runs until October 31st. Admission is $4 per person but make sure to purchase your parking pass before you head there.

5380 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612

Attend an Outdoor Concert

The Twilight on the Pier concert series is one of Santa Monica’s favorite outdoor music events. The theme this year is “Local Meets Global,” and the lineup will feature artists from various cultures and diversities, and blend pop and indie folk music. Check out this Spotify playlist curated to the artists appearing. The concert will be held every Wednesday from September 5th – October 7th, and free for all ages.

200 Santa Monica Pier,  Santa Monica, CA 90401

Get Scared at Horror Film Festival

The Screamfest Horror Film Festival is the longest running horror film festival and showcases new films from independent filmmakers. This year it will be held at the TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood from October 9th – 18th. Tickets will go on sale at the end of September so keep posted.

6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028

Carve a Pumpkin

Whether you visit a pumpkin patch or pick up pumpkins from your local grocery store, creating a jack-o’-lantern is a must! First you’ll need a pumpkin carving kit that comes with patterns for carving. Don’t throw the guts away, here’s a list of 28 things you can do with them.

Plan a Halloween Party

Throw a spooky Halloween party this fall! Some suggested themes are; Haunted House, Freak Circus, Murder Mystery, Hollywood Horror, and Rocky Horror Picture Show. Once you solidify your theme, go on the search for decor and make a plan for food/beverage options and games to play. You can check out this Pinterest Board that I am creating to plan for my own Halloween party. If you live in Los Angeles, visit the Halloween Club. They have an endless supply of essentials.

Add a Touch of Fall to Your Home

20 Things To Do in LA This Fall

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There is a comforting feeling when decorating your home during fall. The best part is filling it with warm, autumn scents like cinnamon and vanilla. Locate an old wreath and refurbish it with faux foliage, paint a gold pumpkin, decorate candle holders, or make these pretty mason jar centerpieces. The ambiance in your home can instantly change with some simple autumn decor and warm tone hues. Check out our do’s and don’ts for Halloween decorating!

Rent a Cabin in the Mountians

Sometimes it’s great to getaway from the city. This autumn, head to the mountains to enjoy the climate change and scenery. Big Bear Lake is the perfect destination because it’s only a 2 hour drive from Los Angeles. During the fall/winter season, cabins book quickly so plan ahead. No matter where you stay in Big Bear you’re bound to have phenomenal views. Peek this Treehaus Chalet Cabin with views of the slopes!

Bake a Pie from Scratch

Pies are a favorite dessert this time of the year. Test your cooking skills by baking a pumpkin, caramel apple, sweet potato, or pecan pie from scratch! It’s the perfect sweet to bring to Thanksgiving dinner.

Drink Lots and Lots of Beer!

Oktoberfest began in 1810 as a Munich folk festival held in Germany. Millions and millions of tourists traveled to the fair to drink beer and party. This annual celebration has inspired events through the United States and Southern California has two of our own favorites:

Pershing Square in Downtown Los Angeles | October 20th – 21st from 2pm-10pm | Admission, $5

532 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Alpine Village in Torrance, CA | September 7th – October 27th | Tickets must be purchased before visit | General Admission is $15

833 W Torrance Blvd, Torrance, CA 90502

Visit a Vineyard

There’s nothing like sipping a nice glass of wine while enjoying a scenic view. Make a whole day out of it by visiting Ojai Vineyard or Malibu Wines for some fantastic vineyard foliage!

Update Your Fall Wardrobe

20 Things To Do in LA This Fall

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As the weather becomes chillier and we progress closer to the official first day of autumn, our closet requires a shift. Fall shopping is always fun because it means it‘s time for oversized sweaters, cute scarves, faux fur jackets, and comfy boots. This season, sparkly/lurex fabrics, animal print and plaid print will be key trends. Check out the Fall + Winter 2018 Shopping Guide for more wardrobe inspiration!

Celebrate at an Amusement Park

Halloween Time at Disneyland is back! The entire park is decorated and your favorite rides are Halloween themed. It’s the best, spooky time of the year! Halloween Time goes until October 31st.

1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802

Go on a Nature Hike

This fall, take a hike and observe how the foliage changes during the season. Eaton Canyon is one of the most versatile hiking routes. You will come across mini rivers, wildflowers, fallen trees, a bridge to nowhere, and a waterfall. Whatever trail you choose, make sure you enjoy the nature!

1750 North Altadena Drive, Pasadena, CA 91107

Have a Bonfire on the Beach

There’s no better feeling than having a night time bonfire by the beach with your friends. This fall head to Dockweiler or Huntington Beach and toast s’mores at one of the fire pits open to the public. Don’t forget wood, blankets, matches, drinks, games, and a beach side playlist for the perfect So Cal autumn evening!

Attend a Halloween Carnival

Put your costume on and head to the West Hollywood Halloween Carnival. This annual festival is one of the United States biggest Halloween bashes. The event is held on October 31st, from 6pm – 10:30pm. Be sure to arrive early to get a good spot!

Santa Monica Boulevard/Historic Route 66 between Doheny Drive and La Cienega Boulevard.

Host a Horror Movie Night

20 Things To Do in LA This Fall

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A scary movie marathon with your friends is a must! These are our favorite 25 Halloween movies to watch this season. Tip: offer spooky snacks for guests to munch on.

As you can see there are so many unique things to do in LA this fall. What are you most looking forward to? Live in another part of the United States? What’s on your fall bucket list?

Nara Perez

My life is centered around designing clothes, trend shopping, concerts, happy hour with friends, yoga/running, and drinking copious amounts of coffee to keep up in the chaotic fashion industry. [email protected].

5 Comments

  1. I’d love to do a ghost tour! I actually live near one of the best ones around apparently but I’ve never been

  2. This is such a nice a blog! I love LA this is amazing!

  3. These all look like things I would love to do

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