Fall Break Fun in Dayton

Fall break: what a great concept! Just when the weather gets crisp and the leaves burst into color, the kids get a little time off from school and families can take advantage of this wonderful time of year. Here are a few suggestions for fall Fall Break Fun in Dayton, quick getaways and kids’ activities to help you make the most of the season.

Fall Festivities

Ohio Cider Fest

Check out the Ohio Cider Fest this October and pay homage to the apple – the most versatile seasonal fruit! The fun takes place at Hidden Valley Fruit Farm in Lebanon, where families can enjoy a variety of activities such as cider pressing, crafts, hayrides, train rides and an apple-baking contest. Plan a visit at www.hiddenvalleyfruitfarm.com.

Windmill Farm Market

Although apple is king during the autumn months, we can’t forget about the pumpkin, which has an especially important purpose in October! To pick the perfect pumpkin this year, visit Windmill Farm Market, which hosts its annual Spooktacular Fall Hayride from September 19-October 31. Kids will love the farm’s setup, which includes live animals and face painting. Check out www.windmillfarmmarket.com to learn more.

Apple Picking at Monnin Fruit Farm

Apples, apples, apples! With so many creative and delicious opportunities to utilize the apple this season, picking a bushel to bring home is an economical and entertaining activity for the kids. Monnin Fruit Farm has a diverse selection of apples, as well as pumpkins and other fall produce. Visit the Monnin Fruit Farm Facebook page for updates and seasonal information.

Fall Places to Go 

Hocking Hills State Park

Spend the weekend hiking, fishing and appreciating all nature has to offer with a camping jaunt at Hocking Hills State Park. Lodge at a variety of facilities, ranging from traditional Sioux style teepees to cozy and secluded cabins and cottages. Make a reservation at www.hockinghills.com.

Nashville, Indiana

A weekend shopping trip to Nashville, Indiana is the perfect way to spend a long fall weekend. Explore the quaint shops of Little Nashville, where visitors can find artisanal goods, such as stained glass art, wood furniture and carvings, as well as jewelry, clothing and more. There are even flea markets for those looking for a well-priced deal! Grab that credit card and check out www.nashville-indiana.com to plan a day trip.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Day-trip it to the Cincinnati Zoo this autumn, where the combination of the cool air and  beautiful grounds makes for a great day with the animals. Arrange a visit with one of the fun events taking place at the zoo, like Zoofari or Hallzooween. (Parents, check out the Zoo Brew event!) Plan a trip at www.cincinnatizoo.org.

Fall Kids’ Activities

Caesar Creek State Park

Calling all future archeologists! Caesar Creek State Park is hosting a National Fossil Day event for families on October 18. Spend the day learning about fossils and hunting for petrified goods with the experts. For more details, contact the Caesar Creek Nature center at (513) 897-2437.

Aullwood Farm Enchanted Forest

The Enchanted Forest is a daytime program that teaches students in preschool and elementary school about the environment. Kids meet live animals, sing songs and share stories with a variety of animal characters. Aullwood Farm also offers a nighttime program for families and youth groups, inviting kids to walk through an illuminated Enchanted Forest to search for exciting creatures. The night ends with cider and popcorn. Both programs take place at the end of October. Learn more at http://web4.audubon.org/local/sanctuary/aullwood/.

Dayton Art Institute

Create as a family this fall with kid-friendly classes at the Dayton Art Institute’s Super Saturday Family Day. Classes take place twice a month and each one focuses on a new art-making technique with a theme, such as Peace Week or Octoberfest Kidfest. Tiny Thursdays is another fall program at DAI, designed for toddlers with story time and art projects. For more information, visit www.daytonartinstitute.org.

There’s no shortage of fun available this fall break – make the most of the season with your family and friends! 

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