10 Fun Fall Activities To Check Out In Orange County

As the leaves begin to change colors and the temperatures start to drop, it's clear that autumn has arrived in Orange County. This picturesque southern California destination offers endless opportunities to embrace the season and make lasting memories. From pumpkin patches and hayrides to spooky haunted mazes, Orange County has something for everyone. To help you make the most of the season, we have rounded up 10 fun fall activities that are sure to get you in the spirit of the season. So, grab your cozy sweater and a pumpkin spice latte and get ready to embrace fall in Orange County like never before!

Pumpkin Picking at Tanaka Farms

Characteristic	Description
Name	Tanaka Farms
Type	Produce market
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 902
Address	5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612
Phone	(949) 653-2100
Hours	Tuesday - 9 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM Friday - 9 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - 9 AM–5 PM Monday - 9 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Are you looking for a fun and festive fall activity in Orange County? Look no further than Tanaka Farms for pumpkin picking!

Located in Irvine, Tanaka Farms offers a family-friendly atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the best of fall. Enjoy a tractor ride through the fields and pick your own pumpkin straight from the vine. There are also plenty of photo opportunities with the colorful pumpkins, hay bales, and scarecrows.

But pumpkin picking is just the beginning of the fall fun at Tanaka Farms. They also offer a Harvest Festival with a petting zoo, corn maze, games, food trucks, and more. And don't forget to stop by their farm stand to stock up on fresh produce and other fall treats.

In addition to being a great activity for families and friends, Tanaka Farms is also committed to sustainability and education. They offer school tours and educational programs to teach about the importance of agriculture and the environment.

So why not make a day of it and head to Tanaka Farms for some pumpkin picking and fall festivities? It's the perfect way to enjoy the season and support local agriculture in Orange County.

Outdoor Movie Nights at OC Parks

Southern California may not have the traditional autumn chill that other parts of the country experience, but Orange County still has plenty of fall fun to offer. One such activity is attending an outdoor movie night at one of OC Parks' beautiful locations.

OC Parks hosts several movie nights throughout the fall season, located in parks such as Craig Regional Park, Irvine Regional Park, and Mason Regional Park. The events range from family-friendly animated films to classic movies for all ages.

The outdoor atmosphere adds to the movie-watching experience, as viewers are invited to bring folding chairs, blankets, and even picnic baskets filled with snacks. Hot cocoa and coffee are also available for purchase from the on-site concession stand.

To ensure a comfortable and safe environment, organizers ask that attendees follow certain rules, such as no smoking or alcohol on the premises. Additionally, pets are not allowed at outdoor movie nights, with the exception of service animals.

Admission to OC Parks' outdoor movie nights is free, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good spot. The movies generally begin at sunset, but exact start times may vary slightly.

Not only do outdoor movie nights provide a fun fall activity for families and friends, but they also showcase Orange County's beautiful parks and the natural beauty of Southern California. So grab some popcorn, grab a seat, and enjoy a movie under the stars at an OC Parks location this fall.

Corn Mazes at Irvine Park Railroad

Autumn has finally arrived, and it's time to embrace the season with one of its most beloved traditions: corn mazes! Orange County offers a variety of options to choose from, but one of the best destinations to experience a corn maze is the Irvine Park Railroad.

Located in the heart of Orange County, the Irvine Park Railroad has long been a favorite destination for families looking for outdoor fun. During the fall season, the railroad transforms into a haven for pumpkin patches, hayrides, and, of course, corn mazes.

Visitors to the Irvine Park Railroad can choose from two different mazes, each with its own unique challenges and pathways. The first is the "Spooky Maze," a Halloween-themed labyrinth that is perfect for older kids and adults who enjoy a good scare.

As you make your way through the Spooky Maze, you'll encounter plenty of surprises, from ghosts and ghouls to creepy crawlies lurking around every corner. But fear not - if the maze becomes too spooky, you can always call out for help or exit through one of the escape routes.

For those looking for a less scary experience, the Irvine Park Railroad also offers a traditional corn maze that is perfect for families with younger children. This maze is less intense than the Spooky Maze but still provides plenty of twists and turns to keep things interesting.

Along the way, you'll encounter fun facts about agriculture and farming, as well as trivia questions to test your maze-solving skills. And when you finally make it through to the end, you'll be rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and a delicious treat from the Irvine Park Railroad's concession stand.

Overall, the corn mazes at Irvine Park Railroad are a must-visit for anyone looking to embrace the fall season in Orange County. Whether you're a seasoned maze-goer or a first-time visitor, there's something for everyone at this beloved attraction. So grab your family and friends, and get ready to explore the twists and turns of one of Orange County's most exciting corn mazes!

Oktoberfest at Old World Huntington Beach

Fall in Orange County is a time of cool breezes, changing leaves, and festive celebrations. One event that captures the essence of autumn is the Oktoberfest at Old World Huntington Beach.

Located in the heart of Huntington Beach, Old World is a charming German-themed village that hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including its famous Oktoberfest. From September to October, the village transforms into a lively celebration of German culture, with food, drinks, music, and dancing.

The highlight of the Oktoberfest is the beer garden, which offers a selection of traditional German beers, including Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr, and Spaten. The beer is served in liter-sized steins, which add to the festive atmosphere. Visitors can also indulge in a variety of German foods such as bratwurst, sauerkraut, pretzels, and schnitzel while enjoying live music and entertainment.

In addition to the beer garden, the Oktoberfest also features a carnival area with games and rides for children and adults. There are also vendor booths selling German merchandise and souvenirs, as well as a demonstration of traditional dances and costumes.

Old World has been hosting the Oktoberfest for over 40 years, and it continues to attract thousands of visitors from all over Orange County and beyond. Whether you're a fan of German culture or just looking for a fun fall activity, the Oktoberfest at Old World is a must-visit event. So grab your lederhosen, raise your stein, and join in the festivities!

Hot Air Balloon Rides at Great Park Balloon

As the fall season approaches in Orange County, tourists and locals alike are looking for unique experiences to enjoy during this time of year. One popular attraction that should be on everyone's list this fall is Great Park Balloon, located in Irvine, which offers hot air balloon rides that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Riding in a hot air balloon is a once in a lifetime experience that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are celebrating a romantic anniversary with your partner, looking for a fun family activity, or wanting to capture beautiful aerial photographs of Orange County, a hot air balloon ride is an excellent choice.

The Great Park Balloon ride takes you 400-feet in the air and provides a panoramic view of Orange County. From this vantage point, you can see landmarks like Disneyland, the Pacific Ocean, and the beautiful landscapes that Orange County is known for. During the ride, you'll feel a sense of peacefulness and tranquility apart from the hustle and bustle of the city below.

The balloon ride takes about ten minutes, and it is suitable for all ages. The staff at Great Park Balloon is trained and experienced to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable ride. Several balloons are available for public rides to accommodate groups of all sizes.

The Great Park Balloon is open daily from 9 am to 3 pm, and admission is free. Reservations are encouraged, and the cost per person is $10 for a ride that lasts about ten minutes. A family of four can ride together.

In conclusion, fall season in Orange County is the perfect time for a hot air balloon ride at Great Park Balloon in Irvine. It's a unique experience to enjoy with friends and family while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Don't miss this experience, and book your balloon ride today!

Whale Watching Excursions at Newport Landing

Characteristic	Description
Name	Newport Landing Whale Watching
Type	Whale watching tour agency in Newport Beach, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 5,081
Address	309 Palm St A, Newport Beach, CA 92661
Phone	(949) 675-0551
Hours	Tuesday - 8 AM–7 PM Wednesday - 8 AM–7 PM Thursday - 8 AM–7 PM Friday - 8 AM–7 PM Saturday - 7 AM–7 PM Sunday - 7 AM–7 PM Monday - 8 AM–7 PM
Profiles

Fall in Orange County is a beautiful season to take a whale watching excursion at Newport Landing. Whale watching is an activity that is enjoyed by many in Orange County, California. Newport Landing is a premier whale watching destination that offers excellent services for both locals and visitors.

The fall season in Orange County is an optimal time to experience the majestic whales in their natural habitat. During this season, the humpback whales and blue whales migrate towards the warmer waters of Mexico. They stop in the Southern California coastline to feed on krill, anchovies, and squid. This migration attracts thousands of visitors to Newport Landing to witness the spectacle.

Newport Landing is conveniently located in Newport Beach, right next to the Balboa Fun Zone. The whale watching tours depart from this location on a daily basis. The boats are designed to provide comfortable seating arrangements with restrooms and refreshments onboard. The experienced crew leads the tours with the assistance of professional naturalists. The naturalists offer informative commentary about the whales, dolphins, and other marine creatures that can be seen on the tour.

The whale watching expeditions usually last from 2.5 to 3 hours. The boats depart in the mornings and afternoons, making it easy to fit a tour into your schedule. You will sail into the Pacific Ocean, and if you are lucky, you may witness some whales breaching, spouting water or showing off their flukes. Dolphins and sea lions are also known to accompany the whale watches, so make sure you bring along your binoculars.

In conclusion, fall in Orange County is an ideal time to embark on a whale watching excursion at Newport Landing. This experience provides a perfect opportunity to witness the magnificent whales that grace the Southern California coast. With an experienced crew and professional naturalists, you will be taken on a memorable journey through the Pacific Ocean, ensuring an unforgettable whale watching experience.

Scarecrow Building Workshops at Roger's Gardens

As fall approaches, it's time to start thinking about all the seasonal activities that are available in Orange County. One of the most exciting events to consider is the Scarecrow Building Workshops at Rogers Gardens in Corona Del Mar.

This event allows visitors to get creative and build their own unique scarecrow. The workshops take place on Saturday and Sunday afternoons throughout the fall season, and all materials are provided. The workshops are free, but there is a suggestion donation of $10 to benefit the Environmental Nature Center.

These workshops are a fun way to spend an afternoon with friends or family, creating something special to adorn your home for the fall season. There are a variety of materials available, so you can create a scarecrow that is personal to your style and taste.

In addition to the workshops, Rogers Gardens also offers a variety of fall-themed activities throughout the season. These include pumpkin decorating clinics, live music, and cider tastings.

Rogers Gardens is a beautiful location to visit any time of the year, but in the fall, it truly comes alive with the scents and colors of the season. The garden features a variety of plants and flowers that are perfect for fall, including mums, pumpkins, and gourds.

If you're looking for the perfect way to celebrate the changing of the seasons, look no further than the Scarecrow Building Workshops at Rogers Gardens. With a variety of activities to choose from and a beautiful location to enjoy, it's the perfect way to embrace everything fall has to offer.

Harvest Festival at the Orange County Fairgrounds

The crisp fall season is finally here in Orange County, and with it comes a plethora of autumn-themed activities to participate in. One such activity that is sure to get you in the fall spirit is the Harvest Festival at the Orange County Fairgrounds.

Taking place on the fairgrounds' lush event space, this annual festival runs for three weekends in October and offers a wide variety of fun activities for attendees of all ages to enjoy. From pumpkin carving contests to artisan markets, this festival truly has something for everyone.

One of the most anticipated events at the Harvest Festival is the pie-eating contest, where participants can show off their skills in devouring a fresh slice of pumpkin or apple pie. Another popular attraction is the live music, which can be heard throughout the festival grounds and offers the perfect backdrop for taking in the colorful fall foliage.

For those looking to shop, the artisan market features over 300 vendors selling handcrafted goods such as jewelry, apparel, and home decor. Meanwhile, kids can partake in pony rides and petting zoos, making it a family-friendly event that can be enjoyed together.

Of course, no fall festival would be complete without a wide variety of delicious treats to satisfy your taste buds. Rest assured, there is no shortage of food vendors at the Harvest Festival, with options ranging from classic fair food like funnel cakes and corn dogs to seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice lattes and apple cider donuts.

In summary, if you're looking for a fun-filled way to celebrate the arrival of fall in Orange County, the Harvest Festival at the Orange County Fairgrounds is a must-visit event. So don your coziest sweater and head on over to enjoy all the autumnal fun this festival has to offer!

Halloween Fun at Disneyland Resort

As fall rolls around, it’s time to start thinking about Halloween plans. If you’re in Orange County, California, Disneyland Resort is the perfect destination for some spooky fun. With festive décor, delicious treats, and exclusive events, this iconic theme park has something for everyone.

First, let’s talk about the décor. As soon as you enter Disneyland Resort, you’ll notice the festive spirit. Main Street, U.S.A. is adorned with Halloween-themed banners and pumpkins, and the rest of the park follows suit. From Haunted Mansion to Space Mountain, the rides are decked out in their Halloween best. And in the evenings, the park is transformed into a glowing wonderland with special lighting effects.

But what’s Halloween without treats? Disneyland Resort has you covered with an abundance of seasonal snacks. Indulge in caramel apples, pumpkin spice churros, and seasonal cupcakes. And for those daring enough, there’s even a ghost pepper ranch dip available at several food locations.

Now onto the events. Mickey’s Halloween Party is a special ticketed event that takes place on select nights in September and October. Guests can wear costumes, trick-or-treat throughout the park, and enjoy exclusive entertainment such as the Frightfully Fun Parade and Halloween Screams fireworks. And for adults only, there’s the Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure. This event features a Villains Grove walk-through experience, character meet and greets, and a nighttime dance party.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for Halloween fun in Orange County, look no further than Disneyland Resort. From the décor to the treats to the events, there’s no shortage of spooky excitement. Just remember to pack your costume!

Fall Hiking at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

Fall is undoubtedly one of the best times of the year to go hiking, thanks to its cool temperatures and vivid colors. If you are in Orange County, California, there's nowhere better to experience this than at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Spanning over 7,000 acres along the coast, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park is a popular destination that welcomes visitors year-round. In this article, we'll explore the park's fall hiking trails and what makes them so special.

Firstly, it's essential to note that Laguna Coast Wilderness Park boasts over 40 miles of hiking trails that range in difficulty level, so whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner, there's a trail for you. The trails are well-maintained and are designed to preserve the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.

What's more, fall is the perfect time to start exploring the park's trails. The temperature in Orange County drops to a moderate level, making hiking comfortable and enjoyable. Additionally, the fall colors are vibrant and awe-inspiring, making for an excellent backdrop for your hike. The park is also less crowded during the first few months of fall, giving you more tranquility and allowing for social distancing.

One of the popular fall hiking trails in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park is the Willow Canyon Trail. This trail is a 5.5-mile round trip that showcases the stunning view of the canyons and hills. While hiking, don't forget to check out the park's diverse flora and fauna, including the unique California sagebrush, black sage, and buckwheat. You may also spot some wildlife like mule deer, coyotes, and hawks.

If you're up for a more challenging hike, you can try the Bommer Ridge Trail, which connects Laguna Coast Wilderness Park with Crystal Cove State Park. This trail is a 12-mile round trip, and the picturesque views from the top of the ridge make it all worth it. The trail rises to over 1,600 feet, giving you an excellent workout and an unforgettable vista of the park's diverse landscape.

Before embarking on your fall hiking adventure at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, it's crucial to prepare in advance. Wear appropriate hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and healthy snacks. You'll also want to check the weather forecast and keep an eye on trail conditions for your safety.

In summary, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park is an excellent destination for fall hiking in Orange County. With over 40 miles of hiking trails, breathtaking views, and diverse flora and fauna, you can create many unforgettable experiences with your friends and family while enjoying the splendor of fall. Happy trails!

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