10 Ways to Celebrate Fall in Orange County

Fall is officially here in Southern California....even if it still feels like summer!

I personally love having warm weather all year round, but it is nice to wake up in the mornings and smell that little hint of Fall...we do get that from time to time. However, we aren't lucky enough to get the beautiful Fall colors that the rest of the country gets when the leaves turn shades of red, yellow and orange. Because of our warm and beautiful weather, it can be hard to get in the Fall spirit here in the OC. So, I thought I would put together an Orange County Fall Bucket List to get you in the spirit of the season.

Here's my list of the top ways to celebrate Fall in Orange County.

Orange County Fall Bucket List: Things to Do in OC This Fall

1. Knott's Spooky Farm

At Knott's Spooky Farm, enjoy the spooktacular Halloween season at an event full of Halloween activities for kids ages 3-11. Little ghouls can trick-or-treat through Ghost Town to collect sweet Halloween treats. Fun Halloween-themed shows are in store. Guests of all ages can learn about the creepy crawly critters occupying Ghost Town's Livery Stable.

Guests of all ages can dress up in their most festive costumes to experience one-of-a-kind themed food and treats, exclusive event merchandise including specialty items from local crafters, a fun "Into the Fog" art show, and so much more.

2. Get a Pumpkin Milkshake at Crystal Cove

Right now it's Pumpkin Spice season at Ruby's Diner, and they are serving up Pumpkin milkshakes topped with whipped cream and candy corns. Head down to the Shake Shack for this yummy shake with a view of Crystal Cove, and hike down to the beach and enjoy a stroll on the sand. It may be Fall...but it's never out of season to enjoy the fresh ocean air and some crashing waves. Crystal Cove Beach is one of our faves!

3. Visit Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch

The Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch has become one of the favorite pumpkin patches here in Orange County. Have you ever picked your own pumpkin right out of the pumpkin patch? At Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch, you can ride a tractor, visit the Barnyard Educational Exhibit, pick some veggies, and enjoy this beautiful 30-acre farm!

The U-pick Pumpkin Wagon Ride is led by a friendly tour guide around Tanaka's beautiful 30-acre farm. You get to watch them launch the pumpkin cannon, take a ride through the barnyard educational exhibit with farm animals, see a scarecrow contest and sunflowers, pick vegetables, and choose a pumpkin yourself.

4. Try Fall Treats at the Hello Kitty Grand Cafe

It's always a treat to go to the Hello Kitty Grand Cafe at the Irvine Spectrum. And now we are falling in love with these super cute Fall treats! During the Fall you can find adorable seasonal drinks, desserts and treats inspired by Hello Kitty and Friends.

5. Get Seasonal Fall Donuts

Who's ready to enjoy the flavors of Fall? Duck Donuts are made fresh-to-order and served nice and warm. Their seasonal menu often includes Fall flavors such as pumpkin, apple and streusel.

6. Visit the Halloween Boutique at Roger's Gardens

Every year, Roger's Gardens creates an AMAZING Halloween-themed boutique. This is a Halloween must-see! The elaborate displays, spooky details and unique seasonal décor make it one of our favorite Orange County Fall traditions. Bring your camera!

7. Enjoy an Apple Fritter

Apples mean Fall...and what goes great with apples? Apple fritters. Sidecar Doughnuts is a fun Orange County stop when you're craving something sweet and seasonal.

8. Visit the Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch

The Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch is one of those classic Orange County Fall traditions. Families can enjoy pumpkins, festive photo opportunities, train rides and seasonal activities at Irvine Regional Park.

9. Buy All the Pumpkin Things at Trader Joe's

Trader Joe's is known for its seasonal Fall treats. Pumpkin cookies, pumpkin bread, pumpkin coffee, pumpkin ravioli, pumpkin pancakes...the list goes on! You can also find pumpkins, gourds and Fall flowers. Get there early in the season because some of the favorites sell out quickly.

10. Go Apple Picking in Oak Glen

One of the best Fall family outings is heading up to Oak Glen to go apple picking. You can visit farms along the mountain roads to pick apples, raspberries or pumpkins, explore corn mazes, visit farm animals and take hayrides.

You can also enjoy apple cider, fresh-baked apple treats and plenty of beautiful Fall scenery. Everyone seems to find their favorite Oak Glen stops and return to them year after year.

Make sure to check out our Oak Glen Apple Picking Guide for even more details.

More Fall and Halloween Fun in Orange County

These are some of our favorite ways to celebrate Fall in Southern California. Looking for even more ideas? Check out our Halloween Events in Orange County for even more family-friendly Fall and Halloween fun.