Fall Itinerary

As the leaves begin to change and temperatures start to cool, we can't help but think about all the fun fall activities ahead — sipping apple cider at a local orchard, taking a trailer ride to a pumpkin patch and navigating through a corn maze. Need some ideas on where to get started? 

A MORNING AT AN APPLE ORCHARD

Allen's Orchard
5801 N 10th St, Marion, IA 52302
Allen’s Orchard is a family-run orchard in Marion that offers 40 varieties of apples that you can either pick right off the tree yourself on Saturday's and Sunday's or you can get pre-picked apples ready to go in the store. Allen's also has fresh produce, unique gifts and tasty treats such as donuts, turnovers, cookies, pies and caramel apples. They also have friendly goats you can pet, a small selection of pumpkins and tractor rides on the weekends. Allen's is currently open 7 days a week, but be sure to check their website for more information.

Wilson's Orchard
4823 Dingleberry Road NE, Iowa City, Iowa 52240
Wilson’s Orchard in Iowa City allows visitors to pick their own apples from more than 120 varieities of apple trees, as well as pumpkins from the pumpkin patch in October. They also offer other seasonal produce, apple treats, fresh baked goods, gifts and more inside their store. On weekends, take tractor rides for $5/person (apply your trailer ride ticket toward the purchase of apples, either freshly picked or from the cooler). Visit their website for more information.

The Big Apple Orchard
1115 Hwy 30 W, Mount Vernon, Iowa 52314
The Big Apple Orchard is a family run apple orchard in Mount Vernon. They offer 22 varieties of apples, as well as homemade baked goods. Check out their Facebook page for more information.

FARM FUN IN THE AFTERNOON

Bass Family Farms
840 Bass Lane, Mount Vernon, IA 52314
In addition to their chemical-free vegetable farm, Bass Family Farms in Mount Vernon offers agri-tours, haybale rides, pumpkins, games and other family-friendly activities, as well as locally-sourced, gourmet food items in their farm store. Visit their website for more information.

Bloomsbury Farm
3260 69th St, Atkins IA 52206
Described as a "little Disneyland in the Heartland," Bloomsbury Farm in Atkins offers a wide variety of activities for young and old, including a pumpkin patch, two large corn mazes, hayrack rides, a jumping pillow, "pumpkin blaster," zip line, petting zoo and lots more! Visit their website for more information about hours, events, and activities.

Bart's Farm and Pumpkin Patch
7307 Alburnett Rd, Marion, IA 52302
Opening September 19, Bart’s Farm is a family-owned farm in Marion that has pumpkins, pony rides, hayrack rides and a small corn maze. Check their Facebook page for more information.

Kroul Farms
245 Hwy. 1 South, Mount Vernon, IA 52314
Kroul Farms in Mount Vernon offers pumpkins, a corn maze, family activities and farm animals. They also sell indian corn, gourds, squash, straw bales, corn-shucks and specialty pumpkins for all of your fall decorating needs. Check their website for more information.

Prairie Patch Farm
Cedar Rapids, IA
On this farm, llamas rule! Enjoy safe family fun by scheduling a Llama-Corn Hike, Picnic with Llamas or taking part in LLAMAWEEN! Reserve your spot today.

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR IN THE OUTDOORS

Palisades-Kepler State Park
700 Kepler Drive, Mount Vernon, IA 52314
Palisades-Kepler State Park is a beautiful wooded park along the Cedar River in Linn County that offers camping, six miles of wooded hiking trails, a beautiful view along the shoreline and much more! Visit their website for more information.

Indian Creek Nature Center - Please note: Some wooded trails are closed due to Derecho Storm Damage.
5300 Otis Road SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
Indian Creek Nature Center is home to 500 acres of natural prairie, woodlands, wetlands and wildlife. Wander the extensive trail system, play in the Hazelnut Hideaway outdoor play area or explore the Amazing Space facility. Visit their website to learn more about upcoming events and other information about the Nature Center. 

Wickiup Hill Learning Area 
10260 Morris Hills Rd, Toddville, IA 52341
Wickiup Hill is an educational nature center that offers a variety of exhibits, programs and classes for all ages, bird and wildlife viewing areas, six miles of trails, an observation deck, wetland boardwalk, prairies, woodlands, savanna habitats and more. Be sure to visit their children's outdoor nature playscape, Wickiup's Wandering Woods! Visit their website for more information. 

Pinicon Ridge Park
4729 Horseshoe Falls Rd, Central City, IA 52214
This 966-acre park along the Wapsipinicon River has long been admired for its scenic natural beauty. The hilly, heavily wooded area is divided by the river and home to many species of wildlife. Camping is available typically through mid-October. Boat ramp, kayak access, multiple hiking trails and a playground make this an ideal recreational area.

WARM UP INSIDE IN THE EVENING

Civil Axe Throwing (375 3rd St SE) or Hurling Hatchet (576 Boyson Rd NE) are the perfect places to have some indoor fun with your small group. Grab your flannel, pose for some fun selfies and see if you have what it takes to become an axepert!

DINE IN OR CARRYOUT

Our local restaurants are here to serve you at your comfort level - whether it is patio dining in nice weather, distanced dine-in or carryout, they're ready to dish up something wonderful for you! From family-friendly favorites to farm-to-table and upscale fine dining, there are so many unique menus and cuisine-types to explore. Find them all here.

COZY ACCOMMODATIONS FOR FALL

If you are ready for some warm Midwestern hospitality, you can't go wrong in Cedar Rapids. From luxurious full service hotels, to your favorite brand names, find the perfect place for your stay right here.

For more fall fun, check out our event calendar for upcoming events.

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