Autumn Adventures in and Around Utica, NY

Autumn in the Utica area is one of the most vibrant seasons. Fall is filled with colorful foliage, festive events, and delicious food offerings that happen just once a year. Here at Acacia Village, we know how much we all look forward to this time of the year. The days get crisp and leaves start to change, which means it’s time to enjoy what the area has to offer in the autumn months. Here’s a curated list of fun fall activities in and around Utica that will help make for a perfect autumn day to enjoy with friends and family:

Festive Fun:

• Utica Zoo‘s Halloween and Harvest Celebration in October: Get into the spooky spirit with trick-or-treating, food trucks, and a fun animal-themed trail at the Utica Zoo! This event is perfect for all ages, so bring your family along or spend the day with friends for a Halloween themed visit.
• Max 410 Oktoberfest & Oktoberfest at the Active Ingredient Brewing Company: Raise a glass and celebrate the season at one of Utica’s two Oktoberfest events. Enjoy traditional German food, live music, and delicious craft beers!
• Howloween at Owen Orchards: Support the local farm and business, Owen Orchards’ Howloween event, featuring family-friendly activities.
• Fright Fest Scare Trail & NYS Cask Ale Fest: If you’re feeling brave, test your courage at the Fright Fest Scare Trail at the Thomson Family Farm down in Harpersfield. Or stick closer to home in Utica and enjoy some delicious cask ales at the NYS Cask Ale Fest at Woodland Farm Brewery.

Fall and Holiday Delights:

• Clinton Cider Mill: Take a scenic drive to Clinton and indulge in fresh cider and cider donuts at the Clinton Cider Mill. It’s the traditional fall treat!
• Harvest Dinner at This Old Church: Savor a delicious fall feast in a historic setting at This Old Church in Vernon, NY.
• Night Market Fall: Find unique holiday gifts and enjoy seasonal treats at the Night Market Fall event in Syracuse, NY.

Outdoor Adventures:

• Foliage in Boonville: Pack a picnic lunch and embark on a scenic drive to Boonville to witness the breathtaking fall foliage. You can even visit Potato Hill Farm to enjoy the panorama from a high vantage point!
• Corn Maze at Pumpkin Junction: Challenge yourself and have some laughs navigating the corn mazes at Pumpkin Junction or Savicki Farm Market. Don’t forget to pick out the perfect pumpkin for your fall decorating!

Beyond Utica:

• Community Folk Art Center (CFAC) in Syracuse: Take a day trip to Syracuse and explore the vibrant exhibits at the Community Folk Art Center.
• Cayo Industrial Warehouse of Horror in Rome, NY: If you’re up for a unique indoor haunt adventure, head to Rome, NY, and experience the thrills of this scary attraction. It’s a scary take on industrial horror for grown ups who aren’t afraid to be afraid. 

Before You Head Out:

• Check the Weather: Be sure to check the forecast before going on your adventure, especially when planning fall outdoor activities. Central New York weather can be unpredictable, even if it looks like it’ll be pleasant, bring some additional layers and rain gear just in case.
• Book Accommodations and Get Tickets for Events When Possible: If you’re planning a weekend getaway to enjoy the fall foliage or a nearby event, consider booking accommodations in advance, especially for popular tourist destinations.

There are so many exciting fall events and outdoor adventures to choose from in the Utica area. We hope that you make the most of autumn by getting out to enjoy the weather and this beautiful season before winter’s colder days arrive.