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Everyday Outdoor Family

The Midwest Small Towns You'll Love This Fall 🦉🌙🧺

Published 5 days ago • 3 min read

Small Town Fall Vibes

There’s something magical about small towns in the fall. Maybe I have watched too many fall Hallmark movies where the community comes together to throw a Pumpkin Festival, but there is something about drinking coffee on a chilly day, walking down a tiny main street that just feels right.

Don't believe me? Just check out these spots and let me know if you feel it too.

Small-town Escapes to Add to Your List

Small towns and fall are the perfect combination. Here are some small towns to explore this season.

Weston, MO

We love going to Weston Red Barn Farm for pumpkins, the corn maze and u-pick apples. Downtown Weston is charming with lots of great restaurants. And don't forget the trails at Weston Bend State Park.

Nebraska City, NE

We love the Arbor Day Farm, Apple Jack Festival and the nearby state parks like Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, Waubonsie State Park and Indian Cave State Park.

Arrow Rock, MO

Arrow Rock is a tiny village just a few hours from Kansas City. The Annual Heritage Festival is always the second weekend in October and is full of charm. We got to visit Arrow Rock for the first time this year, but we haven't made it for the festival yet, but it is on my list!

Parke County, IN

The annual Covered Bridge Festival in October is the epitome of Midwest small town fun. It features local crafts, live music, and mouthwatering seasonal treats. Plus, Parke County is one of the most stunning spots in the Midwest! I love Shades State Park and Turkey Run State Park!

Lutsen, MN

Lutsen offers amazing views of fall foliage from the Summit Express Gondola. The North Shore Scenic Drive along Lake Superior is also dreamy. Plus, there is a chance to see the Northern Lights at night if you're lucky. (I saw them when I was there!)

Boone, IA

Boone’s mix of unique attractions and natural beauty makes it an excellent stop for fall trips in the Midwest. Be sure to check out Rail Explorers and Ledges State Park.

Fall Ideas from the Blog

Best Hidden Gems & Things to do in Weston

Get the most of your visit to Weston with my favorite stops.

10 Best Day Trips from KC

Here are 10 of my favorite getaways near KC.

Midwest Fall Trips

If you have some time to travel farther, here are 10 of the best trips in the Midwest.

7 Best Weekend Trips from KC

This isn't fall related, but great if you're planning a trip.

Can't Miss Fall Events

Faulkner's Ranch

I love Faulkner’s Ranch because it has so many fun family activities for toddlers through teens. There is good food, music, hayrides, slides, and more. It is always clean, well-staffed, and well maintained.

Open Thursday through Sunday October 2-31, with select Tuesday and Wednesday open dates too. Discount Code: OUTDOORFAMILY10 for 10% off admission.

Johnson Farms

Johnson Farms is the best pumpkin patch if you want to do everything fall-related in one place. You can pick apples, do a corn maze, pick pumpkins, sunflowers, and veggies, plus they have all the typical fall fun! They are open daily from 9 am- 7pm. Use code OUTDOOR26 for 10% off admission!

Dark Forest

I love Dark Forest because it's Powell Gardens made spooky. It's a 1-mile trail turned into a fun and immersive experience. I also enjoy it because it feels like being in a haunted house without worrying about someone jumping out at you around the corner.

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Kansas and Missouri Maps

Weston and other cute small towns are pinned on my Kansas and Missouri Maps. Find all the coolest spots in these two states.

I Want to Hear from You!

What’s your favorite small-town in the fall? I’d love to hear!

Thank you!

Thank you so much for being here and supporting me! It means so much to me that you’re here. I hope that I can provide value for you and your family, so you’re inspired to get out and explore more! Happy adventuring!

-Amy

8450 NW Prairieview Road, #1397, Kansas City, MO 64154
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Everyday Outdoor Family

Family Travel in the Midwest and Beyond

Let's explore more! Find the best family trips in the Midwest, USA, and beyond! We love hidden gems, getting outside, quirky stops, and more!

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