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Family Friendly Fall Activities in Pittsburgh

Updated: Sep 28


A family of four is walking in a field and holding hands together in the fall.


I don't know about you, but by late August/early September, I'm ready for fall and all that it brings. That includes the crisp air, gorgeous leaves, and the fun fall activities around Pittsburgh! As the air turns cooler and the leaves start showing off their beautiful colors, fall in Pittsburgh becomes the perfect place for making family memories. Whether you’re planning to go to seasonal festivals, explore the outdoors, or just enjoy some cozy family time, there’s so much to do around our city this time of year. And let's not forget fall being one of the best times for family photos! In this guide, I’ll share some of my favorite family friendly fall activities in Pittsburgh that are sure to fill your weekends with fun!



Family Friendly Fall Activities


Visit a Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin patches are synonymous with fall! And there's no shortage of pumpkin patches and fall festivals North of Pittsburgh. A few years ago, I wrote a blog about my favorite fall festivals and pumpkin patches. Below are a list that includes my favorites, plus a few more!


Freedom Farms (Valencia, PA)


Harvest Valley Farm (Gibsonia, PA)


Shenot Farm (Wexford, PA)


Soergels (Wexford, PA)



Cheeseman Farm (Portersville, PA)



FREE Allegheny County Fall Events (Live Music, Campfire Stories, Outdoor Movies, and More)

There are so many fun and most importantly - FREE family friendly fall events happening around Allegheny County this year. From campfire ghost stories to Halloween movies in the park, and so much more. See below for the list of events happening at various Allegheny county parks and click here for all of the details:


Live Music

Hay Day Festival

Highlander Happening

Antique & Artisan Fair

Campfire Ghost Stories

Halloween Movies in the Park

Howl-o-ween Bark or Treat

Trunk or Treat


Phantom Fall Fest

Phantom Fall Fest is fun for families with both young or older kids looking to get into the fall spirit. During the day, Kennywood transforms into a family-friendly Halloween wonderland. You can explore all your favorite rides, decked out in festive fall decor, while your little ones enjoy trick-or-treating and kid-friendly attractions.


At 6pm, Kennywood takes on a spookier vibe with haunted houses and thrilling experiences for the older kids and adults. But don’t worry—the park ensures there’s something for everyone, no matter how brave (or not) your family might be. Whether you’re in it for the gentle chills or the full-on thrills, Phantom Fall Fest offers a perfect mix of fun and fright, making it a fantastic fall outing for families.



Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival

We try to go to the Renaissance Festival every year with our two daughters - they love it! You are transported back to a time of knights, kings, and magical adventures. Your little ones will love the chance to meet fairies, watch jousting knights, and participate in fun activities like story time, treasure hunts, and crafts. Meanwhile, you can browse the artisan shops for handmade goods, enjoy delicious food, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the village. When you spend the day at the Renaissance Festival, it becomes a day full of fun where history comes to life.



Apple Picking

Apple picking in the fall is such a fun way to spend time with your family and soak in the season. It’s more than just grabbing a few apples—it’s an adventure where kids can learn about where their food comes from, enjoy the fresh air, and maybe even snack on a few apples straight from the tree. And the best part? You get to bring home all those fresh apples to turn into pies, applesauce, or just enjoy as is. Below are a list of my favorite places to pick-your-own North of Pittsburgh!


Norman's Orchard (Tarentum, PA)


Soergels (Wexford, PA)


Shenot Farm (Wexford, PA)



Hiking With Your Family

Yes - hiking is a year-round activity... BUT in my humble opinion, Fall is the absolute best time to hike. And there are SO MANY (Yes, I did have to capitalize because there are that many) great, family-friendly hikes around Pittsburgh. When you go hiking in the fall, you get the cooler air - so you're not sweating as soon as you get on the trail. And let’s not forget the stunning, vibrant leaves that make every step more beautiful. Plus, spending time in the woods is good for you. Your kids will love the chance to run through the trees, splash in streams, and soak up all the fun that comes with being outdoors. Two of my favorite hikes are this North Park Trail  and Crouse Run Nature Reserve. But there are so many more. Below are a non exhaustive list of additional hikes around Pittsburgh.


Fall Run Park (Glenshaw, PA)


Frick Park (Pittsburgh, PA)


McConnells Mill State Park (Portersville, PA)


Moraine State Park (Portersville, PA)


Ohiopyle State Park (Ohiopyle, PA)


Now for the Allegheny County parks - definitely download the App, Allegheny County Park Trails. We've used the app many times and have found new trails to take our girls - it's so useful. When you download that app, you will have complete trail maps for the below Allegheny County parks:


Pittsburgh Botanic Garden (Pittsburgh, PA)

Settlers Cabin Park (Pittsburgh, PA)

Harrison Hills (Natrona Heights, PA)

North Park (McCandless, PA)

Round Hill Park (Elizabeth, PA)

Hartwood Acres (Hampton, PA)

South Park (South Park Township, PA)

Boyce Park (Pittsburgh, PA)

Deer Lakes Park (Tarentum, PA)

White Oak Park (McKeesport, PA)


Fall in Pittsburgh is packed with opportunities to create special memories with your family, from the excitement of local festivals to the simple joy of hiking. These activities not only let you enjoy the season’s beauty but also give you a chance to slow down and connect with the ones you love most. Whether you’re exploring the fun at Kennywood’s Phantom Fall Fest, stepping back in time at the Renaissance Festival, or enjoying a day at the orchard, these moments are what make fall so magical. So grab your sweaters, plan your adventures, and make the most of this colorful season together!










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