Kid-Friendly Fall Activities Near Pittsburgh

It’s time for all of those fall activities we’ve been waiting for all year. 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 fall festivals, explore the outdoors, or just enjoy some fall 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 kid-friendly fall activities in Pittsburgh.

Kid-Friendly Fall Activities

Visit a Pumpkin Patch

This might be the most popular choice. And there are so many pumpkin patches to choose from North of Pittsburgh. A few years ago, I wrote a blog about my favorite fall festivals and pumpkin patches. Pro tip: buy your pumpkins at a grocery store instead of the pumpkin patch (I get ours at Aldi). Go to the pumpkin patch purely for the fall fun. You will save a ton of money. Below is a list that includes my favorite pumpkin patches North of Pittsburgh, plus a few more!

Freedom Farms (Valencia, PA)

Harvest Valley Farm (Gibsonia, PA)

Shenot Farm (Wexford, PA)

Soergels (Wexford, PA)

Yeck's Pumpkins and Hayrides (Freedom, 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

Campfire Ghost Stories

Halloween Movies in the Park

Punkin Chunkin

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 Zoo Jack O'Lantern Extravaganza

Our family loves this event! It runs from October 2 to November 1 in the evening. Get your tickets for the Zoo Jack O'Lantern Extravaganza here! My daughters love walking through the thousands of lit Jack O'lanterns. It's such a cool experience.

Apple Picking

Apple picking in the fall is such a fun way to spend time with your family. 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 is 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)

Apple Castle (New Wilmington, 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 is 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 all Allegheny County parks.

Fall in Pittsburgh is packed with opportunities to create special memories with your family. These activities not only let you enjoy the season’s beauty but also give you a chance to slow down and connect with family. Whether you’re getting scared at Kennywood’s Phantom Fall Fest or picking apples, these moments are what make fall feel so magical. Before you know it the trees will be bare and winter will be here, so go make the most out of these kid-friendly fall activities in Pittsburgh!

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