Fall Activities in West Michigan and Greater Lansing

As the leaves start to change colors and a crispness fills the air, West Michigan and Greater Lansing come alive with a plethora of fall activities that are sure to delight both locals and visitors alike. From festivals celebrating the season’s bounty to spooky haunted attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Eastbrook Homes has curated a list of some of our favorite fall activities in West Michigan and Greater Lansing to keep you and your family entertained all autumn long!

Attend a Fall Festival

One of the best ways to get into the spirit of autumn is by taking the whole family to enjoy a day of fall-themed festivities at one of Michigan’s many Fall Festivals. From the West Coast of Michigan to Lansing, there are plenty of options for you to choose from to celebrate the first weekend of October!

Red Flannel Festival

An event with almost 90 years of history associated with it, Cedar Springs looks to paint the town red for the annual Red Flannel Festival on October 7th! Located just minutes from Eastbrook’s Saddlebrook and Saddleridge communities, this family-friendly event features plenty of local vendors, parades, and, of course, red flannels everywhere!

Blandford Nature Center Harvest Festival

For a more nature-oriented celebration, the Blandford Nature Center’s Harvest Festival, also on October 7th, offers a blend of outdoor fun and educational experiences. Chief attractions include wildlife demonstrations, a petting zoo, and arts and crafts opportunities for the whole family.

Holland Fall Fest

The Holland Fall Fest is a two-day extravaganza that showcases the charming town of Holland, near Macatawa Legends, at its fall best. From October 6th to 7th, visitors can enjoy live music, local art, delicious food, and an array of local vendors at the festival market. There are professional pumpkin carvers and a jack-o-lantern display, but the highlight, of course, is Holland’s renowned display of stunning fall foliage.

Lakeside Fall Fest in Muskegon

Accessible just minutes from Hathaway Lakes and Tannery Bay, Muskegon’s Lakeside Fall Fest kicks off on October 7th. With a focus on community and camaraderie, this festival features craft vendors, a farmers’ market, a chili cook-off, and even a dog costume contest. This must-see event is a heartwarming celebration of fall and all the opportunities for community connections it affords.

Enjoy Oktoberfest in Grand Rapids

No fall season is complete without the celebration of Oktoberfest, and Grand Rapids does it in style. Embrace the lively atmosphere, traditional German music, and, of course, the hearty food and drinks. 

Taking place on September 29th and 30th in Riverside Park, all proceeds go towards the Edelweiss Club of Grand Rapids, a nonprofit organization supporting and celebrating German heritage across Central Michigan.

Family-Friendly Halloween Fun at the John Ball Zoo

Looking for a Halloween event that’s more fun than fright? The Zoo Goes Boo event at the John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids is the perfect fit. Dress up in your favorite costumes and enjoy trick-or-treating, animal exhibits, and face-painting stations! It’s a great way for kids and families to celebrate the spooky season in a way that’s happy, not haunting.

Enjoy the Scenic Outdoors

One of the best parts of autumn is the vibrant colors of the changing leaves. What better way to enjoy the shifting seasons than by getting outside to see this gorgeous natural beauty firsthand? Here are a few fall activities in West Michigan and Greater Lansing that take advantage of autumn’s serene outdoors.

Hike Around Grand Rapids:

The fall season is an ideal time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty around Grand Rapids. Hit the trails in local parks like Millennium Park or Blandford Nature Center to witness the stunning transformation of Michigan’s golden forests. These six fall hikes offer scenic walks through nature for hikers of all fitness levels.

Kayak in Lansing:

Lansing’s waterways take on a serene and picturesque quality from September through November. Rent a kayak from River Town Adventures and paddle along the Grand River, taking in the colorful foliage along the banks. It’s a peaceful and immersive way to experience the season’s beauty.

Visit Lansing Nature Centers:

Lansing boasts several nature centers that come alive in the fall. Woldumar Nature Center, minutes from Pointe West and Village Place, and Harris Nature Center near Whitehills Lake South are perfect for leisurely strolls, birdwatching, and enjoying the tranquility of the outdoors. These centers often have special fall-themed events and workshops as well.

Uncle John’s Cider Mill:

A trip to the cider mill is a quintessential fall activity, and Uncle John’s Cider Mill in St. Johns, just north of Lansing near Bingham Farms, is a local favorite. From freshly pressed apple cider to mouthwatering cider donuts, there’s no shortage of options for tasting all the best fall flavors. Enjoy a hayride, explore the corn maze, and stock up on farm-fresh produce while you’re there!

Visit a Haunted House

There are no fall activities in West Michigan quite as exciting as a night out exploring a haunted house. An evening of curated scares is a great way to get ready for Halloween, and Grand Rapids and Lansing both offer tense, spooky attractions that you won’t likely forget!

Awaken Haunted Attraction

For those seeking spine-tingling thrills, the Awaken Haunted Attraction, a short drive south of  Lansing, is a must-visit. With its meticulously designed haunted house, it promises an adrenaline-pumping experience that will test your courage.

The Haunt

In Grand Rapids, The Haunt is a premier haunted attraction that consistently delivers scares and surprises. With elaborate sets, talented actors, and immersive storytelling, it’s an excellent way to get into the Halloween spirit.

Whatever fall activities you have to check off your list, the best that West Michigan has to offer is never more than a few minutes from one of our Eastbrook communities. Make the most of the summer, spring, winter, and fall by settling into one of our move-in-ready homes or letting us build your dream home. Connect with us to find the perfect Eastbrook Homes community and schedule a home tour today!