Fall in Massachusetts is iconic for a reason  — between the beautiful foliage on Boston Common and the crisp air, there is much to look forward to this fall season, especially after fall 2020 was spent sitting behind laptop screens, trapped in endless Zoom meetings.

Boston has autumn activities for everyone — whether you want to browse for knick-knacks or go for a stroll through the North End.

For the shop-local fiends

SoWa Open Market: Located in the SoWa arts district on Harrison Avenue, this gathering of small businesses boasts clothing, art prints, jewelry, homemade goodies, and more. It is open every Sunday from 1-4 p.m. until the end of October. More information can be found at the Sowa Open Market website.

Newbury Street Handmade Market: Every Sunday, Newbury Street is blocked off to make way for local businesses and Etsy shop owners, like Heart and Harrow. Fresh-squeezed lemonade, cases of rings, and handmade clothes are just some of the items that can be found. Walk through the colorful tents, get your tarot cards read, and enjoy some quality boba on Newbury.

Boston Public Market: Recently named one of the top 10 public markets in the nation by USA Today’s Reader Choice Awards, this indoor market, located on Hanover Street is home to food, crafts, and everything locally-made. Visit New England food stands and local shops Monday through Saturday 8 a.m-6 p.m and Sunday 10 a.m-6 p.m.

For the nature buffs

Whale Watching: September and October are prime months for spotting migrating whales in and around Boston Harbor. Bundle up with a hot drink and enjoy the cool temperatures while embarking on a whale-watching expedition. The salt breeze and sunshine are sure to make the boat ride memorable. Options for tours can be found at Boston Central’s Whale Watching section of their website.
Apple Picking: Boston Hill Farm in North Andover offers apple picking, berry picking, hayrides, and more during the fall season. Modified fall festivals complete with social distancing precautions are set to begin on Sept. 19 and picking hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The farm is an hour from downtown Boston, so be prepared for a scenic road trip. For a closer option for fresh produce, visit the Red Apple Farm at the Boston Public Market Monday through Sunday.

Picturesque Hikes: While it may not be your typical hiking spot, Charles River Reservation provides mesmerizing fall scenery that’s definitely worth the T-ride. Other potential routes and locations include the Freedom Trail adjacent to campus and the Middlesex Fells Reservation—a weekend trip sure to amaze.

For the die-hard foodie

Apple cider donut quest: There’s nothing quite like the crunch of cinnamon sugar and the soft cake that makes up an apple cider donut. Boston Magazine broke down the best places to find the perfect delicious treat. Blackbird Doughnuts on 492 Tremont is a good place to start along with Kane’s Donuts in the financial district.

Pumpkin picks: Ariana Restaurant specializes in Afghan cuisine and serves vegetarian appetizers, including their popular Kaddo dish. Kaddo is pan-fried baby pumpkin seasoned with sugar and served in a garlic yogurt sauce. Another place to get your pumpkin fix is Bricco in the North End, an Italian restaurant that serves pumpkin tortellini with sage butter and ricotta.

Food truck festival: The Suffolk Downs Food Festival is a large gathering of some of Boston’s best eats. The festival, scheduled for Nov. 6, will take place at the Suffolk Downs Racetrack and will house local food trucks from around the Boston area. While the featured cuisines have not been disclosed, over 25 trucks will be serving food. For more information, see this link.
With a myriad of opportunities at our disposal, fall-ing in love has never been more simple.