Fall Kids Activities in Essex County

Fall is arriving soon to Essex County in NJ bringing crisp air, vibrant foliage, and a fresh lineup of activities to enjoy. The Essex County area is a haven for active kids who love sports, the arts, nature, and more. As the leaves change color and the days grow shorter, we’ve rounded up some of the coolest things to do this fall in and around Essex County. So grab your cozy sweaters, step outside, and embrace the season!

1. First Serve Tennis - Get your tennis game on with everyone’s favorite local tennis academy. First Serve Tennis is based in Montclair, and runs programs for kids at all levels (beginner to advanced). Their fall programs start September 9. 2024. Tennis skills are built for a lifetime. The game makes you healthier and happier, and is super social as well!

2. Get back to nature and take advantage of the cooler weather:

   1. Fall Hikes at South Mountain Reservation: Take a family hike at South Mountain Reservation. The trails are perfect for all ages, and kids will love exploring the changing leaves, discovering wildlife, and visiting the Hemlock Falls. Location: South Mountain Reservation, West Orange, NJ.

   2. Fairy Trail at South Mountain Reservation: Explore the whimsical Fairy Trail, where kids can discover tiny fairy houses hidden along the path. It’s a magical outdoor adventure perfect for imaginative play and enjoying the fall scenery.Location: South Mountain Reservation, Millburn, NJ.

3. Need more outdoor fun? Visit the Verona Park Paddle Boats and Picnic. Enjoy the crisp fall air with a paddle boat ride on Verona Park's lake, followed by a picnic. The park's playground and scenic walking paths offer additional fun for families with kids of all ages.Location: Verona Park, Verona, NJ.

4. Come check out the Essex County Environmental Center’s Fall Festival!This annual event includes nature walks, pumpkin decorating, crafts, and a petting zoo. The Essex County Environmental Center’s Fall Festival is a fantastic way for kids to connect with nature and celebrate the season. Location: Essex County Environmental Center, Roseland, NJ.

5. Does your kids love crafts? Try out the Fall Craft Workshops at Montclair Art Museum. The Montclair Art Museum offers fall-themed craft workshops for kids. They can create autumn-inspired art, learn new techniques, and take home their masterpieces. It’s a wonderful way to combine creativity with seasonal fun. Location: Montclair Art Museum, Montclair, NJ.

6. Interested in Storytime at Montclair Public Library? Montclair Public Library offers seasonal storytimes featuring fall-themed books, songs, and crafts. It’s a cozy indoor activity perfect for young children to enjoy on cooler autumn days. Location: Montclair Public Library, Montclair, NJ.

7. Looking for Halloween fun? Here’s a few options to add to your calendar:

   1. Turtle Back Zoo’s Halloween Spooktacular - Turtle Back Zoo hosts a Halloween Spooktacular with trick-or-treating, themed activities, and special night-time zoo tours. The event is perfect for younger children and offers a safe, fun environment to celebrate Halloween. Location: Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange, NJ.

   2. Maplewood Halloween Parade - The Maplewood Halloween Parade is a beloved local tradition featuring a costume contest, live music, and trick-or-treating at local businesses. It's a great way for kids to show off their costumes and enjoy a festive afternoon. Location: Maplewood Village, Maplewood, NJ.

8. Come out and have the kids pick their own pumpkin at the Pumpkin Patch at Brookhollow’s Barnyard. Brookhollow’s Barnyard offers a delightful pumpkin patch experience. Kids can pick their own pumpkins, take a hayride, and visit the barnyard animals. It’s a perfect outing for a crisp fall day. Location: Brookhollow’s Barnyard, Boonton, NJ (near Essex County).

Now check out some of these Fall Activities in Essex County, NJ out and enjoy your 2024 fall season!