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Crisp air, crunchy leaves, and the smell of cider donuts—it’s officially fall in Rochester! The Finger Lakes region shines in autumn, and there are plenty of ways for families to enjoy the season together. From apple orchards to scenic walks, here are some of the best spots to make the most of fall.
Schutt’s Apple Mill (Webster)
Schutt’s has been part of Rochester traditions for generations. Families head here to pick apples, sip fresh-pressed cider, and grab a bag of warm cider donuts. The country store is filled with seasonal favorites like cheeses, jams, and fudge, making it a fun stop even if you’re not picking. The orchard is easy to explore with kids, and you’ll head home with some of the freshest apples of the season.
Wickham Farms (Penfield)
Wickham Farms is an all-day fall adventure. You can pick apples and pumpkins, but the real draw for kids is everything else—giant slides, a corn maze, train rides, and a jumping pillow. There are also farm animals, an apple cannon, and plenty of food stands serving seasonal treats. Between the photo spots, wide-open fields, and activities, it’s one of the liveliest places to celebrate autumn.
Powers Farm Market (Pittsford)
Powers Farm Market is a local favorite, especially in October. Their hayrides are a highlight—families pile onto wagons during the day, and at night the ride winds through a glowing trail lined with carved pumpkins. The huge pumpkin teepees are another must-see, glowing from floor to ceiling with jack-o-lanterns. Kids love feeding the goats and sheep, while parents can pick up pies, kettle corn, or a candied apple from the market.
Stokoe Farms (Scottsville)
Stokoe Farms is all about wide-open fields and plenty of activities. After choosing pumpkins from the patch, kids can race down slides, jump on inflatables, and ride on wagons through the farm. There’s even a small zip line course that’s just right for younger kids. Families who want to spend a whole afternoon outdoors will find plenty to do here.
Long Acre Farms (Macedon)
Long Acre is best known for its “Amazing Maize Maze,” a massive corn maze that changes themes every year. It’s a fun challenge for kids and adults, and you can expect to spend a good chunk of time exploring it. Outside the maze, there are wagon rides, a pumpkin patch, play areas, and fire pits where you can roast marshmallows on cooler evenings.
Mount Hope Cemetery (Rochester)
Mount Hope is a beautiful place for a fall walk. The winding paths take you past rolling hills, historic monuments, and massive old trees that light up with red and gold leaves in October. It’s a peaceful spot for a family stroll, and older kids might also enjoy learning about some of the city’s history as you walk.
Highland Park
Highland Park is another great spot to see fall colors. The trails weave through an arboretum filled with different kinds of trees, so the leaves change in a mix of shades. The reservoir at the top of the hill offers sweeping views of Rochester surrounded by fall colors, making it a perfect place to slow down and take in the season.
Letchworth State Park
A little outside the city, Letchworth is one of the best fall destinations in New York. The waterfalls and cliffs are impressive any time of year, but in autumn they’re framed by vibrant foliage that makes the park feel like something out of a painting. It’s worth the short drive for a day of hiking, picnicking, and leaf peeping.
Fall in Rochester is the kind of season that makes you want to be outside as much as possible. Whether you’re picking apples at Schutt’s, getting lost in the maze at Long Acre, or taking a quiet walk through Mount Hope, there’s something about this time of year that feels both festive and cozy. With so many farms, trails, and seasonal traditions nearby, every weekend can hold a new fall adventure for the whole family.
