As the scorching Arizona summer fades into slightly cooler temperatures, fall brings a refreshing change and a unique opportunity to explore the Grand Canyon State in all its autumn glory. As we are just about to enter the fall season, here are three of our favorite and unique ways to enjoy fall in Arizona that you won’t want to miss:
1. Mother Nature’s Farm: Pumpkin Patch
- Location: Gilbert, AZ (1663 E. Baseline Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85233)
- Dates: September 21st – October 31st
- Hours: Daily 9AM – 9PM
- Cost: $15 admission fee per person (click here for website)
Why It’s Unique: Mother Nature’s Farm has been rated as #1 best pumpkin patch in the state! And you get to pick out one little pumpkin from the patch to take home with you included in the admission price.
What to Do:
- Pumpkin Patch: Choose from a variety of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes. The farm’s pumpkin patch is perfect for taking autumn-themed photos.
- Hayride: Enjoy a fun hayride around the farm.
- Pedal Cars: Race each other around a track formed by hay bales in pedal cars with sizes for both children and adults.
- Bull Roping: Our personal favorite activity – attempt to rope steers (mounted stationary on hay bales… which is still harder than it sounds!)
- Farm Animals and Kid-Friendly Activities: Meet and even feed cute farm animals, explore a petting zoo, and engage in other kid-friendly activities like the straw bale maze, corn pit, and tube slide.
Tip: Concessions and food for the animals is cash only (they also have a $10 minimum credit card fee for all other purchases) so make sure to have some cash on hand.
2. Arizona State Fair: A Celebration with Food, Rides, and Live Performances
- Location: Phoenix, AZ (1826 W. McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85007)
- Dates: September 20th – October 27th
- Hours: (opening weekend September 20th – 22nd gates will open at 4PM)
- Monday – Wednesday: CLOSED
- Thursday: 12PM – 9PM
- Friday: 12PM – 10PM
- Saturday: 12PM – 10PM
- Sunday: 12PM – 9PM
- Cost: $15 admission fee person person, children 7 and under are free (click here for website)
Why It’s Unique: The Arizona State Fair, held annually at the Arizona State Fairgrounds in Phoenix for the last 140 years, is a vibrant celebration of Arizona’s culture, creativity, and community spirit. It’s a must-visit event during the fall that includes fun foods, rides, and live performances.
What to Do:
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy a variety of performances, from live music and rodeo shows to circus acts and comedy. This year the performers include The All-American Rejects, Vanilla Ice, Big Time Rush, and Omnium Circus.
- Fair Foods: Indulge in a wide array of classic fair foods in addition to unique treats. This year’s foods are rumored to include a cotton candy cake, a pickle split (variation on a banana split), candy pineapple, and a watermelon taco.
- Exhibits and Rides: Explore agricultural exhibits, arts and crafts, and exciting carnival rides. The fair also features a range of local artisans and vendors showcasing their work.
Tip: Arrive early or go on Thursday to avoid long lines and make sure to check out the schedule for daily events and entertainment options.
3. Canal Convergence: Art and Light Along Scottsdale’s Waterfront
- Location: Scottsdale, AZ (7181 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251)
- Dates: November 8th – November 17th
- Hours:
- Sunday – Thursday: 6PM – 9PM
- Friday – Saturday: 6PM – 10PM
- Cost: Free! (click here for website)
Why It’s Unique: Canal Convergence is an annual public art event held along the Scottsdale Waterfront, where art and light installations illuminate the city’s canal system. This event combines creativity, technology, and community in a spectacular display that’s both immersive and interactive.
What to Do:
- Art Installations: Wander through stunning light and art installations created by local and international artists. The colorful displays and interactive elements provide a unique experience for all ages.
- Live Music and Performances: Enjoy live music performances and interactive art workshops that enhance the festival atmosphere. The “Fireflection” fire show on the water is scheduled nightly at 6:30PM, 7:30PM, and 8:30 PM.
- Scenic Canal Views: Stroll along the canal and take in the beautifully lit art installations, making for a picturesque and memorable evening.
Tip: Canal Convergence is free to attend, but there are many places to sit down and eat or grab a treat while you are walking around.
Conclusion
Fall is a great time to experience Arizona, and each of these is a unique way to enjoy your time here whether you’re a local or a visitor. From the family-friendly fun at Mother Nature’s Farm to the lively atmosphere of the Arizona State Fair and the artistic brilliance of Canal Convergence, these activities provide a great way to embrace the autumn season.