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Put on your best sweater and boots, because we’ve rounded up all of the best spots across the state to make the most out of the Fall season. From apple orchards, to pumpkin patches, to beautiful foliage hikes, there is something for everyone! Keep reading to find out what awaits at each of these must-do’s.

Take A Hike

It’s important to get a dose of fresh air before we’re stuck inside for the winter. Combine two of the fall’s best features in one and enjoy breezy temperatures and beautiful foliage by getting outside for a hike. Take in some of the best views nature has to offer this lovely season and challenge yourself with a more difficult climb as a fun way to stay active, or choose an easier trail for just a nice way to spend time with friends and loved ones (and your furry friends, too!)

Get some fresh air and get out of the city with a trip to Green Ridge State Forest. If you’re an avid camper, this is a really great spot to sleep under the stars. Or, if you can only spend the day, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy after your hike.

Patapsco Valley State Park is another ideal spot for autumnal air, and it’s even been voted “Best Place to Hike In Baltimore.” The swinging bridges are  a perfect place for a foliage photo op.

Rocks State Park in Harford county is a gorgeous 855 acres of rocky forest land. More experienced climbers can check out the King and Queen seat, a unique natural feature overlooking Deer Creek. The park is also home to Kilgore Falls, a stunning 17ft tall waterfall.

If you don’t want to travel too far, check out Lake Roland, just outside of Baltimore! This beautiful park features a Nature Center, lots of trails for hiking or biking, a dog park, picnic pavilion and more! There’s even the unique Serpentine Barrens, a rare ecosystem.

Catoctin Mountain is a great all-in-one destination. You can go for a beautiful morning hike on the loop trail, then stop by the Catoctin Mountain Orchard to cool off with some fresh apple cider.

Annual Fall Fun

As the name describes, Free Fall is an annual event that offers free admission to activities like the aquarium, concerts, fun classes and more! This is a great opportunity to try something new, risk-free!

All you lads and lassies can don your finest garbs for the Maryland Renaissance Festival. Whether you want to go all-out in full era-appropriate costume, or just come for a beer and pretzel, there is plenty to see and do. Enjoy delicious food, check out artisan products for sale, and watch incredible performances. 

Apples to Apples, and Pumpkins Too!

There’s nothing like biting into a crisp apple fresh from the orchard. Spend the afternoon apple picking at Baugher’s in Carroll County. Walk around the farm and pick some of your favorite apple variety. Don’t miss the bakery—they have a mouthwatering selection of over 20 pie flavors!

Located in Parkville, Weber’s Cider Mill Farm is another great option. Wander the orchard looking for the perfect, shiny apple, then check out the gift shop for a great selection of gifts. If there are young ones in your party (or just ones who are young at heart), you’ll love their Barnyard featuring hayrides, farm animals, and more.

Larriland Farm in West Howard country features a large pumpkin patch, as well as pick-your-own vegetables, fruits. In the evening, stop by for a picturesque hayride through the fields

Put your directional skills to the test in an 8 acre corn maze! This year, the maze’s theme is Harry Potter, so you can even get some butterbeer at the end. Plus, mark your calendar for November 8^th—dog day!

It may be autumn, but there are still lots of beautiful flowers in bloom. Check out this sunflower field at Clear Meadow Farms. This is a perfect spot to get some beautiful photos. You can even buy stems to bring home as a souvenir, and put them on your dining room table for a sunny pop of color!

Sweet Seasonal Sips

Fall + Apples + Alcohol…we like this equation. WIllow Oaks Craft Cider in Middletown, and Faulkner Branch, a family-owned business since 2008, each offer an impeccable selection of craft ciders. Distillery Lane Cider Works offers classes and workshops, a fun way to spend a day with friends.

At Boordy Vineyards you can take in the fall scenery over a glass of wine. They offer lots of classes, tours, and winetastings, so make sure to check out their website to see all of their many offerings.

We at Union Wharf wish you a happy, cozy, and fun fall! Share your photos with us on our socials as you check out each bucket list item!