Bethel’s campus looks like a postcard, the “Gilmore Girls” intro can be heard in dorms across campus and the temperature has hit a cool 50 degrees. It’s time for fall.
Searching for activities near Bethel to scratch that chilly-weather itch? Look no further.
Applecrest Orchards
Something about changing leaves always makes me want a crisp apple and a steaming cup of cider. Luckily, Applecrest Orchards has both and is only 20 minutes from Bethel. Applecrest is family-owned and well-loved by the community. They have rows and rows of apple trees to pick from. Their beautiful barn is packed full of homemade jams, jellies, honey, syrups, and a wonderland of pastries, and they have not one, but two kinds of apple cider doughnuts and an ice cream shop on site.
- 21 minutes from Bethel
- $35 per peck (12lbs)
Waldoch Farms / Joyer Adventure Farms
If apple picking isn’t your cup of cider and you want a nostalgic pumpkin patch vibe instead, Waldoch Farms is the place for you. Besides plenty of pumpkins, they have a corn maze with two levels, one easy and one hard. Waldoch Farms also sells kettle corn and seasonal October vegetables, but you can bring your own snacks to cut down on the cost, because a ticket and snacks can get expensive. However, the farm is a great place to kick back for a classic day at the pumpkin patch, just like when you were a kid.
- 17 minutes from Bethel
- $19.99 tickets on weekends and $16.99 on weekdays
Real Ghost Tours
Was that chill up your spine just the weather changing, or something spooky? If you’re looking for a spooky fall activity that doesn’t end after October, Real Ghost Tours in pays respect to ghosts all year. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, Real Ghost Tours creates a fun, creepy environment to scare your pants off. They offer historical reenactments and descriptions of real sightings. Plus, it’s perfect for after Halloween if you want the spooky season to continue. Go brush up on your urban legends and try not to get too scared.
- 15 minutes from Bethel
- $20-30 tickets
Country Sun Farms
If you get too spooked after the ghost tours and want to relax with a fun, silly activity, try County Sun Farms. They have a hay ride, a petting zoo, gem mining, pumpkins and —get this — a silly string room where you get a gun full of silly string to shoot your friends with. Also, it’s 25 minutes away and fairly inexpensive. Definitely a fun place to get a pumpkin and a cute flick before it closes in November.
- 19 minutes for Bethel
- Each activity is around $6
Aamodt’s Apple Farm Bakery and Store
Last but not least, Aamodt’s Apple Farm is geared towards adults, with wine tasting and apple cider. However, they also have covenant-friendly activities like apple picking and tasty treats. If you are looking to be surrounded by adults and college students instead of crowds of screaming children, Aamodts is the way to go. The pies, cookies and doughnuts are spectacular, making this farm an amazing way to start a fall day. The farm is open year-round, but the apples will only be good for so long, so grab your favorite fall sweater, digital camera and homemade latte, and visit Aamodt’s.
- 22 minutes from Bethel
- $6 activities (apple prices vary)
