Blog
portfolio
Experience
About
Home
Contact

Family

Must-Do Fall Activities near Charlotte, NC in 2025

The air is getting crisp, the leaves are showing off their colors, and the first question out of your kids’ mouths every Friday afternoon is, “What can we do this weekend?” If you live in the Piedmont or are just popping in for a visit, fall is one of the best seasons to explore all that Charlotte, Mooresville, and Statesville have to offer. From pumpkin patches near Charlotte NC and apple orchards to hayrides, craft fairs, and football Fridays, the calendar fills up quickly. That’s why I’ve rounded up this guide to fall activities near Charlotte NC in 2025—so you can make the most of the season.

husband and wife holding hands looking at camera during golden hour in the fall in nc.
husband and wife laughing at each other in the fall during golden hour
husband and wife dancing and laughing in front of a barn in Winston Salem, NC.

Table of Contents

Visit a Pumpkin Patch

Can you even have fall without pumpkins? I think not. 🎃 Pumpkin patches near Charlotte NC are the ultimate fall outing—fun for every age, whether you’re actually there to grab the perfect one for carving or just along for the photo ops (no judgment here). And while yes, it’s the perfect place to grab pumpkins for carving, many patches have little extras—like hayrides, apple cider donuts, or a chance to see farm animals—that turn a simple outing into a whole afternoon of memories. Here are some local favorites where you can make the most of this cozy fall tradition.

Carrigan Farms

  • Website: Carrigan Farms
  • Address: 1213 Oak Ridge Farm Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28115

This charming pumpkin patch in Mooresville, NC lets you pick your pumpkins straight off the vine—talk about a true fall experience. 🎃 Pumpkin picking kicks off on September 27th, and reservations are required ($15 per person). Your visit includes a hayride out to the patch, plus a sweet petting zoo the kids will love. Just a tip: wear sturdy boots and comfy clothes, since pumpkin vines can be a little prickly!

If you’re looking for something on the spookier side, the farm transforms into “Scarrigan Farms” starting October 3rd. This haunted experience is more suited for teens and adults, and reservations are required for that as well.

Patterson Farm

Patterson Farm makes pumpkin season extra special with hands-on tours just for kids. Little ones get to see the whole pumpkin life cycle—from seed to fruit—through fun, interactive activities out on the farm. Tours are $12 per student, and you can add extras like a corn maze pass, snacks, or even ice cream (always a win). They also host Homeschool Days and Special Needs Days, so there’s a welcoming spot for every family to enjoy the fall fun. My family visited Patterson Farms last year, and my boys had a blast picking their favorite pumpkin!

Hodges Family Farm


Hodges Family Farm has been a fall favorite for generations, and it’s easy to see why. Their pumpkin patch is full of variety, and kiddos can explore the hay bales and visit the farm animals. On weekends, you can hop on a hayride or grab a sweet fall treat (the apple cider donuts are a must). Before you head home, stop by their farm shop—it’s stocked with local meats and produce, so you can bring a little taste of the farm back to your own kitchen. Parking is $5 on weekends, but there’s no entry fee, which makes it an easy and affordable outing for families during autumn.

Experience Fall Foliage by Hiking a Nearby Trail

Feeling adventurous? The Piedmont area is full of trails that shine in the fall, with colorful leaves and crisp air making every walk feel special. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone who just wants a peaceful spot to soak in the view, here are three nearby parks and trailheads worth exploring this season.

Crowders Mountain State Park

If you’re craving mountain views without a long drive, Crowders Mountain is the perfect spot. Just 32 miles west of Charlotte, this state park has two peaks that give you sweeping views of the Piedmont—especially breathtaking when the fall colors are at their peak. A few of the trails even stretch across state lines along the Ridgeline Trail, making it a fun adventure for families who want a mix of hiking and big views.

Riverbend Park

  • Website: River Bend Park
  • Address: 6700 NC Hwy 16, North Conover, NC 28613

Just a little over an hour’s drive from Charlotte, Riverbend Park sits along the Catawba River near the Hickory Dam, and it’s such a pretty spot in the fall. My boys and I recently spent an afternoon here, tossing rocks into the river, counting turtles, and wandering the trails. The light through the trees is gorgeous, and even though we went a little early (before the leaves had fully changed), I can already tell it’s going to be stunning in just a few short weeks.

catawba river at Riverbend Park in Conover, NC.
Little boys standing along the Catawba River in the Fall in NC.
Mom and two boys at a river overlook near Catawba River at Riverbend Park in Conover NC.

Reedy Creek Park & Nature Preserve

If you want to stay close to Charlotte but still enjoy a taste of the outdoors, Reedy Creek Nature Preserve is a perfect option. The trails here are short and manageable—great for kids—and there’s even a playground on site when little legs need a break from walking. In the fall, the wooded paths are especially pretty, with plenty of spots to pause and take in the colors. Beyond hiking, the preserve also offers fishing, biking, and a disc golf course, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Here are a few other resources for other trails near the Charlotte area.

Couple looking at the camera smiling during the fall at Murray's Mill in Hickory, NC.
Couple looking at each other under a yellow fall tree near Hickory, North Carolina.
Black and White Image of a couple looking at each other laughing.

Go Apple Picking

Perry Lowe Orchards

It’s no secret that I love Perry Lowe Orchards! I’ve photographed several sessions there (see this blog post!) and I love buying bag (or two) of their fresh apples in season. They offer around 30 different varieties for u-pick, making it one of the best spots for apple picking near Charlotte NC. Just be sure to snag your reservation ahead of time, since it’s required. While you’re there, don’t miss their farm shop with in-season produce, fresh apple cider, and even dried apples to take home. And if you’re bringing kids, they’ll have a blast with the Megaslide, apple cannon, jump pad, tractor playground, and bee train—it’s the perfect fall outing for the whole family.

Couple walking together during their maternity session at Perry Lowe Apple Orchard near Wilkesboro, NC.

Sky Top Orchard

Sky Top Orchard has been around since 1967, and it’s one of those spots that feels like fall the second you arrive. Beyond the rows of apples, you’ll find hayrides, a bee train, and even an apple cannon—but let’s be honest, most people (including a lot of my Greenville, SC friends!) go on and on about their apple cider donuts. If you’re making a fall weekend trip and want things to do in Charlotte NC in fall, this orchard is worth the drive.

To Note: This orchard does not require a reservation like the others! Also, wear tennis shoes or closed toed shoes to prepare for picking by the trees.

Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery

Windy Hill Orchard is your go-to if you want apple picking without driving too far. Out of all the orchards I’ve featured, this one is the nearest to Charlotte, so it’s ideal for a quick fall escape. Reservations are required, so be sure to plan ahead before you go! One of their unique features is a cidery open Friday through Sunday during the season, so adults can sip lightly filtered, locally made hard cider while the kids enjoy their own apple cider or soda. They also have a charming farm stand filled with seasonal goodies to take home.

Visit a Corn Maze

Corn mazes are a classic part of fall activities near Charlotte NC—a fun way to spend time outdoors and challenge yourself to find your way through the twists and turns. My family is heading to one this weekend, and I’m really looking forward to it. It’s a simple, hands-on way to enjoy the season together and take a break from the usual routine.

Portrait of a young pregnant woman in a fall field with wheat.
Pregnant husband and wife kissing in a wheat field in during the fall in Winston Salem, NC.
Maternity session with husband and wife walking and looking at each other.

Alpha & Omega Corn Maze

  • Open Dates: September 6th-November 8th
  • Website: Alpha & Omega Corn Maze
  • Address: 1129 Cheek Rd, Hamptonville, NC 27020

This weekend, my family is heading to Alpha & Omega Corn Maze, and I couldn’t be more excited. Located about an hour north of Charlotte in Hamptonville, this is one of the most popular corn mazes near Charlotte NC, with over 30 attractions to keep families busy all afternoon. The highlight is their expansive 5-acre corn maze, designed to be both challenging and fun. Beyond the maze, visitors can enjoy activities like hayrides, pig races, a giant corn box, paintball target shooting, and more. They also offer themed packages such as the ‘Lil Farmer’ and ‘Awe Shucks’ for a more immersive experience. General admission is $13 on weekends, with discounts for seniors and military personnel. Children under 2 are free. The maze is open through November 8th, with varying hours throughout the week.

Shelby Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch near Charlotte, NC

  • Open Dates:
    • Open September 20 – November 2, 2025
    • Haunted Maze opens after dark Fridays & Saturdays in October
    • Pumpkin Patch closes at 7pm on Friday & Saturdays in October
  • Website: Shelby Corn Maze

Shelby Corn Maze offers a slightly different vibe than Alpha & Omega. If your family enjoys both pumpkin picking and exploring corn mazes near Charlotte NC, this one is a great option for variety. Their maze is about 8 acres — smaller than some out there, but still big enough to crack your sense of direction. On top of the maze, Shelby has a pumpkin patch, U-pick flowers, farm animals, and over 40 attractions, ranging from a jumping pillow and hayrides to rubber duck races and apple cider donuts baked on-site. They also throw in a Haunted Maze on select Friday and Saturday nights in October, which adds a fun “not-too-scary” twist to the usual daytime offerings. What I like most is that everything feels family-friendly but interesting, so everyone from toddlers to older kids (and parents) can pick something they’ll enjoy.

Husband holding pregnant wife's belly in a field during the fall near Winston Salem, North Carolina.

Attend a Fall Festival or Fair

If fall festivals near Charlotte NC and fairs are more your speed, there’s no shortage of them around here! All across the Piedmont, small towns celebrate the season with food, music, and plenty of family fun. My crew always looks forward to the fair, but we also try to check out a few of the local festivals when we can—it’s such a fun way to soak in the fall atmosphere and make memories together.

There’s honestly SO many fairs and festivals in our area this time of year, but here are four that are on the top of my list to attend.

Carolina Classic Fair – Winston-Salem, NC

  • Fair Dates: October 3rd-12th, 2025
  • Website: Carolina Classic Fair
  • Address: 421 27th St NW, Winston-Salem, NC 27105


If you’re up for a full-blown fair experience, the Carolina Classic Fair is the one to circle on your calendar. It’s about an hour and a half from Charlotte, but worth the drive for all the rides, games, and—of course—the food (is it even a fair if you don’t leave with powdered sugar on your shirt?). Our family tries to attend every single year and my kids LOVE it! My oldest loves participating in all of the games and riding the rides for littles. My kids love the animal exhibits and people-watching while snacking on something fried and delicious. It’s one of those events that we’ve made a tradition in our home that I have my kids never forget.

Boy and dad playing games at the Carolina Classic Fair as part of fall activities near Charlotte, NC.
Little boy sliding down large fair slide at Carolina Classic Fair in Winston-Salem, NC.
Carolina Classic Fair Sign in Winston Salem, NC.
Little Boy watching pig races eating ice cream at Carolina Classic Fair.
Little boy riding the motorcycle ride at the Carolina Classic Fair.
Little boy riding tractor and looking at camera at the Carolina Classic Fair in Winston Salem, North Carolina.

Annual Harvest Folk Festival at Murray’s Mill

The Harvest Festival at Murray’s Mill is such a gem if you’re looking for a mix of history, music, and good old-fashioned fall fun. We’ve been before, and we loved the old tractor show—it was hands-down our favorite part! Along with antique cars and farm machinery, you’ll find live bluegrass and gospel music, handmade crafts, and plenty of food (including old-time traditions like molasses making). A ticket also includes a tour of the historic mill, where you can watch the original French burr millstones still grinding fresh flour and cornmeal.

Carolina Balloon Fest -Statesville, NC

  • Festival Date: October 17-19th, 2025
  • Website: Carolina Balloon Fest
  • Address: 531 Old Airport Road, Statesville, North Carolina.

As someone who grew up in Statesville, I can tell you the Carolina BalloonFest is one of the best fall activities in Statesville NC. The balloons are the main draw (and yes, they really are as incredible as they look in photos), but there’s so much more happening—live music, local food trucks, craft vendors, and activities for kids. If you go, here are a few tips: plan to get there early in the morning for the balloon ascensions—they’re breathtaking against the crisp fall sky. Bring a blanket or chairs if you want a good spot for the evening balloon glow, since it gets crowded fast. Parking can back up, so leave extra time, and wear comfy shoes because you’ll be walking a lot. It’s one of those events that locals look forward to every year, and if you’re visiting the Statesville area in October, it’s absolutely worth experiencing.

Carolina Renaissance Festival

If you’ve ever wanted to wander through a 16th-century marketplace full of costumed characters, jousting knights, and artisan booths, the Carolina Renaissance Festival is the place to do it. It’s one of the most unique fall festivals near Charlotte NC, and a tradition for many families.Just about 30 minutes from Charlotte, this festival transforms 320 acres into the village of Fairhaven, complete with castles, cottages, pubs, and live-action entertainment.

You’ll find 16 outdoor stages with music, comedy, dance, and circus acts, plus special features like falconry exhibitions, mermaids, full contact armored combat, and three daily jousting tournaments.

A few things to know (because nobody wants to miss out):

  • The festival runs Saturdays and Sundays from October 4 through November 23, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
  • Admission is cheaper when you buy online ahead of time. Kids aged 4 and under are usually free.
  • Parking is free. Arrive early if you can—some popular weekends fill up, and getting a good spot or a closer walk to the gates makes a difference.

It’s one of those festivals that appeals to everyone—little ones will love roaming the village lanes, the older kids will get a kick out of the jousting and shows, and the adults will appreciate the craftsmanship, food, and all the medieval flair. If fall’s all about making memories, this event checks a lot of boxes.

Maternity session in Winston Salem, North Carolina during the fall season near Charlotte, NC.

More Fall Festivals and Events in the area:

Must-Do Fall Activities near Charlotte, NC in 2025

That’s pretty much our go-to list for fall activities near Charlotte NC. Between the orchards, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and fairs, there’s always something going on—and a lot of these have turned into traditions for my family. I love that we get to come back to the same spots each year and make new memories. Plus most of these places have gorgeous backdrops for family or maternity photos so check out our portfolio and get on the calendar!

VIP List Benefits:

  • Weather flexibility with backup date options
  • First access to fall portrait dates
  • Head start before general booking opens
  • Priority consideration for premium time slots

While you’re out enjoying all these fall activities near Charlotte, NC, don’t forget—it’s the perfect season to update your family photos. The colors, the light, the cozy outfits… it all comes together beautifully this time of year.

Book Your Session!
Family kissing dog in fall field near Charlotte, NC.
schedule a consultation
Menu