October 31st is almost here and I haven’t done anything to celebrate Autumn apart from drinking Pumpkin Spice Lattes at Starbucks, attending Wickman’s Fall Festival and binge watching Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin at the request of my 3 year old. So here’s a list of Ozarks Fall Fun on the cheap or better yet FREE before time runs out!!!
Walk/Drive and Enjoy the Fall Foliage
Cost: Free or Gas Money
Where: Your Neighborhood or a foliage rich park like Nathaniel Greene Botanical Center.
2400 S Scenic Springfield MO 65807
Nothing’s better than the crisp Autumn air on a nature trail or with the windows rolled down. There’s a free scavenger hunt available to do at Nathaniel Greene. Pick up a sheet at the main building and redeem it for a prize in the gift shop. The prize is simple but it’s still FREE. 😎
Bass Pro Halloween Photos & Kids Crafts
Cost: FREE
Where: Bass Pro Shops
1935 S. Campbell Ave. Springfield MO 65807
Starting on October 21st, Bass Pro is offering a Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin photo. They’ll also have crafts available for the kiddos too. For additional dates & times click here.
Carmel Apple Spice from Starbucks
Cost: Under $5 for a tall
Where: Any Starbucks
Everybody and their grandmother knows about Pumpkin Spice Lattes at Starbucks but have you had a Carmel Apple Spice? This was my FAVORITE non-caffeinated drink in my teens and I still make sure I get my sip on with it during the colder months.
Free Halloween Train Rides
Where: 1101 N. Airport Blvd Springfield MO 65802
Cost:FREE
Near the Springfield Branson Airport, the Springfield/Joplin Airport hosts a Free Train Ride from 10 am to 5 pm. October 21st & 22nd and October 28th and 29th. My family went on the Fourth of July Train Ride and it was fun. In my opinion, it may seem babyish for a child over 8. The ride lasts about 10 minutes (if my memory serves me right). The train only runs weather permitting. If it is raining the train will not run. It is an open air train so be sure to dress warmly if there’s a chill in the air. More details here.
Wilson Rutledge Farm Fest
Wilson Rutledge Farm has a Fall Festival and pumpkin patch that is fun for all ages. There is a corn maze, hayrides, pony rides, cow train and more available for a small fee as well as food for purchase too. Don’t forget about the animals! More details here.
Truck or Treating
Cost: FREE
Where: Firestation #8
1405 S. Scenic Springfield MO 65807
There are several trick or treating events in the area but how about mixing it up by visiting a fire station. Hosted by Parents as Teachers in Springfield, a wonderful organization that is worth checking out anyway, this features a tour of the fire station, games crafts and activities. Don’t forget to wear your costume. For children ages 5 and under. Click here for more info.
These are just a few Fall ideas that I had. If you try any of these let me know! What is your favorite fall event or activity? Please share, especially if it’s cheap.😁❤️🍁