Southwest Michigan is a fall paradise for families seeking fun activities, scenic beauty, and seasonal events.

Whether you’re planning a quick weekend or an extended fall getaway, there’s something for everyone. 

From pumpkin patches to apple picking and hiking trails to lively festivals, you’ll experience the best of fall in Harbor Country!

Third Coast Vacations has more than 65 vacation homes throughout the area, so whether you want to be near Lake Michigan beaches or closer to family-friendly farms and orchards, we have the perfect home base for your Harbor Country Adventures. Need a bit of guidance? Our local vacation rental team is here to help you find the perfect fall vacation rental. In this guide, we’ll share our top 10 recommendations for family fun fall things to do in Southwest Michigan!

1. Events and Festivals

A young child wearing a bright yellow jacket and scarf holds hands with an adult, walking together through a corn maze. The child is pointing towards the tall, dried corn stalks that line the dirt path. Both are dressed warmly for a cool autumn day. | fall things to do in southwest michigan

Southwest Michigan’s fall festivals are the season’s highlight, bringing together locals and visitors for family-friendly fun.

Start with a trip to Dinges Farm for their fall harvest, where your kids can enjoy a corn maze, hayrides, farm animals, and more. If you’re visiting in late October, check out the Halloween Bazaar at LakeSide Inn for spooky (and free!) crafts and treats​. 

Looking for more local activities? Check out more events listed on the Harbor Country Chamber’s calendar for more area events.

2. Explore a Local Hiking Trail

Fall is the perfect time to explore Southwest Michigan’s scenic trails. Chikaming Open Lands is a nonprofit in the area working to preserve our natural habitats. Check out one of their many hiking trails to enjoy a walk through stunning fall colors.

Galien River County Park has elevated walkways with sweeping views of the hardwood forests as the leaves transition into their vibrant fall hues. For more challenging hikes, head to Warren Dunes State Park, where scenic trails take you up the towering dunes for panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the fall foliage​.

3. Pick Apples, Pumpkins, and More

A family picks apples together in an orchard on a sunny day. Two young children reach up to pluck apples from the branches, while an adult holds a smaller child in one arm.

No fall trip is complete without visiting a local orchard. Head to Garwood Orchards for a day of apple picking, where you can fill your basket with juicy apples. While you’re there, check out the farm store for heirloom pumpkins and mums, and be sure to try the farm fresh cider and donuts from their store.

At Lehman’s Orchard, you’ll find not only freshly picked apples but also a family-friendly, farm-to-table restaurant. If you’re near Berrien Springs, stop by Stover’s Farm Market & U-Pick, where you can pick apples, pumpkins, and other seasonal produce.

4. Visit A Bakery to Sample Autumn Treats

Looking for the perfect autumn treat to enjoy on your visit with us? Stop by Black Currant Bakehouse for fresh pastries like house-made donuts! With gluten-free and vegan options, there is something for everyone. Staying in New Buffalo? Stop by David’s Deli for freshly baked cinnamon rolls, breakfast sandwiches, artisanal coffee, and more! 

Visiting Three Oaks? Head to Froelich’s Bakery for a slice of apple pie, pumpkin bread, or one of their many seasonal favorites.

5. Visit the Animals at the Zoo

For a fun fall outing with the family, visit the Washington Park Zoo in Michigan City, just across the border from Southwest Michigan. The zoo is open through the end of October, and during Halloween weekend, it transforms into Boo at the Zoo, featuring spooky decorations and special events. It’s a great opportunity for kids to see their favorite animals while celebrating fall in a unique way.

6. Curious Kids Museum & Discovery Zone

For a fun indoor adventure, head to the Curious Kids Museum & Discovery Zone in St. Joseph. This interactive museum is packed with hands-on exhibits perfect for curious young minds. Before you go, be sure to get your tickets online since it’s a popular spot for families.

After the museum, stop by Silver Beach Pizza for some of the area’s best pizza in a working Amtrak train station. Afterward, stroll across the sidewalk to take a ride on the famous Silver Beach Carousel! 

7. Take a Fall Color Tour Drive Along the Lakeshore

While the kids may not always appreciate a scenic drive, Southwest Michigan’s fall colors are worth the trip. The scenic route along Lake Michigan has breathtaking views of colorful trees and sparkling water. A must-see spot along the way includes the charming streets of Downtown St. Joseph.

8. Celebrate Halloween

Southwest Michigan knows how to celebrate Halloween! Many towns host trick-or-treating events the weekend before Halloween, making it easy for families to enjoy trick-or-treating in the daytime!

Three Oaks has a village-wide trick-or-treat event the Saturday before Halloween, and New Buffalo holds its celebration the Sunday before Halloween. These community events are a great way to enjoy Halloween in a safe, family-friendly environment.

9. Visit Local Parks with Great Playgrounds

Kids need space to run, and Southwest Michigan has plenty of parks with fantastic playgrounds. New Buffalo Township Park is a favorite, featuring a large playground, picnic areas, and walking trails​. Harbert Community Park is another hidden gem, with a peaceful setting for a fall picnic and playtime​. These parks are perfect for a day out with the family when the weather is crisp and cool.

10. Explore Botanical Gardens

For a quieter fall day, take the family to Friendship Botanic Gardens in Michigan City or the Fernwood Botanical Gardens in Niles. Both locations have stunning fall colors and nature trails perfect for exploring. They also feature playgrounds and kid-friendly tours, making them great for families who want to enjoy the beauty of autumn in a serene environment.

Plan Your Next Fall Family Getaway with Third Coast Vacations

Southwest Michigan is the ultimate destination for fun fall activities, with its colorful landscapes, welcoming small towns, and endless activities for all ages. Whether you’re picking apples at a local orchard, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying Halloween festivities, enjoying fall in this region is sure to be a memory-making event for your family.

Ready to start planning your getaway? Third Coast Vacations is here to make it easy. We’re a team of passionate locals who know the area inside and out. With over 65 handpicked, updated vacation homes across the Harbor Country area, we have the perfect home for your group’s unique needs. 

Have questions about a home or the best fall weekend getaways in southwest Michigan? Our team is just a call away and ready to help!

Browse our homes today and discover how easy it is to make Southwest Michigan your family’s favorite fall destination!