The first few weeks back at UD have truly felt like an extra month of summer, filled with warm nights (perfect for wandering from frat to frat), and UV indexes that have kept us just barely hanging onto our fading summer tans. Though I love a good sunny Saturday in Newark, there is something about the fall season here at the University of Delaware that cannot be compared. From the picturesque Green dusted with foliage, to cozy activities both on and off campus, there are so many sights to be seen experiences to be had that not many people are aware of. As a student it is easy to get caught up in classes, work, and partying, and fail to fully embrace the homey aspect of the fall season while away at school. That all changes now. I have compiled a bucket list highlighting 7 fall musts at UD, so you can ensure you get your autumn fix in right here on campus, without feeling the need to venture home for the weekend.
1. Milburn Orchards
Ohh Milburn. Would this even be a UD fall bucket-list if I didn’t include this tried and true fall campus favorite? Okay so technically this isn’t even located in Delaware, but it is so close and so worth the venture (it’s in Elkton, Maryland and only 10 minutes from campus). Here you can have a festive fall day out with friends, apple picking, and indulging in hot apple cider doughnuts. Oh, and don’t leave without buying some of the yummy foods and baked goods from the Farm Market Bakeshop. The pumpkin loaf is so delicious and so underrated (WAY better than their doughnuts in my opinion, so go scoop some).
2. Fall Dages
Three words: guys in flannels. And the weather is perfectly crisp, which means it is finally time to break out your best layered looks and take advantage of the foliage for superior ig pics. Not to mention the ice luges, and the fact that there are dogs at nearly every dage… held on leashes by hot frat boys in flannels ;). Don’t let fall at UD pass without daging. Just don’t.
3. Smith Starbucks Pumpkin Pick-me-up
Rough day in class? A quick trip to the Starbucks on campus for a yummy pumpkin treat is the perfect midday pick-me-up. One sip of a steamy, hot PSL and a wave of comfort, coziness, and fall vibes will strike you, and you will be ready to conquer the rest of your day like the boss ass woman you are. This is a must during the fall time to remind you that there is life outside of Calc, MISY, Chem, etc. Even if just for a brief moment. And don’t worry about seeming too basic— everyone is basic in the fall, so treat yourself to that pumpkin scone. #noregrets
4. Seasonal Dishes on Main Street
This one should be a bucket list in itself. Almost every food place on Main is offering one or more limited edition items you can only get this fall. Just to name a few: the Harvest Soba stir fry from Honeygrow, Mods Pizza’s new the Jeffrey (topped with roasted apples, a balsamic glaze, and other deliciousness), and various types of pumpkin bowls and smoothies from Frutta Bowls. There are so many options, so go out and try them all before they disappear!
5. Ice Skating and Ice Cream on South Campus
If you’re looking for the perfect fall date night, or outing with friends, look no further than our very own South Campus. The ice skating rink at the Big Bob is truly a dark horse, and has a surprisingly homey vibe that will make you feel like a giddy kid again. Just a warning, it may put you in your fall and/or romantic feels— something extremely unusual for the average college student at UD. Once you are done skating, walk over to UDairy to try one of their new fall flavors to wrap up the picture perfect, cozy evening.
6. Parents Weekend Tailgate
While us Blue Hens have tons of pride, it is no secret that the student body slacks when it comes to supporting our athletic teams. Parents weekend is the one time a year that students of all ages and their families come together to watch a football game. In all honesty, it is more about the tailgate than the game itself, but it is a chill, happy day in the fall that we can kick back with our friends and family, eat some hot dogs, and pretend that our sports program is hype.
7. Morning Stroll
This is more of a personal mention, but if you are ever up early, a walk through campus on a cool fall morning is rejuvenating and inspiring. College can be so go go go that we fail to take time for ourselves, reflect, and appreciate the little things in life. Our campus is so beautiful when the leaves turn, and has an old charm that helps you remember what matters most. So grab your headphones, play some John Mayer, soak in the campus, and think about life. You will be grateful you took time to savor the moment, because college will soon be a distant memory, and those are the ones you will want to remember.
Now get out there and do. it. all. Happy Fall :)