This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Duq U chapter.
This past year has not been normal by any metric. Many people have had to cancel their seasonal festivities because of the pandemic, missing out on some of their favorite events of the year. The good news is that most of the activities and events in the fall happen outside. So, if you’ve been getting cabin fever in the dorms, here is a Pittsburgher’s guide to socially distanced fall festivities:
- Triple B Farms. This is an absolute must for fall fun. Just 15 miles from downtown, this family-owned farm has no shortage of activities for everyone. It offers pumpkin and apple picking, hayrides, corn mazes, and its famous farm market, along with many games and activities. Everything there has been made to follow COVID-19 guidelines and it resides on a huge outdoor plot, so check it out here for a fun weekend activity.
- Fallingwater. Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece is something of a hike from Downtown, but it’s well worth it. They’re offering outdoor tours of the property in light of COVID-19 guidelines. Don’t be disappointed about missing out on the inside of the former Kauffman (Pittsburgh family) summer home- the outside is just as stunning! Wright designed the house to be complementary to the beautiful landscape and trails around it. October is the most beautiful time of the year to see the property, as the falling leaves surround the earthy home with a wash of color. For information on scheduling a tour, click here.
- Soergel Orchard. Tucked into Wexford, this orchard is still hosting pumpkin and apple picking activities. Like Triple B Farms, they also have a farm market boasting one of Pittsburgh’s best pies. My personal favorite part of Soergel is their petting zoo (and no, you are never too old for the adorable animals). Click here for more information on this gorgeous Pittsburgh orchard.
- McConnell’s Mill State Park. If you’re looking to get your exercise in while getting in touch with nature, visit this 2,546 acre Pennsylvania state park. The fall views at McConnell’s Mill are well worth the 40-minute ride from Downtown, with miles of hiking trails that overlook the spectacular gorge, which was created by melting glaciers thousands of years ago. Click here for a day of hiking you’ll never forget.
I know everyone is disappointed that spooky season is cancelled, but fall doesn’t have to be! One benefit of having bitterly cold winters in Pittsburgh is a beautiful autumn. Get out and see the beautiful Pittsburgh sights!