10 Best Things to Do in Arizona This Fall

Fall in Arizona is like a well-kept secret. While the rest of the country is bundling up, we’re finally stepping outside without worrying about melting in the sun. The mornings are crisp, the evenings are cool, and suddenly every patio, trail, and pumpkin patch feels like an invitation. If you’re like our family and have been getting excited for summer to wrap up and the Valley to come alive again, here are 10 of the best ways to celebrate fall in Arizona — from right here in Phoenix to a quick day trip north.

1. Day Trip for Fall Colors (Flagstaff)

Every October we pack up the family for a day trip to see the Flagstaff fall colors! There’s nothing quite like Flagstaff in October. A two-hour drive transports you from green and saguaros to golden and aspen groves. Grab a light jacket, lace up your hiking shoes, and hit the trails. Our favorite is the Viet Springs loop trail at 1.6 miles and a 206 ft climb. Compared to the Valley, the air is crisper and cooler, and the colors are more vibrant. It’s a literal breath of fresh air — the perfect reminder that yes, Arizona does get a real fall.

2. Pumpkin Patch at Viola’s Garden (Flagstaff)

Depending on the day, the pumpkin patches in the valley may feel a little bit toasty, so if you’re seeking true chilly sweater weather for your pumpkin patch experience take a note from our family traditions and head north! Viola’s Garden is our favorite; this charming pumpkin patch has a straw maze, pumpkin decorating, carnival games, a scavenger hunt, photo spots, and seasonal treats for a calm, crisp, fun-filled fall day. Check it out here.

3. Hike the Dragonfly Trail (Cave Creek)

Closer to home, Cave Creek’s Dragonfly Trail is an underrated gem! I’m not much of a hiker, but I’ve never seen so many towering saguaros crammed into one hike. It’s not only a stunning experience with views of Spur Cross Ranch, but it’s also the perfect loop trail for children, grandparents, and less active people like me (ha!), at a 1.7 mi loop trail with an elevation gain of 124 ft. Easy, blissful, and a true Arizona fall bucket list must-do!

4. Downtown + Pizza at it’s finest (Phoenix)

Downtown Phoenix in the fall has a completely different vibe. The sidewalks are buzzing, the patios are open, and it finally feels like the city can breathe again. Start your fall night downtown with a wood-fired pizza at Pizzeria Bianco on Adams Street, rated the best pizzeria in America. This is our FAVORITE restaurant to date! Chris Bianco (featured in Episode 1 of Netflix’s Chef’s Table: Pizza and winner of the James Beard Award - he’s kind of a big deal!) is credited with redefining what pizza can be. And it shows. Afterward, take a walk or hop on a Lim Scooter and wander through downtown as the sun sets. It’s the perfect mix of city energy and crisp fall weather.

5. Kayak or Paddleboard the Salt River (Mesa)

Yes, water adventures are even better in the fall. The Salt River is calm, scenic, and often dotted with wild horses this time of year. Have you ever seen a wild horse?! This fall is your chance! A morning paddle surrounded by desert mountains feels refreshing without the blazing heat.

6. Visit Agritopia & Barnone (Gilbert)

Gilbert’s Agritopia is like stepping into a little community designed for slow, meaningful moments. You can walk the tree-lined paths, let the kids roam, and then head into Barnone, where local makers serve up everything from handmade goods to small-batch eats. In the fall, it feels especially festive, with twinkle lights and outdoor spaces that beg you to linger.

7. Wander the Desert Botanical Garden (Phoenix)

Visiting the Botanical Gardens is my absolute favorite thing to do when the weather cools, and I’m always dragging friends and family along because honestly, any excuse to go is a good one! At the Desert Botanical Garden, you can stroll among towering saguaros, billowing trees and desert wildflowers in the cooler air, making it feel more like a retreat than a museum. Bonus: check their calendar for fall events like “Music in the Garden” for a cozy evening out.

8. Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad (Clarkdale)

This is on my bucket list, and I’ve been told it should be at the top of my list! All aboard for one of Arizona’s most scenic fall experiences! The Verde Canyon Railroad winds through red rock country with cottonwood trees glowing gold along the riverbanks. Kids love the train ride, adults love the views, and everyone ends the trip with a camera full of memories.

9. Schnepf Farms Pumpkin & Chili Party (Queen Creek)

This is the Valley’s ultimate fall festival. Schnepf Farms knows how to do autumn right, with corn mazes, hayrides, carnival rides, and of course, pumpkins. Their Pumpkin & Chili Party is a local tradition, and it’s worth braving the crowds for a dose of pure fall fun. Just plan to go in the evening or a guaranteed cooler day!

10. Sunset Hike at South Mountain or Papago Park (Phoenix/Tempe)

Finally, cap off the season with a simple joy: a sunset hike. South Mountain offers sweeping views of the entire Valley, while Papago Park’s iconic buttes glow in the fading light. Cooler evenings make these hikes a breeze, and the payoff is watching the Phoenix city lights twinkle to life below you.

Fall in Arizona is Magic

When the nights turn cool and the desert air sharpens just a little, Arizona feels brand new again. Whether you’re chasing golden leaves in Flagstaff or savoring a downtown evening with pizza and ice cream, fall here is short but sweet — and definitely worth celebrating.

So grab your boots, your friends, and maybe a pumpkin spice drinky drink, and get out there! Arizona in the fall is waiting!