With fall currently underway in Monterey, there are plenty of new fall activities to enjoy. From pumpkin patches to seasonal treats, Monterey has much to offer for students looking to experience autumn like a local.
Here are some top fall-themed activities in the area:
Visit a pumpkin patch
A classic fall activity, pumpkin patches can be a fun fall outing for people of all ages. Visitors can buy fresh pumpkins, walk through corn mazes and enjoy fall treats like pumpkin pie and pumpkin bread from local vendors.
Two popular pumpkin patches in Monterey County include Earthbound Farm in Carmel Valley and The Patch at 10 River Road in Salinas. Both are known for their large outdoor settings and beautiful mountain scenery. You can explore the variety of pumpkins while relaxing in the nice, crisp fall weather.
Buy a sweet treat at Bookworks
Known for its local charm, Bookworks is a small coffee shop and bookstore located in the heart of downtown Pacific Grove. This cozy establishment offers visitors a chance to buy some baked goods and a beverage while browsing for books. Students can also enjoy studying here while appreciating the fall decorations lining the walls.
For fall, Bookworks features apple custard and chocolate cake. The sweet scent of freshly baked treats brings an aroma of autumn to this hidden gem.
Look for wildlife on a hiking trail
With cooler weather and fall foliage, Monterey County offers some of the best hiking trails for spotting wildlife. Whether hiking along the coast or through a forest, you can appreciate the changing colors of the leaves while observing local wildlife, such as deer, gray whales and pelicans.
Some of the top spots for fall wildlife viewing include Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Garland Ranch and Asilomar State Beach. These specific locations offer visitors a chance to hike about the outdoors while spotting some of the area’s native fauna.
See thousands of Monarch Butterflies
Located in Pacific Grove, the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary is an ideal place to spend an autumn day. This protected area is home to thousands of migrating monarch butterflies. Visitors can walk around the gardens, take photos and enjoy the fall atmosphere.
This sanctuary is a popular fall destination due to its timing of the monarch migration. Now is the perfect time to visit, as the butterflies cluster on trees in large groups during their peak season.