Top 5 Fall Activities to Do in Central Wisconsin

Fall in Wisconsin is pure magic. From the crisp air and cozy flannels to the breathtaking colors of the trees, there’s no better place to soak in autumn than right here in the heart of the state. If you’re searching for the best fall activities in Central Wisconsin, we’ve got you covered with five must-do traditions that bring out the season’s charm.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a weekend road trip, or just want to make the most of autumn, here are our top five picks.

1. Visit Apple Orchards & Pumpkin Patches

A classic Wisconsin fall tradition is heading to the orchard or pumpkin patch. Central Wisconsin offers plenty of spots to pick apples, grab pumpkins, sip on fresh apple cider, and wander through corn mazes.

Popular stops include:

Ferguson’s Orchards in Eau Claire – Famous for apple picking, hayrides, and apple cider donuts.

Sacia Orchards near Galesville – A cozy, family-run orchard with plenty of local charm.

Don’t forget to grab a bag of apples and maybe a pumpkin (or two) for carving later!

2. Take a Scenic Drive Through Wisconsin Fall Colors

Central Wisconsin is stunning in autumn thanks to its rolling hills and dense forests. A fall drive is one of the best ways to experience Wisconsin’s fall colors.

Try these routes for the most beautiful views:

Highway 21 – Perfect for a relaxing weekend drive.

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest – Breathtaking Forest roads that burst with vibrant reds and golds. Pack a thermos of coffee, roll down the windows, and let nature’s show do the rest.

3. Experience a Local Fall Festival

If there’s one thing Wisconsin does best, it’s celebrating the seasons. Fall festivals in Central Wisconsin are packed with family-friendly fun: craft vendors, live music, food trucks, and, of course, pumpkin everything.

One must-see event is the Warrens Cranberry Festival, the largest cranberry festival in the world! It’s the ultimate fall destination and a tradition worth adding to your bucket list.

4. Go Hiking at Wisconsin State Parks

Cooler weather and colorful trees make fall the perfect time for hiking in Wisconsin. Trails are less crowded, and the views are unforgettable.

Favorite hiking spots in Central Wisconsin include:

Rib Mountain State Park (Wausau) – Trails with panoramic views and a tower climb.

Devil’s Lake State Park – Just outside Central Wisconsin, but worth the trip for cliffside trails surrounded by brilliant fall foliage. It’s a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the peace before winter snow arrives.

5. Sip Seasonal Drinks at Local Coffee Shops

For those cozy fall mornings (or afternoons), nothing beats a seasonal drink from a local coffee shop. Many Central Wisconsin coffee shops roll out pumpkin spice lattes, caramel apple ciders, and maple mochas—the perfect companion for sweater weather. Whether you’re in Eau Claire, Stevens Point, or Marshfield, Wisconsin coffee shops know how to deliver autumn in a cup. Grab a friend or your favorite podcast, and make it a seasonal tradition.

Wrapping It Up

From scenic drives and apple orchards to cozy coffee shops and fall festivals, Central Wisconsin offers some of the best fall activities in the state. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a simple seasonal tradition, these five ideas will help you soak in everything autumn has to offer.

And if you love seasonal living as much as we do, tune into the Slacks to Sweats Podcast! We’re two twin moms from Wisconsin who share stories, traditions, and the cozy moments that make each season special.

Listen to our latest episode on Spotify or wherever you stream podcasts!