Parent Talk: Fall Family Fun around St. Michael

There's just something about the fall. The air is a little crisper, the leaves start changing beautiful colors and we all get back into routines.

Each fall I think I fall more in love with the season. I've loved the blasts of warmth we've had the last couple years. What's better that going to the park on a warm, fall day or a nice walk looking at all of the leaves without jackets and hats? The deck becomes a new favorite place again-no bugs!

I also admit that I love all of the fall happenings and activities. Things we can run out and do for an hour after school or make a day of it on the weekends.

Here are some of our family favorite fall activities:

1. 101 Market in Otsego

Inflatable pumpkin to jump in and hello, corn pit. We are regulars on weekday afternoons when we just need a little something to get us through until dinner. $1 for the corn pit and a non-perishable food donation for the inflatable pumpkin makes this an inexpensive visit. Plus, we always buy a carmel apple for after dinner dessert on our way out.

They've got a multitude of other activities including a corn maze, cow train and new this year, haunted house. But we stick to simple, that's what works for us for now.

2. Dehn's Pumpkin in Dayton

Live animals and lots of them. While the older ones may complain of the manure smell, the little ones stand in awe. Cows, kitties and a carefree dog roam the place. They have a corn maze and a corn pit and lots and lots of pumpkins. Pick your own or pre-picked. Another inexpensive field trip, just $2/activity/person.

3. Deer Lake Orchard in Buffalo

but we've had two visits already. The petting zoo animals are a favorite, as is the haypile. If you go, try their carmel apple sundaes! They also have live music each weekend. This weekend they are celebrating the big red barn's 100th birthday with an all-weekend celebration.

4. Apple Jacks in Delano

Who doesn't love this classic orchard? Hayrides and the cow train are always a must for us. They also have a new inflatable pillow for jumping. If that doesn't tire your kids out, nothing will. The gift shop is always full of beautiful gifts but you can always buy for yourself.

The weekends always are full of fun activities like pony rides, a petting zoo and more.

5. Your ideas

Submit them below and share with your fellow Patch readers. Include links, if you'd like.