Fast-forward a month or two from now. Things will look a little different for us, as the trees start to resemble a witch’s gnarly fingers, the sky darkens before the workday ends, and that rotation of leather jackets and patterned scarves already starts to get old. The good news is that we still have a few precious weeks to make the most of the warm(ish) weather. Here’s how to seize the season while you still can.
Visit an Amusement Park
Most amusement parks that neighbour our cities, like Canada’s Wonderland and La Ronde, are open on weekends until the end of October. An amusement park this time of year usually means reduced rates, way shorter lineups, and not having to sit on a ride where hundreds of sweaty summer legs have been. In general, it’s a more pleasant experience.
Take a Walk or Hike
Visit a park that you can explore for least a few hours this weekend, and maybe even bring a picnic. The crisp air and changing leaves will make for a romantic day with your significant other that you will remember once those gloomy days of winter slap us in the face. No matter your company, the vibrant colours make for amazing photo opps and you’ll get exercise (especially essential during pumpkin pie season) at the same time. If a park is out of the question, take a lengthy stroll through your city’s streets for an afternoon of vintage shopping or patio hopping (perhaps both).
Get Out of the City
Sure, the lake is probably too cold to freely plunge into the way you did last month (if it even warmed up at all after the subpar summer most of us had weather-wise), and ski season is right around the corner, but a there is something distinct and unmatched about a weekend getaway at this time of year. While waterskiing and sun tanning (if you’re still doing that) may have run their course, many resorts and country escapes offer things like horsebackriding, ATVing, hiking and tennis… and you can still stare out at the water with a morning coffee or Caesar.
Cuddle up Fireside
Swap poolside and lakeside for fireside. If you happen to be among the lucky ones to escape the city for the cottage, don’t rule out a bonfire – even if you have to bundle up with jackets and blankets. If you’re in the city, outdoor fireplace options, like these simple natural gas or propane standalone fire inserts or fancy concrete tables from Toronto’s BonaVista LeisureScapes, can make the outdoor backyard experience all the more inviting on a fall evening. S’mores taste just as good in the cold, and, as an added bonus, the bugs are gone!
Use Your Outdoor Space
In addition to outdoor fireplaces, there are other ways you can still make use of that backyard terrace or balcony for the fall. Things like fun throw blankets, oversized pillows, heaters (many are on sale at this time of year), and serving guests warm, cozy cocktails like Irish Coffees, Hot Toddys, warm Old-Fashioneds or hot chocolate with whiskey, should be on the agenda.
Pretty soon the option of “inside or patio?” at a restaurant, all that fabulous summer clothing, and afternoon ice cream runs, will seem like lifetimes away. Don’t let it slip away so easily!
Cover Image Courtesy Of: tumblr