Crisp mornings. Golden leaves. Cozy coffee shops. Pumpkin everything.

There is something undeniably special about fall in Columbus, Ohio. As summer fades into cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, the city comes alive with seasonal festivals, outdoor adventures, local dining, football traditions, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beauty of Central Ohio.

At Preferred Living, we believe where you live should make it easy to enjoy everything your city has to offer. And when it comes to fall, Columbus gives you plenty to explore.

Whether you're planning a family day, a date night, a weekend with friends, or simply looking for a reason to get out and enjoy the season, consider this your Preferred Guide to Fall in Columbus.

���� 1. Pick Apples at a Local Orchard

Few experiences capture the feeling of fall quite like wandering through an apple orchard on a crisp afternoon.

Central Ohio has several beautiful farms and orchards where you can pick apples, enjoy fresh cider, explore seasonal activities, and stock up on fall treats.

Branstool Orchards in Utica offers 37 varieties of apples, while Pigeon Roost Farm in Hebron combines apple and pumpkin-season fun with activities such as a corn maze and wagon rides. Van Buren Acres also offers a pumpkin patch, corn maze, sunflower trail, and cow train.

Preferred tip: Make a day of it. Grab a warm drink on the way, spend the afternoon at the orchard, and finish the evening with dinner at one of Columbus' many locally owned restaurants.

���� 2. Find Your Perfect Pumpkin

Whether you're decorating your front porch, carving jack-o'-lanterns with the kids, or simply looking for the perfect fall photo opportunity, pumpkin patches are a seasonal must.

Lynd Fruit Farm, Pigeon Roost Farm, Van Buren Acres, and other Central Ohio farms offer plenty of ways to turn pumpkin picking into an afternoon adventure.

And don't forget the cider, donuts, hayrides, and corn mazes that often come with it.

���� 3. Go Leaf Peeping Around Columbus

You don't have to travel hours away to experience beautiful fall foliage.

Columbus' parks, neighborhoods, and Metro Parks provide plenty of opportunities to see the leaves change. Take a leisurely walk through Scioto Audubon Metro Park, explore Schiller Park in German Village, or spend an afternoon discovering one of Central Ohio's many scenic trails.

Fall is also the perfect season to explore Columbus' charming neighborhoods on foot.

Grab a coffee. Put on your favorite sweater. Take the long way home.

Sometimes that's all you need.

���� 4. Experience Harvest Blooms at Franklin Park Conservatory

For one of the most beautiful fall experiences in Columbus, head to Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens for Harvest Blooms, running September 26 through November 1, 2026.

The gardens are transformed with pumpkins, mums, cabbages, fall foliage, and creative horticultural displays—including whimsical pumpkin houses that are practically made for fall photos.

It's a wonderful choice for families, couples, or an afternoon spent simply enjoying the season.

���� 5. See More Than 700 Pumpkins at Pumpkins Aglow

Once the sun goes down, Franklin Park Conservatory takes on a completely different atmosphere.

Pumpkins Aglow, running October 7 through November 1, features more than 700 hand-carved pumpkins along with themed displays featuring everything from pirates and spiders to mermaids and aliens.

It's one of those Columbus fall traditions that's worth putting on the calendar early.

Perfect for: Families, date nights, visiting guests, and your fall Instagram feed.

���� 6. Spend a Fall Day at the Columbus Zoo

Fall is a fantastic time to visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and the Zoo has several seasonal experiences worth adding to your list.

Lantern Festival

Through October 25, the Lantern Festival transforms the Zoo after dark with more than 70 sets of illuminated Asian-inspired animal lanterns. The 2026 festival also introduces dinosaur lanterns for an extra dose of prehistoric fun.

Boo at the Zoo

For family-friendly Halloween fun, Boo at the Zoo takes place October 3–4, 10–11, 17–18, and 24–25.

The "merry-not-scary" celebration includes Halloween activities, costumes, entertainment, and trick-or-treating throughout Adventure Cove.

Preferred tip: Make it a full fall day. Explore the Zoo during the afternoon, take a break for dinner, and come back after dark for the Lantern Festival.

���� 7. Celebrate Oktoberfest

Columbus' German heritage takes center stage at Schmidt's Columbus Oktoberfest, September 11–13 at the Ohio Expo Center.

Expect German food, live music, cultural traditions, and plenty of festive energy. The celebration has been a Columbus tradition for more than 50 years.

Grab your friends, embrace the lederhosen-and-dirndl spirit, and enjoy one of Columbus' most established fall festivals.

���� 8. Indulge at the Columbus Mac & Cheese Festival

Comfort food and fall weather were practically made for each other.

On September 25, head to Easton Town Center for the Columbus Mac & Cheese Festival, where local restaurants showcase creative takes on the ultimate comfort food. Proceeds benefit the Adolescent and Young Adult cancer program at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Because sometimes the best fall activity is simply eating something delicious.

���� 9. Experience the All American Quarter Horse Congress

From September 26 through October 24, the Ohio Expo Center hosts the All American Quarter Horse Congress, the largest single-breed horse show in America.

The event features competitions, shopping, exhibitors, and plenty to see for both longtime equestrian enthusiasts and first-time visitors.

It's an unexpected Columbus tradition—and a fun way to experience something a little different this fall.

10. Explore the Columbus Coffee Scene

Cooler weather means one thing: it's officially coffee season.

Spend a Saturday morning exploring Columbus coffee shops and trying seasonal drinks. From pumpkin-inspired lattes to chai, apple cider, and creative specialty beverages, fall is a great excuse to discover a new favorite.

You can even make it a challenge by exploring the Columbus Coffee Trail, which encourages residents and visitors to discover local coffee shops throughout the city.

Preferred idea: Pick a different neighborhood each weekend and turn coffee hunting into your own fall tradition.

���� 11. Get Into the Halloween Spirit

Columbus doesn't hold back when it comes to Halloween.

Families can enjoy Boo at the Zoo, Pumpkins Aglow, pumpkin patches, and trick-or-treating, while adults can embrace the more elaborate side of Halloween at HighBall Halloween.

On October 3, the Short North Arts District will host Fall Hops on High featuring HighBall Halloween, complete with interactive art, performances, shopping, a Trick-or-Treat Trail, and the Costume Couture Fashion Show.

Whether your Halloween style is cute and cozy or elaborate and dramatic, Columbus has something for you.

���� 12. Experience an Ohio State Football Saturday

You can't talk about fall in Columbus without talking about the Buckeyes.

An Ohio State football Saturday is more than a game—it's a citywide tradition.

Head toward campus, take in the tailgates, experience the energy around Ohio Stadium, and soak up the scarlet-and-gray atmosphere.

Even if you don't have tickets, there's something special about being around Columbus on game day.

Preferred tip: Make a day of it and explore the surrounding Short North, Grandview, or Downtown neighborhoods before or after the game.

���� 13. Explore Columbus' Creative Side at Urban Scrawl

Columbus' arts scene is another reason to get out and explore this fall.

Urban Scrawl, taking place October 9–11 in Franklinton, brings artists together for live mural painting, gallery and studio tours, performances, and interactive art experiences.

It's a great reminder that some of the city's most interesting experiences happen outside traditional museums and galleries.

�������� 14. Celebrate at the Columbus Italian Festival

The Columbus Italian Festival, October 9–11, is another longtime fall favorite.

With Italian food, live music, a parade, and even a bocce tournament, the festival celebrates Columbus' Italian heritage in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. More than 35,000 people attend annually.

Come hungry—and stay for the music.

���� 15. Take a Day Trip to the Circleville Pumpkin Show

About an hour south of Columbus, the Circleville Pumpkin Show is worth the drive.

Taking place October 21–24, this Central Ohio tradition is famous for its enormous pumpkins, pumpkin-themed food, entertainment, and all things fall.

It's the kind of classic Ohio experience that belongs on every Central Ohio fall bucket list.

���� 16. Cheer on the Columbus Marathon

On October 17–18, downtown Columbus will come alive for the Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon.

Whether you're participating, volunteering, or simply cheering from the sidelines, it's an inspiring way to experience the city and support thousands of athletes taking on the challenge.

���� 17. Discover Columbus Fashion

Columbus has a surprisingly vibrant fashion scene, and Fashion Week Columbus is a great way to experience it.

The 2026 dates are still to be announced, but the annual event showcases emerging designers and the city's creative community through runway shows and fashion-related programming.

Consider it your excuse to get dressed up and experience a different side of Columbus.

���� 18. Visit Hank's Low Country Oyster Fest

For something a little unexpected, head downtown September 27 for Hank's Low Country Oyster Fest.

The event features oysters, Southern-inspired dishes, live jazz, oyster shucking and roasting, plus a Kids Zone with crafts and activities. Admission is free.

It's a great choice when you're looking for something beyond the typical fall festival.

���� 19. Take a Sweet Trip to Lithopolis Honeyfest

Looking for a unique fall outing?

Head just outside Columbus to Lithopolis Honeyfest, September 11–12. The annual event celebrates all things honey and bees with arts and crafts, honey-themed activities, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy this charming Central Ohio community.

���� 20. Explore Columbus Neighborhoods

Sometimes you don't need an event at all.

Spend a Saturday exploring some of Columbus' most distinctive neighborhoods.

German Village

Stroll brick-lined streets, browse local shops, stop for coffee, and enjoy the architecture.

Short North Arts District

Explore galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and local art along High Street.

Franklinton

Discover murals, galleries, studios, and one of Columbus' most creative neighborhoods.

Easton

Spend an afternoon shopping, dining, and enjoying seasonal events.

Fall is the perfect season to slow down and explore Columbus one neighborhood at a time.

���� Your Preferred Fall Bucket List

With so much happening around the city, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy fall in Columbus.

Our Preferred Fall Bucket List:

☐ Pick apples at a local orchard
☐ Visit a pumpkin patch
☐ Walk through the fall foliage
☐ Visit Harvest Blooms
☐ Experience Pumpkins Aglow
☐ Visit the Columbus Zoo
☐ See the Lantern Festival
☐ Attend Boo at the Zoo
☐ Celebrate Oktoberfest
☐ Try a new Columbus coffee shop
☐ Attend the Mac & Cheese Festival
☐ Experience Ohio State football
☐ Visit Urban Scrawl
☐ Attend the Columbus Italian Festival
☐ Explore HighBall Halloween
☐ Visit the Circleville Pumpkin Show
☐ Watch the Columbus Marathon
☐ Explore Columbus Fashion Week
☐ Visit Hank's Low Country Oyster Fest
☐ Take a day trip to Lithopolis Honeyfest
☐ Explore a new Columbus neighborhood

Fall Looks Even Better When You Love Where You Live

One of the best things about living in Columbus is having access to experiences like these right outside your door.

At Preferred Living, we believe home should be more than the place you return to at the end of the day. It should be the starting point for the lifestyle you want to live.

From beautiful communities and thoughtfully designed residences to amenities designed for relaxing, entertaining, and connecting, Preferred Living makes it easy to enjoy both the comfort of home and everything Columbus has to offer.

So this fall, get outside. Try something new. Explore your city. Make a few memories.

And when you're ready to come home, come home to Preferred.

Preferred Living — Luxury Living. Preferred.

The post Fun Fall Things to Do in Columbus, Ohio appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

Making the decision to declutter your apartment can feel like a big task but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it much easier. Here are practical tips and a guide to help you get started:

1. Set a Clear Goal & Have a Game Plan-Define what you want to achieve and figure out what your decluttering goal is. Do you want a more organized living space, less stress or just get rid of a visible mess? Knowing your "why" can help you stay focused and help you prioritize tasks and figure out your next steps.

2. Start Small-Pick one room, or even just one area, like a closet, desk, or drawer, to begin with. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed.  Start with what you feel is the easiest room first, this can help also with not feeling too overwhelmed too soon.

3. Use the "Four-Box Method"-Have four boxes or bags labeled:

• • Keep: Items you use or love. (A tip inspired by Marie Kondo: Before keeping something, ask whether it truly brings you joy or adds value to your life. If it doesn’t, let it go!)
  • Donate: Items in good condition that you no longer need.
  • Sell: Things you think have value that you can sell.
  • Trash: Things that are broken, expired, or no longer useful.

4. Tackle One Category at a Time-Instead of decluttering room by room, group items by category (e.g., clothing, books, kitchen gadgets, papers). This gives you a clearer sense of how much you have of each item and helps you make more decisive choices.

5. Purge Your Closet-A lot of clutter comes from unused clothing. Go through your clothes and donate or sell things you haven’t worn in over a year.

6. Minimize Paper Piles-Organize bills, important documents, and personal papers into files. Shred anything that’s outdated or no longer necessary.

7. Use Storage Solutions-Invest in storage containers, bins, or shelving units to keep things neatly arranged. Vertical storage can free up floor space, and multi-functional furniture can help too.

8. Keep Surfaces Clear-Try to keep countertops, tables, and your floor free of clutter. Only leave out the essentials or decorative items that truly bring you joy.

9. Adopt the "One In, One Out" Rule-To avoid clutter building up again, try adopting a habit where you donate, sell, or discard one item whenever you buy something new.

10. Regular Maintenance-Dedicate a few minutes every day or week to quickly tidy up any small messes that accumulate. It’ll prevent the clutter from piling back up. Regularly go through your apartment to reassess your things. Decluttering isn't a one-time task—it’s about forming a habit of keeping your space tidy.

11. Be Patient-Decluttering is a process that takes time. Don’t rush, and celebrate small wins along the way!

A clutter-free environment not only makes the every day cleaning process easier but also creates a more serene and enjoyable livable space. 

The post Declutter Your Apartment for Spring appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

Thinking of Trying Dry January…It’s Never Too Late to Try

Ever wondered about getting involved in the Dry January hype and challenges?  The new year is a popular time to take stock of your health and lifestyle choices, press the reset button, and dive into resolutions such as Dry January.

The Dry January challenge is a campaign developed and delivered by UK charity Alcohol Change UK where people sign up to abstain from alcohol in 2012.  This wellness first trend is catching up with people, especially Gen Z, which has led to it large-scale popularity.

Benefits of Dry January

Weight Loss-Consuming lesser calories can often lead to lead to weight loss alone.  Alcohol carries empty calories that without could lower daily calorie counts.

Lower Blood Pressure-According to research going only even 4 weeks without alcohol can lower blood pressure and even heart rates.

Better Sleep-Just a few weeks of going without alcohol can help one sleep deeper and more restfully

Higher Energy Levels & Improved Immune System-Taking a break from alcohol can also lead to increased productivity while also strengthening one’s immune system.

Balances Mood and Reduced Stress-Alcohol is a mood depressant and heavy drinkers can experience depressions and anxiety.  Taking a hiatus from alcohols can reduce stress and help balance your mood.

Liver Health-Alcohol can be known to harm your liver, giving it a break can help regain its health.

Skin Benefits-Lesser dry skin, redness and puffiness are likely to occur when not consuming alcohol. 

Where to Get Your Local Mocktails in Columbus– Best Mocktails In Columbus

Comune Restaurant–677 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206

With nearly a dozen booze-free bevvy’s like the Shrub + Soda, which is like a pineapple-y or berry Moscow Mule, you’re sure to find your favorite new mocktail.

High Bank Distillery–1051 Goodale Blvd, Columbus, OH 43212

With the distinction of being awarded the best cocktails in Columbus the past 4 years, High Bank Distillery doesn’t mess around with their mocktails either.

Watershed Distillery-1145 Chesapeake Ave, Columbus, OH 43212

Watershed is determined to share the flavors of the world with Central Ohio with their “Watershed: A World Tour” drink menu. And while the cocktail menu is extensive, there are several non-alcoholic versions that allow you to taste the world without ever having to leave the distillery!

VASO Rooftop Lounge–6540 Riverside Dr, Dublin, OH 43017

With five unique, specially crafted mocktails on their extensive drink menu, you’ll be able to find your favorite booze-free drink to go alongside their delicious Spanish cuisine.

Level One Bar + Arcade-130 Hutchinson Ave, Columbus, OH 43235

If mocktails and arcade games sound as incredible to you as it does to me, then Level One Bar + Arcade is your new spot.

Condado Tacos-1227 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201

Their creative menu features mocktails like the Nojito, which is, you guessed it, a non-alcoholic version of a Mojito or enjoy their Cactus Juice mocktail featuring prickly pear, pineapple, ginger beer and lemon!

Thank you to: 
https://stepoutcolumbus.com/guide-to-the-best-places-for-mocktails-in-columbus/

The post Doing Dry January? Wanna give it a Try? appeared first on Preferred Living Blog.

By Experience Columbus Staff on Aug 26, 2024

Going apple picking and to the pumpkin patch are some of our favorite fall traditions in Columbus. With tons of U-Pick farms and orchards around the city, there are plenty of opportunities for you to get out and enjoy this classic, midwest activity this season. Plan your apple-picking or pumpkin outing to one of these central Ohio U-pick farms this fall!

Apple Orchards Around Columbus

Branstool Orchards (Utica): You can pick 37 varieties of apples at Branstool! Check the website, updated daily, for information on what's ripe. Food trucks are on-site some during most weekends and leashed dogs are welcome to join the fun!

CherryHawk Farm (Marysville): CherryHawk is a family-owned orchard spanning more than 60 acres. They feature 19 varieties and update their website with what’s available regularly.

Lawrence Orchards (Marion): This family-run orchard and farm market offers 26 apple varieties throughout the season, with availability updated on Facebook, along with seasonal fruits, jams, jellies and more. Be sure to visit the Cider House Pavilion and pick up a gallon (or two!) of fresh and all-natural apple cider from Labor Day until Christmas Eve! Picking is available from 10 am – 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Legend Hills Orchard (Utica): Legend Hills is celebrating five generations of operation! Pick until your heart's content from 9 am – 6 pm Monday-Saturday and Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm. Check out what's currently available for picking here.

Lynd Fruit Farm (Pataskala): Lynd is a popular spot for U-pick apples, offering acres upon acres of apple trees for climbing and picking. They also offer hayrides through the orchard, a corn maze, and the big market tent loaded with produce, fall items and baked goods.

Ochs Fruit Farm (Lancaster): Ochs has been operating as a family-run farm since 1872 and offers more than 90 varieties of apples. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for daily availability and hours of operation.

The Orchard & Company (Plain City): This family fun center is more than just an apple orchard. Open 11 am – 6 pm on weekends through Oct. 30, it also offers lots of exciting activities for all ages including wagon rides, farm animals, zip lines and more. There is no admission charged for u-pick apples or to visit the store, but those entering “Farmyard Area” will need general admission and a Farmyard Pass. Please leave your four-legged friends at home for this experience!

Pumpkin Patches & More Fall Fun Around Columbus

Circle S Farms (Grove City): Beginning in October, hop on a wheelchair-accessible hayride between the parking lot and pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkin at Circle S. Additional opportunities for family fun include corn and sunflower mazes, a petting zoo and fun barn. Be on the lookout for 2023 hours and pricing here.

Dupler's Pumpkin Land (Newark): In addition to a selection of traditional pumpkins, Dupler's prides itself on their specialty offerings in a variety of colors like pink, blue, white and more that are a result of 20+ years of cross-breeding. Make your pumpkin selections then spend time enjoying wagon rides, a corn maze, a haunted room, a giant slide, a web climbing net, and more.

Hann Farms (Obetz): Hann Farms offers u-pick tomatoes, green beans and peppers to round out your produce options this fall. Patrons are invited to bring their own bags for easier picking and are asked to note that the farm accepts only cash or checks. Stay up-to-date on the latest offerings here.

Hidden Creek Farms (Sunbury): This working farm is all about fall fun! They grow a variety of pumpkins, from tiny to extra-large in a range of colors including green, blue, white and all shades of orange. Plus, they have unique gourds, corn and straw bales for decorating. Enhanced fall fun activities are offered Wednesday through Sunday, including hayrides, pumpkin slides, pumpkin tunnels, a straw maze, farm animals and more.

Leeds Farm (Delaware): Admittedly this is not a u-pick option, but it's still an opportunity to get gorgeous pumpkins and gourds straight from the fields, harvested by the professional hands that raised them. Turn a trip to Leeds into a full day of family fun with their full slate of activities like hay rides, zip lines, slides and more. Activities are available on weekends from Sept. 16 – Oct. 28 and pre-purchased tickets, available here, are required.

Lehner Pumpkin Farms (Delaware): Lehner offers a 15-acre u-pick patch, featuring all sizes of pumpkins, from pumpkin pie pumpkins to large carving options, as well as gourds and large squash. Those who don't want to pick can also choose from a selection that has been pre-picked and washed. The property also offers additional activities like corn mazes, farm animals, barrel rides and more, even on weeknights. Plus, pets are permitted on the premises and most activities (as well as restrooms) are easily accessible for both strollers and wheelchairs. Check out a full slate of activities and a calendar of special events here.

Lohstroh Family Farms (Mt. Sterling): Weekends, beginning near the end of September through October, at Lohstroh feature u-pick pumpkins, a corn maze, a tractor train, food and more family fun. Find additional details here.

Lynd Fruit Farm (Pataskala): Of course, Lynd's is a household name for apple picking, but they also have a location on Morse Rd. that offers u-pick pumpkins. The season begins near the end of September. Check the homepage here for updates on inventory.

Miller's Country Gardens (Delaware): On Saturdays and Sundays in October, Miller's invites you to ride in their hay wagon out to their pumpkin field to pick your own pumpkin. Whether you need them for making pies, decorating or carving Jack-O-Lanterns, Miller's has you covered.

Pigeon Roost Farm (Hebron): Pigeon Roost is the ultimate hub of fall fun, with its Great Pumpkin Fun Center offering a wide range of activities like a corn maze, tractor-pulled wagon rides, paintball, face painting and more. All activities and pumpkin purchases are credit cards only. Check out the full slate of offerings to help plan your trip here.

Van Buren Acres (Hebron): This family-owned and operated farm has activities for kids and kids-at-heart with a pumpkin patch, corn maze, sunflower trail, cow train and more. Admission is $9 with hours Wednesday – Sunday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and by appointment, through Oct. 31. Learn more here.

Get out and enjoy the season in Columbus and share your memories with us using #FallinCbus.

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