As the days get colder and the trees barer, we begin to anticipate that dreaded season that comes after fall (I hear some people enjoy winter…I can’t relate).  In an effort to make the most of what’s left of fall, we’ve created an autumn checklist, and with the help of our friends at Something Special from Wisconsin™ we’ve recommended Wisconsin businesses to check out. Enjoy!

1. Pumpkin picking
   As cliché as it sounds, spending a day in the pumpkin patch picking out your gem is an absolute must. Big or small, perfectly round and orange or misshapen and full of warts, we love them all. Carve ‘em with the kiddos or set them on a hay bale next to a scarecrow and some mums for the perfect porch decorations.
   We recommend: Creek Bed Country Farmacy

2. Buy apple everything
   
   Apple pie, apple cider, apple sauce, apple crisp, caramel apples, fresh apples straight from the tree…there is something about a brisk autumn day that makes apple-anything so appealing. Stock up on apples for baking this fall, or find some already-made apple goodies for a nice fall treat.We recommend: Oakwood Fruit Farm

3. Make your home cozy
   
   

   Property of Kreative Kraftwerks

   As the weather gets colder, most of us inevitably wind up spending more time indoors, whether we’re cozied up by the fire, reading a good book, or watching our favorite Netflix show. Why not make your home, the place you’ll spend most of your time over the next 6 months, as comfortable as possible? Wisconsin-made candles, decorations, flower arrangements…the possibilities are endless.

We recommend: Kreative Kraftwerks, Piranga Candles, Wreaths by Chalann, Elegant Arrangements

4. Take a fall getaway
   
   What better way to take in the autumn leaves and changing of seasons than a weekend-getaway road trip? From Racine to Bayfield and Platteville to Door County, Wisconsin is scattered with fun things to do and gorgeous sights to see.

We recommend: Bed & Breakfasts Association

5. Tour a winery
   Let’s be honest, any time of the year is a good time to tour a winery, but autumn adds something extra special to everything. Take in the fall colors on the drive, and use this opportunity to stock up on wine for the holidays.

We recommend: Vetro Winery, Trout Springs Winery, Northleaf Winery

6. Go on a hayride
   
   

   Photo by Meuer Farm

   Whether a haunted hayride through a dark, spooky forest or a daytime hayride out to the pumpkin patch, this is a great fall activity for families and people of all ages. Bundle up – it could get chilly!
   We recommend: Meuer Farm

7. Stock up on warm drinks
   If you’ve endured a Wisconsin winter, you know just how cold it can get – and we never quite know when Jack Frost will make his appearance! It’s amazing how having a coffee or hot chocolate in-hand can help us cope.

We recommend: Berres Brothers Coffee Roasters, Steep & Brew Coffee Roasters

8. Prep for a chilly winter
   
   

   Photo by Nana's Knits

   Another way to cope with Wisconsin’s winters is, of course, with warm, Wisconsin-made products! Stock up on thick socks, cozy sweaters, warm mittens and soft blankets, all made right here by locals!

We recommend: Silver Creek Alpaca, Nana’s Knits

Fall is already such a wonderful time in Wisconsin, and when we can enjoy it all while supporting local operations, it’s that much better. How are you enjoying autumn’s last hurrah? Share with us on social media using #discoverwisconsin!

Something Special from Wisconsin™ is a trademarked program administered by the Division of Agricultural Development at the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection since 1983. Every dollar spent on Something Special from Wisconsin™ products and services supports local farmers, food processors, entrepreneurs, our communities and livelihood, as well as the Wisconsin way of life. Something Special from Wisconsin™ products are unique and of the highest quality, making them perfect for gift-giving, special occasions and every day!

Kristen Finstad is a member of the Discover Wisconsin crew. Having grown up in River Falls, attending UW-Stevens Point and now living in Madison, she’s a Wisconsin girl through and through. Watch Discover Wisconsin TV Saturday mornings at 10 on Fox Sports Wisconsin. (Twitter: @DiscoverWI)