slides: 100 Fall Bests In Central Massachusetts

Monday, October 14, 2013

Tracey Minkin, GoLocalWorcester Features Editor

In Central Massachusetts, Columbus Day is to Fall what Fourth of July is to Summer… it's the ultimate seasonal holiday. Which means today is the perfect day to consider all the wonderful things the season brings and plan activities and outings in Central Massachusetts to take full advantage of the bounty.

From pumpkins and apples to festivals and outdoor adventures, we've got 100 things to love about Fall in Central Massachusetts. Check out the inspirations here and take the holiday to get out there or plan your next expedition.

Related Slideshow: 100 Fall Bests In Central Massachusetts

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7 Best Bike Rides

One of the best ways to get out and see the local fall scenery is on two wheels. We've rounded up a set of great routes for riders of every level. So get out there and pedal, Central Mass.

For the 7 best biking spots in Central Mass, go here.

Photo: The Ware River Trail gets you out and into the foliage.

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25 Best Apple Spots

They are one of the best autumn flavors, and from fresh eating to baking pies, you'll want to enjoy the bounty of fresh apple picking throughout the region. Check out these 25 great farms all over the region where you'll find the varieties you love the best (and some you may not have tried yet).

For the 25 best spots to pick apples in Central Mass, go here.

Photo: Don't miss the juicy red apples at Berlin Orchards.

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7 Great Fall Events

Fall is a great season for concerts, festivals, and more, and you won't want to miss these top events that are coming up this month. From Rock & Shock in Worcester to Field to Table Festival at Old Sturbridge Village, take part in Central Mass's big fall events.

For 7 big events in Central Massachusetts, go here.

Photo: A must-do for Fall is the EcoTarium's Great Pumpkin Fest on October 19th.

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6 Perfect Pumpkin Patches

It's peak pumpkin season, and now's the time to hit the patch and pick your perfect pumpkin. We've got 6 of the best local farms for fun for the whole family. Pick a new favorite!

For 6 perfect pumpkin patches in Central Massachusetts, go here.

Photo: The sprawling patches of Bolton Farm yield 30 different varieties for picking… better bring a wagon!

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12 Best Adventures

As the weather cools, your sense of adventure does not have to! Here are 12 thrilling outdoor activities across New England that you can enjoy this Columbus Day weekend and beyond. Whether you are a beginner or an expert outdoors, each of these events are excellent opportunities to channel your inner adventurer.

For 12 great outdoor adventures in Central Massachusetts, go here.

Photo: Mount Washington State Forest in Western MA has all kinds of natural splendors to explore.

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22 Best Halloween Events

Here comes Halloween, and whether you’ve got little ones and need a more mellow fright or you are thirsty for fear, you are in the right place. New England, with its history of witch trials and hauntings, is the perfect place to celebrate. Check out these 22 spookfests… all within an hour's drive of Central Mass.

For 22 spooky Halloween events in Central Mass and beyond, go here.

Photo: Don't miss the scary paths of Hick's Corn Maze in Charlemont.

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8 Best Corn Mazes

Massachusetts is home to beautiful farmlands and orchards, and quite a few of them boast corn mazes of their own. Check out our list to see where you should go to get lost in Massachusetts--it's a great family activity for a Fall weekend.

For 8 great corn mazes to explore in Central Mass and beyond, go here.

Photo: Ready to get lost in a corn maze? Consider Kimball Farm's "Boston Strong" maze.

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9 Best Foliage Drives

Pack up your beloveds in the car and take a gander at nature's splendor with these 9 great foliage drives close to home and farther afield. Combine your trip with some pumpkin or apple picking, and you've got pretty much the perfect fall expedition.

For 9 great foliage drives in Central Mass and beyond, go here.

Photo: Right here in Central Mass, take a scenic drive that skirts Quabbin Reservoir.

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4 Fantastic Festivals

Fall Festivals are still up and running this month, and our guide to the season's best has 4 great events still coming up. From seafood in Rhode Island to harvest dining in Maine, plan your next getaway, here.