Take a day trip to a nearby farm, or head to a pumpkin patch inside the loop.

Fall in the Northeast is a lovely time of year to enjoy one of these weekend getaways near NYC. The crisp air, fall colors, and outdoor activities are hard to resist for most kids (and grown-ups). While you can surely experience some seasonal magic close to home, there's nothing like a weekend away to recharge fully. If you skipped the summer travel season, these fall weekend getaways near NYC are the perfect antidote to the back-to-school blues. So, go ahead and get planning. Before long, you'll immerse your family in seasonal fun.

We've rounded up 22 fall weekend getaways near NYC, whether you're looking for a quick car-free getaway or you've got a long weekend and want to travel a bit further. If you've only got a day to escape, consider one of these 30 fall day trips from NYC, and find more ideas for fall travel in our Guide to Day Trips and Weekend Getaways.

Corn mazes are a popular fall activity for many families. Navigating twisty paths cut through giant stalks of corn—often while solving clues and finding hidden surprises—is a great way to bond while enjoying the crisp autumn air. The best corn mazes near DC have fun themes, multiple challenge levels, or even flashlight nights, when visitors can tackle the mazes in the dark with only flashlights to guide them.

Here are 16 of the most ah-maize-ing (sorry, couldn't resist) corn mazes near DC for kids and families, including three haunted corn maze options for only the bravest teens. Many of these corn mazes in Maryland and Northern Virginia are part of larger harvest and pumpkin festivals that offer fun activities like hayrides, giant slides, petting zoos, and more.

Looking for even more fun things to do with kids this fall? Be sure to visit our Fall Fun Guide for DC Families and our Halloween Events and Activities Guide for Kids in DC.

Looking for the best pumpkin patches near Chicago? Read on for our top picks. 

Illinois is the number one pumpkin-growing state in the country, so it should come as no surprise that there are dozens of great pumpkin patches near Chicago for jack-o'-lantern enthusiasts and pie bakers alike. Even better, many pumpkin patches also offer an array of autumn-themed activities like apple picking, corn mazes, and after-dark experiences for older kids. Here are more than 20 of our favorite pumpkin patches near Chicago, all within a two-hour drive of the Loop!

For more seasonal fun, don't forget to check out our Fall Fun Guide. And if you're zeroing in on Halloween activities, check out our rundown on the best Chicago neighborhoods for trick-or-treating and other Halloween ideas in our Halloween Events & Activities Guide for Chicago Kids. 

Hop aboard Connecticut hayrides for some autumn fun!

There are more than 700 natural springs in Florida, including several swim-worthy freshwater springs just a short distance from Orlando. Florida natural springs make the perfect place to unwind during humid summers and mild winters.

These spring-fed swimming holes are crystal clear and remain 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making them extremely popular for both residents and tourists alike. Many natural springs are surrounded by park land, offering hiking, fishing, and more pre-swim family activities. Others include water slides and mini water parks.

Check out our 10 favorite natural springs in Florida, centrally located near Orlando, great for kids and families. Find more fun places to visit in Florida with our Family Travel Guide, including the Best Beaches near Orlando and Paddleboard and Kayak Tours.

Enjoy corn mazes and hayrides near Atlanta at farms this fall! Atlanta hayrides and corn mazes are fun seasonal activities, just like apple picking and pumpkin patches. Bring your camera for perfect fall photo ops! In addition to outdoor physical activity, corn mazes encourage the use of problem-solving skills and team building —the ultimate escape "rooms!" And many of these Atlanta farms offer additional outdoor activities, including slides, jumping pillows, and petting zoos.

For more fall activities, check out our Fall Fun Guide for Atlanta Kids!

Summertime visits to an amusement park often mean dealing with long lines and sweating through your sunscreen. Fortunately, many parks around the Philadelphia area extend their seasons into the cooler fall months with Halloween-themed attractions. This can be a fantastic off-peak day trip for thrill-seeking families looking to enjoy a Halloween experience beyond the local parades and festivals. If your family is seeking some over-the-top Halloween fun ranging anywhere from silly to downright scary, check our list of amusement parks sure to provide excitement.  

Looking for more Halloween fun? Don't forget to check out our Halloween Guide and our Top Free Halloween Events round-up for Halloween fun that won't break the bank.