5 ways to soak up fall in Jefferson 🍂

Okay, hear me out. Fall in Jefferson is basically a Hallmark movie waiting to happen. The air is crisp, the trees are showing off, and suddenly everything feels like it needs to be paired with a warm drink or a cozy sweater. So if you’re wondering how to spend the perfect fall day here, I’ve mapped it out for you. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this.

1. Start your morning with a fun drink

You know what makes getting out of bed on a chilly morning worth it? A fall latte from Greene Bean Coffee or Chirp Coffee. Think pumpkin spice, caramel apple, or whatever seasonal flavor sounds best. If coffee isn’t your thing, stop by Vault Nutrition for a colorful energy drink to start your day. Grab a pastry for good measure and enjoy it outside in the crisp air. There’s just something about a warm drink, a flaky pastry, and a cool breeze that makes the whole morning feel right.

2. Take in the views

Forget scrolling Instagram, this is the real deal. Head up to the top of the Mahanay Memorial Carillon Tower and soak in the 360-degree view of fall colors. It’s like Mother Nature went full Pinterest. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, hop on the Raccoon River Valley Trail for a bike ride or a leisurely stroll.

3. Explore shops

Sweater weather calls for… more sweaters. Downtown Jefferson’s shops are perfect for a little browsing. Think vintage treasures, fall candles, and home décor that screams “yes, I decorate seasonally.” Whether you’re hunting for the perfect plaid or just window-shopping, you’ll get that small-town charm vibe in every store.

4. Enjoy the Orchard

Let’s be real, it’s not fall until you’ve been to Deal’s Orchard. Go pick apples, wander the pumpkin patch, and definitely grab a cider donut (or two). If you’re more of a sipper than a snacker, the Apple Barn has you covered with cider and hard cider. Bonus points if you swing by on the weekend when they’ve got live music and food trucks. It’s like fall’s greatest hits all in one spot.

5. End the day with dinner and a show

When the sun goes down and you’re happily tired from all the exploring, it’s time to eat. Take your pick: Casa de Oro for tacos, Peony Chinese for Asian cuisine, Doc’s Stadium for a sports bar vibe, Breadeaux Pizza for the pizza and pasta, or Lucky’s for house specialities, like a grilled shrimp dinner. Then head to the Sierra Community Theatre. It’s been newly renovated, but it still has that cozy, small-town theater feel. End the night with popcorn in hand, feet kicked back, and maybe a little smile because the day was just that good. :)

So there you have it, one perfectly planned Jefferson fall day that has it all: coffee, colors, cozy shopping, orchard magic, and a movie to close it out. Fall doesn’t last forever (rude, I know), so soak it up while it’s here. Jefferson in autumn has this mix of small-town charm and seasonal magic that just feels good for the soul. Grab your favorite flannel, your best people, and make a day of it. 🍂