Maya Martin, Editor

Fall is the perfect time to get cozy inside with some coffee and a movie, but why not go out with the crisp air and outdoor activities before it gets too cold? If you’re looking for some fun fall-inspired activities to do with your friends this autumn season, here is a list of five fun activities that are happening right here in Philly! 

1. Eastern State Penitentiary

First on the list, is a well-known attraction that never fails to impress at Halloween time! That is the Eastern State Penitentiary. Located in the Fairmount section of Philly, the Eastern State Penitentiary is a historic 10-acre real abandoned prison. It holds a variety of different activities to get involved in throughout the year, but Halloween time is when it is most visited.

Currently, the penitentiary is hosting Halloween Nights, which include five haunted houses, historic tours, themed bars and lounges, live performances and many other activities! Halloween Nights started back in September, and it runs until November 11. Ticket prices vary by night, but start at $39, a great price considering how much is included in the night! The haunted houses include a 3D haunted house, Al Capone’s cell, a vampire-themed lounge, a guided flashlight walkthrough tour and more. Different activities may include an extra cost, but be sure to check out the Eastern State Penitentiary website to find out more information! So, if you are into scares and looking for a fun place to go with friends, this is just the place!

2. Spooky Mini Golf

Looking for something a little less scary? No problem! Franklin Square is hosting spooky mini golf as they do every October. Although “spooky” is in the title, the activity is your usual mini golf with some added Halloween decorations, so it’s nothing too scary! There are a total of 18 holes surrounded by Philly landmarks covered in spooky seasonal decorations! The course is open every day in October from 6:00-9:00 p.m. and is $15 for adults, but if you sign up through the Campus Philly website you can get tickets for $10! This is a great way to spend a night after classes to relax and enjoy a good time with friends or family!

3. Explore the Fall Foliage at a Park

Just outside of campus, Philly is home to many beautiful parks, and two in particular are known for their beautiful fall foliage: Wissahickon Park and Fairmount Park. Wissahickon Park is just three miles from campus and has beautiful landscapes and trees that are changing colors right as you are reading this. Fall is the perfect time of year to grab a blanket, snacks and some friends to go have a picnic with a beautiful autumn background.

Similarly, Fairmount Park is also a close five miles away from campus and has over 2,000 acres of gorgeous landscape. Aside from beautiful nature trails and hidden pathways, Fairmount Park is home to the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, a beautiful greenhouse called the Horticulture Center and the Mann Center, a great outdoor concert venue. The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden is highly recommended. It is a traditional 17-century Japanese home replica that has a large variety of plant life, tours, art exhibits and more. During the fall time, it is an amazing spot to visit and is only $9 when you present a student ID.

4. Philadelphia Ghost Tours

Last but certainly not least is another activity for fellow thrill seekers: Philadelphia ghost tours. These spooky tours take place in Independence National Park, Old City and Society Hill, where you embark on a guided candle-lit walking tour and learn about one of the most haunted cities, our own Philadelphia. The haunted tours occur nightly and are $25 per person, but you can find special discounts on The Ghost Tour of Philadelphia website. It was even, “Named one of the top 15 ‘must see’ attractions in the US,” according to the website! So, if you are looking to hear some stories of haunted attractions, paranormal activity and other reported mysterious occurrences, be sure to check out these spooky tours.

Writer’s note: Now, after hearing about some of Philly’s greatest fall and Halloween time activities, I hope you seek out some of these events with friends and family! No matter what activity you are looking to take part in, also be sure to check out the Campus Philly website before doing so because they offer a variety of discounts for college students. Finally, have a safe and happy fall!