Sure, the Sunshine State may be better known for palm trees and beaches than vibrant pines and autumnal landscapes — but we definitely get our share of fall foliage! You just have to know where to look. Fortunately, we here in Gainesville are located at the heart of the state — where you’ll find forested havens unlike anything else in Florida! Just read on as we share a few fun ways to explore the outdoors, as well as other must-do fall activities.

Fuel Up with Fall Flavors

The first stop on any great fall day? Fueling up with Peach Valley Gainesville! Not only does our menu provide the sustenance you need for breakfast — or brunch, on days when you’d rather sleep in — but our lineup of fall flavors is sure to get you into the seasonal spirit. Whether you need something warm and sweet on the go, or want to kick back with a hearty meal, we’ve got you covered. A few of our top picks include…

• Orchard Fresh Apple Fritters, perfect for sharing (or not sharing) when you crave snack-worthy fall flavor that reminds you of a trip to the apple orchard.
• Griddled Ham & Brie Sandwich, a warm, wholesome treat ever-so-slightly reminiscent of your favorite Thanksgiving leftovers meal. Because, well, why wait for the holidays?
• Café Iced Caramel Coffee, because a hot day doesn’t have to mean foregoing fall flavor. Alternatively, if it is one of those deliciously brisk autumn days, you can’t go wrong with a classic Hot Chocolate!

Go Leaf-Peeping

Now that you’re fueled up, it’s time for the main attraction — and on crisp fall afternoons, that means leaf-peeping, of course! According to SmokyMountains.com’s interactive fall foliage map, the Gainesville area will see peak fall foliage in mid-November. That means there’s plenty of time to watch fall color slowly but surely come to life all around! Newnans Lake State Forest is one top spot for leaf-peeping, where gorgeous fall colors look especially brilliant next to the water. Loblolly Woods is another great option when you want to immerse yourself in Florida’s one-of-a-kind natural expanse.  

Have A Backyard Bonfire

If you have a backyard fire pit, this is the perfect time of year to light it up with friends and family! Tell spooky campfire stories, toast s’mores, and enjoy the crisp fresh air that’s on its way.  

Try Delicious DIY Concoctions

Fall is also a great time to get creative with festive drinks and baked goodies — consider it rehearsal for the approaching holiday season! Sparkling apple cider takes on an elegant new form when served up in champagne flutes rimmed with cinnamon sugar. Or, for a fun candle alternative, create your own at-home aroma with a sweet simmer pot — simply add water, apple cores, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange peels into a pot and simmer it on low to fill your kitchen with natural, feel-good fragrance that soothes the soul.

Here’s to a very happy, flavorful fall from our Peach Valley Gainesville family to yours!