If you’re anything like me, the crisp, cool air of autumn draws you outside.  Fall has always been my favorite season and you can find me smiling through almost all of it.  The cider, the leaves, the pumpkins and squash, the soups, the football and soccer games…what’s not to love?

If you need some fresh ideas about where to explore the great outdoors in your area, check out this Nature Center Map.  You can enter your zip code and find great nature centers near you.

If arboretums are more your style, check out this list of arboretums by state.  Many of them have reciprocal or reduced admission privileges, so if you belong to one locally, you could take a fun day trip to visit another.

Zoos and aquariums can be fun in the fall, too.  Check with your local zoo to see what kind of activity and exhibits they have right now.  Check this listing of zoos and aquariums by state to find something close to you.  And don’t forget that zoos and aquariums, too, often offer reciprocal privileges for members.  Be sure to check around so you don’t miss out on a free or low-cost admission!

photo credit:  graybeard763