Top 5 Fall Activities in the East Valley That Don't Require Leaving Town
By Susan Seiber, Easy Valley Real Estate Expert
Can I let you in on a little secret? You don't have to drive to Flagstaff or Sedona to get that perfect fall experience with your family. Right here in the East Valley, we've got some absolutely amazing fall activities that rival anything you'll find up north—and the best part? You can be home in time for dinner.
As someone who's lived in Gilbert for years and raised kids here, I've discovered that our East Valley fall scene is pretty spectacular. Perfect weather, gorgeous desert backdrops, and activities that actually feel like autumn (even when it's still 85 degrees). Let me share my favorite local spots that make fall in Arizona absolutely magical.
Quick Answer Summary
What are the best fall activities in East Valley Arizona? Top fall activities include Schnepf Farms pumpkin patch and corn maze, Salt River Fields baseball and events, Desert Botanical Garden seasonal displays, Superstition Mountains hiking, and Gilbert Farmers Market fall celebrations.
When is the best time for East Valley fall activities? October through December offers ideal weather (75-85°F) for outdoor activities, with peak season events typically running October through November.
Are there pumpkin patches near Gilbert, Chandler, and Mesa? Yes, Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek (15 minutes from Gilbert) offers Arizona's premier pumpkin patch experience with 20 acres of pumpkins, corn mazes, and family activities.
Why East Valley Fall Beats Driving to Flagstaff
Look, I get it. Everyone thinks you have to head up north for "real" fall activities. But here's what I've learned after years of doing both: our East Valley fall experiences are actually better in a lot of ways.
The Weather is Actually Perfect: While Flagstaff might be getting its first snow, we're sitting pretty with 75-85 degree days and cool evenings. You can wear that cute fall outfit without freezing, and the kids can actually enjoy outdoor activities without bundling up like they're going to Antarctica.
No Road Trip Required: Instead of spending half your weekend driving and dealing with traffic, you can hit up amazing fall activities and still have time for soccer practice and grocery shopping. Trust me, as a busy mom, this is a game-changer.
The Desert Fall Vibe is Unique: There's something magical about pumpkin patches with mountain views and corn mazes under clear blue skies. It's fall, but it's Arizona fall—and honestly, I think it's even better.
1. Schnepf Farms: The Pumpkin Patch That Puts Others to Shame
Okay, let me tell you about Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek. This place is only about 15 minutes from Gilbert, and it's basically fall wonderland. I'm talking 300 acres of working farmland with 20 acres just for pumpkins. Twenty acres!
What Makes Schnepf Farms Special: Every October, this place transforms into the ultimate fall destination. You can pick your own pumpkins right from the vine (the kids love this), get lost in massive corn mazes, and experience what a real working farm feels like. It's not some artificial fall setup—this is the real deal.
My Family's Schnepf Tradition: We go every year, usually in mid-October when the weather is perfect. The kids always want to find the biggest pumpkin possible, and I love watching them run through the corn maze. Pro tip: go on a weekday if you can—it's way less crowded, and you can actually enjoy the experience without fighting crowds.
What to Expect:
•Pumpkin picking directly from the fields
•Multiple corn mazes for different skill levels
•Hayrides around the farm
•Farm animals and petting zoo
•Fresh produce and farm-fresh treats
•Amazing photo opportunities with mountain backdrops
The best part? It feels like authentic fall, even in the desert. The farm has been family-owned for generations, and you can tell they put their heart into creating something special.
2. Salt River Fields: More Than Just Baseball
Here's something most people don't know: Salt River Fields in Scottsdale (right on the border with the East Valley) becomes an amazing fall destination once baseball season winds down.
Fall Events and Activities: Throughout October and November, they host fall festivals, outdoor movie nights, and community events. The venue itself is gorgeous, with those incredible mountain views, and there's something really special about enjoying fall activities in a professional sports setting.
Why I Love It: The kids feel like they're somewhere important (because they are!), and the facilities are top-notch. Clean bathrooms, good food options, and plenty of parking. Sometimes it's the practical stuff that makes or breaks a family outing.
What to Look For:
•Fall festival events with local vendors
•Outdoor movie screenings under the stars
•Community celebrations and seasonal markets
•Special events during October and November
3. Desert Botanical Garden: Fall Colors, Arizona Style
Now, I know what you're thinking—"Susan, it's the desert. Where are the fall colors?" But here's the thing: the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix (about 20 minutes from Gilbert) does fall differently, and it's absolutely beautiful.
Arizona's Version of Fall Foliage: Instead of changing leaves, you get incredible seasonal displays, special exhibits, and the most gorgeous desert landscaping you've ever seen. Plus, October through December is when the weather is perfect for walking around and actually enjoying the outdoors.
What Makes It Special: The garden creates seasonal displays that celebrate fall in the desert. Think pumpkins and gourds arranged among cacti and succulents, special lighting for evening visits, and educational programs about desert plants and wildlife.
Family-Friendly Features:
•Easy walking paths for all ages
•Interactive exhibits and educational programs
•Seasonal photography opportunities
•Special events and workshops
•Beautiful picnic areas
The kids always learn something new, and honestly, it's one of the most peaceful places to spend a fall afternoon.
4. Superstition Mountains: Hiking Season is Back
Once the summer heat breaks, the Superstition Mountains become absolutely perfect for family hiking. I'm talking about some of the most beautiful desert scenery you'll find anywhere, and it's right in our backyard.
Why Fall is Perfect for Superstition Hiking: The temperatures drop to comfortable levels, the lighting is gorgeous for photos, and you can actually enjoy being outside without feeling like you're melting. Plus, the mountain views are incredible this time of year.
Family-Friendly Trails:
•Treasure Loop Trail: Easy 2.4-mile loop perfect for kids
•Peralta Trail: More challenging but amazing views
•Lost Dutchman State Park: Multiple trail options and facilities
What I Tell Families: Start early in the morning, bring plenty of water (even in fall), and don't forget the camera. The desert is beautiful year-round, but there's something special about fall hiking when the weather is perfect and the crowds are smaller.
Safety Tips:
•Always tell someone your hiking plans
•Bring more water than you think you need
•Stay on marked trails
•Check weather conditions before heading out
5. Gilbert Farmers Market: Fall Celebration Central
Every Saturday morning, the Gilbert Farmers Market transforms into a fall celebration that perfectly captures our community spirit. It's not just about buying produce (though the fall vegetables are amazing)—it's about experiencing the season with your neighbors.
What Makes Gilbert Farmers Market Special: From October through December, the market embraces fall with seasonal vendors, pumpkin displays, and that perfect fall weather that makes you want to spend the whole morning outside. Plus, it's walking distance from some of Gilbert's best neighborhoods.
Fall Highlights:
•Local farms selling pumpkins, gourds, and fall produce
•Seasonal crafts and decorations from local artisans
•Live music and community entertainment
•Food trucks with fall-inspired menus
•Kids' activities and face painting
Why We Love It: It's become our Saturday morning tradition. The kids get to see where their food comes from, we support local businesses, and there's something really special about being part of a community celebration. Plus, the coffee is excellent, and you can't beat the people-watching.
Practical Info:
•Every Saturday morning, year-round
•Free parking and admission
•Pet-friendly (bring the dog!)
•Easy access from anywhere in Gilbert
Making the Most of East Valley Fall
Here's what I've learned about enjoying fall in the East Valley: it's all about embracing what makes our area special instead of trying to recreate somewhere else.
The East Valley Fall Advantage:
•Perfect weather for outdoor activities
•No crowds like you'd find in tourist destinations
•Everything is close to home
•You can do multiple activities in one day
•Local businesses and community connections
My Fall Activity Strategy: I like to plan one big fall outing per weekend throughout October and November. Maybe Schnepf Farms one weekend, hiking in the Superstitions the next, and the farmers market every Saturday morning. It keeps the season feeling special without overwhelming our schedule.
Tips for Families:
•Start early in the day when weather is coolest
•Bring layers—mornings can be cool, afternoons warm
•Don't forget the camera—fall lighting in Arizona is incredible
•Plan for crowds on weekends at popular spots
•Check event calendars for special fall programming
Why I Love East Valley Fall
After living here for years, I've come to appreciate that our version of fall is pretty amazing. We get all the fun of seasonal activities—pumpkin patches, corn mazes, outdoor festivals—but with perfect weather and gorgeous desert scenery.
The Real Benefits:
•More time enjoying activities, less time traveling
•Perfect weather for outdoor family time
•Supporting local businesses and community
•Creating traditions that are uniquely Arizona
•Building connections with neighbors and community
For Families Considering Moving Here: If you're thinking about relocating to the East Valley, fall is actually a great time to visit and get a feel for the area. You'll see our communities at their best—perfect weather, active outdoor life, and that sense of community that makes this area special for families.
Ready to Experience East Valley Fall?
Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, I hope this gives you some ideas for making the most of our beautiful fall season. There's something for every family, and the best part is that it's all right here in our backyard.
My Challenge to You: Pick one new fall activity this year. Maybe it's finally visiting Schnepf Farms, or taking that hike in the Superstitions you've been talking about. Fall in the East Valley is too good to miss.
And if you're house hunting and want to find a home that's close to all these amazing fall activities, I'd love to help you explore neighborhoods that put you right in the heart of East Valley's best seasonal experiences.
Visit CactusLivingAZ.com or follow me on Instagram @gilbertrealestateagent for more East Valley lifestyle insights and real estate tips.
Because sometimes the best fall experiences are the ones you don't have to drive hours to find.
