Hey friends,

If you know me, you know fall is my season. There's just something about the shift from summer chaos into crisp mornings, cozy sweaters, and a packed calendar of my favorite seasonal traditions. Unfortunately, here in Dallas, I think we have a little bit longer to wait for cooler temperatures, and they can’t come soon enough. Here's what has me excited this fall, plus a couple of upcoming trips I can't wait to share with you.

🏈 The Things I Can't Get Enough Of

College Football - Saturdays are sacred again. With an Alabama grad (who’s now at LSU Law School), a sophomore Gator at Florida, and a Boomer Sooner husband, college football is everything in our house. It's the unofficial start of fall for me every single year.

Apple Picking - Give me a basket, an orchard, and an afternoon, and I'm the happiest person alive. Bonus points if there's a cider donut stand nearby. Wishing we had more of these opportunities in Texas, but a girl can dream! (HERE are some of our favorite spots near Chicago)

Corn Mazes - Getting a little lost, a little confused, and a lot entertained - corn mazes never get old. They're the perfect low-key family outing that somehow turns into a competitive event every time. (Check out our Texas favorites)

Leaf Peeping - Nothing beats watching the world turn orange, red, and gold. Whether it's a scenic drive or a hike through the woods, I will never get tired of chasing foliage. (Don’t miss our favorite places to see fall colors in the US)!

🧀 Up Next: Comté, France

Later this month, I'm heading to the Comté region of France, and yes, it's largely because I love cheese any time of year, fall included. Comté is one of my favorite cheeses, and getting to see the rolling countryside where it's actually made feels like a dream come true.

Expect rustic villages, dairy farms, and probably way too many cheese tastings. I'll be soaking up the slower pace and (of course) bringing home some serious food inspiration. Be sure to follow along on Instagram at @travelswithkirsten.

🍁 Then: Western North Carolina

In early October, I'm timing a trip to western North Carolina to catch the peak leaf-changing season. The Blue Ridge Mountains put on one of the best foliage shows in the country, and I cannot wait to hit those scenic overlooks, wind through mountain towns, and get lost in all that color. If you have favorite drives, hikes, or hidden gems in that area, send them my way!

🍂 What's Filling Your Fall?

I'd love to hear what you're loving about the season this year - favorite orchards, can't-miss games, need-to-try recipes, or foliage spots you swear by. Hit reply and let me know!

And if you're looking for a few more ideas, check out these 55+ Best Fall Activities in the US (for 2026).​

Here's to cozy sweaters, good football, and a whole lot of leaf peeping ahead.

Happy fall, y'all!

Kirsten