The weather cooling down may tempt you to do the same daily tasks on repeat. But don’t let the chilly air keep you from inviting fun and whimsy into your routine! Let these side quests enrich the fall season and instill a sense of adventure — even only for a couple of hours a day.

1. Hike a popular trail in your area.

It doesn’t have to be some big mountain range. It can be just a walking trail in your neighborhood. Lace up your sneakers and walk with friends. Put all distractions away and let yourself enjoy the fall foliage.

2. Start a pet sitting side hustle.

Do you love hanging out with your furry friends? Offer pet sitting services to friends and family who go out of town on a weekend trip or to visit loved ones. It’s also a bonus to earn some extra cash during the semester.

3. Host a scavenger hunt.

But make it fun! Seek out everyday items when out with friends — like a blue striped backpack, orange sweater, or tennis shoes with red soles.

4. Tie-dye an old T-shirt.

This is an easy activity to do with friends on any weeknight. All you need is a tie-dye kit, a few blank tees, and some time for the shirts to dry. Then you can match each other and wear out and about!

5. Offer to clean the local corps or Kroc Center.

Wake up Saturday morning, get your friends together, and offer to the corps officer in charge to help tidy the corps or Kroc Center. Or ask if there’s any help needed. You never know — any small tasks can go a long way!

6. Try every coffee shop in your city.

Go to every coffee shop in your town and other neighboring towns and rank all the customized fall-themed coffee specials. The next time someone asks, “Know any good coffee shops,” you can pull out your list. 

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