6 Ways to spend your fall break
October 9, 2026
By Emma Smith and Emily Davis
Hey Terps! We know this time of the semester is busy for a lot of us with midterms, but fall break is finally here, and we have some great ideas for how you can spend it! As college students, we have to take advantage of any free time we can get. Whether you prefer to spend it at home or out and about, we have some recommendations for how you can utilize it and unwind.
1. Visit a Pumpkin Patch
It’s finally that time again! What’s a better way to kick off fall than by visiting a pumpkin patch with some friends? It's the perfect opportunity to take some cute pictures, spend time outside, and even bring home a pumpkin for you to carve or paint later. It’s an unbeatable classic fall activity and now is your chance!
2. Nature Walk / Trail
After spending so much time on our screens, it can be especially restorative to spend some time disconnected and in nature. This time of year is especially momentous, as the leaves are beginning to change colors and the cool autumn breeze fills the air. If you happen to be staying in College Park for break, now would be a great opportunity to check out the Paint Branch Trail and Lake Artemesia.
3. Bake a Sweet Treat
Who doesn’t love a homemade sweet treat? On top of that, just imagine the sweet aroma that’ll fill your kitchen as your creations come to fruition. So now that stores have finally released their fall products, it’s time to indulge…
In case you’re wondering what to make, here are a few of our personal autumn favorites:
Pumpkin Bread
Maple Cinnamon Blondies
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
Apple Cider Snickerdoodles
4. Decorate for Fall
If you haven’t done so already, fall break is the perfect time to liven up your living space with some seasonal decor. Tap into that fall mood, throw on a movie or play some music, and start decorating! And in the case that you don’t have any, get to crafting! There are numerous easy-to-make fall crafts that can both serve a purpose and make for a fun way to spend time. The opportunities are endless, let your creativity flow!
5. Yoga
Stress from classes and assignments can translate to physical tension, so now is the perfect time to let loose with some yoga. Once you sink into the movements and ease your body into relaxation, you’ll feel incredibly rejuvenated. Not only are there physical benefits, but spending time listening internally to your body and mind together can help you alleviate stress and create a more sound mind. Give it a try!
6. Schedule an appointment with the OCC!
Last, but certainly not least, scheduling an appointment with us at the OCC can have amazing benefits. With our aid, we can elevate your communication skills and ease your anxieties about any upcoming presentations. Whether you’d like help fine-tuning your speech, or even just need an audience to practice in front of, we’d love to help. Give us a visit in the Skinner Building on the second floor in room 2117!