Before we all bask in the beauty of the frosty and snow-kissed surroundings that winter brings, let’s first make the most of what Mother Nature has in store during autumn — the cool breeze, spectacular fall colors, wonderful fall activities, and most of all, delicious pumpkin-spiced baked goods and warm, cozy drinks.

In this article, we round up four must-do fall activities for travel nurses, especially those with assignments in states that paint picture-perfect fall sceneries, such as Ohio, Vermont, NY, Massachusetts, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. We hope that this article will inspire you to take advantage of the season to do fun activities, boost your fitness levels, have fun, make genuine connections, and fall in love with the city you’re in.

A list of fun things to do in the fall for travel nurses

1. Go exploring and leaf peeping

Granted, you can go exploring any time of the year, but fall is the only time you’ll be surrounded by beautiful golden foliage and experience crisp, perfect weather while taking a stroll. On your days off, you can go on a hike, walk through national parks to leaf peep, or go on a foliage road trip to breathe in the cool air and be mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery. Not only is movement great for your physical health, but it also reduces tension, stress, and mental fatigue.  

If you’re planning to explore the great outdoors during this time of the year, don’t forget to wear layered clothing and comfortable footwear, bring your camera (or mobile phone), and recreate responsibly.

2. Participate in fall-themed activities around the city

There are many fall activities that you can participate in on your own (if you’re traveling solo) or with your loved ones (if they were able to accompany you on your assignment). You can visit a pumpkin patch or apple orchard or even join fall events such as beer, wine, or cider festivals.

Here are some fun and interesting festivals you can join this fall:

·  The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Hudson Valley and Long Island, New York

·   Autumn at the Arboretum in Dallas, Texas

·  Salem Haunted Happenings in Salem, Massachusetts

·  Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival in Stowe, Vermont

Visiting festivals is a great way to meet new friends and expand your network, which is important especially if you’re feeling a bit homesick or dealing with loneliness.

3. Be one with nature

On your days or weekends off, take the time to relax and enjoy the grandeur of autumn by booking a cabin by the woods or mountains. Look for cozy and quaint A-frame cabins, tree houses, or cottages in your area that will give you the best views of the fall foliage. You can also make the most of your mini fall adventure by doing fall activities that you don’t normally get to do, such as chopping up wood, bird watching, baking pies, building a bonfire, and making s’mores.

4. Spend time with your fellow nurses

You can make the most of fall even when you’re working. Bring cozy, autumn vibes and the spirit of gratitude into the workplace by bringing pumpkin-flavored treats and hot drinks (it’s pumpkin-spiced latte season, after all).

You can also celebrate Thanksgiving, which occurs on the third Thursday of October, with your fellow healthcare workers. If your team will have a Thanksgiving potluck lunch or dinner, treat your coworkers by bringing delicious comfort food such as hearty soups, casseroles, and pasta dishes.