Fall is one of the best times of year in Cincinnati. The air turns crisp, the leaves burst into color, and the entire region comes alive with festivals, outdoor fun, and Halloween excitement.

Whether you’re looking for cozy seasonal traditions or heart-pounding haunted attractions, Southern Ohio and Northern Kentucky offer something for everyone.

Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Cincinnati this fall — including why The Dent Schoolhouse should be at the top of your Halloween bucket list.


Enjoy Classic Fall Activities

Nothing says fall like spending time outdoors. Throughout the Cincinnati area, local farms and fall festivals offer classic seasonal experiences for families, couples, and groups.

Popular fall favorites include:

  • Pumpkin picking at local pumpkin patches

  • Getting lost in a corn maze

  • Scenic hayrides through the countryside

  • Apple picking, cider, and fresh baked treats

Local favorites such as Shaw Farms Market and Blooms & Berries Fall on the Farm are great places to enjoy autumn weather while supporting local agriculture.

For more seasonal ideas, check out:

These resources are updated each year and highlight new events happening throughout September and October.


Experience Unique Fall Events Around the City

Cincinnati’s event calendar fills up quickly once fall arrives. Throughout the season, you’ll find special experiences happening nearly every weekend.

Some highlights include:

  • The Jack O’Lantern Glow at the Cincinnati Zoo, featuring thousands of carved pumpkins

  • Halloween concerts and candlelight performances at historic venues like Memorial Hall

  • Neighborhood bar crawls and costume parties

  • Outdoor movie nights, fall beer festivals, and community events

From family-friendly celebrations to adults-only nightlife, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the season.


Haunted Houses and Halloween Thrills

If your idea of fall fun includes fear, the Cincinnati area is packed with haunted attractions. Visitors can find:

  • Haunted hayrides

  • Outdoor haunted trails

  • Ghost tours and paranormal experiences

  • Walk-through haunted houses ranging from mild to extreme

While there are many options, thrill-seekers looking for a high-intensity haunted attraction consistently put one experience at the top of their list.


Why The Dent Schoolhouse Is a Must-Visit This Fall

Located in a historic former school building, The Dent Schoolhouse delivers a fully immersive haunted attraction experience from the moment you arrive.

Guests move through detailed environments, cinematic scenes, and live-actor encounters that bring the legend of Charlie the Janitor to life. Each year, the attraction updates sets, effects, and story elements, giving returning visitors something new to experience.

Beyond the haunted house itself, visitors can also enjoy the Monster Midway, featuring:

  • Food and drinks

  • Games and entertainment

  • Music and themed atmosphere

  • Over 10+ free photo opportunities

Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, a date night, or a group adventure, Dent Schoolhouse offers one of the most memorable fall experiences in the region.

Location: 5963 Harrison Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45248
Season: Open September through early November
Parking: Free onsite parking
Access: Conveniently located minutes off I-74 and easily accessible from the Cincinnati tri-state area


Plan Your Perfect Fall in Cincinnati

From pumpkin patches and festivals to haunted attractions and Halloween events, there’s no shortage of things to do in Cincinnati this fall.

If you’re building your seasonal bucket list, make sure The Dent Schoolhouse is at the top — and use the resources above to fill your calendar with even more autumn adventures.

Blog