(WXYZ) — The season is changing, and fall is here. But the pandemic isn't going anywhere.
As parents all across metro Detroit are looking for ways to engage and entertain their children and themselves, if you're out of ideas, no worries.
Here's the rundown of the best autumn activities to enjoy while keeping you and your families safe.
Wayne County nursing student and dance instructor Olajide Elegbede loves fall. When the weather cooperates, he even takes his dance classes outside.
"The leaves falling. The changing colors, it's beautiful for me," he said.
#7) Watch football
If you're looking for something to get your heart pumping try watching the lions, wolverines or spartans battle it out on the gridiron. It's 7th on our list.
This year tailgating may be in your backyard but no matter where you root on your team, it's classic fall fun.
#6) Go biking
Coming in sixth is biking! It's great exercise and a lot of fun. Check out the Dequindre Cut and the Riverwalk in Detroit or one of the metroparks!
#5) Take nature hikes
Get away from it all with a nature hike. That's 5th on our list. Called nature's therapy, hiking is great for our emotional health and offers a great chance to show and teach children about the natural world around them.
#4) Bonfire or firepit
Coming in at #4 are bonfires, and the backyard fire pit. When the sun goes down, gather around the fire. Make s'mores, tell spooky stories and enjoy sing-along campfire songs. The fun you have might just make this an annual tradition.
#3) See fall colors
Lots of events have been canceled, but you can stop the eruption of fantastic fall colors that will be on full display this month. Take a weekend drive on M-22 Up North or visit the Pontiac recreation area. Peak should arrive in metro Detroit the week of Oct. 19.
#2) Enjoy cider and donuts
After the biking and hiking, you might want to slow down and enjoy some warm apple cider and donuts. It's a Michigan family classic, and you're never really to far from a cider mill. This autumn they are set up for social distance. Olajide visited his first cider mill about a year ago. He says it was a great experience.
#1) Picking apples and pumpkins
And the number one socially distanced family activity is picking apples and pumpkins. For many families, it's an annual must do. Add a hayride and you have memories that will last a lifetime.
Michigan has some of the best fall weather in America, and autumn is setting in right now.
When the colors begin to change be sure to show your falls pictures on our Channel 7 Facebook page.