Fall in Guelph is something special. The air turns crisp, the leaves explode in colour, and there’s a little extra magic in everyday routines. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or quiet moments to soak in the season, here are eight cozy fall activities to enjoy around Guelph and beyond. 1. Pick the Perfect Pumpkin Head out to Strom’s Farm & Bakery or nearby patches to find that perfect pumpkin. From corn mazes to wagon rides, pumpkin patches are the ultimate fall day out. 2. Wander Through the Farmers’ Market The Guelph Farmers’ Market is brimming with autumn’s best: apples, squash, pies, and preserves. It’s a foodie’s dream and a great way to support local growers. 3. Sip & Stay a While at a Café Fall and lattes go hand in hand. Curl up at Found Coffee, Balzac’s, or Red Brick Café and try a seasonal drink — from pumpkin spice to chai — while enjoying the cozy atmosphere. 4. Hike Among the Fall Colours Guelph’s trails shine this time of year. Explore Preservation Park, the Arboretum, or Royal Recreation Trail to enjoy a canopy of brilliant fall leaves. 5. Take a Scenic Drive If you’re up for a mini road trip, cruise through Wellington County backroads or head toward Elora and Fergus for breathtaking fall scenery. Pack a thermos of cider and make it a day. 6. Visit a Local Winery or Brewery Savour the season with a glass of something local. Wineries and craft breweries around Guelph often release small-batch fall flavours that pair perfectly with cozy evenings. 7. Get Lost in a Corn Maze Challenge yourself to one of the region’s corn mazes (like Strom’s). It’s a fun, interactive way to spend a crisp afternoon — and kids love it too. 8. Have a Cozy Night In Don’t underestimate the simple joy of fall at home. Light a candle, bake something sweet, and curl up under a blanket. Sometimes the coziest activity is staying put. Fall in Full Swing With so many ways to embrace the season, fall in Guelph is all about making memories. From outdoor adventures to simple comforts at home, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Thinking of a new home to cozy up in this fall? Our team at the Hudson Smith Group is here to help you find the perfect place. Get in touch with us today to start your next move.

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, fall is more than pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters—it’s also the ideal time to prep your home for the colder months ahead. A little effort now can save you money, stress, and even unexpected repair bills once winter rolls in. Here’s your go-to fall checklist to make sure your home is ready for whatever the season brings. 1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts Falling leaves and debris can quickly clog gutters, leading to ice dams and water damage once temperatures drop. Clear them out, run some water through the downspouts, and make sure everything drains away from your foundation. 2. Check Your Roof Before the snow piles up, take a look (from the ground or with binoculars) for missing shingles, loose flashing, or signs of wear. Catching small issues now can prevent costly leaks later. 3. Seal Windows and Doors Drafts are sneaky energy thieves. Walk through your home with your hand near the frames of windows and doors—if you feel cold air, it’s time for caulking, weatherstripping, or even replacing old seals. 4. Service Your Furnace (and Change the Filter!) Book a fall furnace tune-up to keep it running efficiently all winter long. While you’re at it, swap out the air filter to keep your system (and indoor air) clean. 5. Winterize Outdoor Water Lines Drain and shut off outdoor taps, hoses, and sprinkler systems to avoid frozen pipes. If you’ve got a pool, now’s the time for proper closing too. 6. Inspect Your Fireplace & Chimney If you’re lucky enough to enjoy a cozy fire, have your chimney inspected and cleaned. It prevents fire hazards and keeps your home smelling like cedarwood instead of smoke. 7. Protect Outdoor Furniture & BBQs Cover or store patio sets and BBQs to extend their lifespan. Bonus: less snow shoveling around clutter in the yard. 8. Stock Up on Winter Essentials Don’t wait until the first storm to find out your snow shovel is broken or your ice melt is sold out. A little prep now goes a long way. 📝 Final Tip Think of fall maintenance as your home’s annual check-up. It’s not glamorous, but it’s the best way to ensure your home stays warm, safe, and efficient all winter long—leaving you more time to enjoy the cozy parts of the season.