Though Florida doesn’t experience the usual signs of fall that northerners look for — changing leaves, frigid nights and jackets worn by chilly commuters — there are cooler temperatures approaching for the Sunshine State.
Orlando’s average high in October dips to 85 degrees with overnight lows averaging 68, a welcome respite after summer’s sweltering highs in the 90s.
Now, Floridians are beginning to come out of their air-conditioned abodes to garden, go for an evening stroll or move their exercise routine outdoors.
Here are suggestions for ways to take advantage of the milder weather.
Take a hike
Though Central Florida doesn’t offer the stunning vistas and mountaintops found while hiking in other states, the Orlando area has scenic jaunts through tropical forests and hikes with views of wildlife, towering oak trees and other botanical delights.
Several state parks, including Wekiwa Springs, Blue Spring and Hontoon Island, offer scenic trails for recreationists of all skill levels. Seminole County offers up local gems such as Black Bear Wilderness Area and Little Big Econ State Forest.
Urban escapes include Lake Baldwin Park, Little Econ Greenway, Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake and Mead Botanical Gardens.
Visit floridahikes.com for more ideas and resources.
Go for a paddle
While it might soon feel a little too cool for a swim in Central Florida’s many springs, the crystal-clear waterways offer great paddling opportunities — not to mention the countless options on lakes, rivers, lagoons and coastal shores.
Take out the canoe, kayak or paddleboard for a trip down Juniper Springs, the Econlockhatchee River, Wekiva River, Rainbow River, Rock Springs Run or Winter Park Chain of Lakes.
Florida’s East Coast also offers paddles in the Mosquito Lagoon and Indian River Lagoon near Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Local outfitters offer rentals and tours, including Lake Life Paddle, Get Up and Go Kayaking, Adventures in Florida, A Day Away Kayak Tours, Real Florida Guide, Florida Adventurer and Peace of Mind Kayak Tours.
Have an outdoor picnic
Step one: Find that perfect, 76-degree day to spend some time outdoors. Step two: Pack your favorite sandwich, cheese, fruits, veggies and non-perishable dessert to have a pleasant outdoor picnic.
Central Florida has some splendid snacking spots, including Mead Botanical Garden, Bill Frederick Park, Lake Eola Park and Lake Ivanhoe Park.
Bring out the bike
Many Floridians, tired of being stuck inside, have dusted off their bikes and gotten out on the trails amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Bike shops have been slammed and low on inventory as the demand for cycling surges.
Central Florida has miles and miles of paved trails to explore, including on the Seminole Wekiva Trail, Cady Way Trail, Little Econ Greenway, West Orange Trail and Cross Seminole Trail.
For some mountain biking action close to Orlando, head to Lake Druid Park, Markham Woods, the Mount Dora Trail, Soldier’s Creek or Snow Hill.
See manatees
Florida’s ever-so-slightly-cooler fall temperatures serve as a sign of an annual happening right around the corner: manatee season.
November through March, the Sunshine State’s sea cows flock to the region’s abundant springs, which provide life-saving warmth when other bodies of water dip below 65 degrees.
Central Florida manatee hotspots include Blue Spring State Park, Haulover Canal in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River and Homosassa Springs.
Visit a Central Florida fall festival or pumpkin patch
A number of Central Florida farms are hosting families and friends for pumpkin patches, autumnal eats, hayrides, corn mazes and other fall fun.
On some farms, children can ride a pony or slip down a super slide. At some festivals, sports fans can catch games on the big screen. Others sell pumpkins or feature petting zoos.
Bonus: Social distancing on Orlando-area acreage should be easily achievable while searching for the perfect pumpkin or the correct route out of a maze.
Do you have suggestions for my next destination or want to get in touch? Find me on Twitter @PConnPie, Instagram @PConnPie or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com.
