Every August, I find myself looking forward to fall. It’s been that way since I was a schoolgirl. Back in my home country, school didn’t start until September, so the end of summer always felt like the beginning of something new and exciting. That feeling has never left me.

Here in Basel, fall has become my favorite season of all. The heat of summer often feels overwhelming, and this summer I spent weeks hiding away in our cool apartment. But when the air finally turns crisp, the golden light filters through the trees, and the leaves start to change, it feels like a breath of fresh air. Fall in Basel is also the perfect season for families. From forest walks and pumpkin picking to fun-filled fairs and cultural day trips, there are endless ways to make the most of this magical time together.

If you’re searching for the best fall family activities in Basel, here are my top recommendations, and many of them are easily accessible by public transport.

Easily Accessible by Public Transport from Basel

1.Walk through Bruderholz and enjoy a cozy stop at Predigerhof

One of the easiest and most relaxing fall family activities in Basel is exploring the gentle trails of Bruderholz. Stroller-friendly and peaceful, it’s perfect for a family walk. End your hike at Predigerhof, a farm-style restaurant where kids can meet goats while you enjoy hearty local food and drinks.

📍How to get there: I’d recommend taking tram 15 or 16 to the Bruderholz stop. From there, walk toward the Bruderholz Wasserturm (water tower), then follow the path that goes down through the fields.

2. Mathis-Hof: Corn Maze & Pumpkin Fair

For fall fun with a twist, visit Mathis-Hof in Bottmingen. Open until mid-October, it features a giant corn maze, slides, trampolines, and over 250 types of pumpkins. Just a short tram or bus ride away, it’s a must on your list of family fall activities near Basel.

📍How to get there: You can follow the same route as above (it is a bit longer), or take bus 47 to the Bottmingen, Fiechthag stop. From there, simply follow the signs “Maislabyrinth” toward the forest

3. Walking in Allschwilerwald

The Allschwilerwald forest is a peaceful spot for families to enjoy the beauty of fall. With flat trails perfect for little legs and strollers, it’s ideal for leaf-crunching walks and fresh air playtime.

📍How to get there: Take bus 64 to Allschwil Spitzwald, and from there, start your exploration of the forest trails

4. Allschwil Pumpkin Field

Pair your walk in Allschwilerwald with a stop at the pumpkin fields in Allschwilerbuur. Kids love picking their own pumpkins to decorate or carve at home. This is a classic fall family activity.

📍How to get there: It’s conveniently located right at the bus stop that leads into the forest (as explained above), making it easy to combine both activities. There’s also a large parking lot nearby if you prefer to come by car.

5. Basel Fall Fair (Herbstmesse)

Since 1471, the Basel Fall Fair has been the highlight of the season. Families can enjoy rides, games, handmade crafts, and delicious seasonal treats like Chäsbängel (bread filled with cheese fondue). It’s the biggest and most traditional fall family event in Basel and one of my personal favourites.

6. Ermitage in Arlesheim

Ermitage is Switzerland’s largest English-style garden. With caves, ponds, and winding paths, it feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Kids will love exploring, while parents can enjoy the peaceful fall atmosphere. This is a great location not just for the fall, but the colors are just magical at this time of the year.

📍How to get there: Take tram 10 to Arlesheim. From the village center, follow the signs through the park. The walk is a bit longer, so bringing a stroller is recommended for younger children.

7.Local museums for rainy days

In the fall, rainy days are bound to happen, so one of the best ways to spend them is by visiting some of Basel’s most kid-friendly museums. Many of these museums even offer a free entry day each month, usually on a Sunday. Here are our family favorites for a fun and educational indoor adventure.

Naturhistorisches Museum Basel (Natural History Museum)

Kids love dinosaurs, fossils, and animal exhibits, and this museum is a classic for families. It’s educational but also engaging, with interactive displays. A cozy option for a chilly fall day.

Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel (Toy Worlds Museum)

Located right in Basel city center, this charming museum displays toys, teddy bears, and miniature worlds. It’s like stepping into a magical fairytale and is particularly enchanting in the fall/winter season.

Recommended by Car

8.Apple Picking in Füllinsdorf

The sweetest fall family activity near Basel is apple picking. At the farm Chrüzfeldhof Füllinsdorf, families can harvest apples straight from the orchard. This is the closest location to Basel (that I found so far) where families can pick their own apples, pears, and plums.

One of the best things about living in Basel is its unique location right at the border of Switzerland, Germany, and France. This means that when fall arrives, families can not only enjoy Basel’s own cozy activities but also take advantage of fun day trips just across the border.

9.Alsace Open-Air Museum in France

Just across the border in France, the Écomusée d’Alsace offers a delightful cultural adventure for families. Wander through traditional Alsatian houses, meet farm animals, and enjoy seasonal events all set against the beautiful backdrop of fall nature. It’s the perfect combination of fun and learning, making it a fantastic day trip from Basel with kids during the fall.

10.Europa-Park in Germany

For families who love a bit of adventure, Europa-Park in Rust, Germany is just over an hour’s drive from Basel. With themed lands, gentle rides for little ones, and thrilling roller coasters for older kids and adults, it offers something for everyone. In the fall, the park is beautifully decorated for the season, with countless pumpkins and autumnal touches that make a visit extra magical.

+1 Bonus: Make It a Memory📸

Fall is the perfect time to capture your family in golden light, crunchy leaves, and cozy seasonal outfits. Consider hiring a photographer for a fall-themed family session in Basel or nearby forests, parks, or pumpkin fields. Not only will you have fun exploring together, but you’ll also create lasting memories.

Here are some of my fall family photos in Basel from last year for inspiration.

Fall is one of the most magical times of year to explore Basel with your family. From pumpkin fairs and apple picking to enchanting gardens and cultural trips, there’s something for every age and interest. Whether you stay close to the city or venture a little further, these fall family activities in Basel and Basel-Land will give you unforgettable memories to remember.

So, grab your jackets, sip on some warm cider, and let this fall season be one your family never forgets.

Warmly,

Nikolett, Family Photographer in Basel