5 Fun Ways to Enjoy Fall Vibes Early in Michigan This August

If you’ve noticed the weather cooling off in West Michigan this week, you’re not alone. After a stretch of sticky summer days, Grand Rapids is finally giving us a little preview of fall.

And while the pumpkin patches and apple orchards aren’t open just yet, you can still lean into those autumn vibes with a few local activities.

Here are five ways to make it feel like fall right now:

1. Visit Spirit Halloween
Nothing screams “fall is coming” like wandering through a Spirit Halloween store. Several locations around Grand Rapids have already opened, so you can browse costumes, stock up on decorations, or just get spooked by the animatronics.

2. Grab a Cozy Drink at a Local Coffee Shop
Many coffee shops in GR quietly roll out fall drinks before September. Or, if you love those flavors year round go to a place with a large syrup list like Wealthy Street Bakery or Last Mile Cafe. In worst case scenario, just order a chai latte and pretend it’s October already.

3. Hit the Trails in Cooler Weather
The temps are finally bearable again, which makes it the perfect time to explore local hiking spots like Provin Trails, Aman Park, or even Riverside Park.

It may still look like summer, but the crisp air in the morning and later in the afternoon gives it a fall feel. (And it's my dog Tulip's favorite weather to tag along)

4. Break Out the Fall Candles
If you’re not ready to fully decorate for autumn, start small. Light up a pumpkin, apple, or cinnamon-scented candle and instantly transform your living room into a cozy fall hideaway.

(Also, I spotted all of the Halloween scents out at the Bath and Body Works in the Woodland and Rivertown Crossing Malls, so go ahead and treat yourself if you need a new one.)

5. Have a “Fall Movie Night”
Pop some popcorn, grab a blanket, and queue up a spooky favorite or a cozy fall flick. It’s the perfect way to lean into the cooler nights without waiting for October.

You can also catch a thriller like Weapons at the Getty Drive In-Theatre this weekend with the windows down to really get that authentic fall feel.

So while we may still have a few hot days ahead, there’s no reason you can’t celebrate fall early. After all, in Michigan, you’ve got to take the cozy moments when you can get them.