Fall in Love with Oxford, Ohio

What is it about autumn that is so magical? Is it the leaves changing from green to gold? The crisp, cool air that invites soft blankets and open windows? The gourds, warm drinks, cozy sweaters, and flannel? We vote D). All of the above.

And there's no better place to experience fall than in a small town like Oxford, where our already charming brick-lined streets feel even more inviting with a scattered layer of crunchy, fallen leaves. It's like walking through Stars Hollow in an episode of Gilmore Girls.

Below is an entire roundup of all the ways to get your fall on here in Oxford. Take a spooky self-guided tour, bundle up and walk through a market, hit up a nature trail, and marvel at the colors all around you. Whatever you do, remember to take photos and use #FallinLoveWithOxford2022 so we can see how you've decided to spend the perfect fall day here in the best small town around.

---

Fall flavors are the favorite of many and for good reason! From apple creations like cider and pie to pumpkin-flavored-everything, autumn is undoubtedly the season of cozy food and drink.

Every year Oxford businesses all throughout town put seasonal food options on their menu (pumpkin and cheesecake swirled ice cream, anyone?) and we've rounded them up for you here.

What is it about markets that just screams fall? We can't quite put our finger on it but what we do know for sure is that putting on your comfiest sweater and taking a stroll through a local market is a classic autumnal activity.

Oxford has several markets for you to explore, each offering a little something different. Looking for pumpkins? Mums? A corn maze? Oxford markets have all these and more.

Additionally, we recommend perusing one of Oxford's local shops for fun fall decor like candles and yard signs.

Oxford has no shortage of natural trails and they're especially fun to explore at this time of year because of the changing colors all around you.

To help you get started, we've listed 5 nature trails in particular that we think you're going to love to see. But don't stop there. There are over 17 miles of trails throughout town!

We also recommend an afternoon walk around the Miami University campus because all that red brick was just made to be enjoyed alongside the gold and auburn leaves. In fact, this self-guided tree walk will show you exactly what the different trees are all throughout campus.

Miami University is the second-oldest university in Ohio, having been founded over 200 ago in 1809. And if I know anything, it's that old institutions are bound to have some spooky histories.

Miami is no exception, with ghost stories about different buildings on campus being passed down from generation to generation.

You can learn about these stories during the Miami University Ghosts & Gears Bike Tours being offered on October 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, and 27. You can register here.

Until then, why not explore a little on your own? Wait until dark, bring a flashlight, and walk around to some of the locations listed here.

Or...are you too scared?

Note: All buildings on this self-guided tour are meant to be seen from the outside only. Please do not attempt to enter the buildings. Here's a map to help you find your way.

Who is ready to get into their Halloween costume for real this year? I know I am.

Uptown Trick or Treat and Lions Club Parade is back! This list of activities we started, there are many ways to have spooky fun around town this year.

We'll be updating our list through October as we learn of more events and activities, so keep checking back.