Labor Day has come and gone. Those of us who gauge the passage of time by holidays are skipping right past Columbus Day and beginning to plan Halloween costumes. But don’t pack up your picnic basket just yet! Despite the fact that more and more school districts are back in session during the final days of August, in many parts of the country September offers beautiful, warm weather without the extreme heat and humidity of mid-summer or crowds of tourists and summer campers. Take advantage of this fleeting opportunity and make the most of your weekends. Here are just a few ideas:

1. Museums, Zoos, and Exhibits, Oh My!

You aren’t the only one enjoying these cooler mornings. The animals at your local zoo appreciate this welcome reprieve from the dog days of summer, too, and will show you just how happy they are by being more active and alert during your fall visit. Head to your closest zoo, museum, or kid-friendly exhibit to take advantage of the small crowds now before school field trips kick into full swing.

2. The Road Less Traveled

Ever wonder where that winding road that you pass every year on your way to the family reunion leads? Have you seen a sign for a lake a dozen times, but never took the time to find out what they’ve got to offer? Check it out and you may find paddle boats, picnic tables, and a wonderful day trip.

3. Parks, Please

During the summer many of us head out to the park as early as possible to beat the heat that bears down on us by mid-morning. Relax, take a leisurely pace, and enjoy those local playgrounds that you avoided all summer because of metal slides or insufficient shade. Check with your county’s park and planning commission to find a map of parks in your area that you may have missed.

4. My Fair Lady

Autumn is fair time and who doesn’t enjoy a good carnival game or candied apple? Check out www.festivals.com, which bills itself as “the internet’s largest Festival and Event resource.” You may also want to check out your local county or state website for more informational about area agricultural fairs.

5. It’s Pickin’ Time!

Agritainment is a booming industry – combining agriculture and entertainment – and the fall is the perfect time to enjoy your local scenery as well as farm fresh produce. Apples are fall’s favorite fruit, and combined with a hayride and a caramel apple making kit, there’s no better way to spend a beautiful fall Saturday than a trip to your local “pick your own” farm.

Now get off of your computer and get out there!

Amy (ResourcefulMommy) writes about a number of mostly helpful and often humorous topics on her blog, ResourcefulMommy.