by Laila Kouli
As the spooky season approaches, who can resist the charm of pumpkins, warm apple cider, and a spooky story or two? But let’s be real—while Halloween is a blast, the financial burden that comes with fall activities can be daunting, especially for college students on a budget. Fear not! Lucky for you, we’ve conjured up a list of 5 affordable fall-inspired activities to do with friends in the Atlanta area that won’t haunt your wallet.
“Decatur’s Dead Are Pretty Restless”
Have you ever wondered if ghosts are real or pondered whether a house could truly be haunted? Well go see for yourself! The Decatur Ghost Tour invites you to take a tour of Decatur’s historical sites that are known for ghost sightings, including a two-story home rumored to be inhabited by spirits. Just a quick 10-minute drive from the Emory Atlanta campus and with an admission fee of $20, enjoy a thrilling night out with friends. Explore the paranormal right in your backyard—but be careful; you never know what might follow you back home!
Website for Reservation:
Movie Under The Stars
With a slight chill in the air, yet still warmed by Georgia’s signature weather, it’s the perfect time to bundle up and catch a thrilling movie under the stars at the Starlight Drive-In! Just for $10, take a quick 15-minute drive with friends, set up camp, and watch one of the new horror movies The Bagman or Never Let Go to put you in the Halloween spirit! Prefer a cozy indoor experience? Head over to Atlanta’s oldest theater, the Plaza Theater, where you can enjoy vintage thrills like Drucla and Witchy Vision.
Reserve Now: Starlight Drive-In Now Playing Plaza Theater
Jack-o’-Lantern Lane
Pumpkin patches are a timeless fall tradition that never falls to bring warmth to the autumn season. Whether you’re spending quality time with family or friends, a classic pumpkin patch is a great afternoon activity to put anyone in a fall mood. With an admission fee of $22, Southern Belle Farm is a 40-minute drive from Oxford’s campus and filled with fun activities like an animal farm, a corn maze, a corn cannon, and other fun attractions .
For more information, visit: https://www.southernbellefarm.com/
Want a Fall Night In?
If you’re swamped with schoolwork or just craving a cozy night in with friends, why not host an Autumn Evening? With a budget of $15 at a local supermarket, you can pick up some delicious fall treats like apple cider, pumpkin spice snacks, or any halloween candy. Use your streaming platform (or borrow from a friend’s) and set it up on your school laptop or use the TVs in the dorm common room for a horror movie marathon. It’s a perfect way to unwind with friends and enjoy seasonal snacks.
Fright Fest!
If you have a little extra money to spend this Halloween season but don’t want to break the bank, head over to Six Flags Fright Fest! Experience the thrill of roller coasters combined with the spooky atmosphere— it’s the ultimate destination for a fun night out with friends. For just $45, you can purchase a daily pass (just add in a few extra dollars for parking) at your right within a $50 budget. Fright Fest is filled with thrills and chills that will be an unforgettable time with your friends.
To purchase tickets, visit: https://www.sixflags.com/overgeorgia/store/tickets?
What are your favorite fall activities on a budget?