Fall Scavenger Hunt for Toddlers: Car Ride Edition 🍂🚗

Car rides with toddlers can sometimes feel very long — whether it’s a quick trip across town or a weekend drive to the pumpkin patch. One of the easiest ways to keep little ones entertained (without handing them a screen) is to turn the ride into a game. And fall is the perfect season for it!

Emily McFarlin

9/23/20251 min read

A Fall Car Ride Scavenger Hunt gives toddlers something fun to look for out the window, keeps their little minds engaged, and helps pass the time in a playful, screen-free way.

How to Play

  • Print the checklist (download below!) before you leave.

  • Give toddlers stickers or crayons so they can mark what they see.

  • Younger toddlers can just point and shout when they find something — no checklist needed.

  • Offer a small reward at the end (like picking the next fall song to play, or a favorite snack).

Toddler-Friendly Fall Scavenger Hunt List

Here are some simple, easy-to-spot fall things for your little one to find from their car seat:

  • 🍁 A yellow leaf

  • 🍂 A big pile of leaves

  • 🎃 A pumpkin on a porch

  • 🏈 A football sign or flag

  • 🦃 A turkey (yard décor or real!)

  • 🐿️ A squirrel running or climbing

  • 🪵 A stack of firewood

  • 👻 A Halloween decoration

  • 🏡 A house with a fall wreath

  • 🚜 A tractor or hay bales

Tips for Parents

  • For younger toddlers, use a scavenger hunt with pictures instead of words (great for non-readers).

  • For older toddlers and preschoolers, add extra challenge by giving them a time limit to spot each item.

  • Pack some stickers (less messy than crayons in the car) for checking off finds.

  • Make it seasonal! Play fall songs in the background for an extra cozy vibe.

Free Printable Checklist

I’ve created a toddler-friendly scavenger hunt checklist with checkboxes and simple pictures — perfect for little ones to use during the drive. You can download it here:

👉 [Insert download link or embed PDF]

Bonus: Fall Car Ride Essentials 🍎

Make your drive extra smooth with these mom-approved toddler items:

  • Spill-proof snack cups

  • Reusable water bottles

  • Travel tray for toddlers

  • Board books for fall

Final Thoughts

This Fall Car Ride Scavenger Hunt turns an ordinary drive into a little adventure for your toddler. It’s simple, screen-free, and helps create fun seasonal memories — whether you’re headed to the pumpkin patch, grandma’s house, or just running errands around town.

Happy hunting, and happy fall! 🍁