Netflix's "Black Lives Matter" genre collection features titles about racial injustice and the experience of Black Americans—and makes for some perfect viewing to celebrate Black History Month, Juneteenth, or to help further your anti-racist education.
If you've finished reading the best books on race and want some direction on which movie titles to watch, we recommend starting with these Netflix documentaries, films, and TV series in the collection.
Self Made
Based on a true story, this Netflix series revolves around the inspirational life of Madam C.J. Walker, an African American washerwoman who rose from poverty to build a beauty empire and become the first female self-made millionaire.
Dear White People
While the movie is categorized as a comedy-drama, the film focuses on some very serious issues, primarily the escalating racial tensions at a predominantly white Ivy League college from the perspective of several Black students. This movie spawned a great TV show of the same name, also on Netflix.
Mudbound
While the setting of this historical drama is rural Mississippi just after World War II, sadly it details themes of race and class that are still very much prevalent today. It centers around two World War II veterans—one white, one Black—who return to their farmland homes in the Mississippi Delta where stateside racism and white supremacists challenge their respective lifestyles.
American Son
When Kendra Ellis-Connor's (Kerry Washington) son does not come home, she searches for him at a Florida police station with her ex-husband. Based on the Broadway play, this Netflix film shows the unconscious bias, race dynamics, and systemic tensions the interracial couple faces while dealing with the Florida police station.
When They See Us
Based on a true story, this story takes place in 1989 when a jogger was assaulted and raped in New York's Central Park. Five teens from Harlem are falsely accused of the crime, and although they declared their innocence, the quintet spends a quarter of a century fighting the convictions against them—starting from when the teens were first questioned about the incident in the spring of 1989, all the way to their ultimate exoneration in 2002 and settlement with New York City in 2014.
Trial 4
Trial 4 is a Netflix original documentary series that shows Sean K. Ellis's fight to prove his innocence and expose police corruption that wrongfully charged him for 22 years. This series uncovers the cultural cover up affecting police departments across the country.
The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson
This Netflix original documentary chronicles the life (and suspicious death) of iconic LGBTQ rights activist Marsha P. Johnson, who was a pioneer of the gay liberation movement and held a leading role in the 1969 Stonewall Riots.
13th
Ava DuVernay holds nothing back in this eye-opening documentary—her brutally honest portrayal of the disproportionate placement of African Americans in prison speaks volumes on the institutionalized racism that looms over America.
Da 5 Bloods
Spike Lee's movie tells a side of the Vietnam story that's rarely brought to light. The drama cleverly interweaves hard-hitting emotions with social commentary as it explores the mindset of Black soldiers who fought for their country at a time when African Americans were being oppressed at home.
Two Distant Strangers
This Oscar-winning short film feels more timely than ever. It follows a Black man facing a horrific Groundhog Day scenario—where he's looping back through a deadly run-in with a cop on an innocent walk home.
Becoming
Explore the life of former first lady Michelle Obama as she takes to the road to promote her autobiography in this moving documentary.
High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America
This documentary series explores the history of African American cuisine, from its roots in Africa to a modern-day Juneteenth feast—and its profound impact on what we eat.
Barry
This Netflix film shows the journey of a young Barack Obama, who goes by "Barry" at Columbia University in New York City. Taking place in 1981, Barry faces struggles with race, strained family relationships, and life as a college student.
Zion
This inspirational short documentary film follows Zion Clark, a teen born without legs due to a rare medical condition who grew up in foster care and his journey building confidence through competitive wrestling.
Spring is a time to reawaken our love of nature and adventure. As such, we have listed several things to do this spring that might seem like they are for kids only. But we encourage even childless adults or adults with grown children to try them out, too (you'll thank us later). See how many spring activities you can cross off of your to-do list this season—whether you decide to take on the traditional rites of spring, ease into some spring mindfulness, or savor a seasonal menu.
Cherry Blossoms in Spring
While some spring activities are only for later in the season, when the days are longer and warmer (and strawberries are in season), others are perfect for enjoying the very first day of spring. (And while spring is synonymous with cleaning, everything here is fun—no spring cleaning allowed!).
Outdoor Activity Ideas
It's time to get outside and enjoy the milder weather that will only become warmer as the days go on. Embrace spring in the garden as plants and flowers begin to bloom. If you're not into gardening, explore exercise options that can be enjoyed outdoors.
Plant a spring garden (or even just a plant or two).
See the cherry blossoms.
Have a picnic at the park.
Seek out the first crocuses, snowdrops, and other spring flowers.
Go for a run.
Take a hike.
Start some seeds.
Play softball.
Ride a bike.
Enjoy the spring weather at an outdoor café.
Visit a farm to see the baby animals.
Walk on an empty beach.
Play a round of golf (or mini golf!).
Go horseback riding.
Hit the pickleball court.
Go on a nature-themed scavenger hunt.
Make a bird feeder.
Take pictures of nature.
Start a nature journal to document birds and plants.
Go on a guided foraging tour.
Spring Activities for Kids (and Kids at Heart)
After being cooped up all winter, kids want nothing more than to play outside at the first sign of spring. Create childhood memories or share your own with kids as you play with sidewalk chalk, blow bubbles, or create an enchanted fairy garden.
Fly a kite.
Look for four-leaf clovers.
Jump in puddles.
Blow bubbles.
Climb a tree.
Find a playground and swing on the swings.
Feed the ducks at a pond.
Wade in a creek.
Draw pictures on the sidewalk with chalk.
Skip stones across a pond.
Plan a kid-friendly spring break vacation.
Play catch.
Pick dandelions.
Play frisbee.
Craft a fairy garden.
Host an Easter egg hunt.
Set up an insect-themed scavenger hunt.
Paint rocks.
Press spring flowers into artwork.
Weave a crown out of spring flowers.
What to Eat and Drink
There is nothing better than a bountiful harvest at the beginning of each season, and spring is no exception. From strawberries and asparagus to refreshing fruity drinks and colorful desserts, there are plenty of new recipe ideas to try this spring.
Eat some roasted asparagus.
Steam whole artichokes and eat them leaf by leaf.
Bake festive spring cupcakes with pink (or lavender or yellow or baby blue) frosting.
Eat a ripe apricot.
Enjoy new potatoes.
Visit the farmers market to buy spinach and sugar snap peas.
Pick strawberries at a farm (just don't forget to wash them).
Make a strawberry shortcake.
Eat jellybeans.
Buy a package of Peeps.
Mix up a pitcher of margaritas.
Savor soft-shell crabs.
Make deviled eggs.
Enjoy something with rhubarb.
Whip up a carrot cake.
Make fruit jam.
Pickle beets and radishes.
Make homemade pesto with fresh spring herbs.
Buy some local honey and spread it on freshly baked bread.
Make your own blend of herbal iced tea.
Spring Mindfulness Activities
We tend to associate spring with a total mind and body reset and a rebirth of the importance of mental and emotional health. The simplest of activities, such as creating a fresh bouquet or listening to the sounds of nature, can generate a lighter, happier feeling that everyone deserves to experience.
Listen to the rain.
Watch bumblebees at work in a garden.
Notice the trees budding.
Seek out a rainbow.
Listen to the birds singing.
Go bare-legged.
Feel the sun on your face.
Leave your windows open to catch a spring breeze.
Pet a bunny.
See all the Oscar-winning movies.
Send someone other than your mom a Mother's Day card.
Wear comfortable open-toed shoes.
Buy a colorful umbrella.
Visit the zoo.
Decorate your home with fresh tulips and daffodils.
Get caught in a spring shower.
Paint your nails a pretty spring pastel.
Watch for birds on a walk.
Enjoy a candle or soap scented like spring (think fresh grass or lilacs).
Lie down in a hammock and watch the clouds go by.
Go star gazing.
Read an easy, breezy book outdoors.
Create a centerpiece with flowering branches or pussy willows.
Do yoga on the grass.
Make a bouquet with fresh garden-cut flowers.
Take a watercolor art class that's held outdoors.
Use spring stationary to write your loved ones letters.
Create an indoor reading nook by a large window.
Given how important sleep is, it should come more easily and naturally. But, alas, few people get enough each night—and that's often due to their inability to fall asleep in the first place. Racing thoughts, general anxiety, and overwhelming stress can keep us tossing and turning for hours. But have you ever tried listening to a podcast for sleep?
Most experts indeed recommend keeping your phone and other devices far from where you dream, but listening to relaxing podcasts to help you sleep might be one exception to try if you're struggling to fall asleep. Whether you're looking for peaceful meditations, ambient noise, or mellow bedtime stories (yes, those exist for adults), here's a running list of soothing podcasts created specifically to calm you down, bore you senseless, and lose you mid-episode as you drift off to sleep.
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Sleep With Me
Host and creator of the podcast Sleep With Me, Drew Ackerman, is far from offended if listeners doze off during it—in fact, he's flattered. Each hour-long (ish) episode feeds you an imaginative, yet calming bedtime story worthy of (eventually) snoring along to. Whether you come to Sleep With Me with racing thoughts, anxiety, or insomnia, you can expect to catch Zzzs before the end of the episode.
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Game of Drones
Game of Drones is another podcast from the mind behind Sleep With Me, meant to be "part bedtime story and part high school class you can't stay awake for," according to its Apple Podcast description. Sleep-deprived fans of George R.R. Martin's Game of Thrones series will drift off to dreamland in no time—but you may just fall asleep even more quickly if you're not a GoT fan.
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Get Sleepy
In 30- to 40-minute episodes, Get Sleepy guides listeners through relaxing sleep meditations, like mindful body scans and breathing techniques, followed by soothing stories and audio experiences to quiet minds and bring on the shut-eye.
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Boring Books for Bedtime
Say no more. Fall asleep to the purposely boring Boring Books for Bedtime in which soft-spoken narrators bore you to sleep with everything that ever made your eyes droop in school. With weekly episode options ranging from The Federalist Papers to the 1897 Sears Roebuck and Co. Catalog of agricultural tools, you're guaranteed to tune out almost immediately.
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Nothing Much Happens: Bedtime Stories to Help You Sleep
Sometimes it's hard to let yourself fall asleep to a podcast knowing you might miss the end of a story. Instead, try Nothing Much Happens, in which, you guessed it, nothing much happens. At least nothing you'd miss dozing off to—making it an ideal podcast for sleep. Yoga and meditation teacher Kathryn Nicolai brings your frenzied mind to a quiet, tranquil place before bed by reading purposely plotless stories twice through, slowing down the pace for round two—we're getting sleepy just thinking about it.
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Tracks to Relax
Tracks to Relax offers somnolent guided sleep meditations to encourage true pre-sleep serenity, from peaceful visualizations to empowering mantras.
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Sleep Whispers
Wind down with Sleep Whispers, a fan favorite story-time-meets-ASMR podcast designed to help adults get the forty winks they need. Follow along—until you can't—to the dulcet, whispered chatter of this sleep podcast, in the form of lilting poetry, calming meditations, fascinating stories, and even intriguing Wikipedia topics.
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Deep Energy Podcast
For those who need a podcast for sleep without the distraction of human voices, Deep Energy is a great choice. It channels soothing ambient noise and new-age music to move you into a state of deep relaxation.
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Slow Radio
If you're a big fan of the outdoors, listen to Slow Radio for relaxing nature sounds. From birds chirping to calming nature sounds, this podcast will be sure to help you wind down and fall asleep.
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Dreamful Bedtime Stories
Deep sleep awaits with the dreamy stories of the Dreamful Bedtime Stories podcast. Every story includes relaxing music to help you doze off. Listen for stories about myths, daydreams, old tales, and much more.
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Sleep with Silk: Soothing Voices
Head into your most relaxed state with the soothing voices from the Sleep with Silk: Soothing Voice podcast. There's a wide variety of literature, poetry, and bedtime stories to pick from for relaxation and sleep.
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Snoozecast
If you enjoy classic stories and tales, the Snoozecast podcast has tons of stories to share. Designed to make you fall asleep, the narrators tell their stories with a relaxing voice to help you wind down. New episodes are posted three times a week, so you won't run out of content with this podcast.
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Bore You To Sleep - Sleep Stories for Adults
For those who need to be bored in order to fall asleep, check out Bore You To Sleep - Sleep Stories for Adults. With guides for a restful night of sleep to bedtime stories with calming narration, this podcast has it all.
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Daily Meditation
If you're looking to get into meditation for better sleep and relaxation, the Daily Meditation podcast offers new guided meditations each day. These episodes can help calm your mind, so you can fall asleep easier and faster.
Life is a constant battle between the urge to relax and treat yourself, and the need to get stuff done. Finding a great organizing and decluttering show gives you the best of both worlds: you can lounge around on your sofa while simultaneously getting great ideas about how to manage your mess and conquer your clutter.
But decluttering and cleaning shows aren't one size fits all. Depending on where you're hoping to corral the chaos—and your unique organizing style—you might relate a little more with a particular decluttering style. If you're still searching for your streaming organizing expert, we have some great options here.
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Hot Mess House
Big concept: Pro organizer Cas Aarssen helps people reorganize their space virtually by giving them advice that suits their organizing style.
Best for: People who want to figure out what their organization style is—and find tips that suit it.
Where to watch: Discovery+
Hot tip: To deal with the paper mess, create categories with stickies—and simply put the papers in the right piles. (Then put them into folders!)
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The Minimalists: Less Is More
Big concept: A pair of minimalist-loving guys talk about the movement toward living with less.
Best for: People interested in living a minimalist lifestyle.
Where to watch: Netflix
Hot tip: Take the minimalist challenge: Find one item to get rid of on the first day, two on the second, three on the third, and so on—for a full month.
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Get Organized With The Home Edit
Big concept: Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin make your closet (and home) look like a boutique you'd love to shop at by displaying everything beautifully. Their signature organizing and decluttering look is a rainbow closet reorder, which sorts the racks by organizing from red to purple.
Best for: People whose closets are a fashion emergency (the team spends a lot of time in closets) and anyone who wants to take a peek inside celebrity homes. (Reese Witherspoon's mammoth movie memorabilia closet? Yes, please!)
Where to watch: Netflix
Hot tip: Don't buy your organizing boxes and bins until you've pared down your possessions. (Otherwise, you'll just have to return them.)
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Tidying Up With Marie Kondo
Big concept: Keep only the things that spark joy for you.
Best for: People who need an overhaul in many different parts of their home. (Watching her clear a kitchen made me itch to tackle my overcrowded pantry.) And people who don't mind the rather woo-woo concept of holding each object in your hand and deciding if it sparks joy. (P.S. Marie Kondo's newest show, Sparking Joy, helps people find ways to declutter their entire lives, if you're looking to simplify everything.)
Where to watch: Netflix
Hot tip: That KonMari folding method truly makes your drawers and linen closets look seamless.
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Tiny House Nation
Big concept: Families from around the country build and move into tiny homes, which means they're under 500 square feet. And we're talking full families! Every nook and cranny needs to be optimized for storage and function.
Best for: People who feel like there's never enough room to stash their stuff at home. Once you see how little clutter these families are able to keep, suddenly your home will feel like an endless mansion.
Where to watch: Netflix
Hot tip: You really don't need as much stuff as you think you do!
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Queer Eye
Big concept: The Fab Five (Antoni Porowski, Tan France, Karamo Brown, Jonathan Van Ness, and either Bobby Berk or Jeremiah Brent depending on which season you watch) help transform a person's life, updating their beauty routine, wardrobe, interpersonal skills, cooking repertoire, and home. The home part is where you really need to pay attention, because Bobby and Jeremiah give awesome tips on how to stash your things in a sophisticated way.
Best for: People who feel stuck in a rut and need to declutter their lives as a whole to move forward.
Where to watch: Netflix
Hot tip: Sometimes you have to let go of the past to make way for the future.
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Hack My Home
Big concept: Four design pros (including REAL SIMPLE HOME 2024 designer Mikel Welch) transform different families' spaces by creating space-maximizing solutions.
Best for: People with kids—there are a ton of great ideas to keep all of their stuff in check.
Where to watch: Netflix
Hot tip: Look for multifunctional furniture like a bed with built-in storage or a dining table that can expand when you're hosting company and need more seats.
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Problem Spaces
Big concept: Interior designer and blogger Fariha Nasir helps clients turn difficult spaces (think awkward angles or teeny tiny rooms) into functional, beautiful rooms.
Best for: People who aren't afraid to DIY! Fariha isn't carving a table from scratch, but a lot of her solutions mid-level DIY projects.
Where to watch: HBO Max
Hot tip: You can totally transform your space without breaking the bank. All it takes is a little inspiration!
You might say October marks the height of fall: The temperature finally dips—and actually stays chilly. Pumpkin patches and apple orchards are ripe for the picking. Cafes have hit their true pumpkin spice latte strides. Throughout most of the United States, the colorful change in fall foliage will peak sometime during the month of October, making this particular autumn month synonymous with prime leaf-peeping.
The only "problem" with October—despite all its fall glory—is that it tends to fly by so quickly that, come November and December, we'll have let it slip by without enjoying what it has to offer. Before the month is up and winter is truly here, why not do one or two quintessentially fall activities with friends, your kids, your partner, or simply on your own? Here are some classic fun things to do in October to take advantage of the beautiful weather, seasonal changes, gorgeous foliage, and calm before the holiday storm.
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Explore the Fall Foliage
Whether it's right at a local park or a two-hour drive into the country, look up the best places to see all the gorgeous, vibrant fall foliage near you. Bring your camera and get ready to marvel at the yellows, oranges, and reds of the season.
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Go Pumpkin Picking
Head to a pumpkin patch with your best friends, your kids, or your S.O. to find the perfect pumpkins for an October-themed doorstep or natural fall decor inside. If you're going with kids, they'll love being able to choose their favorite pumpkins and take them home to carve or paint.
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Go for a Hike
Whether it's flat and leisurely or long and rigorous, there's nothing like a good hike through nature surrounded by cool, clean air and fall-touched trees. Bundle up, go with a bunch of friends, pack a picnic for the end, and don't forget to bring your camera.
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Go Apple Picking
Apple picking season usually starts in August and peaks through September—but there's still time to squeeze in one last trip to a nearby apple orchard or apple farm during the first half of October. Even if the apples aren't at their absolute best, you can still walk the orchards (for the perfect apple-picking Instagram shot), eat apple cider doughnuts, and stock up on homemade apple cider. Worst case scenario: You spend the day outside!
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Take a Bike Ride
Another way to get outside and see the leaves change is to take a bike ride along country roads. Live in a city? Make a day of it: Rent bikes, take the train (or rent a car) out of the city, and ride on local roads. In many parts of the country, October is one of the last months before the weather turns too cold for a bike ride.
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Go to a Fall Festival
Look into local fall festivals coming up near you and take some friends, your kids, or a date out for a day of hayrides, pumpkin picking, haunted houses, local food stalls, outdoor entertainment, and caramel apples. Is there anything more fun to do in October?
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Tour a Winery or Brewery
People often think of spending the day at a winery or brewery is a warm-weather activity. They're not wrong—that probably just means they've never been during the fall. Spoiler warning: It's awesome. A winery or brewery likely won't be quite as crowded in October, plus most places have indoor seating in case the weather's chilly. Otherwise, it's the perfect excuse to wear your cutest fall scarf and ankle boots and enjoy some fresh local wine and beer with buddies.
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Take a Haunted Roadtrip
Boo! Love a good scare? Get some friends, find a haunted city nearby, and go nuts planning a Halloween-inspired trip. Other spooky options include going on a ghost tour, visiting an old cemetery, or touring a historic building at night (if possible).
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Rally Friends for Touch Football
Again, take advantage before the weather really turns cold to play a game of touch football with family, friends, and neighbors. Head to a local park or pick up a game in someone's backyard. And don't forget to invite people in for hot cider or cocoa when you're done.
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Swap Summer Clothing for Fall Clothing
It's time to trade in those sandals and bathing suits for sweaters and scarves. Spend a rainy Saturday or Sunday in October making room in your closet for your fall and winter clothing. If that sounds like a bore, turn it into a more fun activity. Put on your favorite music, a podcast, or an old favorite TV show in the background and get things done. While you're at it, sort out gently used things you don't wear anymore and donate them.
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Collect Fall Leaves and Press or Preserve Them
Whenever you come across a particularly stunning leaf on the ground, bring it home and turn it into a beautiful DIY project. You can press the leaf between heavy books for a few days to preserve its shape and color. Then, frame it or use it to create art like leaf garlands, greeting cards, or bookmarks. You can make personalized home décor for yourself or create thoughtful, handmade gifts for your friends and family.
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Make Halloween Costumes
Sure, you could elbow your way through a costume store—or you could whip up an easy, homemade Halloween costume without leaving the house. Get creative with the costumes, too! You can go with old-time classics like witches and goblins, or you can put together trendy ones. Think about characters from popular series, for example.
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Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte
While Starbucks has its PSL down to a science (and will always have a place in our hearts), why not try to make your own homemade version? Simply mix pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and a little bit of vanilla with your favorite brewed coffee or espresso. Stir in some steamed milk (and add sweetener if you want), and top it off with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
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Rake Leaves
We know, this one technically counts as a chore—so why not make a fun fall activity out of it? If your kids are around, have them lend a hand and see who can make the biggest leaf pile.
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Make Pumpkin Puree
Another thing you can do with all those pumpkins from the pumpkin patch: Make pumpkin puree. Canned pumpkin has its merits, but it's not always made from pure pumpkin. This way, you can ensure yours is all-natural. Plus, it's a great way to use up those pumpkin innards from carving. (Pumpkin doesn't just make delicious pies and lattes; it has tons of health benefits, too).
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Add Pumpkin to Everything
Don't stop at lattes and puree. Bake pumpkin spice bread (shown here) or muffins, try pumpkin pancakes, toast pumpkin seeds, make pumpkin lasagna, or make a batch of pumpkin-based soup—just to name a few.
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Roast Marshmallows and Make S'mores
If you already have a cozy fall fire roaring away in the hearth, do yourself a favor and toast up some marshmallows, too. Grab some graham crackers and chocolate to make classic s'mores, or enjoy the marshmallows on their own. They make for a warm, gooey treat with or without chocolate (although chocolate always helps).
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Decorate the House for Fall
Whatever your style—natural, minimal, glam, or rustic—take advantage of a rainy or cloudy weekend in October to finally get your home looking festive for fall. Hang a wreath on the door, prop mini pumpkins and gourds along the table, and sweep a pretty fall garland across the mantle.
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Carve (or Paint) Pumpkins
Thanks to the promise of Halloween coming in a few weeks, pumpkin carving is a classic October activity to at home. Not a huge fan of the mess or the knife work (especially if you have young kids around)? Try DIY pumpkin painting ideas that are much easier than carving (but no less fun or pretty!).
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Watch Scary Movies
'Tis the season for scary movies! Have a Netflix account? Line up some of your favorite scary Halloween movies. Or cozy up with a classic, kid-friendly Halloween movie like Hocus Pocus.
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Read a Scary Book
Whether it's a Stephen King classic or a contemporary thriller hot off the press, reading a creepy book in October will definitely get you in the mood for Halloween. Curl up on the couch with a blanket and a cup of tea (or maybe something stronger) and lose yourself in a chilling thriller you can't put down.
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Host a Potluck
Hosting a fall potluck is a great way to gather your friends and family in a cozy atmosphere. Invite them to bring their favorite fall-inspired dishes like hearty soups, pumpkin desserts, and casseroles filled with seasonal vegetables. Be sure to also set the mood with warm décor (think candles and rustic table settings). If you decide to host it outside, an outdoor bonfire can also add to the atmosphere.
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Mix up Fall-Inspired Cocktails
Get together with a partner or friends and whip up some fall-inspired cocktails to ring in the season's rich flavors and cozy vibes. Try crafting drinks with seasonal ingredients: apple cider, cinnamon, pumpkin spice, maple syrup, etc. You can go with the classics like warm spiked cider or a bourbon maple old-fashioned. Or get creative with pumpkin spice martinis. Just be sure to garnish your drinks with cinnamon sticks, apple slices, or fresh herbs for a festive touch.
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Visit a Local Farmers' Market
Visit a local farmers' market to shop for fall produce, smell the season’s harvest, and support local growers. You’re likely to find an abundance of seasonal staples like crisp apples, pumpkins, squash, and Brussels sprouts. But take the opportunity to discover different varieties of produce and enjoy fresh, farm-to-table flavors. Many markets feature baked goods and handmade crafts, as well.
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Plant Fall Flowers
Planting fall flowers is a great way to add seasonal colors to your garden. Annuals are better if you want instant flowers just for the season. They grow quickly and bloom throughout fall, making them ideal for short-term displays in your garden or windowsills. Pansies, violas, and snapdragons are ideal autumn annuals.
Your challenge: Finding good kids' movies on Netflix that grownups and older kids can enjoy, too. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that the kids will love (and will be entertaining for people older than 10 too).
We've narrowed the list down to the best of the best, including a few old-school favorites you might remember from when you were a kid. Whether they're critically acclaimed, full of nostalgia, or beautiful works of art, kids of all ages will enjoy these kids' movies on Netflix, and adults can always find deeper meaning in the dialogue, artistry, and plot. Best of all? You can watch them all immediately—and as many times as you want—so go ahead and binge one or two.
Netflix-Produced Animated Family Movies
If you love animation, there are plenty of good movies on Netflix for kids—so check out a few of our favorites.
Nimona
Nimona is a shape-shifting outcast who befriends an innocent knight accused of murder. The pair adventure out to clear the knight's name, and help Nimona find acceptance.
Leo
Adam Sandler helped create (and stars in!) this charming animal tale about an ancient class pet lizard who shares his wisdom with the sixth grade class.
Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio
Oscar-winning director Guillermo del Toro takes a fresh look at the classic story of a puppet come to life in this engaging (and gorgeous) stop-motion reimagining. Ewan McGregor, Cate Blanchett, Tilda Swinton, and Finn Wolfhard are all among the voice cast.
Extinct
If you're looking for adorable animated animals (and a very vague lesson about environmentalism), Extinct features a pair of sweet doughnut-shaped creatures that travel into the future to find that they've somehow gone extinct. They join a crew of fellow extinct animals as they try to find their way back home. The show features comedy actors like Rachel Bloom, Catherine O'Hara, Ken Jeong, and Adam DeVine.
The Willoughbys
This highly rated (and under-appreciated) 2020 animated film features a slightly-less-than-happy family—and the kids' dramatic attempts to create a happier home. It features Jane Krakowski, Martin Short, Maya Rudolph, and Terry Crews in an all-star cast of voices.
Over the Moon
A charming addition to the collection of original kids' movies on Netflix, this song-filled film follows a young girl named Fei Fei as she embarks on a legendary adventure to prove to her widower father that love is forever. Her journey takes her to the moon, where a mythical goddess and her miraculous world await. Full of color, adventure, and heartwarming messages about family and love, this is a kids' movie the whole family will love—and the soundtrack, featuring spectacular performances by Phillipa Soo of Hamilton, is bound to be a new family favorite. Rated PG.
Klaus
Probably the very best kids' Christmas movie on Netflix, this Netflix Original Film explores a fresh origin story for dear old Santa Claus. It follows a lazy postman who is sent to a far corner of the globe to learn some tough lessons; there, he unwittingly inspires an entire small town and learns a few things himself. While this kids' movie on Netflix is best left for Christmastime and winter, it's worth watching any time of year. Rated PG.
Back to the Outback
This December 2021 animated movie features a slew of Australian creatures in a zoo, who decide to band together to escape and head back to the Outback to live their lives. It teaches kids the lesson of not always judging a book by its cover (or a living thing by how it looks).
That Christmas
Based on the charming trilogy of Richard Curtis's children's books, this animated film intertwines multiple heartwarming stories the seaside town of Wellington-on-Sea during the holiday season. Featuring the voices of Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, Jodie Whittaker, and Bill Nighy, it's the perfect family movie to bring some lighthearted holiday cheer into your home.
The Magician’s Elephant
Based on the Kate DiCamillo's beloved 2009 book, this heartwarming tale follows young Peter as he embarks on a quest to find his long-lost sister. Guided by a fortune teller’s mysterious revelation that an elephant will lead him to her, Peter is led on a journey of unexpected friends and hidden truths that test his bravery and belief in the impossible.
Blockbuster Animated Movies for Families
If you missed them in the theaters (or just love them enough for a second, third, or 10th go-round), these top animated kids' movies are currently available on Netflix.
A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon
The famed British claymation studio offers up this charming movie, where Shaun and his flock try to help an alien creature that crash-landed near their farm. If your kiddos fall in love with Shaun, there's a ton of other sheepy adventures to enjoy on Netflix.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
Even if you're not a big superhero fan, you'll love the gorgeous animation and story in this critically acclaimed sequel to 2018's Into the Spider-Verse. (Plus the cavalcade of star voices includes Donald Glover, Andy Samberg, Rachel Dratch, Oscar Isaac, Shameik Moore, Daniel Kaluuya, Kathryn Hahn, and Mahershala Ali.)
Mary and the Witch's Flower
For the family that loves anime, try this 2017 stunner, where a magical flower and broomstick grants a little girl access to a potentially dangerous school of magic.
Trolls
The beloved so-ugly-they're-cute dolls from way back launched this hit movie which will literally give everyone the warm fuzzies. And with Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick in the lead of a star-studded cast, you know you'll get plenty of tunes to enjoy along the way.
Minions
Everyone's favorite goofy yellow guys take the starring role in this 2015 charmer, where they seek out the perfect supervillain to serve.
Boss Baby
A literal baby-faced spy is at the heart of this hilarious cartoon—and the many sequels (and series) it spawned. (Many of those are on Netflix, too!)
Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken
This new-to-Netflix Dreamworks movie is a perfect watch for your tweens or young teens. Ruby Gillman is desperate to fit in at her school—but discovers that she's about to become queen of the Krakens. And that means she needs to battle their power-hungry arch-enemies, the mermaids (including her new BFF Chelsea), to protect the ocean.
Classic Family Movies on Netflix
Consider these classic family movies worthy of your next family movie night.
The Karate Kid (1984)
Follow the inspiring journey of Daniel LaRusso, a teenager who learns karate from his teacher, Mr. Miyagi, in order to defend himself against bullies. This action-packed tale of perseverance and friendship remains a beloved classic for families.
Mr. Peabody & Sherman
Tag along with the brainy beagle Mr. Peabody and his curious son Sherman as they embark on time-traveling adventures in their homemade invention.
Kung Fu Panda 3
Catch up on what happened in Kung Fu Panda 3 before the fourth installment hits theaters on March 8th. In Kung Fu Panda 3, Jack Black plays the karate master panda Po, who must once again build a band of warriors to take on the big baddie.
Netflix Live-Action Family Movies
Netflix has plenty of non-animated family-friendly movies, whether you're looking for kid-approved documentaries or splashy adventure flicks.
The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar
The imaginations of author Roald Dahl and director Wes Anderson seem like a match made in heaven. And this is the first of a series of four short films Anderson is making based on classic Dahl stories for Netflix. (Expect "The Swan," "The Ratcatcher," and "Poison" down the line.
Bonus: It's only 39 minutes long, for those nights you want a shorter kids' movie before bedtime.
Matilda the Musical
The Roald Dahl story of the precocious—and telekinetic—little girl who's seeking out a place where she belongs inspired an award-winning musical that'll have everyone in your house singing along about "Revolting Children."
Family Switch
Swapping bodies—and perspectives—is a time-honored family movie plot. (Think Freaky Friday and 17 Again.) In this new remake, Jennifer Garner, Ed Helms, and Emma Myers (Wednesday Addams' cheerful wolfy roomie in Wednesday) are among the swappers—which includes the pets and the baby, too.
You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah
Adam Sandler's behind this family-friendly comedy about two BFFs who fall out over middle school drama just as their bat mitzvahs approach. (Think Bride Wars for 13-year-olds!)
The School for Good and Evil
Based on the bestselling fantasy novel, this movie about a school for epic fairy tale villains and heroes features a star-studded cast chewing the scenery to keep adults entertained—think Cate Blanchett, Kerry Washington, Michelle Yeoh, Charlize Theron, and Patti LuPone.
Slumberland
A girl adventures through the land of dreams (and nightmares) in an attempt to see her late father again. But honestly, you'll probably want to watch it because of her adventuring partner—Jason Momoa.
Enola Holmes
This modern twist on Arthur Conan Doyle's classic detective series puts uber-detective Sherlock Holmes in a supporting role, while his kid sister Enola Holmes tackles mysteries and adventures.
Tween and teen watchers will love another chance to see Stranger Things Millie Bobby Brown star as Enola—while adults may be more excited about Henry Cavill as Sherlock or Helena Bonham Carter as Eudoria Holmes—Sherlock and Enola's missing mother.
If you're looking for a double feature, an Enola Holmes sequel is also available.
Ivy and Bean
Based on the popular kids' book series, Ivy and Bean follows a pair of opposites-attract pals (brash Bean and shy Ivy) on their adventures. And if your family loves the first one, there are two more movies in the series ready and waiting.
Puff: Wonders of the Reef
For the animal-loving family, this short and sweet documentary follows a baby pufferfish as it finds a home in the Great Barrier Reef. (Actress Rose Byrne provides the narration.)
John Mulaney & the Sack Lunch Bunch
Comedian John Mulaney creates a send-up of some of those weird children's specials from the 1980s, in a delightfully oddball, music-filled special featuring a group of talented kids alongside a slew of celebs including David Byrne, Jake Gyllenhaal, Annaleigh Ashford, and Andre De Shields.
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
Based on a true story, this biographical film follows a young boy who builds a wind turbine to save his village in Malawi from famine. Along with the book of the same name, this story demonstrates the power of determination and perseverance and will inspire everyone to find their own way to help those around them. Rated TV-PG.
Moxie!
This story of teen empowerment (with a little old-school riot grrl action) will definitely resonate with teen girls and their moms. (Amy Poehler plays the heroine's mom, and the cool up-and-comer band the Linda Lindas show up at the end too!)
Yes Day
The beloved book by author Amy Krouse Rosenthal is made into a feature-length film as a mom and dad indulge their kids in a rollicking, adventurous day where the answer to every request is "Yes." (Jennifer Garner is on mom duty in the movie.)
Just like with nearly every holiday, the lead-up to Halloween is almost as good as Oct. 31 itself. From pumpkin-carving to leaf-peeping road trips, there are tons of ways to get in the spirit before the big day. But perhaps the best way is scheduling a scary movie night—or 10.
Fortunately, Netflix has you covered no matter your Halloween movie preference. Halloween movies on Netflix range from kid-friendly to horror-filled and everything in between. There are even a few scary Netflix Originals that can only be watched on the streaming platform.
We rounded up some of the best of the best so you can put together a watch-list of must-see Halloween movies, sans rental fees. And if you're not planning to go trick-or-treating this year? Be sure save one of these flicks for Oct. 31. There’s nothing like a jump scare to help you escape the grim reality of the world around you.
Best Halloween Movies on Netflix
01
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It Follows
Truth: The most terrifying moments in horror don’t come with a sudden pop-up or loud music cue—it comes with the prolonged feeling of sinking dread. That’s probably the best way to describe the feeling you’ll get while watching this movie. The story revolves around a contagious curse, but its premise is definitely a unique one: The curse, an entity that takes on different human forms to follow you slowly wherever you go—is passed on via sexual intercourse (talk about a terrible STD). I don’t want to give too much away, but I will say that I can’t shake the image of a naked man standing on a suburban rooftop (you’ll know what I mean once you watch it).
02
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There’s Someone Inside Your House
Nothing like a solid slasher featuring high schoolers to get you in the Halloween spirit. This one takes the perspective of a transfer student from Hawaii who moves to Nebraska and finds herself surrounded by gruesome murders. The con: People are getting murdered. The pro: The victims are pretty terrible people, so I guess that makes it marginally better?
03
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Nightbooks
For a more kid-friendly option, this dark fantasy flick is filled with all the elements for a successful Halloween movie, including magical books, ancient specters, enchanted forests, and of course—scary stories. The gorgeous art direction and production design is worth a watch for adults too.
04
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Hubie Halloween
Featuring a stacked cast including Adam Sandler, Kevin James, and Maya Rudolph, this comedy-horror film features a Halloween-loving delicatessen worker named Hubie who must save his town of Salem, Mass., from a dangerous kidnapper. The fact that the residents and local police see Hubie as the town troublemaker makes it a lot harder to get anyone to listen to his warnings.
05
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Fear Street: The Trilogy
Based on R. L. Stine's book series of the same name, the Fear Street series includes three movies about a group of teenagers who work to break a curse that has haunted their small town of Shadyside, Ohio, for three centuries. On the flipside, the neighboring town—aptly named Sunnyside—continually thrives with good fortune. In true Halloween fashion, the movies (each taking place in different years) are packed with mystery and spooks, but heads-up to the squeamish that you'll also get your fair share of blood and gore.
06
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A Babysitter's Guide to Monster Hunting
A great kids' Halloween movie on Netflix, this family-friendly film follows a babysitter on a mission to find the child in her care who has been kidnapped by the Boogeyman on Halloween night. On the way, she runs into a variety of fantastical monsters—plus a secret society of children-protecting babysitters she never knew existed.
07
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Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
The latest reboot of the Ghostbusters movie franchise brings in the old-school crew (including the legendary Bill Murray, Annie Potts, Ernie Hudson and Dan Akyroyd)—alongside Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Kumail Ali Nanjiani, and Finn Wolfhard—to battle an array of new and old ghosts, and their snobby governmental baddie, Walter Peck.
08
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Velvet Buzzsaw
Psychological thriller turned artsy, this film is definitely the most colorful (literally) of them all. Morf (Jake Gyllenhaal) realizes that his newly discovered art is a bit too life-like, and the plot escalates very quickly as supernatural forces start to bring paintings and sculptures to life. The Netflix film does a great job at breathing life into a group of flawed characters while playfully poking fun at the pretentious art world.
09
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Eli
As you can deduce from the title, the movie is all about Eli, a boy that is forced to live in a bubble wearing only sterilized, vacuum-packed clothing because he's allergic to the world. His parents take him to see a specialist who might offer a cure to his genetic abnormalities, but everything is not as it seems in this cold, high-tech facility.
10
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The Babysitter
This dark comedy is full of classic teenage horror elements, with a great up-and-coming cast—and a satanic cult for plenty of Halloween charm. A boy's babysitter seems great, until he stays up late and realizes she's part of a bloodthirsty cult. He races to expose his babysitter and her friends before they can make him their next victim, with soft horror and humor in equal measure. The sequel—The Babysitter: Killer Queen—is just out from Netflix too, so this is perfect for a Halloween movie double-feature.
11
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Enola Holmes
Starring the charming Millie Bobby Brown as the titular character (with Henry Cavill and Sam Claflin as her famous Holmes brothers), this is a Halloween movie in the mysterious sense. This Netflix Original Film has a suspicious murder and a disappearance at its core, with fun costume changes, a classic fall atmosphere, and a little Victorian eeriness to round out the spooky vibe. Playful and upbeat, it's a great Halloween movie for those who don't like horror movie thrills or families with older kids.
12
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1922
A Netflix Original, this Halloween movie is based on a Stephen King novella. In it, a farmer confesses to murdering his wife—but she's not finished with him. As with most works from King, this one isn't exactly kid-friendly. Produced with Netflix's typical flair for cinematography, this one might give even the adults uneasy dreams.
13
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We Have a Ghost
This hilarious haunted house movie features Stranger Things star David Harbour haunting a newly moved-in family and quickly becoming a social media sensation. The CIA (including a supernatural expert played by Tig Notaro) and the epically funny Jennifer Coolidge as the wacky West Bay Medium who tries to communicate with him help make this story more light-hearted and silly than straight up spooky.
14
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World War Z
Zombies are generally slow-ish, lumbering horror movie creatures—but in this star-studded tale of a global zombie apocalypse features horrifyingly fast and violent zombies who chase the living—and the researchers and governmental teams looking to stop the carnage.
15
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In the Tall Grass
Stephen King is undoubtedly the king of horror, both in book and on screen, but this film adaptation might be one of his best. When two siblings hear pleas for help from a small boy lost in a field of tall grass, they enter the green abyss only to realize they can't find a way out. This isn't a situation that a compass or Google maps can solve; aside from the fact that there isn't a WiFi connection, something supernatural lurks in the grass, creating an endless infinity loop and time disconnect that can't be escaped.
16
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The Silence
In a world ravaged by mysterious creatures that hunt by sound, a family seeks a safe haven—and encounters a frightening, ominous cult instead. Their battle against both the creatures and the cult will keep anyone on the edge of their seat. Starring Stanley Tucci, Kiernan Shipka, and Miranda Otto, this horror movie is a Netflix Original perfect for the month of Halloween.
17
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Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile
A dramatic retelling of the true story of a woman in love with serial killer Ted Bundy, this dark movie stars Zac Efron and Lily Collins. It's more courtroom drama (with a dark undercurrent) than spooky horror flick, but still a worthy watch around Halloween, particularly if you lean more toward psychological than physical frights.
18
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American Psycho
If serial killers are more your horror movie jam, this cult classic features Christian Bale as a yuppie stockbroker who kills it on Wall Street—and kills people in his glam apartment in his spare time.
19
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The Good Nurse
Oscar winners Eddie Redmayne and Jessica Chastain star in this creepy, based-on-a-true-story crime tale. They're best friends and nurses—until Chastain begins to suspect that her friend is murdering his patients.
20
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The Ritual
Four friends embark on a hiking trip into the Swedish wilderness—but they may never return. Follow along for a chilling horror movie that get's scarier the deeper you go. The Ritual is perfect when you want an ominous horror movie for Halloween.
21
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Bodies Bodies Bodies
Horror movie house A24 came out with this creepy (and funny) Gen Z horror flick, starring Amandla Stenberg, Rachel Sennott, and Pete Davidson as a crew of people partying in a mansion, as things begin to go terribly, terribly wrong.
22
of 24
I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House
If you're all in on creepy, ghostly old houses, this Netflix Original features a new nurse who's watching over an elderly horror novelist—and finds herself haunted by something (or someone).
23
of 24
Texas Chainsaw Massacre
One of the scariest horror classics, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, has seen a slew of different reboots. This 2022 version brings the horror tale into modern day, as a slew of influencers find their way into Leatherface's hooks.
24
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Tarot
Don't break the rules when you're playing with supernatural forces is the moral of this 2024 horror flick, which finds a group of friends unleashing incredible horrors from a tarot deck.
Road trips are fun—at least, in theory. But after a couple of hours of music, podcasts, and "I'm just going to take a quick nap while you drive," things can quickly turn boring. Sometimes you can adapt party games for the car, but they don't always translate to sitting in a moving metal box.
That's where these road trip games come in. "I Spy" may have kept your attention when you were young—impressive, given that you had the attention span of a goldfish—but this list of car ride games up the ante a bit. Pick a few adult-worthy road trip games for your next long ride.
01
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Spin a Story From the Past
Think of this as "Who can lie better?" One player begins by telling a story about their past, and players have to guess whether they're telling the truth or spinning a tale.
Each guesser gets two follow-up questions, and then it's time for an answer. Every correct answer is two points, and the first player to 10 wins. (The loser has to reveal a super-embarrassing story.)
02
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Riff Off
This competition involves finding a license plate with random letters and creating a word with those letters. For example, if the license plate is YMT23, the answer could be "Yosemite".
Think of it as Road Trip Scrabble, but instead of taking turns, just yell when you see one and come up with a word. Other players can challenge by creating a longer word with those same letters.
To up the stakes, stipulate that the letters must be in the exact order to make the word and can't be scrambled. Award two points for each winning answer and two extra points for anyone who spots a vanity plate. The winner is the first to reach 10 points.
03
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Explain a Movie Plot Badly
This party game also works when you're trapped in a car. One player thinks of a movie and explains its plot in a way that is factual and terrible, and the other players have to guess.
The first player to guess correctly gets a point. If no one guesses correctly, the plot explainer gets a point. Our favorite: "Girl can't commit. Loses cat." (Yep, Breakfast at Tiffany's!)
04
of 27
Essentially the Same Movie
In another film-related game, a player starts by naming a movie. The next player has to name another movie that has the same basic plot. For example, Pretty in Pink and Some Kind of Wonderful, or No Strings Attached and Friends with Benefits.
Players continue to take turns naming flicks with essentially the same narrative until someone gets stumped—the last person to come up with a film that fits wins. Start with your favorite kid movies if you're having trouble thinking of movie plots.
05
of 27
Radio Roulette
This is essentially a road trip game of Name That Tune. Flip among radio stations until you hear a song (presets work best), and let it play for 15 seconds. Players are challenged to name that song and its artist, earning one point for each, with an extra point for naming its album. The first one to reach 15 points wins.
06
of 27
Mad Libs
You know Mad Libs, that hilarious word game that solicits nouns, adjectives, and verbs from players to create an imaginative narrative. If you plan ahead, you can access a free printable Funny Mad Libs For Adults to take with you on the road. (Don't forget to bring a pen!)
If you're not a fan of pre-technology, whip out a smartphone and play WordLibs online for free, with no app or downloads required. You can even create your own stories!
07
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Fortunately, Unfortunately
To start this storytelling game, one player makes a declarative statement that begins with "Fortunately..." For example, "Fortunately, on this highway, we will soon pass a cool roadside attraction." The next player must follow up with an "unfortunately" statement such as "Unfortunately, the attraction is a giant booger."
The subsequent player must give a "fortunately" statement, and so on as you go from player to player. Switch from "fortunately" to "unfortunately" statements until everyone runs out of steam.
08
of 27
Snack the Rainbow
Along your road trip route, plan to stop at seven gas stations. At each station, find a snack that's a specific color of the rainbow. (Remember, it's ROYGBIV!) You can only get one snack item per gas station.
09
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Famous Names
For this road trip game, someone starts by saying the first and last names of a famous person. The next player must name another famous person whose first name starts with the first letter of the previous celebrity's last name.
For example, Justin Bieber leads to Billy Crystal. Billy Crystal leads to Catherine O'Hara. Catherine O'Hara leads to Owen Wilson, and so on. If a player is stumped, they're out, and the group moves on to the next player.
10
of 27
Road Sign Alphabet Game
Each player must find a word on a road sign that starts with the letter A, then a word that starts with B, and so on through the alphabet. Once a player has claimed a word, the other players can't use that word. Whoever gets to the end of the alphabet first wins.
11
of 27
Road Trip Trivia
For each city you pass through on your trip, designate one person to be the "expert" about that city's population, industry, dining establishments, and anything it might be known for. The expert can use their smartphone, but guessers cannot.
As you pass through each city, the expert asks trivia questions that other players guess the answers to. Examples are, "How many people live in Scranton?" and "Which fast food restaurant does Cedar Key have five of?"
12
of 27
Road Trip Bingo
Road trip bingo is always a crowd-pleaser. Before you leave, you can create your own paper bingo cards or print road trip Bingo cards for free to distribute to each player.
If you make your own, consider a theme of fast food restaurants (McDonald's, Chick-Fil-A, KFC), gas stations (BP, Shell, Texaco), or types of cars (Honda Civic, Subaru Outback, Toyota Tacoma). Whichever you choose, make sure there are enough markers or stickers for everyone to mark their cards.
13
of 27
Guess the Time
Look up which cities you'll be passing through on the way to your final destination, and have everyone in the car guess the exact time you'll arrive at each one. (The use of map apps are prohibited.) For example, what time does your car pass the sign that says "Entering Sacramento"? The player whose guess is the closest wins that round.
14
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Categories
Someone chooses a category, such as movies, sweet treats, or flowers. The first player must name something in that category that starts with the letter A. The second player has the letter B, and so on.
For example, if the category is flowers, the first player might say "amaryllis." The second person might say "begonia." The third person might say "carnation," and so on. Be sure to choose the categories based on the players' knowledge base. (If no one in the car is interested in gardening, flowers might not be the best category.)
15
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The Price is Right
Based on the TV game show, each player guesses the price for regular unleaded gas at the next gas station you see. Whoever gets the price to the nearest tenth gets a point. When it's time to stop for gas, the player with the least number of points buys snacks for everyone.
16
of 27
Guess the Song
For Guess the Song, one player sings or says lyrics to a song, and the other players must name the title of that song. Stating the lyrics in a monotone makes the game harder.
For example, someone says, "And he's long gone when he's next to me. And I realize the blame is on me." The winner is whoever correctly names the song's title, Taylor Swift's "I Knew You Were Trouble."
Players must name the exact title. So, if a player says, "I Knew You Were Trouble When You Walked In," that answer is wrong, and someone else gets a chance to name the exact title.
17
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Guess the Quote
One player looks up a famous quote on their smartphone and reads it to the other the players, who must name the person (or fictional character) who uttered it. The quote could be from a famous speech, like "Give me liberty or give me death!" (Patrick Henry) or a movie, like "There's no place like home," (Judy Garland as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz).
18
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While You Were Sleeping
This is a group game to play when one or two passengers are taking a nap. While they're sleeping, the rest of the passengers work together to create a story about something the sleepers missed.
For example, you all spotted a famous person who was stopped by the side of the road with a flat tire. The celebrity lets you hold their dog, eat some of their delicious snacks, and so on. Storytellers collectively agree on the specific, weird details for optimal believability. Too bad you didn't take any photos!
19
of 27
Who's Most Likely to...?
For this fun road trip game, someone starts by asking the question, "Who in this car is most likely to...?" The other players have 3 seconds to name the person that fits the statement best.
Players take turns asking a new question. Here are some possibilities:
Who is most likely to answer the phone at 3 am?
Who is most likely to throw their friend a surprise party?
Who is most likely to give you a nickname?
If you have trouble thinking up questions, visit teambuilding.com for a list of dozens of them that'll keep you asking and answering for miles.
20
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Triple Threat
In Triple Threat, someone starts in the role of the judge by saying three random words, and each player has to tell a story using those three words. The player who thought up the best story, according to the judge, wins. The winner becomes the judge for the next round, offering the next trio of random words, and the game continues.
21
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20 Questions
This classic guessing game easily adapts to a road trip. It starts with a player thinking of a person, place, or thing. The other players take turns asking yes-or-no questions to determine what they're thinking about.
Whoever guesses correctly gets a point, but if no one guesses after 20 questions, the originator gets a point. Make sure someone is keeping track of the number of questions.
22
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Spot the Car
This road trip game is similar to I Spy and keeps everyone's eyes on the road. One player names a particular type of vehicle—like a double tractor-trailer, RV, or a Ram pickup—and players compete to be the first to see one and score a point. For a variation, consider non-vehicle items like signs or landscape items.
23
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Scavenger Hunt
This activity works as well in a car as it does out of one and demands much less legwork. If you're a planner, create your own list ahead of time based on what you expect to see along your drive. If not, print out a generic list for free. Either way, make a copy for each player, and whoever has seen (checked off) the most list items wins.
24
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License Plate Checklist
If you're taking a long trip on the interstates, this game is the perfect way to kill time. Just make a list on your phone or a notepad of all fifty states and check them off when you see a license plate from that state. Try and find all fifty states before your trip ends.
25
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They're a 10, But...
Find out how far your car riders would go for their dream partner with this silly game. To start, one person will say "your partner is 10, but..." and follow up with something funny or just plain outrageous.
You could say, "he's a 10, but he has lobster claws instead of hands." Or "she's a 10, but she always has to rhyme when she speaks." How much are you willing to compromise for the perfect companion?
26
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Count to 20
See if you and your fellow road trippers can get on the same wavelength with this simple yet challenging game.
This game requires at least three people. Everyone in the group is trying to count up to 20 without saying the same number at the same time. If two or more people say the same number simultaneous, the game resets back to one. Sound easy? You might be surprised.
27
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Battle of the Songs
Test your skills as a DJ with this fun and musical game. A judge will pick a category for a type of song—this could be "80s power ballads," "90s alternative rock songs," or any genre of music your heart desires. Both people or teams will select a song in that category and play them. Whichever one the judge prefers is the winner and that team gets a point.
November may be just past prime apple-and pumpkin-picking season, but there are still plenty of fun fall activities to do during the final month of autumn. And since it gets dark much earlier in November, there's even more reason to squeeze in a fall activity or two before winter arrives and the holiday rush makes you too busy to do anything else. Here's how to spend your free time with family and friends in November and make the most out of the fall season.
Things to Do at Home in November
1. Clean Out Your Closet
If your wardrobe is bursting with old, clunky coats and sweaters that take up way too much room, it's time to set aside the pieces you no longer wear and donate them to someone who'll give them a second life (here's how to do that). While organizations appreciate clothing donations year-round, there's never more of a need for warm layers (and socks!) than at the end of fall/start of winter.
2. Pickle Some Veggies (or Can Some Fruit)
Fall is the time to pickle vegetables that won't last through the winter. And since November 14 is officially National Pickle Day, there's no better time to try canning or pickling your favorite produce at home. First time canning? Here's everything you need to know about preserving and canning food.
3. Make Mulled Wine
Your favorite bottle of wine just got a cold-weather makeover thanks to this irresistible mulled wine recipe. It's begging to be sipped on once there's a nip in the air—maybe around an outdoor fire pit or heater with friends (six feet apart, of course!).
4. Start a Journal
Cooped up inside on a rainy November day? Spend 10 or 15 minutes writing down your thoughts, feelings, observations, or goals. Journaling is one of those rare activities that's both productive and relaxing; it's a great way to practice some mindful self-reflection on a chilly day.
5. Learn a New Recipe
As the temperatures cool and the leaves change, nothing is better than some comfort food at home. A warming, savory meal like soup is exactly what we need on a chilly day. Check out these quick soup recipes that you can recreate at home.
Things to Do for the Holidays in November
6. Decorate for Thanksgiving
It's important to keep holiday traditions—like decking out your home with gourds and foliage—alive! Spruce up your home for Thanksgiving with festive, autumnal finds. Look for turkey-themed accents, plentiful cornucopias, dried floral garlands, and colorful fall wreaths.
7. Join a Turkey Trot
Is there a Thanksgiving race near you? Band together with your friends or household to join in on this favorite, seasonal run. Some trots are more casual (think: one mile you can definitely walk), but some are closer to half-marathons for more serious runners.
8. Stream the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Whether or not you're in New York City on Thanksgiving, it's always a blast—if not a family tradition—to watch this iconic annual parade featuring fantastic floats, entertainment, and more. Rain or shine, the Thankgiving Day Parade lineup will carry on.
9. Start Holiday Gift Shopping
We know it's early, but November is a great time to start working your way through that hefty holiday gift list. You probably need something special for everyone, from immediate family members to friends and coworkers. The sooner you start, the smoother December will be.
10. Make New Year's Eve Plans
If you're planning to go away—or even just make a reservation at a popular spot—over New Year's, start (at least) brainstorming where to go and what to do. Research and advanced planning are particularly important to ensure safe travel and an equally safe stay. Get on the ball and make a few reservations before things get booked and flight and hotel fares rise.
11. Binge-Watch Thanksgiving-Themed Episodes
Nothing will get you more psyched for November's big holiday than re-watching the best Thanksgiving episodes from your favorite TV shows. A Deep Fried Korean Thanksgiving, anyone?
12. Watch Holiday Movies
It's never too early to start watching your favorite Christmas and holiday movies. Stream them with Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and more, or catch whatever's on live TV. Invite over a few friends, make hot chocolate or fall cocktails, and spend a cozy night in watching seasonal flicks.
13. Take a Cold-Weather Walk or Hike
Bundle up and enjoy a scenic hike on a local trail. Breathe in the crisp, fall-almost-winter air and enjoy any last remnants of the changing leaves.
14. See a Christmas Light Show
To get in the holiday spirit, see a Christmas light show. Take in the many beautiful lights and enjoy the start of the holiday season.
What to Do With Friends in November
15. Host a Pie Swap
"It's November" is basically the same thing as saying "it's time for pie" (or is that just us?). Whether you're trying to use up all those apples you picked last month, perfect a particular pie recipe before the holidays, or simply looking for an excuse to eat something sweet with friends, a pie swap is a perfect November get together. To avoid too much mingling indoors, make it a virtual baking event or deliver your pastries to people's doors.
16. Plan a Friendsgiving
Not everyone can make it home for Thanksgiving—or even if they can—gather your closest pals together or a pre-Thanksgiving feast with all the fixings. Ask everyone to make or bring their favorite Thanksgiving dish.
17. Have a Cozy Wine and Cheese Night
If the promise of red wine and baked brie doesn't entice you, we don't know what to tell you. Instead of braving the cold, stay in to eat, drink, and hang out to your heart's content with the perfect cheese board to snack on.
18. Make Your Own Pumpkin Drinks
A classic espresso martini never goes out of style. For a fall twist, try adding some pumpkin spice to this drink staple.
19. Volunteer
Why not spend a November day volunteering at (or at least donate non-perishables to) a shelter, pantry, or soup kitchen? You can always help out solo, but it's a great thing to do as a group—the more, the merrier.
20. Attend a Beer, Wine, or Cider Festival
Summer sipping isn't the only type of sipping. Do some research online to find a nearby festival showcasing craft brews, wine, or locally made cider. Head to the website of the festival you're interested in to see what they have to offer.
21. Go on a Restaurant Crawl
Enjoy several of your favorite restaurants (or try some new ones) while they have fall seasonal options on the menu. Stop at one place for cocktails and an appetizer, another place for dinner, and a different place for dessert to ensure you have lots of time for conversation and you're getting to try a variety of delicious dishes.
Kid-Friendly Things to Do in November
22. Write Down What You're Thankful For
Together as a family, write down a list of things you're thankful for. Not only will this get you and your kids in the mood Thanksgiving, it'll be a sweet reminder to practice gratitude.
23. Roast Marshmallows
Whether you're warm and toasty by the fireplace inside or bundled up near a firepit in the backyard, your kids will love roasting their own marshmallows and making s'mores as a special November treat.
24. Play a Game of Touch Football
Take advantage of the weather before it really gets too cold to play outside with a game of touch football with your household or friends and family. Head to a local park or pick up a game in someone's backyard for the afternoon, then head inside afterward for hot chocolate (and hot toddies for the grownups).
25. Pumpkin Patch
The true star of the fall season and Thanksgiving is pumpkin. Bring your family to a pumpkin patch near your neighborhood for some corn mazes, pick out pumpkins, and have some delicious pumpkin treats.
26. DIY Thanksgiving Decor
If the little ones want to lend a hand with fall decor (and you want to save some money on holiday accents), here are a few fun DIY Thanksgiving crafts perfect to do with kids.
27. Go for a Bike Ride
Get out and enjoy the fresh air with your kids before the true chill of winter. Take a ride throughout your neighborhood or find a scenic route near you.
28. Bake Cookies
Need we say more? Baking cookies is never a bad idea, especially with the holidays right around the corner. Hone your Christmas cookie game by testing out new recipes, cookie decorating with the kids, or just baking for the fun of it.
29. Make a Handprint Turkey
There's nothing quite as enjoyable as arts and crafts time with your kids. To get into the Thanksgiving and holiday spirit, why not make handprint turkeys for some extra fridge art? The rules for making a handprint turkey are relatively simple—cover your hand in your favorite color paint, imprint it onto a piece of paper, and use feathers, gems, and other accessories to jazz up your very own handprint turkey.
30. Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt
Although the days of playing outside are (temporarily) over, that doesn't mean you can't bring the outdoors inside. Spend five minutes collecting a variety of fall leaves, pinecones, twigs, and any other autumnal items you find outside before spreading them around the house. Create a list of items for your kids to find and mark off, and voila! You've created your very own fall-themed indoor scavenger hunt.
From powerful documentaries to classic throwback films, this list of top entertainment for Women's History Month is sure to motivate and inspire you. Invite your friends and family over to watch some of our favorite shows and movies featuring strong women on popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+.
01
of 20
The Crown
The longest reigning monarch in British history gets her dirty laundry (allegedly) aired with this dramatic retelling of her historic reign. And there's plenty of other historic women depicted along the way, including Margaret Thatcher and Princess Diana.
Where to watch: Netflix
02
of 20
The United States vs. Billie Holiday
Actress Andra Day won a Golden Globe for this 2021 biopic of music legend Billie Holiday and the U.S. government's attempts to silence her.
Where to watch: Hulu
03
of 20
RBG
The life story of the beloved late Supreme Court justice and champion for equal rights is the focus of this Oscar-nominated documentary.
Where to watch: Hulu
04
of 20
Hidden Figures
Mathematicians Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson were absolutely essential to America's successful space program—and these long-hidden icons finally got their due in this award-winning film.
Where to watch: Disney+
05
of 20
Mrs. America
If you're looking for a historic anti-heroine, Phyllis Schlafly, who led the fight against the Equal Rights Amendment, leads this miniseries looking into this integral time in the feminist movement. (Feminist icons like Gloria Steinem, Shirley Chisholm, and Betty Friedan are featured, too.)
Where to watch: Hulu
06
of 20
Chisholm ’72: Unbought and Unbossed
The first African-American woman elected to Congress—and the first woman and African-American to run for president from one of the two major political parties—is the center of this 2004 documentary, released one year before her death.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
07
of 20
Equal Means Equal
This powerful documentary explores how women are treated in the U.S. now—and why the Equal Rights Amendment is still essential.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
08
of 20
Bad Reputation
Rock goddess Joan Jett gets the documentary treatment, following her from the rise of The Runaways to her Hall of Fame induction.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
09
of 20
Amazing Grace: Aretha Franklin
The footage of the recording of the Queen of Soul's 1972 album Amazing Grace was lost for nearly 30 years before it was painstakingly pulled together for this stellar 2018 documentary.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
10
of 20
Moxie
Get your '90s throwback feels with this girl-power movie that the teen in your life might want to watch with you, too.
Where to watch: Netflix
11
of 20
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
She saved the world (a lot), but Buffy and her legion of strong, yet complicated female characters also paved the way for a lot of the fiercest female characters that came afterward.
Where to watch: Hulu
12
of 20
9 to 5
This iconic women-take-charge dark comedy was a big step in the #girlboss movement. (And who doesn't love Dolly?)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
13
of 20
The Great
This wicked and witty take on the life of Russian monarch Catherine the Great may not be completely accurate, but it's a fun watch if you're looking for a post-Bridgerton binge.
Where to watch: Hulu
14
of 20
Jane
Celebrate Women's History Month by looking inside the incredible career of primatologist Jane Goodall with this in-depth documentary.
Where to watch: Disney+
15
of 20
Diary of a Future President
Get your daughters dreaming big with this story of a Cuban-American tween who has her sights on the White House.
Where to watch: Disney+
16
of 20
Dumplin'
This Netflix original film follows Willowdean Dickson (Danielle Macdonald) with her former beauty pageant mom (Jennifer Aniston), as she enters her hometown's beauty contest to break the beauty standards and stereotypes.
Where to watch: Netflix
17
of 20
Erin Brockovich
If you're looking for a film with a fierce female lead, watch Erin Brockovich. Starring Julia Roberts, her character Erin is a single mother of three children and lands a job working for an attorney. She discovers medical records in a nearby town and soon investigates a huge cover-up.
Where to watch: Netflix
18
of 20
Jennifer Lopez HALFTIME
Beyond the stage lights and the many awards, follow along Jennifer Lopez's inspiring story of becoming a star. See what it takes to become the icon that Jennifer Lopez is today.
Where to watch: Netflix
19
of 20
Becoming
From the South Side of Chicago to becoming the First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama has had quite the impactful journey. She has created profound change through the power of community.
Where to watch: Netflix
20
of 20
Feminists: What Were They Thinking?
This Netflix documentary goes back into history during the women's movement in the 1970s. Feminists paved the way for the future and built solidarity for women's rights. If you want to feel inspired and motivated by women's history, watch this documentary.
Where to watch: Netflix