Whether A Long Weekend Or School Break, Autumn Is A Great Time To Play Tourist In The Hoosier State.
From the Indiana Office of Tourism Development.
1. Fall Festivals
While the weather is nice enough to be outdoors – or perfect, in many Hoosiers’ opinions – it’s time to hit up a fall festival.
Zoo Boo – Indianapolis Zoo (Thursdays through Sundays in October)
A favorite of locals and tourists alike, Zoo Boo has activities for kids and adults right on the edge of downtown.
Nappanee Apple Festival (September 14-17)
Surprisingly large for a town so small, this fall festival has run for more than four decades in the northern part of the state.
Parke County Covered Bridge Festival (October 13-22)
Like living in a postcard, Parke County’s covered bridges shine when paired with the changing colors of autumn.
See visitindiana.com/fall/festivals for a full sortable list of recommended Indiana fall festivals.
2. Fall Excursions and Road Trips
The great Indiana road trip has been featured on this blog before, and for good reason. There’s so much to do within a short drive or day trip, and no better time than fall.
Ohio River Scenic Byway
Vevay, Madison and Newburgh are all popular destinations along Indiana’s portion of the three-state-long byway, which charm and history all along the way.
Posey County
Near Evansville, architecture, art, nature and sacred spaces provide visitors with countless options to unwind and enjoy both town and country.
Brown County
The famous one, and for good reason. The lush scenery of fall colors on rolling hills, the quaint shopping and art of Nashville, and the friendly yet cosmopolitan vibe of Bloomington draw thousands of visitors yearly.
See visitindiana.com/fall/excursions for more great ideas.
3. U-Picks and Markets
Apples, pumpkins, and more – Indiana’s harvest season means there’s plenty of time to enjoy the bounty.
Apple Hill Orchard
Did you know there are 40 different varieties of apples at this Vincennes-area orchard? See for yourself during the harvest season!
Tuttle Orchards
Easily accessible in central Indiana, Tuttle is the quintessential fall harvest destination for locals.
See visitindiana.com/fall/u-picks-and-markets for more ideas and larger farmers’ markets.
4. Wines, Brews, and Spirits
Indiana is home to a booming craft beer and distilling scene, and hosts some notable wine tasting rooms and wineries.
Indiana Wine Trail
Starting in Madison, visit six artisan wineries, each one reflecting the distinct style and personality of the winemaker.
Spirits of French Lick
Pushing boundaries and toying with tradition are both a big part of the distillation philosophy at Spirits of French Lick.
Upland Brewing Company
The Bloomington craft brewing juggernaut shines in the fall, with some excellent seasonal beer styles combined with beautiful southern Indiana scenery.
See visitindiana.com/fall/wines-brews-and-spirits for more fun adventures in fermentation.
5. Chills and Thrills
Halloween is right around the corner – but so are some great amusement parks and activities.
Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie
“Conner Scairie” looks forward to seeing you in October for haunted hayrides, fun-loving ghouls, marionette shows and more.
Go Ape Zip Line & Treetop Adventure
The first of its kind in the Midwest, Go Ape calls Eagle Creek Park in Indianapolis home.
See visitindiana.com/fall/chills-and-thrills for more adrenaline-pumping ideas for thrill-seekers.