Usher in Autumn By Susan Salaz
Fill your fall bucket list with more than just apples this year.
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As the leaves begin to change from their vibrant greens to warmer autumn hues, as the humidity that marks every good Indiana summer fades away with the falling temperatures, and as the smell of pumpkin spice can be found just about anywhere, you know fall is upon us. This yearly routine is usually welcomed with cozy sweaters, waterproof boots, and obligatory trips to the apple orchard. We love all of those things, but this year, consider adding something new to your list of autumnal aspirations.
At Newfields, the quintessential pumpkin patch experience is reimagined in their Harvest celebration. Every weekend in October, guests can explore horticulture displays featuring thousands of locally grown pumpkins and other fall florals, while sipping warm cider or specialty Sun King brews and listening to live music during Harvest Days. For a spookier scene, plan an evening sojourn to Harvest Nights and immerse yourself in a land of spectral sights and sounds, including the Instagram-worthy glow of endless jack-o-lanterns. See the colorful fall foliage and spectacular Indiana sunsets with a bird’s eye view on a hot air balloon tour with Midwest Balloon Rides, located in Fishers. This family-owned and operated business is known by balloon enthusiasts around the country as one of the best, and offers private rides, shared excursions and homestead flights to see your favorite haunts from above. Learn about Indigenous American traditions and art at the Eiteljorg Museum. Join our Latinx community on October 30th for free admission to the museum and the Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) Community Celebration to learn more about this festive tradition through live performances and demonstrations. While you’re there, visit the Powerful Women II exhibit to see dynamic contemporary artworks by Black, Latina, Asian-American and European-American women. You can’t go wrong with a corn maze, especially in Indiana. While there are plenty of places to get lost locally, a trip to Exploration Acres in Lafayette is worth the drive. Home to a 22-acre corn maze (the state’s largest), this year’s design features a race care and 10 miles of trails. The farm also includes a pumpkin patch, country store and a variety of children’s activities. You can even unwind after a memorable day at one of the reservable fire pits. Take a tour right here in your hometown on one of the many trails that the City of Carmel has to offer. Pedal, walk, jog or rollerblade through nature on the Monon Greenway, pour over the area’s locally owned brewery and wineries on the Brews and Barrels Trail, and stay on your toes with stops at all of the town’s tasty coffee and tea shops on the Carmel Caffeine Trail. In Fishers, hop on the Sullivan Express to Pumpkintown at Allisonville Home & Garden by Sullivan and enjoy a Halloween-themed train ride with activities for the entire family. For a luxurious getaway this season visit French Lick Resort in Southern Indiana. From the historic West Baden Springs Hotel and its relaxing spa services to the thrilling table games, French Lick is a fun fall getaway. As the crisp air makes way for winter, the annual Polar Express Train Ride at the French Lick Scenic Railway, which opens November 5th, is the perfect way for families to begin ringing in the holiday spirit. |
Enjoy all that fall
in central Indiana has to offer! 
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