Blog / Experience Fall Like a Local: Our Indiana Fall Bucket List for 2025

Experience Fall Like a Local: Our Indiana Fall Bucket List for 2025

October is here, and Indy is at its coziest. From pumpkin treats and fall coffee to scenic walks and local art, this list is packed with the best local fall experiences you won’t want to miss. Grab your sweater, your camera, and maybe a friend (or two) — it’s time to enjoy autumn in Indiana!

1. Take in Harvest Nights at Newfields​

Location: Indianapolis, IN​

Wander among glowing pumpkins and magical lighted trails at Newfields. Perfect for date night, family fun, or capturing autumn photos that will make your feed pop. Runs September 26–November 2.​

Link: Newfields

2. Enjoy a Glass of Apple Pie Wine at Oliver Winery​

Location: Bloomington, IN
Cozy up with a glass of seasonal Apple Pie wine while taking in the gorgeous Indiana fall scenery. A sweet and relaxing stop on your autumn adventures.​

Link: Website

 

3. Hit the Pumpkin Patch at Tuttle Orchards & Spencer Farm​

Location: Greenfield, IN (Tuttle Orchards), Noblesville, IN (Spencer Farm)

Pick your perfect pumpkin and refuel with a warm hot cider donut. Classic fall fun that’s perfect for families or a festive outing with friends.

Link: Spencer Farm  Tuttle Orchards

4. Explore the Corn Maze at Dull’s Tree Farm

Location: Thorntown, IN

Challenge yourself to navigate this fun and tricky corn maze. A great way to get outdoors, enjoy the crisp fall air, and make memories with friends or family.

Link: Dull’s Tree Farm

 

5. Spend the Day at Conner Prairie’s Headless Horseman Festival​

Location: Fishers, IN

 Experience the Midway, watch the Sleepy Hollow marionette show, and hop on the iconic haunted hayride. Runs October 2–26, making it a must-do October adventure.

Link: Conner Prairie

6. Check out the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival​

Location: Indianapolis, IN

This historic neighborhood goes all out with parades, local markets, and family-friendly spooky fun. October 18–25 is the perfect time to visit.

Link: Irvington Halloween Festival

7. Indulge in Sweet Treats at Cafe Babette or Mochi Joy Donuts​​

Location: Indianapolis, IN (Cafe Babette), Fishers, IN (Mochi Joy Donuts)

Treat yourself to seasonal pastries, pies, or pumpkin mochi donuts. A must-try for dessert lovers looking for cozy, fall flavors.

Link: Cafe Babette | Mochi Joy Donuts

 

8. Attend Proof: A Midwest Lit Fest

Location: Harrison Center for the Arts, Indianapolis

Celebrate the power of Midwest storytelling at this two-day literary festival hosted by Indiana Humanities. Meet local and regional authors, enjoy live readings, join hands-on workshops, and connect with publishers and book lovers from across Indiana. With food trucks, music, and even a rooftop open mic, it’s a perfect fall weekend for readers and writers alike.

9. Favorite Coffee Stops: Milk&Honey CoffeeHouse , Bovaconti Coffee, Red Door Cafe

Location: Indianapolis, IN

Warm up with a seasonal latte or fall-inspired drink at your favorite local coffee shops — ideal for mid-day refuels during your autumn adventures.

 

10. Explore Brown County State Park

Location: Nashville, IN

Hunt for the perfect fall photo spot with vibrant orange trees and scenic trails. A must for leaf-peeping and capturing those quintessential autumn shots.

Link: Brown County State Park

11. Spend a Day in Nashville, Indiana

Location: Nashville, IN

Explore the charming town, visit every local shop, and stop at Hard Truth Distilling Co. for a seasonal drink. Perfect for a full-day fall outing.

Link: Hard Truth Distilling Co.

12. Indiana Scream Park

Location: Anderson, IN

Brave the newest haunted houses and enjoy a terrifyingly fun night out — perfect for thrill-seekers and Halloween fans.

Link: Indiana Scream Park

13. Ghost Tours at Indiana State Sanatorium

Location: Rockville, IN

Text: Explore this abandoned sanatorium with paranormal tours and hear its haunted history. A truly unique and spooky Indiana fall experience.
Link: Indiana State Sanatorium

14. ZooBoo at the Indianapolis Zoo

Location: Indianapolis, IN

A family favorite! Trick-or-treat among the animals, enjoy festive decorations, and celebrate Halloween in a fun, kid-friendly way.

Link: Indianapolis Zoo

15. Parke County Covered Bridge Festival

Location: Parke County, IN

Celebrate autumn in Indiana’s largest fall festival! Explore 31 historic covered bridges, enjoy local arts and crafts, savor seasonal food, and take in the stunning fall foliage. Runs October 10–19, 2025.

Link: Parke County Covered Bridge Festival

16. Fright Night

Location: Downtown Fort Wayne, IN

Downtown Fort Wayne’s beloved Fright Night is back! Now in its 16th year, this full-day event draws thousands of costumed participants for spooky, silly, and scream-worthy fun. Perfect for families and Halloween enthusiasts alike. Happening Saturday, October 18, 2025.

Link: Fright Night Fort Wayne

Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or just looking for a fun way to stay active, these events offer something for everyone. Be sure to register early to secure your spot and take.

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