Best Fall Activities in Indianapolis for Every Taste: Apple Orchards to Local Haunts

Are you looking for the best fall activities in Indianapolis? As a longtime local who’s been exploring every inch of Indy and its surrounding areas, I can’t tell you enough how much I adore autumn in Indiana.

We’ve got apple orchards that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie and festivals that can keep the whole family entertained. From the artsy corners of Mass Ave to the mesmerizing trails of our state parks, Indy in the fall is truly like living in a real-life Pinterest board of cozy and fun activities.

So if you’ve been wondering how to make the most of my favorite Midwest season —whether you’re a family looking to fill weekends with fun or someone eager to explore the cultural highlights of our city—you’re in the right spot. I’ll help you put together a to-do list so irresistible, that you’ll wish fall could last all year (I’d be okay with that!).

The BEST Apple Orchards & Farm Markets in Indy

If there’s one thing that screams “fall,” it’s a trip to an apple orchard or farm market. There’s just something so nostalgic and comforting about it, right? Around Indianapolis, we’re lucky to have a variety of places where you can experience that quintessential autumn joy.

Anderson Orchard

If you’re looking to capture the essence of fall, Anderson Orchard is your go-to spot. Situated just a short drive from the city, this orchard is a true haven for autumn enthusiasts. This is where we always went to pick apples in the fall when I was a kid.

But it’s not just about the picking. Step into their Apple Barn and you’ll find yourself surrounded by an array of freshly picked produce, homemade goodies, and apple-inspired treats. The aromas alone are enough to make your heart sing!

And also, their Fall Apple Festival & Craft Fair is something you absolutely cannot miss. Held in late September it’s a great time to pick up some unique local crafts, enjoy yummy food, and listen to the live music playing in the background. It’s the kind of festive atmosphere that makes you want to come back year after year.

Anderson Orchard, 369 E. Greencastle Rd. Mooresville, IN

Tuttle Orchards

One of the major highlights at Tuttle Orchards has to be their U-Pick produce. One of our favorite fall family activities is walking through rows of apple trees, the ground crunching beneath our boots, as we find the perfect apples to take home.

But it’s not just apples; pumpkins are also ripe for the picking, giving you all the ingredients you need for that homemade apple pie or jack-o’-lantern carving session. And if you are in the mood for something more adventurous, their corn maze has got you covered. Wind your way through intricate twists and turns, each step crunchier than the last.

For the little ones, the fun kids’ area is a playground of imagination, complete with activities that are both educational and downright fun. You’ll see smiles all around as the kids get up close and personal with farm life. Combine it with a fun day trip in Greenfield and you’ve got the perfect fall afternoon!

Tuttle Orchards, 5717 N 300 W, Greenfield, IN

Beasley’s Orchard & Gardens

You can’t talk about fall festivities without mentioning Beasley’s Orchard in Danville, a place that’s practically an autumn wonderland. Every weekend in October is a fall festival (literally!). You’ll find rows upon rows of apple trees just waiting for you to pluck their delicious fruit. And let’s not forget about the pumpkins; they’re scattered around like little orange jewels, perfect for picking and taking home for all your fall decorating or baking needs.

Beasley’s also takes apple picking to a whole new level with their apple cannons. Yes, you read that right—apple cannons! Load ’em up and watch as apples soar through the sky, offering a burst of adrenaline you didn’t know you needed. It’s a unique twist that adds a dash of excitement to the classic orchard experience.

Now, what’s an orchard visit without some local goodies? Step into their farm market and be prepared for a sensory overload—in the best way possible! From freshly baked apple donuts to locally made jams and jellies, it’s a foodie’s dream come true. And as for those Instagram aficionados among us, the gardens and numerous scenic spots provide the perfect backdrop for your fall photos.

Beasley’s Orchard & Gardens, 2304 E. Main St. Danville, IN

Broad Ripple farmer’s market

Lucky for us Hoosiers, the availability of fresh produce doesn’t end with the summer. There are still several terrific options for farmer’s markets that run through fall.

My favorite farmer’s market (and I’ve been to all of them in the city), is the Broad Ripple farmer’s market. Every Saturday morning through the end of October you can head over to Broad Ripple to stock up on locally grown goodies to enjoy throughout the week.

I like to grab a coffee and a slice of breakfast pizza or a breakfast sandwich and then do a quick once-through before deciding what to purchase. If the gourmet mushrooms are available, I’m definitely buying them, but otherwise, it’s just whatever looks fresh and tasty.

Broad Ripple Farmer’s Market, 1115 Broad Ripple Ave. Indianapolis, IN

Sullivan’s Express to Pumpkintown

I know a trip to a garden center doesn’t sound like much of a fun fall activity but if you haven’t experienced the Pumpkintown Express at Sullivans Hardware, let me tell you—you’re missing out on a quintessential fall adventure!

After you ride the train to Pumkintown, you and your kids can enjoy Trick or Treating, carnival games, pumpkin decorating, and a Magic Show. Add in a S’mores-making station and a straw playground and you can keep the kiddos occupied for several fun hours.

So, if you’re seeking an all-in-one autumn extravaganza, the Pumpkintown Express is your ticket to a unique fall experience that’s brimming with fun, food, and fabulous memories! Check their website for times and availability as it tends to book up quickly.

Sullivan Hardware & Garden, 11405 Allisonville Rd. Fishers, IN

Fun Fall Festivals & Fairs in Indianapolis

The Circle City has more than its share of fall festivals and fairs. You’d be hard-pressed to find a weekend in September or October without at least one to enjoy. When the kids were little, we scouted out a new one every Saturday or Sunday afternoon if the weather was cooperating.

Potter’s Bridge Fall Festival

A fun fall outing is the Potter’s Bridge Festival! Nestled near the stunning Potter’s Bridge Park, this festival is a seasonal spectacle that brings the community together in the coziest way. It’s typically held the first Saturday of October so it is a fun way to kick off all the excitement of October in Indiana.

But what really sets the Potter’s Bridge Festival apart is its vibe. It’s got that small-town charm mixed with big festival excitement, a combo you don’t find just anywhere. You’ll encounter live music filling the air, creating the perfect soundtrack for a day of leisurely strolling and shopping the dozens of craft booths.

Potter’s Bridge, 19401 Allisonville Rd. Noblesville, IN

Octoberfest at the German-American Klub

It wouldn’t be fall without an Octoberfest, right? While there are actually several in the Indianapolis area, my favorite is the “original” one at the German-American Klub. At least original to us – we’ve been going on and off for many years. This one is early in the fall, so don’t miss it!

Although you’ll pay to get in, that also includes parking. There is plenty of food, a few carnival rides and games, live music, and of course beer. The atmosphere is always festive and fun! If you want another fun German experience, have dinner at the Edelweiss restaurant – we used to go there a few times a year with my grandparents and it was always delicious.

Octoberfest at the German American Klub, 8600 S Meridian St. Indianapolis, IN

Indy Jazz Fest

If you are a lover of Jazz, then you definitely want to plan on attending the Indy Jazz Fest. For several weekends in September, the best Jazz musicians make their way to Indy to perform.

From seasoned pros to rising stars, the talent is off the charts, and it creates an atmosphere that’s electric. The air feels thicker somehow, filled with the rich notes of saxophones, trumpets, and velvety vocals that leave you spellbound.

It’s not just a musical event; it’s a full-on experience that celebrates the diversity and history of jazz in the most thrilling way. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or a newcomer looking to dip your toes into the genre, Indy Jazz Fest is a must-do fall event that serves up incredible music and good times.

Indy Jazz Fest, various locations in Indianapolis

First Friday – Mass Ave/ Fountain Square/ CCIC

You’ll find First Friday events all over the Indianapolis area, so if it’s the first Friday of September or October consider checking one out!

A favorite includes the Circle City Industrial Complex– that one is full of artists working in their studios, and with plenty of free parking and fun places to grab a drink nearby it’s a lot of fun.

Also celebrating First Friday in downtown Indianapolis are the designated cultural arts districts of Fountain Square and Mass Ave. Both neighborhoods have their galleries open late along with plenty of restaurants and local businesses on the first Friday of the month.

Heartland International Film Festival

Maybe movies are more your speed. If so, add the Heartland International Film Festival to your list of fun things to do in the fall in Indianapolis. Films from all around the globe grace the screen. You can enjoy everything from groundbreaking documentaries, and indie gems, to star-studded dramas that pull at your heartstrings or keep you on the edge of your seat.

If you’re a film lover looking to expand your horizons this fall, the Heartland International Film Festival is your golden ticket to a world of cinematic magic right here in Indy. This festival spans over a week and showcases dozens of movies, so grab some tickets and check it out.

Enjoy Indy Art & Culture this Fall

If you think Indy is just about sports and speedways, you’re in for a delightful surprise! Indy has a burgeoning arts scene that comes alive in the autumn months, offering a perfect blend of classic and contemporary that’ll appeal to any cultural palate.

From theater to visual arts, there’s something here to ignite your creative spirit and get those cultural juices flowing. So come along as we explore some of the must-visit spots that put the “art” in the “heart” of Indianapolis!

Catch a show at the IRT, Murat or Clowes

I love live theater, and fall kicks off the Indianapolis Broadway Series. So what better way to experience the arts than by catching a show at some of Indy’s most iconic venues—Murat, the IRT, or Clowes?

As the leaves turn, the curtains rise, and the stages come alive with a captivating array of performances. Over at the Murat, expect big-name concerts and Broadway touring shows that’ll make your heart sing. If you’re more into classic and contemporary plays, the Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT) offers an intimate setting where every seat feels like the best in the house.

And let’s not forget Clowes Memorial Hall at Butler University, a venue that’s as versatile as they come, hosting everything from dance troupes to comedy acts. Trust me, there’s something magical about watching a live performance as the cool autumn air sets in—so why not make a night of it this fall?

Fall Break Art Camp – at the Indianapolis Art Center

Many of the schools in the Indianapolis area have fall breaks in October. If you’ve got kiddos with creative flair and aren’t planning a vacation out of town, then you ought to check out the Fall Art Camp at the Indianapolis Art Center.

Imagine dropping your youngsters off in the morning and picking them up in the afternoon, their faces beaming with pride as they show off their freshly made masterpieces. We’re talking painting, sculpture, mixed media, and so much more. The camp is like an artist’s playground that’s as educational as it is fun!

Indianapolis Art Center, 820 E. 67th St. Indianapolis, IN

Harvest Nights at Newfields

I absolutely love Newfields and in recent years Harvest Nights at Newfields has become a fall favorite for our family. The coolest part for me is walking through The Garden, guided by the soft glow of thousands of intricately carved jack-o-lanterns lining the Pumpkin Path of Peril. It’s like stepping into an autumnal fairy tale, complete with the mysterious rumblings of the Ghost Train beneath your feet, courtesy of Full Body Chills.

Over at the iconic Lilly House, The Three Graces come to life in a jaw-dropping light projection that transforms the facade into Mischief Manor, the ultimate spooky soirée. Inside the Lilly House, the décor is pure craftsmanship, handmade by the Newfields horticulture team to add just the right touch of whimsy that’s spooky, but not scary.

Even the food and drinks are fun! Get ready to sip on a specialty beer or cocktail made by a local brewery or distillery. My favorite is the Campfire Cocoa made with Hotel Tango’s Toasted Marshmallow Bourbon—yum! Harvest Nights is more than just an event; it’s an all-encompassing fall experience that you won’t want to miss!

Newfields, 4000 Michigan Rd. Indianapolis, IN

Mural hunting

Indianapolis has some fantastic new murals, and if you are a fan of street art, then spending an afternoon mural-hunting in Indianapolis this fall is an absolute must-do! Picture this: the sky’s a clear, autumnal blue, the leaves are a kaleidoscope of oranges, yellows, and reds, and you’re wandering through the vibrant neighborhoods of Indy on a self-guided tour of some of the city’s coolest murals. Every turn, every alley, it’s like the city itself is the canvas, and the art? So fun to discover.

The beauty of this adventure is its spontaneity. You’re just as likely to stumble upon a hidden gem, a new coffee shop, or a local boutique as you are to seek out some of the city’s most iconic pieces. From the bright, geometric designs in Fountain Square to the evocative portraits that grace the walls of Mass Ave, each mural has its own story, its own pulse, and it adds a layer of excitement to the city’s already electric atmosphere.

Shakespeare in the Park

Shakespeare in the Park used to occur in late summer, but recently they moved it to the fall and I love it! The weather is a little bit cooler and more comfortable for enjoying an evening outside.

Noblesville holds its Shakespeare in the Park the last weekend of September, so grab some lawn chairs, pack a cooler (or stop for carryout), and enjoy the evening. The second fall option for Shakespeare in the Park is the annual fall show at Garfield Park – that’s the one I grew up attending and it’s always a lovely evening.

If your kids have never experienced Shakespeare, this would be a fun (and free) way to introduce them to it.

Outdoor Activities in the Fall in Indianapolis

Next up, we’re delving into the fantastic world of outdoor fall activities right here in Indianapolis. Between the kaleidoscope of changing leaves and the cooler weather, there’s no better time to embrace the great outdoors. Whether you’re into hiking through forest trails, gliding down a river in a kayak, or conquering a corn maze with the fam, Indy’s got something for everyone.

Get lost in a corn maze

What a fall thing to do in Indianapolis! Getting lost in a corn maze. What’s super cool about these mazes is that they’re often more than just a walk in the cornfield. Some places make it an all-out event with hayrides, bonfires, and even spooky nighttime adventures for the brave at heart.

Many of the local apple orchards have a corn maze on site, as does Conner Prairie. And a few of the haunted houses have one too if you like a scarier experience.

Whether you choose to race to the finish or take your time exploring every twist and turn, one thing’s for sure: you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment when you finally emerge victorious on the other side. And hey, if you do get lost, that’s part of the fun, right? You’ll be laughing about it for weeks to come!

Enjoy the foliage with a hike in a local park

Fall hiking in Indianapolis is nothing short of magical. Imagine setting off on a trail, leaves crunching beneath your shoes, the air tinged with that unique autumn chill. You’re wrapped in your coziest sweater, and every step you take is met with a burst of color as the trees show off their finest fall hues—think rich golds, fiery reds, and warm oranges.

As you wind your way through the trails, whether it’s at Eagle Creek Park or a trail at Fort Harrison State Park, it’s hard not to feel that sense of peace and quiet that comes with being enveloped by nature. It’s an incredible way to disconnect, enjoy some quality time with loved ones, and of course, snap some gorgeous autumnal pictures. So if you haven’t put a fall hike on your autumn bucket list yet, what are you waiting for?

Kayaking in the fall? You bet!

Although kayaking in the summer is one of my favorite things to do in Indianapolis, it’s also a fantastic fall activity. If you’ve got a warm fall day ahead of you, consider grabbing those kayaks one more time and heading to a nearby lake or river.

As long as you are careful, you can avoid getting wet – and even if you do, the afternoon sunshine should dry you off soon enough. As the leaves start to change, the scenery along your summer kayaking routes changes too – dramatically. I love getting that new perspective.

Biking the Monon Trail

If you love biking, a fun fall adventure is riding along the Monon Trail in Indianapolis. What’s so awesome about the Monon Trail is its versatility. Whether you’re a hardcore cyclist or more of a leisurely weekend rider, the trail accommodates all paces and vibes.

And along the way? You’re passing through some of Indy’s most charming neighborhoods, with plenty of spots to take a break. Think cozy cafes with steaming mugs of hot coffee, or maybe even a farmer’s market where you can snag some fresh-baked pumpkin bread.

So, pump up those tires and head over to the Monon Trail. Whether you’re riding solo, with friends, or making it a family outing, a bike ride down the Monon Trail is a quintessential Indianapolis fall activity you won’t want to skip!

Miniature golf as an afternoon outing

With winter coming along soon, we like to get at least one family miniature golf outing in the books in the fall. There are several options around town, but a favorite of ours is Rustic Golf. Rustic Golf is more like true “miniature” golf than a typical putt-putt. You’ll actually tee off (with your putter) and try to land your ball on the green that is a short distance away.

It’s fun because it’s unique and although the course itself is nothing fancy (it’s been around forever), the setting is beautiful – especially in the fall as the leaves start to turn. If you’ve never tried this type of mini-golf before, look up Rustic Woods and give it a try.

Rustic Golf & Driving Range, 5955 Terrace Ave. Indianapolis, IN

Cozy Cafes and Restaurants

Ready to cozy up with some comfort food and warm drinks? Most of our autumn adventures include a stop at a coffee shop or local restaurant. From sipping on seasonal lattes to feasting on hearty fall dishes, there’s no better way to cap off a day of leaf-peeping and corn maze-conquering than by settling into a snug little spot that screams “autumn vibes.”

Cat and coffee? Yes, please!

We love cats in our house! So, visiting Nine Lives Cat Cafe is always on our list if we are in the Fountain Square area. A gorgeous fall day is a fun time to stroll the shops in Fountain Square, grab a fall drink at Nine Lives, and then play with the kittens and cats there that are ready for adoption.

If you want to learn more about this fun place, check out a full post I shared about it.

Nine Lives Cat Cafe, 1315 Shelby St. Indianapolis, IN

Local coffee shop

We love visiting a local coffee shop any time of the year, but since they all have speciality drinks on the menu in the fall, it’s extra fun. I mean is it really fall if you haven’t indulged in a Pumpkin Spice Latte yet? With well over a dozen local coffee shops in the Indianapolis area, you are sure to find a coffee shop near you – a few suggestions to get you started include Illumine in Nora, Quills Coffee downtown, Please & Thank You on Mass Ave, Hubbards & Craven near Broad Ripple and Noble Coffee & Tea in Noblesville.

One of our favorite Saturday morning adventures is to check out a new coffee shop (or sometimes we just go to our favorite), grab a drink, and then relax with those coffee shop vibes. Often we’ll take our computers to work/do homework, but sometimes we just visit with friends or play a game.

Enjoy brunch on a patio

Knowing that the warm weather is going to be leaving soon, I take every opportunity I can to enjoy eating outside. And since brunch is the perfect way to enjoy a leisurely weekend morning, you can bet we’ll be plotting out a fall brunch or two at a restaurant with an outdoor patio.

If this sounds fun to you too – a few places in the Indianapolis area to try include Cafe Patachou (any location), Milktooth in Fountain Square, or The Garden Table (get a juice flight) on Mass Ave. An outdoor brunch is also a fun way to kick off a busy weekend – start it out on a high note!

Dinner on Mass Ave

Like many people these days, we are eating at home more often, so when we DO go out to eat we like to pick a really good restaurant. Luckily, Indy has some amazing choices, and a bunch of them are centered on Mass Ave (short for Massachusetts Avenue). It’s one of the designated cultural arts districts of Indianapolis, so on Mass Ave you’ll find local shops, terrific restaurants, and wonderful art.

Restaurants on Mass Ave come and go, but a few favorites that have stood the test of time include Bazbeaux Pizza, The Livery (get the Carriage House – it’s one of my all-time favorite cocktails), BRU Burger Bar and Yats (for fabulous and affordable cajun). A lovely fall evening can be spent at any of these spots. Pop in and out of the shops and galleries along Mass Ave and then enjoy a lovely dinner. If you really want to soak in the fall weather, choose to eat outside!

👉 Consider a Mass Ave Food Tour to try several restaurants!

End a fall evening at a rooftop bar

Sticking with the theme of being outside as much as possible, one of my favorite fall activities in Indianapolis for adults is to enjoy a beverage at one of the city’s rooftop bars. You get to be outside, enjoy a tasty cocktail, AND check out a great view. What could be better?

If this sounds like the ideal nightcap for your fall evening, consider heading over to The CannonBall Lounge, the bar at Fountain Square Theatre, or even 3UP in nearby Carmel, Indiana. All are fantastic choices, with a great atmosphere and delicious drinks.

Family-Friendly Fall Activities in Indianapolis

Although most of the fall activities in Indianapolis are kid-friendly, in this section I’m talking about all the fabulous, kid-friendly activities that make autumn in Indianapolis extra special for the youngest members of your tribe. Whether it’s pumpkin picking, running around at local playgrounds, or taking a family day trip to a nearby state park, the opportunities for pint-sized fun are endless.

Head to the pumpkin patch for that perfect pumpkin

There’s something absolutely enchanting about an Indianapolis pumpkin patch in the fall. When my kids were younger this was ALWAYS on our list of fall activities in Indianapolis. And even now, we try to make a trip to an orchard to look for the perfect pumpkin – it’s serious business. We’re talking about future jack-o’-lanterns and pie ingredients here!

While the pumpkins are the stars of the show, most patches in Indianapolis offer so much more. Think hayrides, corn mazes, and even petting zoos. Little ones will have a blast hopping from one activity to the next, their faces painted and arms filled with mini pumpkins and gourds. Meanwhile, you can relish the small joys, like the feel of straw underfoot and the scent of spiced cider in the air.

Burn off extra energy at a local playground

I can’t tell you how much I miss the days when my kids were thrilled with a visit to a local playground. We spent MANY beautiful fall afternoons playing on the playground equipment, running around to burn off extra energy, and then enjoying a treat at a local ice cream or coffee shop afterward.

Through the years, we’ve visited dozens of playgrounds in Indianapolis, but a few of our all-time favorites include Holliday Park (don’t miss the ruins and the nature center too), Broad Ripple Park (I played here as a kid myself), Fort Harrison State Park and the playground at Conner Prairie in Fishers, IN.

Challenge each other to a round of disc golf

So we are all pretty terrible at Disc Golf in my family, but that doesn’t stop us from having a good time playing. Years ago we picked up some inexpensive discs and have been using them to challenge each other ever since.

Fall is an ideal time for a round of disc golf for several reasons. First, the weather is nice, so you don’t get too hot or too cold, and it’s a great excuse for spending an afternoon outside. Second, the courses aren’t as crowded as they tend to get in the summer – definitely, a bonus if you are disc golf-challenged like we are. Finally, most of the courses are near wooded areas, so you get to enjoy the stunning fall foliage while you play!

Cheer on your favorite team at a sporting event

There’s nothing like fall sports on a gorgeous afternoon. Between tailgating, cheering on your team and just soaking up the fun atmosphere it’s a perfect fall activity in Indianapolis for kids.

Thanks to our city’s love of sports, there are PLENTY of opportunities. You can cheer on the Colts, head over to Butler to watch soccer or football on a college campus, or even watch an IUPUI soccer game. Since my son plays soccer and several of his former teammates play for Butler and IUPUI, those games are especially for for us – and a great alternative for fun family-friendly fall activities for older kids.

If you don’t want to face the crowds at a college or pro game, how about cheering on your local high school? Younger kids will still look up to the high school players and you’ll get to enjoy the nostaglic feel of a high school sporting event.

Day trip to a State Park

A day trip to a nearby state park—now that’s what I call a fall family win! Just an hour or two from the heart of Indianapolis, you’re suddenly in a natural playground bursting with fall colors and activities for all ages. I mean, could it get any better? Whether you’re hiking trails that meander through tapestries of orange and red leaves, or maybe fishing by a lake that reflects the clear autumn sky, the state parks around Indy offer the ultimate escape from the city bustle.

But here’s the best part: it’s not just about the scenery or the activities. It’s about the quality time you get to spend with your family, away from screens and schedules. There’s nothing like the shared laughter over a failed attempt at skipping rocks or the collective awe as you all watch a deer dart through the woods.

Pack a picnic, bring some cozy blankets, and maybe even a football or frisbee for impromptu games. By the time you head home, you’ll have a camera roll full of memories and probably a few leaves or acorns as keepsakes. Honestly, it’s days like these that make you realize why fall in the Midwest is something truly special.

Local Haunts & Halloween Activities

Who’s ready for some spooky fun? Up next, I’m diving into the thrilling world of local haunts and Halloween events that make Indianapolis THE place to be when October rolls around. I’m talking about the spine-tingling, hair-raising, and yes, even family-friendly events that take “fall festivities” to a whole new level. Whether you’re all about the traditional haunts or looking for something that’ll have the kids talking for weeks, we’ve got it all on this list.

ZooBoo

Every year, the Indianapolis Zoo holds a celebration in the fall called ZooBoo. We’ve visited many times through the years and always had a wonderful time. Younger children will have a blast trick-or-treating through the plains (costumes are welcome) and adults can enjoy a special cocktail created just for the event.

Other fun things happening (in addition to the normal fun of the zoo!) are games, a mirror maze, a backward Carousel, and more. You can visit ZooBoo from the end of September through the end of October.

Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 West Washington St. Indianapolis, IN

Headless Horseman

My favorite Halloween event is the Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie. We do our best to go to it every October. It’s such a fun evening, especially if the weather is nice. Some of our favorite activities include the Haunted Maze, the puppet show (always hilarious), and the hay ride of course.

There are plenty of tasty snacks and fun drinks – from hot chocolate to beers made especially for the event by local brewery Sun King. Kids can play games, do crafts and everyone can listen to live music!

Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd. Fishers, IN

Get spooked on a ghost walk

For older kids (and adults of course) consider signing up for a ghost walk. They are actually held year-round, but of course, the spooky month of October is a particularly fun time to participate.

I’ve done the Westfield Walk, but they also offer ghost tours in Noblesville, Anderson, and several in downtown Indianapolis. Plan to spend about an hour and a half walking the area you are exploring, hear a variety of stories about the ghosts that haunt that part of the city, and learn a little history too.

Indianapolis Ghost Walk, Indianapolis, IN

Children’s Museum Haunted House

The Indianapolis Children’s Museum knows how to put the “boo” in “boo-tiful” every Halloween season! If you haven’t experienced their haunted house, brace yourself and the kiddos for a spooky—yet entirely age-appropriate—adventure. Designed with families in mind, this isn’t your average jump-scare haunt. Instead, it’s a whimsical and interactive experience that strikes the perfect balance between thrilling and fun.

This is the first haunted house I went to as a kid, and it’s the first one I took my kids to, so it’s definitely a fall tradition in our family. Each year the theme is a little different – anything from pirates to witches, so you are guaranteed something unique in October.

There are always “lights-on” hours for the younger ones or those a little too skittish for full-on haunting. This means you can tailor the experience to fit even the most timid of trick-or-treaters, ensuring that everyone leaves with smiles rather than nightmares. So, if you’re on the hunt for a Halloween outing that’s more delightful than frightful, the Children’s Museum Haunted House is a must-visit!

Indianapolis Children’s Museum, 3000 N. Meridian St. Indianapolis, IN

Historic Irvington Halloween Festival

The Historic Irvington Halloween Festival is an event you won’t want to miss! Irvington turns into Halloween central, and this neighborhood knows how to throw a party. The festival has been a local tradition for over seven decades, so they’ve had some practice in making it absolutely epic.

What can you expect? Picture local vendors showcasing crafts, art, and mouthwatering food. There are parades featuring everything from elaborate floats to costumes so creative they could rival a Hollywood set. But it’s not just about the eye candy; the festival also has a roster of events that cover everything from ghost tours to a masquerade ball.

And hey, for those who love a good spook, the ghost tours are a must—Irvington has its share of haunted tales to tell! All in all, the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival is the perfect mix of community spirit (pun intended) and Halloween fun, making it a must-do for anyone in the Indianapolis area during the fall season.

Places to Stay in Indianapolis

Although Indy has some terrific places to stay all around the city, here are my favorites – two downtown and one in the Hamilton County suburbs.

FAQs: Fall Activities Indianapolis

Conclusion: Fun Things to Do in Indianapolis in the Fall

From pumpkin patches to jazz festivals, from sipping fall lattes at cozy cafes to getting your heart racing at local haunts, Indianapolis in the fall is full of adventures and experiences. Trust me, there’s no better place to savor the season’s vivid colors, crisp air, and festive vibes. And the best part? Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a culture buff, or looking for kid-friendly outings, there’s something for everyone right here in our own backyard.

So, go ahead, mark your calendars, grab your loved ones, and dive right into the fall festivities. Life’s too short for ‘should haves’ and ‘could haves,’ especially when there’s so much fun to be had! Get out there and make this autumn one for the books!

PIN FOR LATER: