Uncover Indiana's Fall Magic on an Exciting Road Trip
Road trip anyone? Fall is the perfect time to take a road trip in Indiana. The leaves are changing, the weather is cooling down, and some of the best festivals and attractions come out in the fall! The best route to take with the most stunning views and fun things to do is Route 20 or Highway 20, which goes through northern Indiana. This route will take visitors through LaGrange County, home of the infamous Shipshewana, a popular destination for Hoosiers and tourists alike. Along the way, there will be plenty of interesting, cozy towns, fun attractions, and delicious restaurants to discover. Get planning!
Mill Creek Gardens, Winamac, IN
Mill Creek Gardens is the perfect getaway for relaxation and tranquility. Enjoy a top-quality housekeeping service, peaceful gardens, and a sun deck beside a burbling creek. You will have a wonderful stay whether you choose a spacious room or a cozy suite.
Kitchen Cupboard, Shipshewana, IN
After a wonderful night’s stay at Songbird Ridge Bed and Breakfast, wake up feeling refreshed and ready to start your day with a healthy breakfast and a good cup of coffee. For the best coffee, head to the Kitchen Cupboard and enjoy the taste of locally-roasted coffee beans. For the best breakfast, try Four Seasons Diner and experience the best omelet and old fashion pancakes you’ve ever tasted!
Black Pine Animal Sanctuary, Albion, IN
The best part about Highway 20 is that even though you might be staying in one place, there is always something to do within a 10-15-minute drive. One of the most popular attractions and scenic areas is the Black Pine Animal Sanctuary in Albion. Just a short drive from Shipshewana, this non-profit animal sanctuary is a refuge for displaced or captive raised exotic animals to live out the rest of their lives in peace and as in much of a natural environment as possible. There are a variety of tours available, from group tours to private tours, to tadpole tours for the little ones. It’s a great place for the whole family.
OP Italian Indy, Indianapolis, IN
OP Italian Indy is where tradition meets modernity. From homemade pasta and slow-cooked meats to Neapolitan pizza and fresh seafood, you can experience classic Italian comfort food with a modern twist. Come for the delectable dishes and the lively wine bar, and stay for the open-kitchen concept and communal seating that make this restaurant a valid destination.
Pumpkin Nature Trail, Goshen, IN
If you are planning a weekend trip, it’s best to save these next destinations for your second or third day. Start your morning off with an energizing hike through the Pumpkin Nature Trail. The trail was once a railroad line connecting the towns of Goshen, Middlebury, and Shipshewana. Now, visitors from all over come to hike, walk, bike and run this trail. The trail is smooth yet somewhat challenging and comes with beautiful views: rural areas, farm fields, country roads, tunnels through forests, acres and acres of corn fields… The views are diverse and provide a scenic view as you hike.
Kercher’s Sunrise Orchards, Goshen, IN
Fall in Indiana is apple-picking season, and the orchards are in full bloom! Visit Kercher’s Sunrise Orchards in nearby Goshen. Family-owned and operated since 1922, the orchard is a favorite of Hoosiers and visitors alike. From now through November, visitors can come and pick their own delicious apples. Enjoy a wide variety of Honey Crisp apples, Cortland apples, Red and Golden Delicious apples, as well as Fuji and Granny Smith.
Winchester Mansion, Elkhart, IN
With Halloween just a little over a month away, now is a good time to start visiting the haunted houses and attractions! Because Indiana is rich in history, you’ll be hard-pressed to find an attraction that isn’t haunted, especially in northern Indiana. Take a tour of the legendary Winchester Mansion in Elkhart, where visitors are said to have seen the ghost of a former resident, Miss Nellie Knickerbocker, and experienced lights in the attic turning off by themselves, items falling off the shelves, strange sounds in the night. Rumor has it that Miss Nellie was a bit quirky. She’s said to have liked her husband’s casket so much, she bought one for herself and kept it in the foyer. Quirky, huh?
Wedgewood Brewing Company, Middlebury, IN
Wedgewood Brewing Company is the place to be for craft beer connoisseurs! To craft the highest quality beverages while creating a diverse and welcoming environment, this will surely be an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a variety of creations from their humble beginnings in this cozy and hospitable brewery.
Indiana Historical Society Festival of Trees, Indianapolis, IN
Explore the festive atmosphere at the Indiana Historical Society Festival of Trees. 85 elaborately decorated trees, caroling, scavenger hunts, holiday-inspired treats, and activities will be featured throughout the event. Join them and get into the holiday spirit!
Key Insights at a Glance
- Fall is the perfect time for a road trip in Indiana.
- Route 20 in northern Indiana offers stunning views and fun attractions.
- Mill Creek Gardens in Winamac offers relaxation and tranquility.
- Kitchen Cupboard in Shipshewana has locally-roasted coffee and delicious breakfast options.
- Black Pine Animal Sanctuary in Albion is a great family-friendly attraction.
- OP Italian Indy in Indianapolis offers classic Italian comfort food with a modern twist.
- Pumpkin Nature Trail in Goshen offers a scenic hike through rural areas and farm fields.
- -Kercher's Sunrise Orchards in Goshen is a great spot for apple-picking.
- Winchester Mansion in Elkhart is a haunted attraction with a quirky history.
- Wedgewood Brewing Company in Middlebury is a cozy spot for craft beer enthusiasts.
- Indiana Historical Society Festival of Trees in Indianapolis offers a festive holiday atmosphere with decorated trees and activities.
