That summer trip you planned? Postpone it. The Indiana Dunes are a sight to see in the fall—and there’s a lot to do, too!
1. Dig into Fall Flavors
Cinnamon, apple, pumpkin, caramel—the flavors of fall can’t be beat. From sweet treats to savory soups and stews, there’s an autumn delight for everyone! Grab a slice of pumpkin or pecan pie and a chai latte at Red Cup Café, or bite into a fall breakfast at LePeep. For more fall food ideas, check out our fall flavors blog.
2. Head Out on a Hike
Hit the trails in autumn for a far less crowded (and much more colorful) expedition! Indiana Dunes National Park is a gorgeous go-to, boasting 15 unique hiking trails with varying lengths and difficulty levels.
The Bailly Homestead, Chellberg Farm, Little Calumet River, and Mnoké Prairie Trails are an adventure all on their own! Explore the historic homestead and farm as well as the recently restored Mnoké Prairie, then find your way through a forest of maple, beech, basswood, and oak trees. Did you know these are some of the best birdwatching trails in Northern Indiana?
Nearby, the Glenwood Dunes and Tolleston Dunes Trails offer more moderate conditions, winding through deep woods, prairie grasses, and marshlands. For a bigger challenge, take on the rugged Cowles Bog Trail and celebrate with a splash in the lake.
3. Shop at a Seasonal Market
Wandering through a farmer’s market is a fall-time must. The Chesterton European Market is perfect for seasonal shopping. Held annually in historic downtown Chesterton (from May to October), this popular marketplace offers a wide range of artisan-made foods and handcrafted goods.
4. Appreciate the Indiana Dunes’ Autumn Colors
You don’t have to search far and wide to find the vivid reds, warm oranges, and golden yellows that signify fall. From hiking trails to local parks, these seasonal shades start to appear in late September and last through November. Be sure to bring a camera for the perfect photo-op! To find the best locations for fall leaves, check out our fall colors blog.
5. Celebrate the Season at a Fall Festival
Planning a trip to the Indiana Dunes in September? The Indiana Dunes Outdoor Adventure Festival is an unforgettable annual event that spans over ten days. No pre-registration or additional charges required—just pay the standard entrance fee and unlock access to over 100 activities throughout Indiana Dunes National Park and neighboring areas! Join in on geocaching, hiking, birdwatching, biking, and more.
Another autumn event to attend is the Annual Fall Harvest Festival and Antique Equipment Show. Because what’s better than seeing antique farming equipment in action? Or, for a more traditional fall festival, County Line Orchard is the place to party! Pick farm-fresh apples, get lost in the corn maze, pet farm animals, and snack on seasonal treats.
6. Go on a Scenic Drive
Admire the autumn atmosphere from the comfort of your car! The Indiana Dunes region boasts several scenic drives that will take you through coastlines, forests, small towns, and more! Check out our recommendations for the best scenic drives here.
7. Pick a Pumpkin at a Pumpkin Patch
A patch of round, orange pumpkins. A line of trees with fresh, red apples ripe for the taking. Can it get more “fall” than that?
From late August to late October, head to Garwood Orchards in LaPorte to pick pumpkins and produce after hitching a hayride. You can do the same at Coulter’s Farm in Westville—but be sure to swing by on the weekends for bonus fall fun like face painting, pony rides, and of course, a corn maze!
Fall is more fun in the Indiana Dunes! Plan your trip for September, October, or November, today!
