Embark on a self-guided harvest tour filled with autumn magic and farmyard fun. At Jones Family Farm, wander the fields to find and pick your perfect pumpkin fresh off the vine among 200 varieties, from classic jack-o’-lanterns to giant huggable pumpkins. The pumpkin house is a perfect setting for a family photo-opt. Here you’ll also find fresh cut flowers, Indian corn, handmade autumn wreaths, and dried flowers. If frolicking around a pumpkin patch isn’t your thing, visit a Wayne County Amish farm to gather your beloved fall decorations from pumpkins, gourds, corn stalks, Indian corn to large, beautiful mums.
Savor the season at Dougherty Orchards & Winery, Indiana’s oldest family-owned orchard dating back to 1883, with apple picking, fresh-pressed cider, homemade donuts, caramel apples, and apple wine slushies from the 1883 Winery. At Dougherty’s Petting Farm, families can get up close to feed, pet, and observe a variety of farm and exotic animals. On Friday evenings from 7-10 p.m., unwind with live music under the stars—admission to the concerts is free.
The Barn at Helm Experience is a sensory delight in so many ways especially spending sometime in a field of sunflowers! You can pick a bouquet to take home. Don’t forget your cameras! Lots of photo ops here!
The serene landscape of Hayes Arboretum makes it the ideal location for some leaf-peeping. You can absorb the magic of autumn via several hiking trails, or a 5-mile auto driving-tour. At Cope Environmental Center, trails are alive with the vibrant colors and sounds of fall. Be sure to hike the Confer Trail and marvel at the towering pines, firs, and spruces.
Get pedaling on Indiana’s longest paved trail system, the Cardinal Greenway, which spans 62 miles from Richmond to Marion. No bike, no problem . . . Cycling and Fitness Warehouse offers FREE bike rentals.
At Middlefork Reservoir, you’ll feel the peace and calm of being surrounded by tranquil waters as you glide along in your rented canoe, rowboat, or paddleboat. Afterwards, head over to Thistlethwaite Falls, a beautiful waterfall that stands out even more against the backdrop of dazzling autumn colors. While you’re there, search for ancient fossils among the rock formations along the Whitewater River.
All season long, weekends are sprinkled with fall festivals and events that invite you to savor the crisp air, festive music, and seasonal delights.
Pumpkins, cider, and miles of fall magic – your self-guided autumn adventure in Richmond/Wayne County is ready to delight every sense.
For more information: VisitRichmond.org
