Flawless Fall Fun

As the crisp fall weather approaches, excitement is trending in Richmond/Wayne County! Our area comes alive with a host of pumpkin-picking adventures, apple harvesting, Amish markets, hikers on trails and busy-bicyclers pedaling, all embracing the outdoor phenomena of autumn. Now is a great time to start compiling a list of must see attractions and plan your getaway, since Wayne County is knee-deep in fun.

Set your sights high as a visit to Jones Family Farm is and all-out exciting adventure of pumpkin picking. Ladies and gentlemen get ready to tromp and stomp through fields, with over 200+ varieties of pumpkins, gourds, and squash. Once your wagon is overflowing with perfectly-pick harvested fall decor, make sure to visit the pumpkin house for a photo opportunity to commemorate a flawless day.    

As the Amish population continues to grow, horse and buggies have become more prominently in sight, so have Amish markets. These high-demand markets are sought after by visitors and locals alike, featuring locally grown and harvested crops. Be sure to load your trunk, truck bed, and trailers to the brim with various mums, pumpkins, gourds, Indian corn, golden corn stalks, and other decorative pieces to spruce up for season. The Pumpkin Patch located in Williamsburg, Indiana is self-serve market where you can pull in, pay and go. 

Have you ever watched a movie and dreamt of standing in a sunflower field? Design a day to be surrounded by sunflowers at The Barn at Helm Experience.  Escape the daily grind with over 80+ varieties of flowers, u-pick bouquets, and live open-air entertainment.

The season change would not be complete without a visit to Dougherty Orchards and Winery. This thoughtfully created establishment offers an abundance of fun waiting to be had for all ages, and is the oldest family-owned and ran orchard in Indiana. Apples are not the only staple here, as homemade cider, donuts, wine, wine slushies, and freshly made food-flavors fill the air. Plan a day trip with family and friends, as each will enjoy the petting zoo, the flower farm, and live entertainment.

Hayes Arboretum, Cope Environmental Center, Glen Miller Park, and the Whitewater River Gorge Trail pose spectacular views on scenic drives, hiking trails, all during peak leaf season. There’s also an abundance of wildlife, native hardwood and evergreen trees, plus bird watching at every turn. If biking is your niche the Cardinal Greenway is Indiana’s longest paved trail system and extends 62 miles from Richmond/Wayne County to Marion. Whether you’re seeking a casual hike or physical biking challenge, there are plenty of options to choose from. Cycling & Fitness Warehouse offers free bike rentals.

Before heading back to unwind for the evening, visit Richmond’s only waterfall. Thistlethwaite Falls is as inviting by sound, as it is to the eyes. Give yourself a moment to be serenaded by the sound of trickling water as it gently rolls past. Nature lovers will love the colorful foliage, rock formations, and fossils.

Find your flawless-fall overnight getaway by frolicking throughout picture-perfect Richmond/Wayne County. Visit us during our autumn vibrant spell!

By Julie Chance