Lots of people say fall is the best season of all in Indiana. No one can deny the beauty in the changing leaves, the crisp air, and the delicious seasonal drinks and food! Columbus, IN is the perfect backdrop for your autumnal getaway.

6th Street Arts Alley, Photo by Hadley Fruits for Landmark Columbus Foundation

Columbus’ fall season is filled with great events! From food festivals, and car shows, to a fine arts and craft show.

A few of our favorites coming up:

Columbus Scottish Festival is a weekend of  Scottish entertainment that includes Celtic concerts, Ceilidh (a traditional Scottish party with food, music and dancing), Highland dancing competition, sporting competitions, clan tents, sheep dog trials, a European car show, music, bagpipe marching bands, re-enactors and living history, children’s activities, Scottish dancing, merchandise, and food vendors. 

Hot Rods and Rock and Roll! Enjoy classic cars, trucks, hot rods, motorcycles, and more at this family-friendly event! There is no registration fee and no trophies – just pride, passion, and a good time, with music at night

Ethnic Expo is a weekend of events celebrating cultures that come together to call Columbus home to create a vibrant, welcoming community – and also one of the largest and most beloved local festivals. Food is a unique part of everyone’s culture, and is a great way to bring people together. At Ethnic Expo you can explore cuisine from dozens of countries within just a few blocks. 

First Christian Church, Photo by Hadley Fruits for Landmark Columbus Foundation

Downtown Columbus, is a remarkable blend of the modern buildings that have made it famous for its architecture and the beautiful Victorian storefronts that carry our town’s history. Take a guided tour around the neighborhood and see works by world renowned architects, Elliel Saarinen’s First Christian Church (one of the first Modern churches in the US and I.M. Pei’s Cleo Roger’s Memorial Library.  Stop by the Visitors Center for information or to book your architecture tours. Be sure to explore the gift shop, which offers a curated selection of unique items from local artists and great gifts for your design-savvy friends.

Miller House & Gardens, Photo by Hadley Fruits for Landmark Columbus Foundation

While in Columbus, your trip is not complete before going to the Miller House & Garden. This historic home designed by Eero Saarinen is a must-see. The garden and interior design reflect mid-century modern aesthetics perfectly and has one of the most recognized and photographed conversation pits of all time.

Photo Courtesy of Columbus Area Arts Council

As you explore downtown, you’ll see public art around nearly every corner. Don’t miss the ever-changing exhibits at 411 Gallery, Gallery 506 at the Visitors Center, and the gallery at the Indiana University Architecture School, bringing an eclectic mix of work by local artists and national talent.

Check out the exhibits and enjoy the arts!

Mill Race Observation Tower, Photo by Columbus Area Visitors Center

Recreate your favorite fall movie scene with a frolic in the woods, a jump into a pile of leaves, or a stroll next to the river! Enjoy the cooler weather by exploring Mill Race Park, the perfect place to spend a low-key afternoon with a leisurely stroll or a picnic. If you want a bird’s eye view, climb to the top of the Mill Race Observation Tower for a beautiful view of the city and the river.  

Whether you are walking, or taking your bike for a spin, be sure to pause to enjoy the scenery! The Columbus People Trail, which runs through Mill Race Park, provides a 27-mile loop throughout the city. The trail will take you by rivers and creeks, and provides great views of of green spaces and productive farmland. 

Brown County State Park, Photo by Gary Scroggins 

If you consider yourself an hiker, you will want to check out, Brown County State Park, just a short drive away where you’ll feel like you are in the mountains (or maybe the foothills). Nicknamed “The Little Smokies,” Brown County has nearly 16,000 acres of rugged hills, ridges, and fog-shrouded ravines. 

Indiana’s largest park is a hot spot for those wanting to take in the stunning views of fall foliage, with nearly twenty miles of tree-lined roads and vistas overlooking miles of uninterrupted forest. Your thrills await! 

Anderson Falls by Gary Scroggins

Blues Canoes by Don Nissen

Blue’s Canoes is an outdoor recreation center that facilitates canoe, kayak and raft trips on Driftwood River, just north of Columbus off I-65 Exit 76B. Drift through a secluded wildlife preserve that is alive with deer, beaver, blue heron, osprey and wild turkey. Ramp up the excitement paddling through occasional moderate rapids. Trips range from seven to nine miles. Large groups welcome. Primitive camping is available. Your thrills await! Check their Facebook for more details on river levels and any closures. 

Upland Brewery, Photo by Columbus Area Visitors Center

If you are a foodie, book your reservation now at Henry Social Club and enjoy a delicious menu of inventive, seasonal dishes. This sleek and stylish restaurant offers creative cocktails and  world class cuisine. 

If brunch is what you’re craving hit up Upland Columbus Pump House for a delicious late morning meal and a beermosa on Saturday and Sunday. Upland fully utilizes their scenic river views with a an outdoor dining area and an outdoor patio space with ample seating and a firepit for chilly fall afternoons.  

But no fall day would be complete without a the smell of cinnamon and coffee intermingling harmoniously in the air! Head over to Lucabe Coffee Co. and grab a fresh cup of their delicious brew! Sit and sip outside while you enjoy the fall leaves before heading out on a downtown shopping spree.

Inn at Irwin Gardens, Photo by Gary Scroggins

Are  you a camper, do you want a hotel with a pool, are you bringing any furry friends with you, or do you want to be in a cabin in the woods?  

For those who want a downtown hotel where you can walk to anything, check out Hotel Indigo for a pet friendly stay with a pool! Still wanting to stay downtown, but need something historic, beautiful, and secluded? The Inn at Irwin Gardens is a 1910 Edwardian mansion with Pompeii styled gardens turned bed and breakfast that will not disappoint! If you want to be a bit closer to Brown County State Park, then Holiday Inn might be the hotel for you, this pet friendly hotel is a short 20 minute drive away.

Looking for a true getaway, Columbus has several vacation rentals to meet your needs. 

Be sure to tag us @visitcolumbusin on all social medias to share your fall adventures!