Between exams, countless essays and projects, work, and extracurricular activities, it can be easy for the beauty of the fall season to slip by virtually unnoticed. With October coming to an end, be sure and put your studies aside long enough to enjoy autumn in Bloomington; as Hoosiers, we are lucky enough to live in a town with countless opportunities for fun fall activities.
Eat pumpkin flavored ice cream: Just because you pulled out your gloves and scarf from the back of your closet doesn’t mean that you have to say goodbye to enjoying ice cream, a treat often reserved for summer. Visit The Chocolate Moose on a mild afternoon for some homemade pumpkin flavored ice cream. The Chocolate Moose has been a Bloomington landmark since 1933 and is a favorite amongst local residents. Choose from over 16 homemade ice cream flavors, including the delicious pumpkin.
Visit an apple orchard: Musgrave Orchard is the perfect place to create fall memories with friends. The orchard offers caramel apples, freshly pressed apple cider, apples for eating and baking, and a large selection of pumpkins. Wander through the eco-friendly orchard, which includes a scenic pond and friendly neighborhood horses, or browse the selection of produce and gifts in the specialty store.
Go on a hayride: Freeman Family Farms, open weekends in October, offers scenic fall hayrides around the property. After the hayride, check out the petting zoo and other farm animals, pick a pumpkin from the expansive pumpkin patch, and enjoy a hot drink. If you want your fall fun to continue into the night, Freeman Family Farms offers private parties and bonfires.
Take a scenic hike: There is no better time or place for hiking than autumn in Indiana. Choose a sunny day to visit one of the many beautiful hiking areas surrounding Bloomington, such as Brown County State Park. The park offers countless trails, varying in difficulty depending on your experience level. Be sure and snap Instagram-worthy photos of the stunning Ogle Lake, or stop at one of the many overlooks in the park to take in the view.