Hamilton County, IN knows how to do fall just right. From the “pumpkin express” train ride that takes you to a pumpkin patch in Cicero, to the annual fall festival “Headless Horseman” at Conner Prairie in Fishers, there’s something for everyone to celebrate fall.
Nothing screams fall more than a sunflower field! Sunflower Pop-Up Wedding Weekend
Set among stunning sunflower fields on the western grounds, Conner Prairie crafted a weekend of two-hour celebrations for up to 50 guests. The package includes an officiant, photographer, musician, cake/cupcakes and sparkling wine. ($1,900). Not getting married? No worries! You can still enjoy the sunflower fields and even schedule a photo shoot starting August 24 for a limited time Tue-Sun.
Take your honey on the perfect fall date on the Pumpkin Express
Take the Pumpkin Express (aka Nickel Plate Express), 20 minutes to the Cicero pumpkin patch and go on a hayride or pick out the perfect pumpkin for the season. The Nickel Plate Express is a 1950s Santa Fe Railway train excursion that goes from Noblesville to northern Hamilton County offering themed experiences such as the above mentioned Pumpkin Express, a one-of-a-kind Dinner Express, and Uncorked Express where you can enjoy an hour and a half cruise through the countryside along with 3 wine samples and a charcuterie tray (yes!!! Charcuterie!)
It’s not fall without a Spooktacular time at the annual Headless Horseman Festival
The Headless Horseman rides again at Conner Prairie’s annual Halloween festival. This year, Conner Prairie’s expansive ten-acre Corn Maze is so full of twists and turns that will take you about an hour to find your way out. Go during the day and hop into the tethered hot air balloon to see the unique design from 377 feet high. At night, walk the site’s separate Haunted Trail, but beware of those lurking in the corn stalks.
Stay at the brand new luxurious Hotel Carmichael
The boutique hotel, part of the Autograph Collection, opened September 2020 in Carmel, Indiana. Visitors are immediately welcomed by a grand staircase with four massive chandeliers, along with bold black-and-white checkered floor and a black marble check-in desk. 1920’s vibes from the start. Nearly every room has a chandelier, even the standard rooms. Adagio Lounge, located next to the lobby, is outfitted with a self-playing grand piano, a bar with craft cocktails that tie back to songs and a marble, wood-burning fireplace (a rarity to have wood-burning in major hotels like this). Fun fact: Its name is a nod to the legendary Grammy/Emmy award winner, Michael Feinstein and the city of Carmel — it’s like a 1920’s songbook come to life.
Images Courtesy of Zachary Raber and Hotel Carmichael