Maddy Kline is a senior Journalism major with minors in Spanish and International Studies.

Bulldogs, it’s finally that time of year. The humidity has simmered into a crisp breeze, and hammocks are swaying in the brilliantly colored trees. As the weather beckons you to ditch the dorms and head outside, you may find yourself at a loss for what to do. But don’t despair—these juniors and seniors have provided a guide to doing fall right in Indy.

Ryan Gernady ’22
Environmental Studies major

“I like to go on long walks around campus, probably in Holcomb Gardens or by the bell tower.”

There’s no place like home, right? Butler’s campus undergoes a golden transformation in the fall, and Holcomb Gardens is the perfect place to witness it. Take a walk around the fountain, sit on the steps to the bell tower, or even take a hike along the paths in the woods to fully experience all campus has to offer this time of year.

More spots to hike in Indy:

Erin Pushic ’21
Marketing major

“Around this time, I love trying a lot of new restaurants around Indy—definitely a big foodie.”

Indianapolis is certainly a city that loves its food, and fall is the perfect time to enjoy the extra safety of outdoor dining. Don’t worry, picky eaters: The vast landscape of Indy’s food scene has something for everyone. Dig into warm, Southern comfort food at the newly opened Root & Bone, or enjoy a classic burger and shake combo at Baby’s.

Butler favorites:

Mason Lovett ’22
Computer Science and Math major

“I like to walk the canal and go to Newfields. Honestly, I just like walking around the grounds there—getting outside.”

Newfields, home to the Indianapolis Museum of Art and more than 100 acres of gardens and woodland, is a hot spot for seasonal festivities. Now is the perfect time to check out the museum, as it’s hosting its fall festival Harvest Nights for the entire month of October.

Note: Typically, all Butler students have access to a free Newfields annual membership, but this program is not currently offered due to increased safety measures.

More Indy museums:

Sam Nakis ’22
Computer Science and Software Engineering major

“Perhaps Tuttle Orchards. It’s fun to go with friends and pick out pumpkins and apples.”

Tuttle Orchards is both a student and Indianapolis favorite. Explore the apple orchard, stumble through the corn maze, or pop into the store for some hot cider and apple cinnamon donuts. Be sure to get there early on weekdays, or make a reservation to visit on a Saturday.

More Indy orchards:

Drew Sandifer ’21
Sports Media major

“I really like to throw a hoodie and some sweatpants on, make a fire out back, and enjoy the cooling weather. I love a good s’more; the only way to cook a s’more is to just put it in the fire until it’s burnt black. Any other way is wrong.”

Please don’t rush to start a bonfire on the mall, but Butler’s campus has plenty of firepits outside of dorms. Throw on a sweatshirt and bring your laptop outside to enjoy that campfire aesthetic while finishing your FYS homework.

Great campfire recipes:

Carli Medina ’21
Health Sciences and Spanish major

“I love being able to be outside and hammock in this weather. At night, I like hanging out with my roommates and watching scary movies.”

It only takes a short stroll around campus to see students’ never-ending love for the art of hammocking. Take advantage of having wifi outside, and curl up with a spooky movie at dusk. Check out Broad Ripple’s Rusted Moon Outfitters for all your hammocking supplies, and pick a film from this extensive list.

Other unique movie spots in Indy:

Bridget Early ’21
Political Science major

“We have a firepit in our backyard, so those have been really fun. Doing firepits and having s’mores with pals.”

What goes with an autumnal bonfire better than s’mores? Scary stories and urban legends. Gather around the firepit, snuggle up in a blanket, and distract yourself from the immanence of midterms with some stories.

Explore Indy in the fall:

Meghan Stratton ’21
Organizational Communication and Critical Media Communication major

“My favorite new fall activity is going to Trader Joe’s and buying everything fall-seasoned or flavored.”

In the past month, Trader Joe’s has released a huge amount of mouth-watering fall items. Treat yourself to some pumpkin spice and everything nice products—you deserve it.

Trader Joe’s fall must-haves:

  • Honeycrisp apple candle
  • Pumpkin butter
  • Chocolate-covered pretzel crisps