Fall break is a great chance to spend time together as a family. Whether you’re planning a day trip, a quick overnight stay, or a longer getaway, here are a few ideas to help you make the most of your time off.
Experience a Museum
It’s tough to top The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the world’s largest children’s museum. Inside, explore 500,000 square feet of hands-on exhibits that focus on physical and natural sciences, history, world cultures and the arts. Outdoors, head to Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience, 7.5 acres devoted to outdoor health and fitness that’s open until November 1. Touch dinosaur fossils, test flying objects, and bike on a unicycle at COSI (Center of Science and Industry) in Columbus, a world-class museum that is fun for all ages, and takes learning about STEM subjects to a whole other level. There are so many things to experience at Kentucky Science Center in Louisville, the largest hands-on science center in the state. Design a roller coaster, build a magnetic tile structure, play with wind tunnels and much more.
Visit an Amusement Park
Although summer is the prime amusement park season, most Midwest amusement parks are open weekends during the fall. At Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana, enjoy Happy Halloween Weekends from mid September through October, offering the rides you love plus lots of Halloween-themed shows and fun. Cedar Point, on the shores of Lake Erie in Sandusky, Ohio, remains open weekends through November 1. Also in Ohio is Kings Island, which remains open on select days through December. Don’t miss the park’s Tricks and Treats Halloween celebration.
Go Underground
Families who like adventure might love to explore the many intricate cave networks in the Midwest. Ohio Caverns, also known as “America’s Most Colorful Caverns,” are open year-round and feature stunning rock formations in shades of blue, orange, white, red and black along the two-mile pathway. Or head to Mammoth Cave, the largest cave in the world, just a short drive away in Kentucky. The cave sprawls for more than 400 miles and offers 16 different tours for all ages that cover different aspects of the natural wonder.
Escape to the Great Outdoors
Fall is made for camping in the Midwest. Hocking Hills State Park offers tent camping, cabins and even resort lodges if you’re feeling more like glamping than camping. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Cincinnati is a great campground option for families near Kings Island. Splash pools, a jumping pillow, free Yogi Bear hugs, cozy cabins and full-hookup RV sites all wait for you just one mile from the coasters in Mason. A favorite destination for southwest Ohioans is Hueston Woods State Park, where you can sit on the beach and watch boats pass by, rent a kayak, or camp in one of the many cabins or the lodge within the state park.
Explore a New-to-You Place
Located in the heart of the Hoosier National Forest in Indiana, French Lick Resort is home to two historic hotels, three golf courses, two spas, indoor and outdoor pools and a Vegas-style casino. Activities range from horseback riding to bowling to surrey bike rentals, and there are tons of hiking trails to explore the grounds. If you’re looking to venture a little farther from home, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is another family-friendly destination worth exploring. Located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, it offers everything from family-friendly attractions and live entertainment to outdoorsy mountain adventures.
Whether you want a relaxing resort escape, the excitement of an amusement park, or something in between, make the most of school-free days with a memorable family getaway.
