INDIANAPOLIS – Let’s face it, the temperatures will be going south soon and our days will be full of shoveling snow, scraping car windows and layering on clothing. Fall has already snuck up on us, so make sure you enjoy these last few months of frequent sunshine and moderate temperatures.
Here are six things you must add to your to-do list before the weather gets cold. The best part is, they all can be done right in Indianapolis.
See the city in a whole new way
Float right over downtown Indianapolis, in what else? A hot air balloon. This is the perfect adventure to experience before the temperatures drop. Once you arrive to the Indianapolis Hot Air Balloons launch site, you’ll watch your balloon come to life and jump on. There will be plenty of time to absorb the breathtaking views and take photos. As a little added bonus, you’ll be invited to a champagne toast immediately following the ride.
Schedule your adventure at hotairballoonsoverindianapolis.com.
Spice things up
Looking for some outdoor activities to spice up the romance? Head to the downtown canal and you’ll be transported to Paris, well almost. Rent a gondola and enjoy the atmosphere while your singing gondolier serenades the entire trip. As the self-proclaimed No. 1 proposal destination, you better get on their schedule before Oct. 22, their last date of the year. If were you’re thinking more of an active date, schedule a Segway tour where you’ll sightsee some of Indy’s historic architecture and iconic sites.
Book your adventures at 4gondola.com and segwayofindiana.com.
Visit 100 acres
Of course parks are open year round, but they’re no fun when you’re shivering on a swing or have frozen fingers and toes. Gather the kids, pack up the treats and soak up nature at 100 Acres art and nature park at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Located just 100 acres adjacent to the IMA, you’ll notice woodlands, wetlands, meadows and a 35 acre-lake. Kids will love the swing set crafted entirely from a single 100-foot tree, the free basket basketball court and funky bones, an art piece shaped like a large skeleton. Chances are you’ll get a great view of the changing leaves in the forest.
Find more information at imamuseum.org.
Grab and go, then repeat
Grab a little bit of traditional, Mexican, American and everything in between at the First Friday Food Truck Festival beginning at 5 p.m. Skip from line-to-line of some of the city’s most popular food trucks in the Old National Centre parking lot including: Caplinger’s Fresh Catch, Groovy Guy Fries, Huge Impact, The Pink Walrus, Pi Indy and more. If you plan to arrive after 5:30 p.m., expect to wait in long lines (but the food is worth it!). After cruising through food truck town, visit some of the vendors selling art and vintage goods. You’ll leave with a full stomach and possibly, a decorative piece for your home. Be sure to mark your calendar for Oct. 7. It’s the last festival before the weather gets chilly.
Purchase your ticket at oldnationalcentre.com or at the gate.
Get on the coolest bike in town
Pedal and sip your way around the city with 16 of your closet friends and family by hoping aboard a Handlebar. You supply the booze and in exchange you’ll be provided with a driver to steer your large bicycle. All riders must be at least 21 years old to drink and 18 years old to ride. Not only will you get to drink (and sneak in some exercise), you can add tunes to the party by plugging in your music player to the onboard stereo. If you’re in the mood to pedal, head down to 310 S. Delaware Street or 501 Madison Avenue before mid-November, when they close up shop for the season.
Reserve your seat at handlebarindy.com.
Become one with the treetops
Swing through the trees to see Indy in a whole new way by zip lining at the Go Ape Treetop Adventure at Eagle Creek Park. This highly interactive 2 to 3 hour ropes course features five zip lines and over 40 treetop obstacles, each taking you higher and higher into the forest. While you’re up there, admire the view and hold on tight. Oh, and don’t forget to scream, “look out below” just for fun.
Book your treetop adventure at goape.com.
