This fall, Indy with Kids founder Katy Mann joined Felicia Lawrence on WTHR’s Parent Squad, the go-to streaming destination for everything parenting. As one of Central Indiana’s most trusted voices for family fun, Katy shared her favorite pumpkin patches, farms, and fall adventures for families looking to make the most of the season.
A Trusted Voice for Indianapolis Parents
For more than 15 years, Katy Mann has helped families discover new experiences through her website, Indy with Kids. From playgrounds and parks to weekend getaways and local traditions, she’s built a community that relies on her for fresh ideas and honest recommendations. When it comes to knowing where to find the “best day ever” with your kids, Katy is the expert Indy parents turn to. Additionally, Katy’s second book, Where To Take the Kids: Indianapolis, hit bookshelves this fall, allowing her to continue to help parents find more family fun in Central Indiana.
That’s why Felicia Lawrence and the Parent Squad team invited her to join the show this week, to help Hoosier families narrow down the many options for fall fun across Indiana and plan those picture-perfect weekends that every parent dreams about.
Celebrating Fall Fun and Local Traditions
“October is all about farms, pumpkin patches, and fall adventures,” Katy said on air. “There are so many amazing options around Indy, whether you want to stay close to home or make a little day trip, there’s something for every age.”
Here’s a recap of the destinations Katy spotlighted during her Parent Squad appearance — each one chosen for its family-friendly atmosphere, great value, and unique experiences.
Tuttle Orchards: Apple Picking, Pumpkins, and Play
Located in Greenfield, Tuttle Orchards is one of Central Indiana’s favorite family farms. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and mix of fall activities, it’s the perfect destination for families with young children.
Katy explained that visitors can still enjoy a bit of apple-picking season while also finding pumpkins, cider, and delicious treats. “You can double up your apple-picking time and your pumpkin patch time all in one place,” she shared.
The Farmyard Play Area is a huge hit with preschoolers and early elementary-aged kids, offering hands-on activities and space to explore. Plus, Tuttle’s weekday hours make it easy to fit a little fall fun into your schedule. Just remember, they’re closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly!
Lark Ranch: Trains, Slides, and Adventure
Just down the road in Greenfield, Lark Ranch offers a full day of excitement for families. Its signature attraction? A mile-long train that runs on real tracks, giving families a scenic loop around the farm. “It’s not a mall train — it’s a real train on a real track!” Katy said with a smile.
Kids of all ages love the petting zoo, bounce pillows, and massive slides, while older kids can try out the zip line and other adventurous attractions. For many families, Lark Ranch becomes a beloved annual tradition, and it’s easy to see why.
Kelsay Farms: Dairy Good Fun
Located in Whiteland, Kelsay Farms used to be a working dairy farm that celebrates its agricultural roots while creating the ultimate fall experience for families. “What I love about Kelsay Farm is how compact it is,” Katy said. “You can do everything without feeling like you’ve walked a marathon.”
Visitors can hop on the MooChoo Train (a barrel train pulled by a tractor), take a hayride, or tackle one of two corn mazes, including a special mini maze for little ones. And when you’re ready for a snack, Kelsay’s over-the-top milkshakes and grilled cheese sandwiches are the perfect reward.
Piney Acres Farm: Fall Fun Meets Holiday Magic
A short drive away in Fortville, Piney Acres Farm is a fall favorite that also offers a sneak peek of the holiday season. Known primarily as a Christmas tree farm, Piney Acres transforms each fall into a playground of pumpkins, slides, and family fun.
This year, the farm added a synthetic ice skating rink, joining the lineup of slides, playgrounds, and a festive corn maze. For older kids, there’s even a Haunted Loft experience, just scary enough for teens but definitely not for little ones.
Katy also shared a helpful tip for holiday planners: “If you’re going to chop your own Christmas tree, you can actually tag your tree in the fall while you’re there.” It’s a clever way to get a head start on holiday memories.
Shipshewana: A Fall Break Worth Taking
For families looking for a little road trip, Katy recommended Shipshewana, Indiana, a charming northern town filled with hands-on fun and small-town charm.
“This one is perfect for a fall break getaway,” she explained. “You can do it in a day, but an overnight stay makes it even more magical.”
Shipshewana’s Straw Bale Art Trail is one of the season’s most unique experiences, featuring giant straw sculptures painted by local artists, from Bluey to Super Mario and beyond. Kids love exploring the trail and taking photos at each stop.
Families can also visit Dutch Creek Animal Farm, where kids can feed friendly animals from a wagon ride through open pastures. It’s one of those experiences that feels both exciting and peaceful, pure Midwest magic.
Southern Indiana Adventures: From ATVs to Apple Cider
Katy closed out the segment by reminding viewers that Southern Indiana is full of adventure this time of year. “If you have older kids, this is a great place to head for fall break,” she said.
She highlighted destinations like Big Woods ATV Adventures, where families can ride together on off-road trails through stunning fall foliage. And of course, Huber’s Orchard & Winery is a must-visit, blending kid-friendly activities like playgrounds and u-pick fruit with adult favorites like local wine and craft spirits.
“There’s really something for everyone,” Katy shared. “You can explore farms, take in the scenery, and enjoy some of the best food and drinks Indiana has to offer.”
Why Families Trust Indy with Kids
Throughout the segment, it was clear why Parent Squad turned to Katy for expert advice. As a mom of four who’s spent more than a decade exploring local attractions, she brings firsthand knowledge and genuine enthusiasm to every recommendation.
From playgrounds to pumpkin patches, her approach is simple: help families squeeze the most out of every day together, no matter their budget, location, or schedule.
“Parenting can feel overwhelming, but finding joy together shouldn’t be hard,” Katy often says. “There’s always something amazing to do, sometimes right in your own backyard.”
Watch the Full Segment
To see Katy’s full interview with Felicia Lawrence and catch all her fall farm picks, watch the full segment on WTHR’s Parent Squad here.
Plan Your Own Family Fall Adventure
Looking to create your own fall memories? Check out Indy with Kids for more guides, local events, and family-tested recommendations to make this season unforgettable.
