Best Fall Photo Locations Around Indianapolis
Fall is one of my favorite times of year to take family photos. The vibrant colors of the changing leaves create such a rich, beautiful backdrop that perfectly captures the warmth and connection of families. Every year, I get excited to explore the many incredible locations around Indianapolis and beyond, finding the perfect spots to showcase the stunning fall foliage. Let me share some of my favorite places to take family photos in the fall and why these locations are so special.
Peak Foliage Time
According to the Farmers' Almanac, peak fall foliage dates for 2024 are October 5-21 in northern Indiana and October 12-28 in southern Indiana. These dates are perfect for planning a family photo session or even a scenic weekend road trip. Fall in Indianapolis and the surrounding areas is something truly special, and the colors come alive during this period, offering the perfect opportunity for beautiful family photos.
Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres
One of my go-to spots is the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. It’s adjacent to the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, so it offers both a cultural and natural setting for photos. The park has 100 acres of untamed woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. There’s also a 35-acre lake, which adds a peaceful, reflective quality to fall pictures. The mix of natural landscapes and art installations makes for some unique photo opportunities. I love shooting here because the golden hues of the trees reflected on the lake can really make a family photo stand out.
Eagle Creek Park is another favorite, especially for families who love the outdoors. With over 1,400 acres of water and 3,900 acres of forest, it feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city, even though it’s just minutes from downtown. Whether we’re capturing playful moments with the kids, a quiet family walk, or just enjoying the fall colors, Eagle Creek always provides a perfect backdrop. It’s easy to get lost in the beauty of the sprawling forest, especially when the leaves are at their peak.
The Monon Trail stretches through various parts of the city, and during the fall, it transforms into a tunnel of brilliant color. The leafy canopy of oak, elm, and maple trees creates a perfect, natural frame for photos. One of the best parts is the new extension from Grand Park to Sheridan, which offers a quieter spot for family photos away from the busy areas. The trail offers so many opportunities for dynamic, movement-filled shots or those candid moments that I love to capture.
Holcomb Gardens at Butler University
Butler University’s Holcomb Gardens becomes an absolute dream in the fall. The trees lining the canal burst with oranges, reds, and yellows, and the towpath offers a peaceful, scenic walk. I often take families on a stroll along the canal, snapping photos as we go, capturing the natural interactions between family members against a backdrop of stunning fall foliage. Holcomb Gardens is a place where the beauty of the season really shines through in every photo.
The White River Trail is another gem, particularly when paired with a walk along the canal. This spot combines the beauty of fall foliage with sweeping views of downtown Indianapolis, making it a great place for families who want both nature and cityscapes in their photos. I love how the trail bends with the river, offering some really beautiful angles for capturing the rich colors of the season. It’s perfect for those iconic family photos with the skyline in the background and the vibrant trees all around.
Flowing Well Park in Carmel is an ideal location for families with young kids who love to play and explore. The park is one of the best places in Central Indiana for creek stomping, and the woods that line Cool Creek come alive in the fall. The combination of easy access to the riverbanks, rocky beaches, and colorful foliage makes it one of my favorite places for candid, playful family photos. It’s always fun watching kids light up when they get to splash in the water or skip stones as the leaves change color around them.
Arbuckle Acres Park in Brownsburg
Arbuckle Acres is known for its stunning mature shade trees, and the fall colors here are spectacular. With 52 acres of space, it’s perfect for family photos that capture the natural beauty of the season. The park also has some great trails that are perfect for capturing those in-motion shots, whether it’s a family walk or the kids running through the leaves. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot that really brings out the best in fall.
Go A Little Further: Turkey Run & Shades State Parks
If you’re up for a bit of a drive, Turkey Run and Shades State Parks are well worth the trip. Turkey Run is especially magical in the fall. The suspension bridge over Sugar Creek is one of my favorite spots for photos, offering an incredible view of the vibrant colors. The trails wind through deep ravines and along the river, providing dramatic landscapes that are just breathtaking. Shades State Park offers a similar vibe, with more rugged scenery that’s perfect for adventurous families.
I can’t talk about fall without mentioning Brown County. It’s Indiana’s largest state park, and the fall colors here are legendary. The rolling hills, scenic drives, and miles of hiking trails offer endless possibilities for family photos. If you’re looking for a full day of activities, you can even explore the charming shops in Nashville, Indiana, after your photo session. Every corner of Brown County feels like it was made for fall photography.
McCormick’s Creek is another great option if you’re willing to venture a little further out. The limestone canyon, waterfalls, and flowing creek create a picturesque setting for fall photos. I love the diversity of landscapes here, from the dense forests to the open trails. You can get a little bit of everything, which makes for a really dynamic and memorable photo session.
Why Fall is the Perfect Time for Family Photos
I love shooting family photos in the fall because the vibrant colors of the season add so much depth and warmth to every image. There’s something about the way the sunlight filters through the leaves, casting that golden glow, that just makes everything feel magical. Plus, with cooler temperatures, families are usually more relaxed and comfortable during shoots, allowing for those genuine, heartfelt moments to shine through.
If you’re thinking about updating your family photos or capturing this special season, fall is the perfect time. The locations I’ve shared offer the best of what Indiana has to offer during this beautiful time of year. I’d love to help you create lasting memories in one of these stunning spots, and I’ll be sharing some of my favorite fall family photos along with this article to give you a sneak peek of what’s possible.
