Indiana Office of Tourism Urges Voting for Fall Favorites

The Indiana Office of Tourism Development is reminding the public to vote now for the best places to see fall foliage and the best places for pie in Indiana.

Voting for the Top in “Best of” fall foliage destinations and pies ends Oct. 12 at VisitIndianaFall.com. Votes may be cast by going to the website’s Fall Favorites page. Winners will be announced Oct. 16.

“In my travels across the state over the last few weeks, I have experienced first-hand how beautiful Indiana’s fall foliage is right now. There is no better time to explore our state,” said Mark Newman, interim director for IOTD. “Indiana is also home to some of the best culinary destinations, and I encourage all to enjoy the season by sampling Hoosier made pies.”

Also at VisitIndianaFall.com detailed information about Indiana’s many great autumn getaway options can be found. This seasonal website features fall excursions, u-picks and markets, wineries and breweries, and festivals throughout Indiana. In addition, nearby dining and hotel options are showcased alongside each attraction or event listing.

Below are just a few of the Indiana fall travel ideas that are available at VisitIndianaFall.com.

A Colorful Visit in Brown County (Nashville) and Bloomington

Visitors will see art everywhere they turn, whether it’s created by people or nature. Explore studios and galleries in Nashville, then, hike or mountain bike the trails of Brown County State Park. Art comes to the dining table in Bloomington.

Covered Bridge Capital of the World, Rockville

Indiana’s largest festival – the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival – runs Oct. 12-21 and promises beautiful scenery, shopping, eating and entertainment. And, a visit to Turkey Run State Park will make the trip complete. Craft foods created by Indiana food artisans.  Signature tastes of the Hoosier state.

Drive the Ohio River Scenic Byway, Madison

This 303-mile scenic tour takes you through quaint historic towns like Madison, Vevay and Newburgh. Zoom through the trees at Dagaz Acres Zipline Adventure, climb the trails at Clifty Falls State Park, and try your luck at Belterra Casino.

“F” is for Football, Farmers and Factory, South Bend

Fall means football in South Bend, so tailgate and cheer on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Pick up veggies, cheeses and fresh-cut flowers at one of the Midwest’s largest indoor markets. Enjoy the sweet smells during a South Bend Chocolate Factory tour.

Comfort Food Trail, Southwest Indiana

Enjoy restaurants and take home fresh produce from stops along the Comfort Food Trail in the southwest corner of Indiana. Stops are as varied as Blue Heron Vineyard and Tell City Pretzels.

VisitIndianaFall.com is live through Nov. 16. It is linked to VisitIndiana.com, the official state travel website where discounts, trip ideas and helpful tips are easily accessible, even via mobile devices. Indiana visitor information is also available via Twitter and Facebook.

Indiana welcomes more than 62 million visitors each year, generating more than $10 billion in visitor spending statewide.

Indiana Department of Natural Resources

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is the agency of the U.S. state of Indiana charged with maintaining natural areas such as state parks, state forests, recreation areas, etc. There are many divisions within the DNR and each has a specific role. The DNR is not only responsible for maintaining resource areas but also manages Indiana's fish and wildlife, reclaims coal mine ground, manages forested areas, aids in the management of wildlife on private lands, enforces Indiana's conservation laws, and many other duties not named here. According to the department's website, their mission is "to protect, enhance, preserve, and wisely use natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education."