Southern Indiana is gorgeous no matter what time of year, that’s for certain. But when the leaves start turning their gorgeous autumn hues and the temperature starts cooling down, it’s an ideal place to visit for a fall getaway for a long weekend. From fossil hunting to dining at amazing restaurants to checking out local culture, here are 14 things to do in Southern Indiana, Jeffersonville, and New Albany.
Fun Things to do in Jeffersonville and Southern Indiana
I adore visiting the state of Indiana, and this year I’ve had the pleasure of checking out several locations in the southern section just in time for autumn (including Madison – a gorgeous, postcard town). The weather was very kind to us, as were the locals, and I feel at home in the Hoosier State. Here are my top picks for things to do in Jeffersonville and Southern Indiana.
Disclosure: I was graciously hosted by the fine folks at Visit SoIN in to give you a first hand experience of the fun things to do in southern Indiana in fall. All opinions are my own.
Taste Test Old Fashioned Candy at Schimpff’s Confectionery
If you love old school candy, and I’m talking 131 years of old-school candy, a visit to Schimpff’s Confectionery in Jeffersonville is an absolute must.
Not only does it make its own hard candy and chocolates, but hit the timing right and you can actually watch hard candy being made.
We had the pleasure of test driving coconut fish straight off the candy rollers and they were absolutely delicious.
Visit NoCo Arts & Cultural District
A great place to walk around and check out some cool local fines, the NoCo Arts and Cultural District is filled with gorgeous shops, local artist, selling their wares, and delicious dining.
Traverse the Big Four Bridge
I didn’t know what Big Four meant when I hit the Jeffersonville but I soon learned that the name comes from the four major railroads using the bridge to traverses the Ohio River. Fast track to present day where walkers and bikers can literally walk across the Ohio River from Louisville to Jeffersonville.
Not only is the bridge beautiful in the daytime, but at night, it’s all lit up and perfect for viewing both states.
Visit Joe Huber’s and Huber’s Winery
When it comes to Huber’s pumpkin picking and market I have to clarify that there are two individual Huber’s. Yep, they share the same last name but are independent from each other:
Joe Huber’s Family Farm & Restaurant is the place to go for lunch or dinner for home cooked, farm fresh food. In addition, they have an adorable little outdoor family area perfect for fall.
Huber’s Orchard, Winery, & Vineyards, on the other hand, is a few miles away from Joe Huber’s and is ideal for purchasing local wines and selecting pumpkins.
But the reason you want to go here in autumn is for its fall fest area. Inside, After you’ve paid a small admission, you’ll have access to a kids player play area with larger than life, farm animals, a corn maze, a bamboo maze, and sunflower picking.
Visit the Howard Steamboat Museum
Another hidden gem in Southern Indiana, the Howard Steamboat Museum is the place to go to learn all about one of the top industries in the area during the 19th Century. A self-guided tour, the museum is a beautifully-restored mansion with two floors of period-accurate decor and 90 percent of the original family’s furnishings.
Additionally, the short movie at the beginning of the tour gives you plenty of insight into the steamboat yard that used to be literally across the street.
Walk Around the Mansion Row Historic District
You can definitely drive around Mansion Row Historic District in New Albany, but it’s far better to just mosey around on foot and check out the gorgeous homes, especially when the weather is nice. On our visit, the weather was jaw-droppingly beautiful and well worth checking out.
Do Some Shopping in Downtown New Albany
I adore New Albany, Indiana. The city is super quaint, it’s local super friendly, and there’s plenty of places to shop.
Downtown is a great spot to visit, especially if you’re looking for unique gift items and want to support local businesses
Take a Throwback Thursday Cruise on the Belle of Louisville
You’re going to have to head over to Louisville, Kentucky, to check out the Belle of Louisville, a working paddleboat steamship. On our visit, we had the pleasure of attending a throwback party with plenty of 90s music.
The seating is plentiful, and the view absolutely gorgeous. Add in the fact that you’re traveling along the Ohio river, just like how it was hundreds of years ago, and the historical fact is really ramped up. If you love learning about how things tick, you can head to the lower level to see how the steam is created and watch the paddlewheel’s working parts.
Look for Fossils at Falls of the Ohio State Park
Falls of the Ohio State Park is a true hidden gem in Southern Indiana. Honestly, I never expected such beauty. It’s here you’ll find actual fossils from the Devonian Age, and while you’re not allowed to pick them up or dig for them, just a fact that you can actually see them, especially when the water level is low, channels my inner child want to be paleontologist.
Additionally, there’s a fun Interpretive Center and gift shop inside where you can learn all about local animals in a cute, hands on museum.
Where to in Jeffersonville & New Albany
There’s no lack of great places to eat in Southern Indiana, that’s for certain. But if you’re looking for a few recommendations, here are my topics.
Derby Dinner Playhouse
A fun way to integrate a live show with a delicious buffet Derby Dinner Playhouse in the Jeffersonville area is a fine melting on both. First, we sat down and enjoyed a delicious, all we could eat dinner, and then got ready for the fun – a true live musical complete with pre-show. I was truly impressed at the stage props and how they seamlessly moved up and down.
La Catrina Mexican Kitchen
La Catrina Mexican Kitchen in New Albany is the spot where the locals go for Mexican food. When you head inside, there’s no way to miss the gorgeous, hand-painted murals all over the walls, but it’s the menu that really shines.
Filled with family recipes in a street food style, you’ll start with a “naked” taco or quesadilla and add the toppings to your liking.
Union Restaurant & Gameyard
We had the pleasure of eating at Union Restaurant and Gameyard for lunch on the last day of our visit and it’s a super fun place to go for both couples and families. Outside to find a large game yard filled with everything from bocce ball to home and inside its craft beer and good food.
The portions are plentiful, so don’t be surprised if you have plenty to take home. If you need a hint on what to eat off the app menu, go for the giant hanging pretzel.
Where to Stay in Jeffersonville
Sheraton Louisville Riverside Hotel
Literally a quick walk from the Big Four Bridge, Sheraton Louisville Riverside Hotel was a great choice for a girls autumn getaway.
It was only a minute away from the highway, the beds were comfy, and the view of the river pretty. Additionally, there’s free parking and Wi-Fi.