Fall is synonymous with harvest season.
Nothing says local like growers around South Bend, Mishawaka and the surrounding area bringing vegetables and other goods to market before winter takes hold. Whether it’s a pumpkin patch or farmers market, here are six places where you can celebrate harvest season in style.
Thistleberry Farm
Perhaps South Bend's most popular spot for fall fun, Thistleberry Farm has it all – pumpkins, photo ops, corn maze, a sunflower field, farm animals, pony rides and more. It’s a wildly popular spot for families as most of the activities are geared for kids.
Hilltop Farms
Is it even fall if you don’t plan to wander through a pumpkin patch? Hilltop Farms in Mishawaka is all you could ask for in a pumpkin patch, complete with a couple spots for readymade photos – complete with bails of hay and cornstalks to boot.
Lehman’s Orchard
Lehman’s Orchard is just over the state line in Michigan, but less than 20 minutes from downtown South Bend. Family operated since 1929, it’s best known for fall picking. You’ll also find late-season blueberries and raspberries. Don’t forget to take some apple cider home too.
South Bend Farmers Market
Fresh produce rolls in from across the region to the South Bend Farmers Market, a staple of the community dating back decades. It's a one-stop-shop for your fall decorations, whether that means new flowers or gourds. You can’t go wrong here.
Field to Vase U-Pick Flowers
Just outside New Carlisle, these u-pick fields are for the flower lovers. Sunflowers are the main draw, but you can put together a whole bouquet here while also filling up your Instagram story with beautiful images. Vendors, like local boutiques and coffee shops, are often on-site too for a full experience.
Matthys Farm Market
Here you’ll find all the fall staples – hayrides, corn maze and a pick-your-own pumpkin patch — just a little west of South Bend. There’s also a petting zoo and concession stand, including elephant ears. Festivities take place Saturdays and Sundays throughout the fall.