10 Most Instagrammable Places in the Fall

Football season, foliage, harvest time, pumpkin patches — fall around The Bend is known to give Instagram followers a bit of FOMO. These are some of the most Instagrammable places in South Bend and Mishawaka.

University of Notre Dame

Nothing says fall like a visit to the iconic Notre Dame campus. And it doesn't have to be a football game weekend — although, let's be honest, that's a pretty good reason to visit. Campus landmarks like the Golden Dome, Basilica of the Sacred Heart and the Grotto are among those that are only enhanced by beautiful fall colors. 

Potawatomi Zoo 

Spice up your Instagram feed by making a visit to see the animals at Potawatomi Zoo. You can pick from the cuteness of a red panda to the sheer size of a giraffe. Of course, there are dozens of other options along the way.

Saint Mary's College

Did you think Notre Dame is The Bend's only beautiful college campus? Saint Mary's has no shortage of interesting architecture and dreamy outdoor areas. Cross the bridge to the island on Lake Marion for an idyllic setting. 

Potato Creek State Park

Worster Lake and the abundant foliage at Potato Creek State Park in North Liberty offer a pristine outdoor backdrop for hunting down the perfect photo. Hopping in a canoe or kayak and exploring the 327-acre like might be the coolest vantage point from which to check out your surroundings.

Rum Village Adventures

Tuck your phone in a pocket and get airborne at the Rum Village Adventures. Five treetop trails range in difficulty from easy to one for the daredevil in your life. You can get as high as 70 feet in the air and tackle zip lines along the way.

Beutter Park

This beautiful park is known for its foliage and water feature. Consider it a gateway to the Mishawaka Riverwalk, which includes several parks. Stroll St. Joseph River for yourself to find the perfect place to snap a selfie. 

Thistleberry Farm 

Visitors can find all the fall things at Thistleberry Farm: sunflower field, pumpkin patch, corn maze, etc. There are seemingly endless photo ops depending on the exact timing of your trip.

St. Patrick's County Park 

St. Patrick's County Park is among the best places around to snap some fall photos. Miles of trail offer wonderful views, especially those that edge up close to the St. Joseph River.

South Bend Farmers Market

Harvest season calls for a visit to the farmers market. Pumpkins, gourds, mums — there are pops of color all around the market this time of year. You can also wander to nearby murals at Oh Mamma's on the Avenue, an amazing cheese shop, and Cloud Walking Coffee. 

Fear Itself at Legend Park

We couldn't let fall go by without a visit to the scream park. Don't get so creeped out that you can't stop for a photo along the way to document that you made it through the park unscathed.