The temperatures are finally cooling off and ushering in all of our favorite October activities. Whether you’re looking for ideas to keep the family busy during fall break or what to do for Halloween 2023, our 17 Access Pass venues have a wide array of options. Don’t forget to take a picture at the locations and share on social media using #INAccessPass
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein at Indiana Repertory Theatre
Sept. 20–Oct. 14
Join a memorable gathering of literary giants on a dark and eerie evening as Mary Shelley stitches together her grisly Gothic tale of Victor Frankenstein and his terrifying creation. This galvanic adaptation of the classic novel thrills and enthralls as it experiments with love, grief, horror, and the power to create—or destroy—life. There’s a little monster in all of us.
Skull, Skeleton and Skins at Bellaboo’s Play
Oct. 31 3–4 p.m.
Start your Halloween festivities by joining a naturalist to touch and learn about an assortment of biofacts (skulls, skeletons and skins) from different animals that call Gibson Woods home. Preregistration required. Call 219-844-3188.
Fall Maker Workshop at Wonderlab
Saturday, Oct. 14, 3–5 p.m.
Recommended for 4th–8th Grade, ages 9–16)
$6 for Access Pass cardholders
Make your own Orrery Model during WonderLab’s Fall Maker Workshop. Find out about the vastness of space when you build a model (not to scale) that illustrates why eclipses occur and how we can predict them. This workshop will bring together sculpture, mixed media, and movement. All materials provided.
Night at the Boo Bash at Indiana State Museum
Oct. 13, 6–8 p.m.
$5 for Access Pass cardholders
Fred the Mastodon and his friends are hosting their annual Halloween party and you're invited! Bring your family and friends and dress in your most creative costume for a chance to win a grand prize. Gear up for a fantastic night of dancing, candy and fun activities for all ages!
Booville at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Oct. 12–31
Haunted House tickets $5 for Access Pass cardholders (valid Oct. 10–24)
This October is frightfully full of events at The Children's Museum! Join us for the city’s biggest and best family-friendly Halloween party, frightfully fun sports and games in the Riley Children's Health Sports Legends Experience®, breakfast or dinner BOO-fets with our friendly witches, or a haunted night at the museum!
Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie
Oct. 5–29
Kick off the scary season by joining us for the return of the Headless Horseman! Take the iconic Haunted Hayride through Conner Prairie’s grounds as you encounter thrilling frights around every corner including the Headless Horseman himself! Enjoy the Legend of Sleepy Hollow marionette show, magic show, storytelling, barrel train rides, midway games, and fall treats available for purchase. Set off on the Trail of Terror and adventure your way through corn-lined trails that twist, turn, and dead-end. The festival runs Thursdays through Sundays the entire month of October.
Harvest Nights at Newfields
Sept. 29–Oct. 31
Ghosts, goblins, and gourds galore fill the foggy forest at Newfields for Harvest Nights presented by JPMorgan Chase.
Wander through thousands of glowing jack-o'-lanterns shimmering in The Garden moonlight on the Pumpkin Path of Peril. Feel the Ghost Train rumble beneath your feet, presented by Full Body Chills. See The Three Graces come to life in the party of the century at Mischief Manor projected on the iconic Lilly House facade. Join the party inside Lilly House where you’ll find creepy, not scary, handmade décor by the Newfields horticulture team.
New Horizon at Indiana Repertory Theatre
Oct. 19–21, 7 p.m.; Oct. 22, 2 p.m.
Changes are happening at Dance Kaleidoscope! Indiana’s longest running dance company has a new Artistic Director and this season opener will engage, inspire, and delight. You are invited to experience the new and rediscover contemporary dance.