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20 Things To Do In Indiana: The Ultimate Bucket List

September 1, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored 3 Comments

Are you looking for fun things to do in Indiana?

Then take a look at this list full of the best Indiana attractions.

Indiana is a state in the Midwest that often gets overlooked, but it’s full of activities, museums, and more.

Whether you are interested in small towns, big cities, or outdoor adventures, there is an Indiana tourist attraction for you.

This fun Midwest state is known for being the birthplace of plenty of American icons like basketball player Larry Bird, musician Cole Porter, and more.

Indiana also has some unique historic sites, beautiful beaches, and stunning State and National Parks.

So, lets take a look at 20 things to do in Indiana for the ultimate bucket list!

Indianapolis Is One Of The Best Things To Do In Indiana

You can’t go wrong with a trip to Indianapolis when you visit Indiana.

Indianapolis is the state’s capital and the largest city.

You’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Indianapolis no matter how old you are or what you’re interested in.

The city has plenty of museums, monuments and statues, and of course the Capitol Building.

If you want to stroll the city streets, you’ll find cool and unique shops, amazing restaurants, and more.

It is absolutely one of the best things to do in Indiana.

In Northeastern Indiana you can find the city of Fort Wayne.

Fort Wayne is known for it’s botanical garden and art museum.

The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory has indoor and outdoor gardens, a desert area, and a indoor tropical garden.

It is one of visitors’ favorite Indiana tourist attractions.

There is also the Fort Wayne Museum of Art where you can find beautiful examples of American art and sculptural works.

French Lick Is A Great Romantic Getaway

If you are looking for a romantic getaway in the Midwest , in particular Indiana, head to French Lick.

The town of French Lick is full of historic attractions in Indiana.

You can stay at one of the many historic homes that have been turned into a Bed and Breakfast or hotel.

Walk down the charming streets and admire beautiful architecture, stop into the quaint shops, or grab a meal at one of the locally-owned restaurants.

French Lick is a wonderful Indiana town for your next romantic getaway.

South Bend is on the St. Joseph River and is a fun riverside town.

Its got tons of things to do in Indiana, including museums and the University of Notre Dame.

If you are interested in museums, there is the Studebaker National Museum that displays classic cars from the no longer existing Studebaker company.

Or you can learn about the area at the town’s History Museum, tour the Oliver Mansion, and more.

You can also walk the campus of the University of Notre Dame.

It’s a beautiful campus full of buildings with Neo-Gothic architecture and lovely green spaces.

There are so many things to do in South Bend that you will be amazed!

Bloomington

Some of the best things to do in Indiana is in Bloomington.

In the city, you can find plenty of historic sites to explore.

It is home to the Wylie House, a house museum with period furnishings and an heirloom garden.

There is also the Indiana University Eskenazi Museum of Art where you can admire art from around the world.

If you want outdoor adventure, Bloomington has that too.

The Hoosier National Forest’s Charles C. Deam Wilderness is a beautiful area of the National Forest.

It has 36 miles of trails and spans over 12,900 acres.

You can go horseback riding, hiking, or biking through the dense hardwood forest in an ever-changing landscape.

If you are looking for some outdoor adventure in Indiana, Bloomington and the Charles C. Deam Wilderness area are the perfect Indiana attraction.

There are so many fun things to do in Bloomington so do not skip this city!

Indiana Dunes National Park

The Indiana Dunes National Park is located on the shores of Lake Michigan.

There are 15 miles of beautiful sandy beaches for you to explore and enjoy.

It is easily one of the best National Parks in the Midwest .

When you visit the Indiana Dunes, you’ll find there are different activities depending on what time of year it is.

In the warmer months of Summer you can enjoy swimming, hiking, biking, and other water sports.

When it snows you can cross-country ski or go snowshoeing.

The Dunes are one of the best attractions in Indiana.

Cataract Falls Is Best In The Fall

The Cataract Falls is the largest waterfall in Indiana, which makes it a popular Indiana tourist attraction.

They are one of the best waterfalls in the Midwest , especially in the Fall.

In the Fall, the falls are surrounded by beautiful Fall foliage that makes them even more beautiful.

There are two sets of falls, the Upper and Lower Falls, and there’s about a half-mile hike between the two.

While the falls are the biggest in Indiana, they are not the tallest.

What makes it the largest fall in the state is the sheer amount of water that flows over the falls.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum Is One Of The Best Things To Do In Indiana

For those who are interested in automobiles, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is a really fun thing to do in Indiana.

The museum is on the grounds of the Motor Speedway.

It is also the home of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame.

Inside the museum, you’ll find different styles of cars throughout history, memorabilia from famous races, and of course information on some of the most famous drivers.

You can also take part in different tour levels where you’ll get a more in-depth look at the Speedway itself.

After all this fun, check out the restaurants in Indianapolis!

Washington Park And Beach

The Washington Park and Beach is in Michigan City, Indiana.

There are so many cool things to do in Michigan City , so do not pass this one up!

The park is 140 acres and has two miles of beautiful sandy beaches for you to enjoy.

On the beach make sure you stop by the only working public lighthouse still in use in Indiana.

There is also a restaurant, a splash park, and a boat launch.

Throughout the year the park and beach are home to different festivals that you can enjoy.

No matter when you visit, Washington Park and Beach is one of the best things to do in Indiana.

Hiking Monon Trail Is One Of The Best Things To Do In Indiana

The Monon Trail was once a railroad trail that is now open to the public.

As it is no longer a rail line, the trail is safe for pedestrians to enjoy.

In Northwest Indiana, there are almost eight miles of trails, and in Indianapolis, there are about 24 miles of trails.

They all connect at some point, and there are trailheads in several spots along the length of the trail.

One of the most popular areas of the trail is the Monon High Bridge, one of the best hidden gems in the Midwest .

The bridge is safe to cross, but it is very high, so keep that in mind if you decide to see it.

It is one of the coolest places to go hiking in Indiana !

Indiana Wine Trail Is One Of The Most Fun Things To Do In Indiana

The best way to sample local Indiana wineries is to take the Indiana Wine Trail.

Along the Wine Trail are five family-owned wineries that you can stop at.

As you take the trail you’ll pass through charming small towns full of antique shops, boutique restaurants, and more.

You drive the trail yourself, so you can stop anywhere you want to, and at any of the wineries on the trail.

The Indiana Wine Trail is a great way to learn a little bit more about Southeast Indiana history as well.

The wineries in the area still follow the traditional methods that Swiss settlers used when they planted the first vineyards in the area.

It is one of the things to do in IN.

Children’s Museum Of Indianapolis For Family Fun

If you are visiting Indiana with the family, you must go to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.

The museum is one of many family’s favorite Indiana attractions.

Outside of the museum, you’ll be greeted by two massive dinosaurs that seem to be bursting out of the side of the museum.

Inside you’ll find tons of hands-on exhibits for the kids to enjoy.

They also frequently have artists who are visiting and they swap out the non-permanent exhibits pretty often.

Even if this is your fifth time visiting the museum, you and your kids will find something new to enjoy and explore.

Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art

Located in downtown Indianapolis, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art is an important cultural museum.

There, you’ll be able to admire one of the most extensive collections of artwork by Indigenous people.

Inside the museum, there are also collections of artwork by Western American artists on display.

It is a unique way to learn a more personal perspective on the lives of Indigenous peoples and Western Americans.

There are also cultural objects on display from different Indigenous Nations in the United States.

It is one of the most interesting things to do in Indiana if you are interested in learning more about Indigenous people and their art.

Lake Monroe

Another beautiful outdoor area in Bloomington is Lake Monroe.

The lake is a massive reservoir with over 10,000 acres of water.

It is a popular Indiana tourist attraction for those who enjoy water sports.

You can enjoy swimming, boating, and kayaking in the lake most of the year.

There are also hiking trails and a sandy shore around the lake.

Lake Monroe is a great place for some outdoor fun.

After all the outdoor activities at Lake Monroe, check out some of the restaurants in Bloomington!

Big Four Pedestrian Bridge

The Big Four Pedestrian Bridge crosses the Ohio River and connects Jefferson Indiana to Louisville Kentucky.

It was built in 1895 and has been an iconic bridge along the Ohio River ever since.

The bridge served as a railroad bridge until 1968 and was almost abandoned.

In 2014 the bridge was converted into a massive pedestrian and biking bridge.

Now Jefferson locals and visitors love to take a stroll across the Ohio River and step into Louisville.

It is a really cool and unique thing to do in Indiana, and I guess Kentucky as well!

Indianapolis Museum Of Art

The Indianapolis Museum of Art is located at Newfields, which is a large campus area in the city.

With over 150 acres of museums, parks, and historic buildings, Newfields itself is full of unique Indiana attractions.

One of those museums is the art museum.

The Indianapolis Museum of Art features an extensive collection of art that spans almost every major art movement.

It also frequently has new exhibits on display.

If you are looking for the best way to spend an afternoon, Newfields and the Art Museum are a great choices.

Brown County State Park

The Brown County State Park is located in Nashville Indiana in the southern half of the state.

It is a popular Indiana tourist attraction in the area because of the beautiful views and great outdoor facilities.

At over 15,000 acres it is one of the biggest State Parks in the country.

There is a lake for swimming, plenty of hiking and biking trails, and horseback riding.

On the park grounds, you’ll also find cabins you can rent, a tennis court, and a pool.

Brown County also has a nature center you can tour and learn about local flora and fauna.

If you are in southern Indiana, you must stop at Brown County State Park.

Indiana Beach Boardwalk And Amusement Park

Heading to the Indiana Beach Boardwalk and Amusement Park is one of the most fun things to do in Indiana.

It is located in Monticello Indiana, on Lake Shafer.

On the boardwalk, you’ll find classic boardwalk activities like games, food, and more.

The boardwalk also has an amusement park and waterpark.

Both have several rides and you can enjoy the rides while you get a pretty view of the lake.

Throughout the year the boardwalk also hosts various events, from concerts to murder mystery dinners.

The Town Of Santa Claus

It’s Christmas all year round in the town of Santa Claus Indiana.

The town takes its name very seriously, so no matter when you visit, you can be rest assured there are Christmas activities.

‘America’s Christmas Hometown’ has an amusement park that is one of the best amusement parks in the Midwest , Holiday World.

There is also a Christmas store, a Santa Claus Museum and Village, and a toy shop.

Santa Claus is one of the best Indiana attractions if you are taking a family vacation.

Ohio River Scenic Byway Road Trip

The Ohio River Scenic Byway runs through Indiana as well as two other states.

In Indiana, you’ll pass through charming small towns, and it is one of the most fun Midwest road trips .

The road trip takes you through Vevay, the ‘4th Coolest Small Town In America’.

Stop in Madison to sample homemade cider and go for a hike.

Then end your road trip in Newburgh where you can stroll along the Riverwalk, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, and stop into the cute boutique shops.

The Ohio River Scenic Byway is a great way to see Indiana.

One of the best things to see is the interesting caves in Indiana.

Packing List When Visiting Indiana

If you are searching, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly when packing when heading to Indiana.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when searching for things to do in Indiana. 

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID  sleeves  are the perfect solution.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking Insta-worthy selfies at all the Indiana activities you attend.

I never much believed in using packing cubes when traveling. That is until I tried them. Now I am hooked. These are the exact cubes I use to stay organized when I pack for a trip!

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for your adventures and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

The replaceable carbon filters ensure fresh drinking water whenever you want it.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc. No matter the time of day or evening.

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great. And it comes in many different colors!

Not many people think of traveling to Indiana when they are thinking about exploring the Midwest.

But it’s a cool state where you can find plenty of fun things to do and see.

No matter the season or where you go, Indiana is a beautiful state just waiting to be explored. Including the many things to do in Evanston Indiana!

Have you been to any of these attractions in Indiana or are there any that you’d like to see?

If so, I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

Reader Interactions

July 13, 2022 at 9:25 am

It’s not called the museum of art anymore. It’s now Newfields. Named for the owners of the land i believe.

July 13, 2022 at 9:57 pm

Thanks for the update Sophie!

[…] You can tour the mansion and also hire it for special occasions and weddings. The Barker Mansion is one of the top activities in Michigan City. And one of the coolest things to do in Indiana. […]

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41 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Indiana

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: December 29, 2020  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Maybe you’re a fan of the Indy 500.

Maybe you love rugged nature trails or finger-licking sugar cream pies.

Maybe you just want to see famous places like Notre Dame up close!

No matter what your reasons for visiting Indiana, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do within the state.

As a historic destination, it has a long history of welcoming explorers, settlers and travelers.

It also has plenty of Midwestern charm to offer locals and tourists alike!

If you’re ready to explore the Hoosier State, here are just a few of the best things to do while you’re there.

Table of Contents

1. Indiana Dunes National Park

Jon Lauriat / Shutterstock

Covering more than 15,000 acres, the Indiana Dunes National Park is an amazingly diverse ecosystem that includes forests, prairies, swamps, savannas and wetlands.

As befitting the name, it also has plenty of sand dunes!

The scenery isn’t the only reason to visit, however.

You can enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities at the park.

From hiking through the trees to camping under the stars, there are plenty of ways to have adventures, try new things and make memories with loved ones.

Another fun feature of the park is that you can visit it at any time of the year.

There’s horseback riding in the summer; there’s cross-country skiing in the winter.

You’ll never lack for cool stuff to do.

If you’re looking for interesting places in Indiana, the Indiana Dunes National Park should be at the top of your list.

There’s a reason why it’s one of the most popular places to visit in the entire state.

It’s that amazing.

Address: 1050 N Mineral Springs Rd, Chesterton, IN 46304, United States

2. Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

James Kirkikis / Shutterstock

It’s impossible to miss the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis .

There are life-sized dinosaurs sniffing at the outside of its five-story, glass-covered building!

The inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

Unlike stiff, stuffy museums, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis encourages curiosity and discovery, and many of its exhibits are interactive in some way.

Children are actively encouraged to touch the mastodon skulls and run through the rain gardens.

They can also build circuits, clamber on rock walls, play with putty, ride a carousel and climb abroad a steam locomotive.

Are you an adult traveling with kids?

Don’t worry; the museum has fun activities for you as well.

You can read books, watch movies, admire sculptures and fiddle with hands-on artifacts just like the little ones.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis offers almost 500,000 square feet of entertainment.

The fact that it’s educational is just icing on the cake.

If you’re wondering what to do during a trip to Indiana, just follow the dinosaurs!

Address: 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208, United States

3. University of Notre Dame

Ken Wolter / Shutterstock

Everyone knows Notre Dame.

The Notre Dame Stadium is one of the largest in the United States, and it’s hosted everything from music concerts to football championships to ice hockey games.

There’s more to the university than its athletic department, however.

Other points of interest include the “Golden Dome,” a striking 18th century tower that’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a Roman Catholic church with dozens of historic murals and stunning stained glass windows.

You might feel weird about walking on a college campus as a tourist.

Don’t worry.

The University welcomes visitors year-round because of its world-class resources for art, science and culture.

People come from all over the world to visit its libraries, laboratories, stadiums, galleries, churches and landmarks.

Don’t leave Indiana without picnicking on the lawn of the University of Notre Dame .

It’s a bucket list item that’s a must do for any serious traveler.

Address: Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States

4. Wellfield Botanic Gardens

Wellfield Botanic Gardens

The Wellfield Botanic Gardens is more than just a stateside attraction.

It’s a working source of hydropower, so it’s equal parts beautiful and sustainable, and it delivers all of the drinking water to the nearby city of Elkhart.

You can appreciate its multifaceted elegance as soon as you enter.

The garden is actually a series of gardens, and they’re divided by theme, so you can travel between spheres like “the waterfall garden” and “the adventure garden.”

Some spaces are also divided by region, so depending on your mood, you can get zen in the Japanese garden or royal in the English country garden.

Did we mention that admission is free on Tuesdays?

If you’re looking for cheap things to do in Indiana, a well-timed trip to the gardens can solve all of your problems.

The Wellfield Botanic Gardens is one of the must see tourist attractions of Indiana.

It’s gorgeous; it’s educational; it’s affordable.

What more do you need during your travels?

Address: 1011 N Main St, Elkhart, IN 46514, United States

5. Indianapolis City Market

Indianapolis City Market

Located in a gigantic brick building that’s trimmed with limestone and flanked by towers, the Indianapolis City Market looks a bit different from your usual, open-air farmer’s market, but you can find the same kinds of goodies inside.

Fruits and veggies are stacked high.

Meats are cut, packed, moved, seasoned and stored.

Spices rattle in jars; necklaces glimmer among scarves and shawls.

While food is the main draw of the market, you can also find everything from cheap art prints to luxury, salon-style hair care products among the merchants.

If you’ll be in the capital while traveling through Indiana, make time for the Indianapolis City Market.

It’s one of the biggest, most well-known tourist attractions in the city, so it’s worth the trip.

Address: 222 E Market St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

6. Belterra Casino Resort

Belterra Casino Resort

Indiana has complicated gambling laws, but if you’re dying to play the slots while you’re in town, you can do it legally at the Belterra Casino Resort .

The loophole comes from the fact that the casino is located on a riverboat.

It sits on the Ohio River and can be accessed from several major cities like Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Louisville .

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy the typical casino experience.

You can bet on black; you can eat steaks and drink fancy wine; you can sleep on feather beds.

The resort has additional amenities as well, so if you’re interested in shops, spas, salons or golf courses, you won’t have to go anywhere to enjoy them.

Tourist places can take many shapes in Indiana.

For legal gambling, you’ll want the Belterra Casino Resort.

Address: 777 Belterra Dr, Florence, IN 47020, United States

7. Exotic Feline Rescue Center

Andrea Coimbra / Shutterstock

Long before the “Tiger King” became a rite of passage for binge watchers, the Exotic Feline Rescue Center was taking in lions, leopards, pumas, bobcats and other non-domestic felines that needed a place to live after being abused or abandoned.

It isn’t a zoo.

There are a limited number of animals to see, and tours take place on gravel roads that lead to natural, leafy habitats under the sun.

You should be prepared to sweat!

If you’re okay with a rough-around-the-edges destination, however, you won’t find a more authentic wildlife sanctuary in Indiana.

The staff are all volunteers who care deeply for animals, and they work hard every day to care for their charges in addition to promoting awareness and conservation efforts about big cats in general.

Plan a visit to the Exotic Feline Rescue Center if you love animals but want your money to go towards good, grassroots causes rather than commercial zoos.

Address: 2221 E Ashboro Rd, Center Point, IN 47840, United States

8. Perfect North Slopes

Kit Leong / Shutterstock

Indiana might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about ski resorts, but at Perfect North Slopes , you’ll realize that you don’t have to travel to the Alps to experience a winter wonderland.

Fresh powder covers a wide variety of slopes.

These include marked lanes for beginners and free-range hills and trails for experts.

There are also chairlifts, magic carpets, rope tows and other essentials for skiers.

In addition to skiing, there’s also tubing, sledding and snowboarding; you can take lessons if you need them, or you can just hit the powder with nothing but courage and a couple of poles.

Perfect North Slopes is named for the fact that it’s located on Perfect Place Lane, but the word is also pretty accurate for the destination in general.

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Indiana, it’s hard to beat perfect.

Address: 19074 Perfect Pl Ln, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025, United States

9. Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art

Stephen B. Goodwin / Shutterstock

Indiana has strong ties to its Native American community, and nowhere is this more apparent than the Eiteljorg Museum .

Housing hundreds and hundreds of objects, the Eiteljorg Museum is dedicated to the indigenous people that lived and worked the land before European settlers arrived in the 1600s.

Some of the exhibits have relics from the past; others have newly-made art pieces that were inspired by or crafted from old-fashioned tools and techniques.

You can find all sorts of things in the museum’s collections, including paintings, quilts, totems, pottery, jewelry and more.

If you were to rank Indiana attractions in terms of importance, the Eiteljorg Museum would definitely be at the top of the list.

It celebrates the art, history and culture of the first people on Indiana land, and it establishes their legacy for generations to come.

Address: 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

10. Indianapolis Catacombs

Indianapolis Catacombs

Also known as the “Market Street Catacombs,” the Indianapolis Catacombs are a hidden gem for tourists, photographers and adventure seekers.

They cover more than 20,000 square feet below the city, and with their twisting, dimly-lit tunnels made of crumbling limestone, they form an amazing underground labyrinth.

As a bonus, since they’re largely hidden from the public, many Indianapolis residents don’t even realize that they’re walking on top of them!

The catacombs were originally built in the late 1800s because of the City Market.

Located right under the market’s brick building, the tunnels were meant for moving and storing goods between stalls.

Their cool, dark environment also helped to preserve meat and produce in the winter.

Today, the Indianapolis Catacombs are mostly ruins, but you can explore them on Saturdays and Sundays through official tour guides.

You won’t be allowed to wander on your own, so make sure to book your tour in advance.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Indianapolis this weekend, it doesn’t get any cooler than decaying subterranean tunnels.

11. New Harmony

Timothy K Hamilton Creativity+ Photography , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Indiana, you won’t want to miss New Harmony.

Tucked in the corner of the state, it’s a failed utopia from the 1800s that was devoted to education, enlightenment and equality, and it can offer a fascinating journey through history as well as a fun experience for the modern-day tourist.

Attractions include everything from charming little mom-and-pop shops to elaborate community halls and art galleries.

One of its most beautiful places is the “roofless church,” an open-air worship site meant for people of all faiths.

As you might expect from a historic city, there are also plenty of museums.

You can learn all about the settlers who wanted New Harmony and its “Harmonians” to represent a new type of civilization.

If you’re seeking unforgettable vacation experiences, New Harmony, Indiana is one of the best places to go.

It has an old-world charm as well as a fascinating backstory, so it’s definitely a must see.

12. Castleton Square Mall

Castleton Square Mall

With a name like “Castleton,” you might expect this shopping mall to be upscale, and it’s true that you can find many high-class shops and boutiques within it.

One such store is Von Maur, which is famous for having a live pianist serenade its customers!

Not everything comes with a luxury price tag, however.

You can find plenty of everyday retailers at the mall, and there are staples like movie theaters and food courts as well.

One distinguishing feature of the Castleton Square Mall is that it’s the largest shopping complex in the state of Indiana.

It covers more than 1.3 million square feet, so if you’re a shopaholic, this will be your mecca.

Castleton Square Mall is one of the nicest places to go in Indiana.

Whether you’re looking for elegant necklaces or cheap phone cards, you can find them here.

A million square feet won’t let you down.

Address: 6020 E 82nd St, Indianapolis, IN 46250, United States

13. Indiana State Capitol

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

You can’t visit Indiana without visiting the Indiana State Capitol .

Built in an Italian Renaissance style, its towers, columns and domes are made of white limestone, and it looms over the city skyline at more than 250 feet tall.

It also houses just about every branch of the Indiana government, and its meeting places include offices, courts, chambers, law libraries and more.

Tours are available of the plushly-carpeted halls and meeting rooms.

You can also explore the grounds outside to learn about the time capsules that are buried on the property and the “moon trees” that were sprouted from seeds carried during the Apollo 14 mission.

You don’t have to be a political person to enjoy a stroll through the Indiana State Capitol.

Its architecture is awesome; its points of interest are legitimately amazing.

You can have a lot of fun here!

Address: 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

14. Lake Monroe

Shannon VanB Photography / Shutterstock

Lake Monroe is one of the best outdoor destinations in the Midwest.

Not only does it have stunning natural beauty in the form of shady forests and sandy beaches, but it also offers experiences that you can’t get anywhere else in Indiana.

For starters, it’s home to the Fourwinds Resort and Marina, the largest marina in the state with more than 800 vessels docked at its stations.

There’s also the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Area, Indiana’s only protected wilderness preserve, and “Boy Scout Bay,” a 600-acre recreation area for the Scouts.

Visitors can enjoy all of the usual outdoor pursuits, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and walking.

There’s picnicking in the summer and ice fishing in the winter.

You can go pontooning or water-skiing.

You can even hunt waterfowl in specially designated areas!

Lake Monroe is one of the best places to go on vacation when you’re in Indiana.

It offers plenty to see and do, and since admission is free, you’ll only need to pay for things like boat rentals.

It’s a cheap but fun locale!

Address: 4850 S State Road 446, Bloomington, IN 47401, United States

15. Allison Mansion

Allison Mansion

With its high ceilings and gleaming marble walls, you might assume that the Allison Mansion was built for art shows or fancy dinner parties.

In truth, however, it was an aviary for birds!

The marble was meant as a contrast for the brightly-colored feathers of its occupants.

The big windows and airy spaces were designed to let in sunlight.

Even the tulips planted on the front lawn were meant to attract wildlife and give the birds something to watch.

The parrots weren’t the only ones to enjoy the mansion, of course.

Its human residents lived a luxurious life as well.

They had pools, gardens, chandeliers and banquet halls as well as a sunken conservatory and a music hall with a two-story pipe organ.

Allison Mansion is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for sightseeing destinations in Indiana.

Though it hasn’t seen the flutter of bird wings for many decades, it’s still an opulent piece of architecture that will make you sigh and wistfully think about winning the lottery.

Address: 3200 Cold Spring Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46222, United States

16. Indiana Medical History Museum

Indiana Landmarks / flickr

Skulls line the shelves.

Jars of amber-colored liquid glow in the light.

Rusty machines sit in corners of libraries, lecture halls and autopsy rooms.

This isn’t a horror movie.

It’s the Indiana Medical History Museum , and it’s a state-run facility that chronicles the long, complex history of psychiatric research.

Some exhibits are frightening.

The museum is located on the grounds of what used to be called the Central Indiana Hospital for the Insane, and as you’re probably aware, treatment of the mentally ill in the 19th century wasn’t always ethical.

Other exhibits, however, are legitimately informative.

The museum has the oldest surviving pathology laboratory in the world, and many antique surgery tools and medical artifacts are on display.

You can learn a lot from a tour, and not just in a gruesome, voyeuristic way.

You don’t have to be a med student to get something out of a trip to the Indiana Medical History Museum.

It’s one of the most interesting destinations in the entire Midwest, so if you’re on the hunt for cool, unique places to visit, put it on your itinerary.

Address: 3045 W Vermont St, Indianapolis, IN 46222, United States

17. Schimpff’s Confectionery

Schimpff’s Confectionery

Founded in 1891, Schimpff’s Confectionery is one of the oldest mom-and-pop stores in Indiana, and it can serve up a delightfully nostalgic experience along with its vintage-style sweets and ice creams.

Not much in the shop has changed since its foundation.

It still has wooden tables and countertops; it still has big, colorful jars filled with jelly beans and ribboned bags that are stuffed with fudges and truffles.

The ice cream machine is emblazoned with a ’50s era Coca-Cola label.

Behind the shop, there’s a small “candy museum” where you can marvel at carnival-bright bits of memorabilia from days gone by.

There’s also a “candy kitchen” where you can watch sweets being made on genuine, old-fashioned equipment!

Stepping into Schimpff’s Confectionery is like stepping backwards in time.

Whether you’re a foodie with a sweet tooth or just a traveler looking for unique Indiana attractions, this confectionery should hit the spot!

Address: 347 Spring St, Jeffersonville, IN 47130, United States

18. Knobstone Trail

Michele Korfhage / Shutterstock

As the longest hiking trail in the state of Indiana, you might expect the Knobstone Trail to be a popular place, but it doesn’t actually get a lot of visitors.

It’s too rugged.

Not only does it cover 58 miles of difficult terrain, but its elevation changes more than 20,000 feet from one end to the other, and a lot of it isn’t officially marked or mapped.

The good news is that the views are amazing.

If you don’t mind working up a sweat to reap your rewards, it’s hard to beat a sunset at the top of a cliff.

It also offers amazing nighttime views of the stars!

There aren’t any designated camping areas, but you’re welcome to make your own, so you can lay out a sleeping bag and count the constellations after a hard day’s work in the wilderness.

Indiana has plenty of trails, but if you’re wondering where to go that isn’t perpetually crowded with tourists, joggers and dog walkers, you’ll need to get off the usual paths.

Try the Knobstone Trail for an invigorating journey through nature.

Address: 4507 Wilson Switch Rd, Borden, IN 47106, United States

19. Levi Coffin House

J. Stephen Conn / flickr

Located in Fountain City, Indiana, the Levi Coffin House doesn’t look that impressive from the outside.

It’s a small brick building that was built in 1838 by members of the Quaker faith, and while it has a certain historic charm, it isn’t one of the grand pieces of architecture to come from that time period.

Its unobtrusive design, however, was on purpose.

It was the “Grand Central Station” of the Underground Railroad.

Countless slaves were able to hide in the building on their way north.

Not only was it run by abolitionists, but it was also in a central location where several different escape routes converged, so it saw a lot of foot traffic over the years.

Today, travelers can tour the house and explore an on-site museum and visitor center.

It’s one of the best ways to learn more about the Underground Railroad and the people who used it.

If you’re looking for places of interest as you travel in or near Indiana, you’ll definitely want to make time for the Levi Coffin House.

It’s an important piece of history, and since it’s a one-of-a-kind destination, you literally can’t find it anywhere else but Indiana.

Address: 201 US-27, Fountain City, IN 47341, United States

20. KokoMantis

No road trip is complete without a detour to a bizarre roadside attraction.

In Kokomo, Indiana, that attraction is KokoMantis.

KokoMantis is an art piece that stands more than 17 feet tall.

As you might guess from the name, it’s shaped like a praying mantis, and it has the beady eyes and long pincers to prove it.

KokoMantis was made from an odd jumble of materials, including scrap metal, repurposed traffic poles and World War II fuel pontoons.

When it was finished, it was transferred to a busy intersection in Kokomo where it could overlook the traffic going by.

If you want to see KokoMantis in the “flesh,” just travel to the intersection.

It’s right by a strip mall with a Subway and other businesses.

It’s definitely one of the weirder places to see in Indiana, but like any good roadside attraction, it’s also one that you’ll remember for years to come!

Address: 200-298 W Sycamore St, Kokomo, IN 46901, United States

21. Fair Oaks Farms

Fair Oaks Farms

City slickers, this one is for you.

Fair Oaks Farms is a chance to leave city life behind and experience what it’s like on a working farm!

Visitors can take tours, watch demonstrations and perform small tasks and chores.

There are orchards for picking apples and zoos for learning about barnyard animals.

There are even special adventures like going underground to examine soil samples or climbing to the top of a tree house to test ropes, pulleys and ladders.

Everything is family-friendly, so whether you’re traveling alone or with the little ones, all visitors will have something to do.

When you’re done exploring the farm, feel free to stop by the on-site restaurant or gift shop.

Fair Oaks Farms has it all, so you can spend the whole day walking, exploring, dining and shopping.

For bonus points, the snacks are made with fresh produce and dairy products!

Address: 856 N 600 E, Fair Oaks, IN 47943, United States

22. Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum

Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum

Located in the small town of Elkhart, Indiana, the Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum offers a big experience in a little package.

For starters, it was the first superhero museum ever created.

Before the days of Marvel movies shattering box office records, it was the only one.

Visitors from all around the world came to “get their geek on” in a fun, vibrant place filled with comic books, art prints, posters, props, toys and memorabilia.

It also has a number of cool and interesting attractions.

For example, there’s a replica Batcave, and there’s an old-school arcade with video games like Sega’s Spider-Man and Konami’s X-Men.

The exterior wall has even been designed as a copycat of the Hall of Justice from the 1970s Superfriends cartoon!

The Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum is one of the most fun things to do in Indiana.

Whether you’re a lifelong comics enthusiast or just a fan of certain movie characters, you’re sure to have a blast in a place that’s completely dedicated to them.

Address: 1915 Cassopolis St, Elkhart, IN 46514, United States

23. Big Four Pedestrian Bridge

Leonid Andronov / Shutterstock

Indiana isn’t an expensive state, but if you’re on a budget, you’ll probably want to look for low-cost places to see.

Fortunately, places like the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge are open year-round!

Despite the name, the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge is open to more than just walkers and joggers.

You’ll also see bikers, skateboarders and all other kinds of folks taking the bridge.

It’s one of the major points of interest along the Ohio River, and it also serves as a central location on the road between Kentucky and Indiana.

There’s no toll or ticketing system, so you can cross the two-mile length of the bridge whenever and however you want.

It’s quick, easy, fun and free.

If you’re traveling through Indiana and wondering what to do on a budget, you might like the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge.

It won’t cost you a dime, and it offers the kind of unforgettable views that create unforgettable vacations, so most people consider it well worth a visit.

24. Brown County State Park

Aeypix / Shutterstock

Indiana is one of the most beautiful states in the US , and when you’re among the oaks and pines of Brown County State Park , you’ll understand why.

Forests cover most of the landscape, so there are lots of trees and shrubs.

They’re particularly stunning when the leaves change in the autumn.

If you’re visiting at other times of the year, you might enjoy the sight of snow-covered hills or jaggedly icy streams with crisp, cold water.

Popular activities at the park include hiking, biking, fishing, camping and horseback riding.

If you’re on foot, you can meander along the trails or climb the lookout towers for amazing aerial views of the woods.

If you prefer other methods of transport, you can hop on a bike, board or boat and explore the wilderness at your leisure.

A visit to Brown County State Park is one of the best things to do in Indiana.

Whether you’re an artist, photographer, birdwatcher or just someone who enjoys long walks through nature, you’ll love the fresh air of this scenic destination.

Address: 1801 Indiana 46 East, Nashville, IN 47448, United States

25. Rotary Jail Museum

Don O’Brien / flickr

Some of the best places to visit in Indiana are the little-known destinations that can’t be found in glossy travel guides.

One example is the Rotary Jail Museum .

Built in 1800s, the Rotary Jail was considered the peak of innovation for its ability to spin.

es, you read that right: spin.

“Rotary jails” were a bizarre but legitimate form of architecture back in the day when prisoner cells were built like wedges around a central crank that was hand-operated to make them move.

Rotary jails fell out of favor in the 19th century, so today, the Rotary Jail Museum of Indiana is one of the few left standing.

It’s also the only one that still spins!

It’s totally unmatched in terms of site seeing, so if you’ll be anywhere near Crawfordsville, Indiana during your travels, make time for the spinning prison.

Address: 225 N Washington St, Crawfordsville, IN 47933, United States

26. Holiday World Theme Park and Splashin’ Safari Water Park

Inferno Insane / flickr

The only thing better than an amusement park is one that has a water park attached to it, and at Holiday World , you can enjoy two Indiana attractions for the price of one!

Holiday World gets its name from the fact that it’s divided into four “sections” based off Thanksgiving, Christmas, Halloween and the Fourth of July.

Many activities correspond to its particular theme.

For example, the Christmas section has sleigh rides and nativity scenes; the Halloween section has roller coasters named after The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Edgar Allan Poe’s The Raven.

If you don’t care about motifs, however, you can ignore the turkeys and just focus on fun.

There are carousels and wave pools; there are magic shows and theater productions.

Multiple restaurants are available with everything from hot dogs and hamburgers to traditional turkey-and-stuffing meals.

A day at Holiday World is one of the most fun things to do in Indiana.

Book your tickets today and you could be screaming at the top of your lungs on a water slide by this weekend!

Address: 452 E Christmas Blvd, Santa Claus, IN 47579, United States

27. Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Jonathan Weiss / Shutterstock

You’ve probably seen the Indianapolis Motor Speedway even if you’ve never been there.

Home to everything from the Indianapolis 500 to the United States Grand Prix, it’s the largest racetrack in the world by both square footage and venue capacity.

It can seat more than 250,000 people at once!

The races are the biggest draw of the track, of course, but there are other events and activities to enjoy as well.

The venue has hosted everything from marathons to drone games.

You can also visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum across the street; it’s home to the Auto Racing Hall of Fame.

Indiana is something of a mecca for NASCAR fans, and a large part of that is due to the existence of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

If you’re looking to have a good time this weekend, why don’t you join 250,000 people looking for the same thing?

Address: 4790 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222, United States

28. Indiana Beach Boardwalk

Indiana Beach Boardwalk

You don’t have to go to Florida or California to enjoy an old-fashioned boardwalk.

There’s one in Indiana on the shores of Lake Shafer, and it’s called the Indiana Beach Boardwalk .

Jutting over the water, the wooden boardwalk stretches for several miles and is filled with all of the tourist attractions that you’d expect.

There are roller coasters and bumper cars; there are water slides and tilt-a-whirls.

A Ferris wheel towers over everything and offers beautiful views of the daytime or nighttime sky.

When your stomach is done with the rides, fill it up at one of the boardwalk’s many cafes, bakeries, bistros and restaurants, or put it to bed at one of the boardwalk’s lakeside hotels and resorts.

The Indiana Beach Boardwalk is one of those scenic places that has more to offer than just the sights.

If you’re looking for entertainment, it offers year-round fun on and near the water.

Address: 5224 E Indiana Beach Rd, Monticello, IN 47960, United States

29. Tibbs Drive-in Theatre

Tibbs Drive-in Theatre

Drive-in theaters are a dying form of entertainment, but they’re still alive in certain parts of the Midwest, including Indiana.

One of the most famous is the Tibbs Drive-in Theatre .

Offering two movies for the price of one, the theater provides a fun and affordable way to do something a little different with a loved one.

You can snuggle with your sweetheart under a blanket; you can throw popcorn and make jokes at the screen with your kids.

Since you’re always in your car, you’re in control of your own movie experience.

You won’t have to worry about ushers coming to wave their flashlights at you.

Concessions include hot dogs, hamburgers, pizzas, candy, ice cream and all of the popcorn that you can eat.

Sometimes, when the weather is nice, the venue will host flea markets during the day and movies at night.

If you’ve never been to a drive-in, the Tibbs Drive-in Theatre might be one of your last chances.

It’s an experience that’s slowly going extinct.

Enjoy it while you still can!

Address: 480 S Tibbs Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46241, United States

30. Conner Prairie

Conner Prairie

Conner Prairie is a museum dedicated to pioneer life.

Unlike others of its kind, however, it doesn’t just show photos and film reels from the old days.

It turns history into an interactive, real-life experience through the combined use of indoor and outdoor space.

“Step into the story,” its website encourages, and once you’re on site, you’ll realize what that means.

There are historic houses with costumed actors inside; there are games, exhibits and demonstrations on everything from sewing to butter churning.

There’s an Indian camp where Native Americans sell their wares and tell their stories; there’s an animal encounter farm where barnyard creatures are always ready for petting.

Kids aren’t the only ones who can get in on the fun.

Adults can enjoy workshops, nature walks, war reenactments and more.

Do you enjoy history?

Or maybe you’re a history buff trying to convince your friends that it isn’t all lectures and textbooks.

Either way, Conner Prairie can take you on a journey through the past with fun, engaging and entertaining perspectives.

Address: 13400 Allisonville Rd, Fishers, IN 46038, United States

31. Bluespring Caverns

Bluespring Caverns

Are you looking for Indiana attractions that are off the beaten path?

If so, have you ever thought about sailing an underground river while surrounded on all sides by crumbling limestone canyons and albino animals?

The Bluespring Caverns are home to the longest subterranean river in the United States.

It stretches for 21 miles beneath the earth, and it’s a dark, humid place filled with jagged rocks and sharp turns.

This environment has made it a thriving habit for blind and albino animals.

In addition to the usual cave-dwelling species like bats and beetles, there are also frogs, salamanders, spiders and fish.

One particularly notable animal is the Northern Cavefish, a rare, sightless fish that only lives in caves in the South and Midwest.

If you’re tired of the usual tourist attractions, make a visit to the Bluespring Caverns.

They’re a top 10 destination in Indiana, and they’ll give you some amazing stories when you’re back home.

Address: 1459 Blue Springs Cavern Rd, Bedford, IN 47421, United States

32. Pokagon State Park

Tyler Herman / Shutterstock

Indiana has a number of state parks, so to stand out from the crowd, they need to offer something special.

Pokagon State Park distinguishes itself with its activity roster.

In addition to the usual outdoor pursuits like hiking, biking, boating and camping, it also offers less-common pastimes like tobogganing and ice fishing.

In warmer weather, you can go treasure hunting in the woods and look for local landmarks like natural springs and moss-covered cabins.

There are always new places to go and exciting things to see.

As for amenities, the park has those as well.

You can sleep under the stars, or you can reserve a room at the gigantic red-roof inn.

There’s also an interpretive center where you can obtain maps, pet wildlife, touch fossils and look at Native American artifacts.

Pokagon State Park is one of the top things to do in Indiana.

In a state filled with parks and nature preserves, there’s a reason why Pokagon usually gets a mention in travel guides.

Follow the advice of those who came before you and give it a visit!

Address: Park Office:, 450 Ln 100 Lake James, Angola, IN 46703, United States

33. Harvest Homecoming

The Harvest Homecoming is one of the largest annual events in Indiana.

Typically celebrated in October, it can span anywhere from 9 – 12 days in total, and it offers food, drink, games, rides, music, art and more.

Events are usually autumn-themed, so if you’ve never participated in something like a pumpkin throwing competition, this is your chance.

There are also fun festivities like concerts, parades, pageants, races and costume contests.

Food is a big deal at the festival, so be prepared to loosen your belt after stuffing your face.

You can find everything from food truck snacks to full-course meals at sit-down, restaurant-style booths.

Flavors can also come from all around the world, but in true “homecoming” fashion, most of the meals are hearty American fare.

Another nice thing about the Homecoming Festival is that many of its activities won’t cost you a dime.

While some things have a fee, others are open to everyone.

If you’re looking for fun but cheap activities in Indiana, the Harvest Homecoming offers lots of cool, interesting things to see that won’t stretch your budget at all!

Address: 904 Indiana’s Historic Pathways – South Spur, New Albany, IN 47150, United States

34. Butt Drugs

Butt Drugs is one of the cheekiest destinations in Indiana.

Despite the name, it isn’t an obscene place.

“Drugs” refers to its status as a pharmacy, and “Butt” is the surname of the family that owns it.

Instead of shying away from the humor of their name, they decided to lean into it, and “Butts Drugs” has been a staple of Corydon, Indiana since its establishment in 1952.

You don’t have to have a prescription to enjoy Butt.

It’s also a novelty shop with everything from quirky toys to old-fashioned malts served from a vintage soda fountain.

You can stop by for sweets and souvenirs.

There’s no doubt that Butt Drugs is a quirky destination, but if you’re looking for cool and unique places to visit in Indiana, it can offer one of the best experiences for the money.

How many times in your life will you have the opportunity to eat ice cream in a Butt?

Address: 115 E Chestnut St, Corydon, IN 47112, United States

35. Monon Trail

H. Michael Miley / flickr

The Monon Trail is one of the treasures of Indiana.

It stretches for more than 20 miles and winds through several towns, cities and parks, so you can turn it into an adventure throughout the state!

It all started with a railroad that connected Chicago and Indianapolis.

It was eventually abandoned, but rather than letting it go to waste, the state of Indiana converted it into a nature trail.

They also added identical red signs along the path to keep folks from losing their way.

Today’s Monon Trail is used by hikers, bikers, joggers, pedestrians and everyone in between.

It can get a bit crowded depending on where you are along the trail, so if you want to avoid bumping elbows with others, steer clear of the asphalt in the city and stick to the more rugged roads in the wilderness.

Just make sure to pack a strong pair of shoes!

To travel 20 miles on foot, you’re going to need them.

36. Lark Valley Ziplines

Mike_O / Shutterstock

Lark Valley Ziplines is a must do for thrill seekers.

You’ll get to zoom through the treetops while attached to nothing but a harness and a cord!

It’s a unique way to take in the sights of Indiana, and since the park offers multiple ziplines, you can do it again and again without getting bored.

When you’re done with the ziplines, they offer other activities as well.

You can climb a rock wall; you can take a paddle boat across the river.

They even have a “Mega-Zip Canopy Tour” that combines all of the experiences into one!

Lark Valley Ziplines represents the best of Indiana attractions.

It’s crazy, beautiful and memorable all at the same time.

It’s basically Indiana in a nutshell.

Address: 10400 US-150, Shoals, IN 47581, United States

37. Cataract Falls

Kenneth Keifer / Shutterstock

Cataract Falls is one of the prettiest sites in Indiana.

Actually, it’s two sites.

There’s an “Upper Falls” and a “Lower Falls” that are about a mile apart.

The upper waterfall is the biggest one; it stands 45 feet tall and thunders onto the rocks below.

The lower waterfall is smaller and slightly more horizontal; it stands 30 feet tall and extends sideways, so it creates a curtain-like effect with its spray.

Animals are abundant around the falls, so in addition to being beautiful places in their own right, they’re also great for birdwatchers, sightseers and wildlife enthusiasts.

One thing to note about the falls is that accessibility can be tricky.

The terrain isn’t steep, but it’s rugged, so it might be a bit much for small children or the disabled.

You can take your car between locations if you don’t want to leg it.

Waterfalls are a wonder of nature.

If you’re keen to experience them during your vacation to Indiana, visit Cataract Falls and get two for the price of one!

Address: 1Off Country Rd. 1050 North 2605 N. Cataract Road, IN 47460, United States

38. Nick’s Kitchen

Nick’s Kitchen

It’s easy to work up an appetite while exploring all of the sights and sounds of Indiana.

But where do you go when you’re hungry?

One option is Nick’s Kitchen .

Located in Huntington, Indiana, it serves many classic foods of the state, including breaded pork tenderloin and sugar cream pie.

Other menu items include grilled cheese, beef steaks, chicken and waffles, pulled pork sandwiches and double cheeseburgers with all of the fixings.

Really, though, it’s all about the sugar cream pie.

You can’t leave Indiana without trying its sugar cream pie.

Nick’s Kitchen isn’t the only place that serves it, but it’s one of the best, so grab your fork and prepare for an enlightening experience!

Address: 506 N Jefferson St, Huntington, IN 46750, United States

39. Santa Claus

Sue Smith / Shutterstock

Santa Claus is real.

Rather than being a person, however, it’s a city in Indiana.

Santa Claus is the real and official name of Santa Claus, Indiana.

It’s located in the southwestern region of the state and has a population of 2,410.

As you might expect, the city fully embraces the holiday spirit, and it makes a killing every year with places to visit like “Santa’s Candy Castle” and “Frosty’s Fun Center.”

It might also warm your heart to know that volunteers respond to each and every letter to Santa that children send to the city.

If you love the holidays, a trip to Santa Claus is one of the best things to do in Indiana.

You won’t find anywhere else on the planet with the same amount of Christmas joy!

40. Central Indiana Enchanted Fairy Trail

Are you thinking about what to do in Indiana with kids?

While there’s no shortage of arcades and amusement parks, there are other ways to have fun as well.

For example, you can take them on a scavenger hunt across the Central Indiana Enchanted Fairy Trail .

The trail is exactly what it sounds like: a path that follows “fairies” throughout Indiana.

They live in hand-painted fairy houses that are scattered across the state, and depending on the location, they might be tucked behind flowerpots, hidden inside of tree groves or resting in plain sight on a window or front porch.

The fairy trail stops in dozens of locations, so in addition to being a fun adventure for kids, it’s also a convenient way for adults to go sightseeing.

Stops are at parks, museums, libraries and more.

Do something different with your little ones this year.

Show them that there are cool things to do even when they’re unplugged from video games and miles away from roller coasters.

The Central Indiana Enchanted Fairy Trail represents a chance for good old-fashioned family fun!

41. Freedom Helicopters

Freedom Helicopters

It’s always hard to say goodbye, but if you’re wondering what to do on your final night in Indiana, call Freedom Helicopters .

Officially serving as a training institute for pilots, Freedom Helicopters also offers scenic helicopter tours of Indianapolis and the surrounding areas.

You can take a Robinson R-44 on a breathtaking journey across the sky! You’ll see buildings, bridges, rivers, farms and more.

Tours are available for groups of three, but you can also arrange multiple tours if you have a larger party.

You can also book special tours for sunrise or sunset if you want to say goodbye in style.

Indiana is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the United States.

Get one final look at its majesty before you leave.

Address: 9913 Willow View Road, Fishers, IN 46038, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Indiana

These are just a few of the coolest places to visit in Indiana.

Whether you’re looking for elegant experiences, wholesome family fun or death-defying adventures in nature, the Hoosier State has a little something for everyone!

Happy travels!

• Weekend Getaways
• Romantic Trips
• Last Minute

25 Best Places to Visit in Indiana

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 18, 2024

Indianapolis, Indiana

Families should visit the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Zoo and the Dallara IndyCar Factory. More romantic weekend getaways in Indiana

South Bend, Indiana

A tour of the South Bend Chocolate Company is a must-do for everyone. South Bend also offers a variety of outdoor activities including golf, canoeing and kayaking, hiking, cycling and even white-water rafting right in the center of downtown.

Bloomington, Indiana

Outdoor enthusiasts have 200 miles of hiking and cycling trails to explore and families can enjoy the WonderLab Museum of Science or head to Monroe Lake swimming, boating and castle-building.

There are also excellent attractions for children including Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden and the Kock Family Children’s Museum.

The city also offers a variety of water sports on the rivers – canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding – there are several outfitters to supply all you need. Less hands-on but equally enjoyable, you can go on a scenic river cruise.

Brown County, Indiana

Children will enjoy the Pioneer Village and Museum and everyone can see how fudge and popcorn is made at Carmel Corn Cottage – tastings are part of the fun.

Shoppers can head to Main Street or the fabulous Art and Design District, and for some exercise you can go walking, jogging or cycling the 25-mile Monon Trail or explore some of the city’s many parks and gardens. More things to do in Carmel

Chesterton, Indiana

However, outdoor pursuits in the wonderful Indiana Dunes State Park are Chesterton’s primary draw-card – here you can enjoy three miles of beach and over 16 miles of trails – picnic areas and campgrounds are available. More day trips from Indianapolis

Columbus, Indiana

Around every corner you will get the chance to admire sleek buildings, a stunning garden and many outdoor art installations. The best way to ensure you see everything is to join a guided Architecture Tour. More things to do in Columbus

The Wellfield Botanic Gardens provide a colorful and serene escape from the city and everyone will enjoy a visit to the Nibco Water and Ice Park for skating in winter and water fun in summer. More things to do in Elkhart

French Lick, Indiana

The list of exhilarating activities is exhausting – you can visit the year-round water park, take a ride through Hoosier National Forest on the French Lick Scenic Railroad, try zip-lining, hiking, cycling, horse-back riding and golfing in summer and a full range of snow sports in winter. The resort offers great dining, shopping, a spa, lake cruising and much more.

More ideas: Best Indiana Wineries

Hoosier National Forest for Couples

Hoosier National Forest, 811 Constitution Ave, Bedford, IN 47421

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore for Families

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, 1100 North Mineral Springs Rd, Porter, IN 46304

Jeffersonville

Town highlights include the Big Four Bridge over the Ohio River, the Jefferson Aquatic Park (which includes a skate park and walking trail) and the Ohio River Greenway where locals and visitors can walk, cycle or simply relax and enjoy the views.

Recreational activities include canoeing and kayaking at Kokomo Reservoir Park, water fun at the Kokomo Beach Family Aquatic Center and hiking and biking several city trails. More things to do in Kokomo

Lafayette, Indiana

More ideas: Best Indiana Campgrounds

IN Places to Visit: Madison

Outdoor enthusiasts can spend a few days camping in Clifty Falls State Park which offers hiking, biking, boating, fishing and more against a beautiful backdrop of gorges and waterfalls. Try and be in Downtown on the Fourth Friday of each month for great shopping, dining, music, trolley rides and other entertainment.

Michigan City, Indiana

Back in the city you can take a gallery tour to admire the thriving local art scene, visit the historic Barker Mansion, take on Lady Luck at the Blue Chip Casino or take a scenic cruise on the Lake Michigan.

For a break from all things arty you can go hiking or biking in the Brown County State Park or prospecting at the Copperhead Creek Gem Mine.

Santa Claus

You can bring along your RV and make the Lake Rudolf Campground and RV Resort your base for exploring all the fun in Santa Claus. More day trips from Indianapolis

Shipshewana

More ideas: Best Flea Markets in Indiana

Terre Haute, Indiana

More ideas: Best Lakes in Indiana

White River State Park, Indiana

More ideas: Best Waterparks in Indiana

• 1. Indianapolis, Indiana
• 2. South Bend, Indiana
• 3. Bloomington, Indiana
• 4. Evansville
• 5. Fort Wayne
• 6. Brown County, Indiana
• 8. Chesterton, Indiana
• 9. Columbus, Indiana
• 10. Elkhart
• 11. French Lick, Indiana
• 13. Hoosier National Forest for Couples
• 14. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore for Families
• 15. Jeffersonville
• 17. Lafayette, Indiana
• 18. IN Places to Visit: Madison
• 19. Michigan City, Indiana
• 20. Nashville
• 21. Santa Claus
• 22. Shipshewana
• 23. Terre Haute, Indiana
• 24. Valparaiso
• 25. White River State Park, Indiana

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25 Best Day Trips in Indiana

25 Best Things to Do in Southern Indiana

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Indiana

Written by Brad Lane Updated May 10, 2023

Author Brad Lane enjoyed traveling throughout Indiana while on assignment for PlanetWare.

Indiana is home to the Hoosiers and a history that runs deep. Entertainment and tourist attractions embed themselves across all corners of the state. From fun things to do in the state capital, Indianapolis, to family-friendly tourist attractions in Fort Wayne, Bloomington, and Lafayette, Indiana has no shortage of exciting places to visit.

Several museums across the state blend fun experiences with educational value. A few of these educational escapes dive into science, Studebakers, and fine art at places like the Snite Museum of Art on the Notre Dame campus. And while the world-famous Indianapolis 500 only takes place once a year in May, the on-site museum celebrates the track's history throughout the year.

And Indiana is big on getting outside. Areas like Prophetstown State Park and Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, among many others, provide campsites, hiking trails, and stunning scenery for those adventurous explorers looking to get outdoors.

Plan your visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Indiana.

1. Spend the Day at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

2. kiss the bricks at the indianapolis motor speedway museum, 3. eiteljorg museum of american indian and western art, indianapolis, 4. holiday world & splashin' safari, 5. turkey run state park, 6. appreciate the art at snite museum of art, notre dame, 7. discover wildlife at the fort wayne children's zoo, fort wayne, 8. explore the campus of indiana university bloomington, 9. prophetstown state park, west lafayette, 10. experience american manufacturing at the studebaker national museum, south bend, 11. conduct a family-friendly experiment at wonderlab museum of science, bloomington, 12. take in the waves at indiana dunes national lakeshore, porter, 13. tour the lanier mansion state historic site, madison, 14. rv/mh hall of fame museum, 15. first christian church, map of tourist attractions & things to do in indiana.

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a large and wondrous place the whole family can enjoy. It encompasses 29 acres in the United Northwest neighborhood of the city. And as the largest children's museum in the world, the many different exhibits and hands-on science displays span from the time of the dinosaurs to astronauts living aboard the International Space Station.

The museum is a sure-fire favorite for children of all ages and an incredible learning experience for adults as well. The collection includes thousands of artifacts, photo opportunities, and interactive experiences. A few exhibits at this world-renowned museum include a planetarium, children's theater, and numerous outdoor exhibits, including an eye-catching "Tree of Sports" playground.

Other areas of eye-catching interest include a 43-foot-tall Dale Chihuly glass sculpture; full-size dinosaur skeletons, including one of the world's few mummified dinosaurs; and an interactive playscape designed specifically for preschoolers.

Alongside several full-day family outings, the museum also provides daily events and programs. A sample of scheduled events includes costume-building workshops, a "Secrets of the Lab" series, and Astronaut Training aboard the International Space Station. For even more fun things to do, the children's museum also features a restored 1917 carousel on the fourth level of this nearly 475,000-square-foot facility.

Address: 3000 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum , or the Indy Racing Museum , is located within the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, also known as "The Track." This world-renowned raceway is home to the Indianapolis 500-miler every May. And this year-round museum commemorates this fastest day in motorsports with a premier collection of automobiles and artifacts.

The museum is open every day of the year, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Its collection includes over 55,000 artifacts, including over 300 cars. And at least 25 past winners of the Indianapolis 500 are on permanent display. Other artifacts include racing memorabilia, photography, and archived video.

Several guided tours are also available through the museum. The two-hour golf cart tour is a popular outing, including an in-depth trip around the track. However, the most popular tour is the Kiss the Bricks Tour , which features a narrated bus ride and an opportunity to get personal with the famous racetrack.

Address: 4750 W 16th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana

The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art is situated at the White River State Park entrance in downtown Indiana. It holds a remarkable collection assembled by Indianapolis businessman Harrison Eiteljorg. On display are paintings and sculptures of the West, from the early 19th century onwards.

A few art pieces on display include works by the landscapists Albert Bierstadt and Georgia O'Keefe, and pictures and sculptures by the leading Western artists Frederick S. Remington and Charles M. Russell. The museum's most recent installation, Attitudes: The West in American Art , features a diverse collection of artists and cultures of the American West.

The encompassing White River State Park contains many other gems of the city . Adjacent to the Eiteljorg Museum, the Indiana State Museum features three floors relating stories of Indiana art, science, and culture through interactive exhibits.

Another great add-on experience to the Eiteljorg within White River State Park is the Indiana Zoo , across the banks of the White River. Resident animals include sea lions, cheetahs, and brown bears. White River State Park also features the NCAA Hall of Champions and Victory Field, home to the Indiana Indians minor league baseball team.

Address: 500 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari is a premier amusement park located in Santa Claus, Indiana. This immersive theme park has a massive collection of rides and slides enticing all sorts of family vacations. It's recommended to spend at least two days exploring the different themed worlds of this Indiana amusement park, from vertigo-inducing roller coasters to kid-friendly attractions.

Holiday World is split between the Fourth of July, Halloween, Christmas, and Thanksgiving worlds, each offering unique details and rides. Splashin Safari encompasses its own massive section of the park, offering one of the largest water parks in the state .

Turkey Run is one of the most popular state parks in Indiana and is located just over an hour's drive west of Indianapolis. Several outdoor activities entice visitors to this natural space, including miles of hiking trails , a popular swimming pool, and other adventures like kayaking and fishing . Much of the landscape comprises woodlands and sandstone ravines along Sugar Creek.

Turkey Run is also a popular spot for overnight adventures. The state park has both indoor and outdoor places to stay, including lodge rooms and campsites. The 60-plus rooms at the Turkey Run Inn are available to book up to a year in advance, and many of the summer reservations go fast. Approximately 23 cabins are also available. Campsites are abundant, with more than 60 sites accommodating tent campers and RVs.

The Snite Museum of Art offers free admission and a dense collection of 19 th- and 20 th- century artworks on the University of Notre Dame campus . The collection spans different cultures and significant periods of world art history.

The galleries include European paintings and sculptures, Mesoamerican effigies, Native American ceramics, and contemporary works. The museum also hosts a constantly rotating selection of new exhibits, including thesis projects by current MFA students at the university.

The museum is open to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays, with more limited hours on Saturdays. The newly instated Charles B. Hayes Sculpture Garden is also operated by the museum a couple of blocks away, allowing visitors to enjoy aesthetic art and nature throughout the year.

The University of Notre Dame offers plenty more to explore for students and community members alike. It's not hard to find inspiration when stepping foot into the Basilica of the Sacred Heart on campus, as well as the adjacent Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes spiritual shrine.

The nearby Compton Family Ice Arena is a great place to catch a hockey game or get on the ice yourself. For many, attending Fighting Irish football games at Notre Dame Stadium is a way of life and much-anticipated activity every season.

Address: 100 Moose Krause Circle, Notre Dame

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in South Bend, Indiana

Celebrating over 50 years as one of the top attractions of Fort Wayne , the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo encourages tourists and residents to experience award-winning animal exhibits.

Spread throughout distinct ecosystems spanning the African Serengeti to an Indonesian rainforest, a few of the hundreds of animals at the zoo include Amur leopards, Tasmanian devils, red pandas, and Komodo dragons.

Other attractions at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo include family-friendly rides like the Endangered Species Carousel . The zoo also facilitates animal experiences that allow visitors to interact with giraffes, goats, and ponies. Recent large-scale renovations to the Children's Zoo have been extremely popular and have given it the national recognition it receives today.

Address: 3411 Sherman Boulevard, Fort Wayne, Indiana

Home to the Hoosiers and nearly 200 years of education history, Bloomington hosts the flagship campus of Indiana University . An air of academia defines the historic lecture halls and pedestrian pathways found on campus, including the iconic Sample Gates , leading to other campus attractions like the Kirkwood Observatory .

Hoosier sports intertwine with the identity of the entire state, and both football at Memorial Stadium and basketball at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall provide true community gathering spots and reasons to cheer.

Cultural institutes like the Eskenazi Museum of Art and the IU Arboretum are popular for students and community members alike and help define the community. For dining and local shops near the university, the neighboring Kirkwood Avenue is a popular spot for afternoon storefront perusing and evening entertainment.

Address: 107 South Indiana Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

Steeped in natural and cultural history, Prophetstown is a new addition to the Indiana State Park system and features many ways to interact with the environment. Within the state park, the 125-acre Farm at Prophetstown embodies a 1920s motif, including hands-on experiences with homesteading, gardening, and livestock feeding.

The state park is at the confluence of the Wabash and Tippecanoe Rivers and features a variety of hiking trails that cater to all abilities of hikers. An extensive Aquatic Center at the park also draws a lot of warm-weather attention with a zero-depth entry pool, lazy river, and 30-foot waterslide. Nearby, interested visitors can learn more about the area at the Tippecanoe Battlefield Park.

Address: 5545 Swisher Road, West Lafayette, Indiana

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Lafayette, Indiana

The American car manufacturer Studebaker was a defining industry of South Bend and has long roots tied to the city. It once was the headquarters for manufacturing, and today, the Studebaker National Museum displays a wide range of these made-in-Indiana automobiles. Among their exhibits are classic models, military vehicles, and the largest collection of Presidential carriages found anywhere in the country.

The Super Service Center at the museum is an interactive area at the museum designed for children. It enables young visitors to step inside an auto shop to work on kid-size cars. The museum's collection also consists of numerous manufacturing drawings and history relating to the Studebaker Corporation.

Address: 201 Chapin Street, South Bend, Indiana

WonderLab is a children's fun center in Bloomington with a focus on science, health, and technology. It features hands-on and immersive learning experiences alongside popular permanent exhibits.

A few of the favorite exhibits include a Bubble-Airium; the Fitzgerald Hall of Natural Science; and an outdoor WonderGarden, which connects with the nearby pedestrian corridor, the B-Line Trail. Other areas of interest at the museum include a coral reef aquarium, a children's Discovery Garden, and facilities for birthday parties or events.

The museum also runs an active events calendar targeted at both adults and children, including science talks, STEM Sundays, and a "WonderLab After Dark" series.

Address: 308 West Fourth Street, Bloomington, Indiana

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore overlooks the shores of Lake Michigan near the Illinois border, presenting a unique landscape found in no other place in the state. The lapping shores and lakeside landscape enable a wide variety of outdoor activities. The adjacent state park of the same name is one of the most popular spots for hiking, biking, and beach-going.

Fishing and boating are also available at the lakeshore, and camping at the seasonal Dunewood Campground is a great way to make a multi-day trip. During the winter, activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing tend to reign supreme. Sunsets at Lake Michigan are a recommended experience for any visit, which often resonate with brightly changing colors and tones.

Address: 1215 IN-49, Porter, Indiana

The Lanier Mansion was built for James Franklin Doughty Lanier, a prominent businessman in the state of Indiana around the mid-1800s. The Greek Revival-style house was completed in 1844 and is one of the finest buildings in Madison's National Historic Landmark District.

The home was designed by architect Francis Costigan. Inside are some of the original furnishings and an impressive three-story spiral staircase. On the grounds are formal gardens showcasing plants and landscape styles of the late 19th century.

Visitors are welcome to tour the historic mansion during daily operating hours, Tuesday through Sunday. Guided tours begin at the top of every hour. The historic mansion is also home to several events and programs throughout the year, including holiday candlelight tours, early childhood programs, and adults-only 1940s Dance Hall celebrations.

Address: 601 W First Street, Madison, Indiana

The RV/MV Hall of Fame in Elkhart showcases all kinds of recreational vehicles in all shapes and sizes from various decades. It's a must-see for people interested in RVs or anyone who wants to see the classic vehicles that Americans have been driving along the roads and vacationing in for the past 90 years.

Popular vehicles and exhibits on display include Mae West's 1931 Chevrolet Housecar, a "Road Back in Time" walking tour, and a Tennessee Traveler Motorhome. Visitors can also see how the interiors and appliances of recreational vehicles have changed over the years. The museum displays trailers, motorhomes, photos, and memorabilia dating back to the 1920s, all within a huge showroom.

Address: 21565 Executive Parkway, Elkhart, Indiana

The First Christian Church in Columbus was designed by Eliel Saarinen and completed in 1942. It has a non-traditional look, with rectangular shapes and a rectangular tower standing 160 feet high. It is noted to be one of the first churches in the United States built in such a contemporary style. The materials, exterior and interior, are mostly buff brick and limestone.

All members of the public are encouraged to check out the regular services hosted by the church. The Sanctuary can seat about 900 people. And this religious establishment provides numerous ways to connect with the surrounding community.

Address: 531 Fifth Street, Columbus, Indiana

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23 Best Things to Do in Indiana

Although often derisively referred to as ‘The Crossroads of America’, Indiana is actually awash with stunning scenery and idyllic countryside. Once off its busy interstates, you’ll find lovely little towns and state parks to explore with its capital Indianapolis boasting most of its main cultural attractions.

As it is part of both the Midwest and Great Lakes regions, the Hoosier State has numerous different sides to it. This makes it very rewarding to travel to, as large and lively cities such as Fort Wayne and Bloomington are just as diverse as the rural communities and landscapes around them.

While most people think of endless farms and fields when they think of Indiana, exploring marvelous caves, lakes and waterfalls are all possible things to do in India. Add in Lake Michigan’s rolling dunes and Indianapolis’ many museums and the oft-overlooked Indiana no longer seems to be just a fly-over state.

23. Cataract Falls

The largest waterfall by volume in the state, Cataract Falls lies in the west-central part of Indiana, just outside the small town of the same name. Easily accessed via State Road 42, it makes for some fantastic photos with shady trails weaving their way about the surrounding recreation area.

Actually made up of two sets of falls lying about a mile apart, its rushing waters can be found along a very pretty part of Mill Creek. While Upper Falls towers 45 feet tall, Lower Falls only reaches 30 feet in total with a series of dramatic-looking drops defining both of them.

Aside from snapping some photos and splashing about in their waters, you can also hike along the nearby nature trails and cross its old covered bridge that dates to 1876.

22. Studebaker National Museum, South Bend

A fascinating place to visit, the Studebaker National Museum in South Bend is packed with three floors full of cool old carriages and vintage vehicles. While its well-done displays primarily focus on the history of the hugely successful American automobile company, some sections cover the evolution of the industry.

Founded in 1852 by the Studebaker brothers, the manufacturing company initially produced wagons and buggies before moving onto electric and then gasoline-powered vehicles. Once integral to the South Bend economy, its assembly line sadly ceased production in 1963. Exhibits and photos now document all their models with seventy classic cars and carriages being dotted around the building.

Besides the museum’s WWI and WWII military vehicles, the highlight of its large collection are the impressive Presidential carriages that were used to transport Abraham Lincoln and others around.

21. Conner Prairie

Another excellent place to head if you love history is the educational yet entertaining Conner Prairie just outside of Fishers. At the enormous outdoor museum, you can experience what life was like in Indiana back in the 1800s as you meet costumed interpreters and watch live demonstrations.

Lying alongside the winding White River, its sprawling campus includes a Lenape Indian Camp and an 1836 prairie town where you can watch blacksmiths at work or take part in military drills. Guests can even enjoy a hot air balloon ride and see the site and its surroundings from the skies.

At its museum, visitors learn all about the various eras represented with classes and camps for kids also regularly taking place. In summer, enthralling American Civil War reenactments are often held alongside the superb Symphony on the Prairie.

20. Turkey Run State Park

Boasting lots of stupendous landscapes, scenery and nature, Turkey Run State Park again lies in the west-central part of Indiana, not too far from Cataract Falls. Although most known for its beautiful sandstone cliffs and canyons, there are also several pioneer-era sights to see.

Protected as a park since 1916, its vast woodlands are home to gorgeous gorges and rushing rivers. Countless scenic hiking trails crisscross the heavily eroded area with floating down Sugar Creek on tubes and kayaks being a popular summertime activity.

Hidden away amidst its groves of old-growth trees and rearing rock formations are historic sites like Lieger Log Cabin and Lusk Home. Both these highlight how people lived in the early-to-mid 1800s with the quaint Cox Ford Covered Bridge being another of the park’s standout sights.

19. Antique Alley

If you actually want to buy some antiques to take home, then Antique Alley is the perfect place to go. Remarkably enough, 1,200 different dealers can be found along its two interlocking loop trails which take you through half a dozen lovely little towns.

While the first trail mostly follows the Old National Road that connects Richmond to Knightstown, the other crosses over into Ohio before looping back into Indiana. Along both routes are a vast array of eclectic antique shops where you can bargain for tantalizing treasures and buy vintage items.

One of the main clusters is in the historic Cambridge City as a gigantic antiques mall and numerous dealers are spread across just three blocks. As with all of Antique Alley’s establishments, they sell everything from glittering jewellery and glassware to rare coins and one-of-a-kind collectibles.

18. Monroe Lake, Bloomington

Offering all kinds of fun watersports and outdoor activities is the massive Monroe Lake. As it is Indiana’s largest land-bound body of water, untold thousands flock here to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy its extensive recreational opportunities.

Partly surrounded by Hoosier National Forest, the large lake was formed back in 1965 following the damming of Salt Creek. Bordered by soft, sandy beaches, it has loads of cozy campsites and lodges to stay at and marinas where you can rent kayaks and pedalos to explore the lake’s indented shore.

Besides jet skiing and sailing across the man-made reservoir’s surface, you can hike and horseback ride along its leafy trails. With its recreation areas containing playgrounds and mini-golf courses, it is no wonder Monroe Lake has long been a favorite with families.

17. Spring Mill State Park

Yet another scenic spot to visit that contains completely different landscapes is the Spring Mill State Park just outside of Mitchell. Known for its incredible caves and sinkholes, it also has an interesting settlers’ village and nature center for you to stop by.

As it is located on the Mitchell Karst Plain, eons of erosion have caused cavernous caves to form all about its limestone landscapes. The most popular to see are Donaldson Cave and Bronson Cave for their spelunking with a boat tour even taking you along the Twin Caves’ winding river.

Above ground is just as delightful as picturesque rivers and rock formations can be spied amidst the undergrowth. After ambling about the restored 1814 village and catching live crafts demonstrations, make sure to check out the nature center’s displays on the local fauna and flora.

16. Monument Circle, Indianapolis

Right in the heart of downtown Indianapolis is one of the capital’s standout symbols and sights: the majestic Monument Circle. Long an important public gathering place, the circular street is presided over by the iconic Soldiers and Sailors memorial which towers a staggering 284 feet tall.

Erected between 1888 and 1901, the absolutely enormous obelisk-shaped monument honors those who served in the Civil War and Revolutionary War among others. While a bronze statue of Victory sits atop it, pretty pools and fountains lie around the foot of the neoclassical-style sculpture.

Only 21 feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, its observation deck offers commanding views over the city and capitol. After snapping some pics, you can attend cultural events at its foot or peruse some of the shops and cafes lining Monument Circle.

15. Lanier Mansion State Historic Site, Madison

One of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in the country, Lanier Mansion lies in the center of Madison, overlooking the Ohio River. Now preserved as a state historic site, its opulent interior and grand gardens really are a treat to tour around.

Named after the wealthy banker James F. D. Lanier, who had it built in 1844, the massive mansion is now painted in its original bright orange and white. This certainly helps it stand out against the green grounds and blooming flowerbeds all around it.

Inside the stately home are dozens of delightfully decorated rooms that highlight what life was like for Lanier and his family in the mid-1800s. Your expert guide will also point out the building’s finer features such as its stunning three-story spiral staircase and south portal.

14. RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum

Surprisingly riveting, the RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum can be found tucked away right in the very north of Indiana. Located just off Interstate 80 outside Elkhart, its scores of old makes and models highlight the history of recreational vehicles.

As Elkhart is known as the ‘RV Capital of the World’ and about 85 percent of the vehicles in the US are manufactured in Indiana, it is only appropriate that the museum is located where it is. Opened in 1991, it features an astounding array of RVs with the Earl Travel Trailer even dating to 1913.

Dotting its halls are displays on influential events for the industry like the first microwave oven and indoor toilet. Highlights include both the oldest Winnebago and smallest Airstream ever built and the 1931 Chevrolet Housecar that convinced Mae West to make movies.

13. Marengo Cave

At the opposite end of the state is one of Indiana’s most awe-inspiring natural features and must-see sights: the mesmerizing Marengo Cave. Since being discovered by two school children in 1883, its spectacular stalactites and stalagmites have been enjoyed by generations of young and old alike.

One of only four show caves in the state, its cavernous confines were almost immediately opened to the public with the cave now recognized as a National Natural Landmark. Guests can opt for either the Crystal Palace or Dripstone trail with remarkable rock formations and otherworldly landscapes guaranteed wherever you go.

After exploring the underground cavern, make sure to try out some of their above ground activities. These include panning for gemstones and crawling through a cave simulator with pedal karting and a mega maze also on offer.

12. Holiday World & Splashin Safari

Long a firm favorite with families, both Holiday World & Splashin Safari are packed with exciting rides, rollercoasters and water slides. As the huge amusement park and its adjoining water park host countless shows and seasonal events, they really do have something for everyone to enjoy.

Since being founded in 1946, the park has expanded considerably and now covers a ginormous area just off Interstate 64 in the tiny town of Santa Claus. All its attractions are divided into four themed sections that celebrate Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving and the Fourth of July.

Besides trying its three hair-raising wooden rollercoasters The Raven, The Legend and The Voyage, you can always shoot down the world’s two longest water coasters. If you prefer something calmer, there are pools and picnic areas to relax at and excellent concerts and musical shows to watch.

11. Parke County’s Covered Bridges

With just over thirty of the historic old structures scattered about, it is no wonder Parke County calls itself the ‘Covered Bridge Capital of the World’. As it lies in the west-central part of the state, it can easily be visited on trips to Turkey Run State Park and Cataract Falls.

The reason the county has more covered bridges than almost anywhere else in the States is because lots of little streams and creeks wind their way about. At one point as many as 53 existed with most being built out of poplar wood and featuring a Burr Arch Truss style.

While Jackson Covered Bridge boasts the longest single span, Portland Mills is the oldest with all of them making for fantastic photos and viewing. Each year, a fall festival celebrates the charming covered bridges with millions coming to enjoy the county’s bucolic countryside.

10. French Lick Resorts

If you want to kick back and relax in style after sightseeing, then the French Lick resorts are definitely the place for you. Its gigantic resort complex contains not just two historic spa hotels but a large casino and three golf courses too.

Located just a mile apart, the two large and lavish hotels lie in West Baden Springs and French Lick Springs. In the early 1900s, wealthy, fashionable and notable guests flocked here for their relaxing waters and the resorts’ luxurious look and feel.

Now restored to their original splendor after decades of decline, they make for a truly memorable place to stay and visit. Aside from enjoying their exquisite architecture and elegant interiors, you can lounge in their pools, play a round of golf or try your luck at the casino.

9. University of Notre Dame, South Bend

Widely considered one of the country’s most picturesque college campuses, the University of Notre Dame lies on the northeastern outskirts of South Bend. Lining its gorgeous green quads are loads of extraordinary buildings with several outstanding museums and sports arenas dotted about.

Now recognized as one of the top universities in the US, Notre Dame was established in 1842 with astonishing architecture and artworks now coating its campus. Among its main sites are the massive Touchdown Jesus mural and wonderful Basilica of the Sacred Heart which is famed for its stained-glass windows and frescoes.

Other than strolling around the Snite Museum of Art and taking in the lively ambience, attending a Fighting Irish game is simply a must. This is because 77,000 football fans pack out its stadium with plenty of parties only adding to the intoxicating atmosphere.

8. Oliver Winery

Both the largest and oldest winery in all of Indiana, the award-winning Oliver Winery lies just off of Interstate 69, fifteen minutes drive north of Bloomington . At its vineyard, you can take terrific tours and sample sumptuous wines either in its lovely landscaped garden or vibrant tasting room.

For fifty years now, the winery has wowed critics and casual drinkers with the fine fruity flavors of its well-crafted reds, whites and roses. What started out as the passion project of professor William Oliver has grown considerably with its top-class collections now available in over forty states.

On tours, you’ll hear about its interesting history and see how the wines are produced at its secluded campus. Afterwards, you can sip some delicious wines while taking in the sublime scenery on show.

7. Washington Park, Michigan City

Lying along the shores of Lake Michigan, Washington Park encompasses both pristine beaches and fine old historic sights. With a small zoo, watersports and sightseeing cruises up and down the coast also on offer, it makes for a great day out for all the family.

Founded in 1891, the waterfront park now protects around two dozen historic buildings and cultural landmarks. These include the soaring Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument which was built back in 1896 and a quaint little bandstand with Indiana’s only working lighthouse being another highlight.

At its broach beach, visitors can sunbathe, swim and splash about or take invigorating boat trips and fishing excursions out on the lake. After ambling along Michigan City’s pier and seeing the animals in the zoo, you can always venture onto the adjacent Indiana Dunes National Park.

6. Indianapolis Museum of Art

As it boasts one of the biggest and best collections of paintings, photos and sculptures in the US, the Indianapolis Museum of Art really is a must-visit when in the capital. Set in the corner of the city’s sprawling Newfields campus, it has everything from Neo-impressionist paintings and Paul Gauguin prints to Chinese ceramics and Edo-era artworks for guests to enjoy.

One of the oldest art museums in the States, it first opened in 1883 with over 54,000 artworks now making up its holdings. Spread across its four floors are vast rooms displaying textiles and prints, contemporary pieces and video installations with other galleries covering Africa, Asia and Oceania.

Once you’ve explored 5,000 years of art history, you can see a play in the museum’s theater or stroll around the idyllic gardens and early-twentieth-century estate outside.

5. Brown County State Park

By far the largest state park in Indiana, the beloved Brown County has an almost endless number of exciting recreation activities to enjoy. Due to this, it is affectionately known as Indiana’s playground with more than a million locals and out-of-towners alike visiting each year.

Mostly made up of rolling hills and lush woodland, it lies just east of Bloomington with a couple of pretty lakes dotting its scenic confines. While many come for the divine views and fiery fall foliage for which the park is known, others enjoy hiking and horseback riding or camp beneath the stars.

In summer, people cool off at its water park or bike along shady trails through forested ravines. You can also visit the nearby art colony of Nashville if you want art and culture alongside all the nature.

4. Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo

One of Indiana’s top tourist attractions, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo houses an amazing menagerie of animals, birds and reptiles from all around the world. Located just north of downtown Fort Wayne , its spacious enclosures and exhibits cover a large part of Franke Park.

Often included among the nation’s best zoos, it was established in 1965 with around 1,500 animals inhabiting its four themed areas. These whisk you to the African savanna and Indonesian rainforest with their giraffes, orangutans and tigers counted among the park’s most popular residents.

To get around, animal lovers can hop aboard a ski lift-like ride to see the Serengeti-inspired sections or take a log ride through the Australian area. Unforgettable animal encounters are available where you feed cute giraffes and stingrays.

3. Indiana Dunes National Park & State Park

Stretching about twenty miles along Lake Michigan’s southern shoreline is the absolutely incredible Indiana Dunes National Park. A treat to travel around, it contains a diverse array of ecosystems with the state park within it protecting most of its massive dunes.

Although recognized as a national lakeshore in the sixties, it was only in 2019 that its rolling dunes and beaches were turned into a national park. The only one in Indiana, its prairies, rivers and forests are a joy to hike about with fishing and swimming out on the lake being other popular pastimes.

In addition to lounging on the beach and wallowing in Lake Michigan, you can explore its sizeable dunes, some of which even ‘sing’. Brilliant birdwatching can also be had thanks to the rich variety of fauna and flora that coat its swamps, savannas and woodlands.

2. Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

With five vast floors full of over 130,000 artifacts for you to see, one could spend days if not weeks exploring the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Located along North Meridian Street, its fun dino exhibits and hands-on science activities are sure to wow young and old alike.

The largest museum of its kind in the world, it was founded in 1925 with its colossal campus lying in the United Northwest Area of town. Upon entering, you can gaze at the atrium’s astonishing Dale Chihuly glass sculpture before heading on to the Dinosphere and Beyond Spaceship Earth gallery.

In addition to learning about various countries and cultures, you can also catch shows at its state-of-the-art planetarium and play basketball and football at its outdoor sports areas.

1. Indianapolis Motor Speedway

As the city is known as the ‘Racing Capital of the World’, no visit can be complete without attending an exhilarating event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. At the hallowed venue, motorheads can watch thrilling races or tour around its museum and hall of fame.

One of the oldest permanent automobile race tracks in the world, it was completed in 1909 with its rectangular oval circuit having remained virtually unchanged since then. Over the decades, the track has hosted dozens of competitions with the Indy 500, Intercontinental GT Challenge and NASCAR Cup Series currently taking place here.

Now recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the world-renowned speedway is a must-visit for its exciting ambience and the super high speeds its racers reach.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Indiana (IN) » 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Indiana

15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Indiana

Indiana, nicknamed The Hoosier State, is located in the Great Lakes region and therefore of course has lots of awesome places to visit and see. Be amazed by these beautiful pictures of places in Indiana !

1. Cataract Falls

The largest waterfall in the state of Indiana can be found inside Cataract State Park. Cataract Falls drops for a total of 86 feet, with the upper falls making up 20 feet of this figure.

The hike to the falls is of moderate difficulty and less than three miles in length, with the best time to visit between December and May. As Cataract Falls is made up a long series of cascades, many of the trails within Cataract State Park are within site of the beautiful falling water.

2. Brown County State Park

Brown County State Park is the largest state park in Indiana, attracting over one million people every year. The park is named after Commanding General of the United States Army, General Jacob Brown. The state park is often referred to by its nickname the Little Smokies due to its resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains.

With 70 miles of horse trails, as well as hiking and mountain biking trails, Brown County State Park is perfect for those who enjoy scenic views. The rare Yellowwood tree on Trail 5 is one of the many highlights of Brown County State Park.

3. Kissing Bridges

Kissing bridges are one of the main tourist attractions Indiana has to offer, with these beautiful structures found all over Brown County. Some 21 of these covered bridges are still in use across Indiana’s Parke County, with many of them now covered in romantic notes that have been left by visitors.

The covered bridges are known as kissing bridges as they were one of the few places courting couples could find some privacy hundreds of years ago. October is perhaps the best time of the year to see Indiana’s kissing bridges as this is when an annual festival dedicated to the structures is held in Parke County.

4. Kesling Wetland and Farmstead

Kesling Wetland and Farmstead is one of the best places in Indiana to get up close with the state’s nature. The 10-acre marsh and slough wetland community is ideal for those who want to learn about how important it is to conserve the natural environment. Sunset and sunrise are two of the best times of the day to visit Kesling Wetland and Farmstead due to their spectacular sights.

5. Turkey Run State Park

Turkey Run State Park in Parke County features 14 picturesque miles of challenging trails, as well as the Rocky Hollow Falls Canyon Nature Preserve. Cut into the sandstone of the park, the canyons can be seen and experienced from six trails through the park.

Within the grounds of the park is Turkey Run Inn, where guests can stay in one of the 79 rooms or enjoy a fine meal in one of the state’s finest places to have dinner, the Narrows Restaurant.

6. Clifty Falls State Park

Clifty Falls State Park is home to some of the most popular events in Indiana, such as the July Regatta hydroplane boat race and the Madison Chautauqua Festival of Art in late September.

Located near Madison, the park features many beautiful nature trails and its highlight is Clifty Creek Canyon, which runs through the heart of the park. Elsewhere within Clifty Falls State Park is a canyon so deep the sun is only visible at midday, as well as the gorgeous McCormick’s Creek.

7. Nappanee

Nappanee is one of the most beautiful locations within the state of Indiana, with its wide of range of tourist attractions, including the Arts & Crafts Festival. Visiting the Round Barn Theatre at Amish Acres is a must for anyone staying in Nappanee, with the Amish population of the town giving it a unique feel. The Nappanee Apple Festival attracts tens of thousands of people every year, with events including a talent show and a tractor pull.

8. Bean Blossom

Bean Blossom – sometimes styled as Beanblossom – is one of Indiana’s most beautiful places and is home to one of the many covered bridges that Parke County is famous for. Bean Blossom is home to the Bill Monroe Memorial Music Park and Campground, which hosts an annual bluegrass festival known locally as the Bean. Bean Blossom is found about two miles west of Helmsburg.

9. East Pierhead Lighthouse at Michigan City

10. Indiana Winter

Winter in Indiana is perhaps when the state is at its most beautiful. The south shore of Lake Michigan is one of the best places to go in the Indiana winter, as it is home to a number of ice skating rinks, while sporty people will also enjoy the chance to go cross-country skiing.

One of the most fun things to do during winter in Indiana is to take a horse-drawn sleigh ride at Buckley Homestead in Lowell, which is available on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

11. Hemlock Cliffs

Hemlock Cliffs Falls is arguably the most beautiful spot in the whole of Indiana, with the falls located within the Hoosier National Forest. Many people heading to the falls use the Hemlock Cliffs National Scenic Trail, which is a little over a mile long and is accessible all year round. Hiking and camping are both very popular within Hoosier National Forest. Hemlock Cliffs is so named as the tall evergreen with short needles and small cones thrives in the forest.

12. Brown County

Brown County is also one of the most beautiful locations in Indiana, with its mix of unincorporated communities and over 170,000 acres of forested land making it a great place to experience what Indiana is all about. Tour Bill Monroe’s Music Park, Big Woods Brewery and the Brown County Railroad Museum to see the best of what Brown County has to offer.

13. Lake Michigan

Among the most popular tourist attractions in the state of Indiana is the stunning Lake Michigan, which is the only one of the Great Lakes of North America to be located wholly within the boundaries of the United States. Indeed, Lake Michigan is so massive that it is sometimes known as the third coast of the States, with many beaches to explore and enjoy.

For people wishing to camp near to the gorgeous banks of Lake Michigan, both Indiana Dunes State Park and the Indiana National Lakeshore are well worth visiting. The area is also home to the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farmstead trails, where visitors can learn more about the history of Indiana.

15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Indiana:

• Cataract Falls
• Brown County State Park
• Kissing Bridges
• Kesling Wetland and Farmstead
• Turkey Run State Park
• Clifty Falls State Park
• Bean Blossom
• East Pierhead Lighthouse at Michigan City
• Indiana Winter
• Hemlock Cliffs
• Brown County
• Lake Michigan

• Last Updated On
• June 25, 2023

15 Best Places to Visit in Indiana — Fun & Unique Places to Go!

Indiana is a midwestern state featuring a boat-load of unique and fun attractions that make it one of the premier destinations for unforgettable getaways.

This spectacular state, nicknamed the Hoosier State, offers you and your travel buddies countless tourist hotspots to explore and thrilling activities to do.

Here, you can explore fantastic museums, superb restaurants, beautiful gardens, world-class zoos, awe-inspiring bridges, jaw-dropping architectural masterpieces, and so much more.

Plan your perfect vacation by checking out this list of the best places to visit in Indiana that I prepared just for you.

1. Covered Bridges

(765) 569-5226

The Covered Bridges are 31 bridges found in various places throughout Parke County.

Some of these bridges date to as far as the 19th century.

Why You Should Visit This Place

Can’t decide what to do in Indiana with your travel buddies?

Then, I recommend going on a fun road trip by exploring the numerous bridges all over Parke County.

Each bridge is beautiful, unique, and constructed in different centuries.

As you and your friends, family, or partner visit the many rustic bridges, take plenty of photos to commemorate each stop.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

If you are a history buff, a must-visit is the Crooks Covered Bridge, originally constructed in the 1850s by Henry Wolf.

It is on the list of the National Register of Historic Places.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Conrad Indianapolis

Related: Best Things to Do in Indiana

2. Garfield Trails

505 W 3rd St Marion, IN 46952 (765) 997-7034

The Garfield Trail is a series of eleven statues dedicated to the iconic, world-famous animated character Garfield, created by Jim Davis.

When searching for cool and unique places to visit in Indiana with your loved ones, consider exploring the 11 statues of this picturesque trail.

Each Garfield statue has a themed design and dressed up in a cute costume, providing a terrific photo opportunity for you and your family.

If you want to learn more about Garfield and its creator, visit the Cool Cat by the Fairmount Historical Museum.

Tour the museum as well, and gain more knowledge about the well-loved character.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Marion, an IHG Hotel

Related: Best Family Vacations in Indiana

3. Monument Circle — Indianapolis

Monument Cir Indianapolis, IN 46204 (317) 232-7615

You can find Monument Circle at the heart of downtown Indianapolis .

It features a roughly 285-foot outdoor monument and memorial, the largest of its kind in the state.

One of the top places to see in Indiana on your tour is Monument Circle.

It is the ideal destination for you to visit that won’t take too much out of your time so that you can spend your day touring other destinations.

This monument serves to honor the soldiers who risked their lives in the Civil and Spanish American Wars and features a glass-enclosed observation deck offering captivating views of the surroundings.

For a more unforgettable experience, visit during the holidays when Monument Circle comes alive with thousands of colorful lights.

It also features an artificial tree-lighting ceremony the day after Thanksgiving if you want to watch the spectacular event.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: JW Marriott Indianapolis

4. Wilstem Wildlife Park — Paoli

4229 US-150 W Paoli, IN 47454 (812) 936-4484

Wilstem Wildlife Park, encompassing 1,100 acres, is a well-loved attraction offering multiple recreational possibilities for all ages.

Are you searching for places of interest to take your friends, family, or partner on a memorable trip together?

If you are, I strongly recommend Wilstem Wildlife Park.

It features a drive-thru safari park, where you can get the chance to get up close and personal with animals like giraffes, grizzly bears, sloths, kangaroos, elephants, and more.

You can also do other activities like a guided horseback riding excursion and zip lining through the canopies.

If you want to feed the friendly creatures you come across, don’t bring food or snacks, because the park sells special feed for the animals.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Spring Mill Inn

5. Rotary Jail Museum — Crawfordsville

225 N Washington St Crawfordsville, IN 47933 (765) 362-5222

The Rotary Jail Museum, which first opened in 1882, was the first rotary jail in the United States.

It is now a one-of-a-kind museum offering a handful of exhibits and engaging activities.

If you are looking for the top places to visit in Indiana, the Rotary Jail Museum is a great choice.

For a cheap price, you can explore two stories featuring sixteen jail cells and go on a complimentary guided tour as you learn about its rich history.

It also neighbors many pubs and breweries if you want to enjoy a fun night out with your friends or partner after touring the museum.

Check their official website ahead of time before visiting so that you can see what activities they have lined up, like ceramic or acrylic painting in its basement.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Crawfordsville Hotel

Related: Best Weekend Getaways in Indiana

6. Wolf Park — Battle Ground

4004 E 800 N Battle Ground, IN 47920 (765) 567-2265

Wolf Park, which opened in 1972, is home to numerous wolf packs and other animals like bison and foxes.

Go on the ultimate sightseeing adventure as you explore the many breathtaking Indiana tourist attractions, like Wolf Park.

It offers you and your companions many fun tour options to choose from, depending on how immersive you want the experience to be.

Some of the activities you can do are participating in a workshop where you can hone your art or photography skills, learn the history of the park, see how the keepers care for the animals, watch live wolf feedings, discover a herd of bison, and so much more.

Try a new, once-in-a-lifetime experience by booking the Howl Night Tour.

It takes place at nighttime for about two hours, where you can listen to the wolves serenade the park with their mesmerizing howls.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites West Lafayette, In

7. Kokomo Opalescent Glass — Kokomo

1310 South Market St. Kokomo, IN 46902 (765) 457-1829

Kokomo Opalescent Glass, established in 1888, is the oldest manufacturer of opalescent glass worldwide.

Kokomo Opalescent Glass is an award-winning attraction and one of the most popular sites to visit during your Indiana adventure.

You can opt to tour the factory alongside a knowledgeable guide.

Its shop sells brilliant glassworks like bowls, drinkware, plates, vases, jewelry, lamps, and endless more that you can buy as souvenirs or gifts to take to your friends or family back home.

This tourist hotspot offers classes where you can learn the art of glass-making, like hot glass blowing and painting.

However, make your booking ahead of time because classes fill up quickly.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Kokomo

8. Indianapolis Zoo — Indianapolis

1200 W Washington St Indianapolis, IN 46222 (317) 630-2001

The Indianapolis Zoo, which opened in April 1964, spans roughly 64 acres.

It is one of the most popular vacation spots in the state, welcoming millions of guests each year.

Gather your friends, loved ones, or significant other and create long-lasting memories together at this world-class zoo.

It is home to over 3,000 animals of at least 320 different species from all over the world.

There are plenty of activities you can enjoy with your companions, like feeding flamingos, giraffes, or lorikeets, going on fun rides like a roller coaster, carousel, or train, and swimming with dolphins.

It has an onsite treehouse and playground to keep your little ones well-entertained throughout your visit.

If you don’t want to pack bulky items like strollers, this zoo offers single and double strollers for rent.

The rental area is right by the entrance and is on a first-come, first-serve basis, so make sure you visit earlier in the day to guarantee use.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Omni Severin Hotel

9. Mesker Park Zoo — Evansville

1545 Mesker Park Dr Evansville, IN 47720 (812) 435-6143

Mesker Park Zoo, founded in 1928, is officially known as the Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden.

More than 700 animals of over 200 species make their home in this 50-acre zoo.

One of the best places to travel in Indiana with your family and friends is this superb zoo.

Located in Evansville , it is home to a wide array of animal species, like red pandas, turtles, lions, prairie dogs, lemurs, rhinoceros, jaguars, river otters, and so much more.

Attractions you can see here are Amazonia, featuring animals in a rainforest-like environment, Discovery Center, where you can learn about endangered species, and African Panorama, which will take you to the grandeur of the African savannah.

If you want to participate in live giraffe feedings, visit Mester Park Zoo before 11 am or 2 pm.

Note that most of the animals are more active in the morning, so come at these times to see them up and about.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton Evansville

Related: Best Places to Eat in Evansville

10. Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial — Lincoln City

3027 E S St Lincoln City, IN 47552 (812) 937-4541

The Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, constructed in 1816, encompasses roughly 200 acres.

It carefully preserves and maintains the farm where Abraham Lincoln and his family lived for 14 years.

Experience the best of Indiana by touring one of its most beautiful, stunning, and historical attractions, the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial.

This attraction features a well-maintained environment, a postcard-perfect scenery, a living historical farm, and so on.

Go on a guided tour of the area and learn about Lincoln and his family, read the books that he read, take many pictures of the stunning landscape, and more.

Wear your comfortable shoes so that you can hike the beautiful Lincoln Boyhood Trail comfortably.

It leads to the gravesite of Nancy Hanks Lincoln, Abraham Lincoln’s mother.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn

11. Indiana Dunes National Park — Porter

1100 North Mineral Springs Road Porter, IN 46304 (219) 395-1882

See Ticket Price for Tour that Includes This Place

Indiana Dunes National Park, spanning more than 15,000 acres, is a well-loved attraction drawing millions of visitors from all over the nation.

Are you looking for the best places to go in Indiana for a terrific vacation that you and your companions will remember for years to come?

If you are, Indiana Dunes National Park is the destination for you.

It offers you a multitude of fun-filled possibilities, like exploring historical sites, enjoying a picnic in the great outdoors, horseback riding, lazing on a beach, boating, fishing, hiking through gorgeous trails, camping, and lots more.

If you are traveling with someone with a physical disability and looking for the ideal spot to visit here, consider the ADA-accessible West Beach.

Here, you can go on a fantastic getaway on the sand and in the refreshing water and rent beach wheelchairs from a lifeguard.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Spring House Inn

12. George Rogers Clark National Historical Park — Vincennes

401 S 2nd St Vincennes, IN 47591 (812) 882-1776

The George Rogers Clark National Historical Park, constructed in 1931, is an iconic landmark of Indiana.

It memorializes the life, legacy, and heroic acts of American military officer George Rogers Clark.

Get a break from the daily grind of your day-to-day life without traveling too far by discovering the many beautiful places to visit near you, like the George Rogers Clark National Historical Park.

See things like a colossal bronze statue of George Rogers Clark, a granite statue of Italian-American Francis Vigo, seven glorious murals, and many other stunning sights.

It also offers a wide array of programs for every age, like astronomy programs and summer ranger programs for your kids.

After touring this historical hotspot, replenish your energy by dining at Procopio’s Pizza & Pasta, which is a mere 1-minute drive away.

It is a popular restaurant serving some of the tastiest pizzas in the city and other yummy dishes like pasta, buffalo wings, fresh salads, and tons more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Vincennes

13. Eiteljorg Museum — Indianapolis

500 W Washington St Indianapolis, IN 46204 (317) 636-9378

The Eiteljorg Museum, established in 1989, is officially known as the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art.

It boasts an impressive collection of one of the finest Native contemporary art worldwide.

Indianapolis is one of the best cities to visit in Indiana because of its numerous breathtaking attractions, like the Eiteljorg Museum.

Spend the day immersed in hundreds of spectacular and captivating artwork by viewing the various galleries and displays at this museum.

Here, you can discover art pieces of varying forms, like paintings, Native artwork, pottery, sculptures, artifacts, clothing, jewelry, and so much more.

The best time to visit is during the Eiteljorg Museum Indian Market & Festival.

It is one of the top Native American art markets in the U.S. and happens annually, usually in June.

It includes live Native American cultural performances, art demonstrations, and the like.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Dwtn-Union Stn, an IHG Hotel

14. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis — Indianapolis

3000 N Meridian St Indianapolis, IN 46208 (317) 334-4000

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, founded in 1925, is the largest museum for children on earth.

It is home to more than 120,000 artifacts and countless interactive exhibits on at least five different levels.

If you are planning the perfect vacation catered to your children and searching where to go in Indiana, pack your bags and head on over to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.

Create new memories with your youngsters as you explore the culture of contemporary Greece, look through dinosaur fossils, experience life as an astronaut, watch entertaining live shows at its theater, ride a carousel, race go-karts, and so on.

You can also spend time under the sun and play sports like miniature golf, basketball, baseball, football, hockey, tennis, soccer, and the like.

To save up on expenses, schedule your visit on the first Thursday of every month, from 4 to 8 pm.

During this time, you can explore its many exhibits for a discounted rate.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Indianapolis Marriott Downtown

15. Prophetstown State Park — West Lafayette

4112 E, IN-225 West Lafayette, IN 47906 (765) 567-4919

Prophetstown State Park, roughly 2,000 acres in size, features a boat-load of attractions like an aquatic center, campgrounds, and more.

Bond with your travel buddies and create memories that will last a lifetime as you explore one of the best places to visit in Indiana, Prophetstown State Park.

This state park offers numerous recreational possibilities to guarantee a fun-filled time together.

For example, going down slides and swimming at its onsite aquatic center, biking through the picture-perfect landscape, hiking, exploring a living historical farm, observing wildlife from a safe distance, and plenty of other options.

If you want to plan a perfect picnic in the great outdoors but want to do so comfortably and away from the scorching sun, there are picnic shelters you can reserve ahead of time.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites West Lafayette, IN

Related: Best Family Hotels in Indiana

Map of Places to Visit in Indiana

Indiana Places to Visit: The 15 Best Places to Go for 2024

• Covered Bridges
• Garfield Trails
• Monument Circle — Indianapolis
• Wilstem Wildlife Park — Paoli
• Rotary Jail Museum — Crawfordsville
• Wolf Park — Battle Ground
• Kokomo Opalescent Glass — Kokomo
• Indianapolis Zoo — Indianapolis
• Mesker Park Zoo — Evansville
• Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial — Lincoln City
• Indiana Dunes National Park — Porter
• George Rogers Clark National Historical Park — Vincennes
• Eiteljorg Museum — Indianapolis
• The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis — Indianapolis
• Prophetstown State Park — West Lafayette

Top 16 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Indiana

Often overlooked by visitors as a tourist destination, the slow-paced Midwestern state is mostly famous for the Indy 500 race, its once-thriving industrial towns, and the Amish communities.

Although it’s home to a hugely diverse range of stunning landscapes, including golden lake shores flanked by moody dunes, swaying cornfields, leafy parks, and perfect and interesting caves. Not sure where to begin? Here are my all-time favorite spots…

1. Indiana Dunes National Park

Formerly known as Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, the Indiana Dunes National Park is the 61st national park of the U.S. Located within 40 miles of Chicago, the Indiana Dunes State Park is a part of the national park.

Running along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, the majestic national park spreads across 15,000 acres. Comprising some of the most beautiful diversities with towering dunes, marshes, wetlands, prairies, and vast fields of wildflowers, this charming landscape is a favorite of mine!

I recommend hiking along the peaceful forests or dipping your toes on the beach; in my opinion, the adventure-filled wilderness is a perfect getaway from the bustling city!

• Address: 1600 N 25 E, Chesterton, IN 46304-1142
• Best time to visit: Spring to early fall

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking through the dunes to reach the lakeshore and then heading North to stumble upon the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore.
• Enjoying a picnic on the gorgeous beach.

2. Coxhall Gardens 

I personally think a visit to Carmel is incomplete without touring the most picturesque park, the Coxhall Gardens. The 125-acre park was donated to the Hamilton County Parks and Recreation in 1999 by Jesse and Beulah Cox.

An oasis amid the sea of homes, the freshly manicured lawns, water bodies, colorful flowers, and an expansive garden makes Coxhall Gardens a popular destination for visitors and photographers.

This one-of-a-kind park includes a museum, an elegant centerpiece, bell towers, a museum, and mirroring ponds with plenty of green space. In my opinion, this serene location is ideal for walking, biking, and just enjoying the beautiful outdoors! 

• Address: 11677 Towne Rd, Carmel, IN 46032
• Best time to visit: Spring is the best when the flowers bloom.
• Taking a stroll around the beautiful landscapes and photographing the flower beds and ornamental trees.
• Having a picnic material and checking out the onsite museum.

3. Potato Creek State Park

Tucked away in north-central Indiana’s South Bend, the Potato Creek State Park was a territory of Native Americans in the 1830s. One of the most visited parks in the state, the sprawling state park covers 3840 acres, and Lake Worster is the focal point.

Full of mature woodlands, restored prairies, old fields, and diverse wetlands, I love that the park offers a prime spot to get close to nature.

The park provides many activities, including hiking, kayaking, swimming, picnicking, mountain biking, and bird watching. With year-round camping and forested beauty, the campground allows access to some of the best outdoor activities.

• Address: 25601 IN-4, North Liberty, IN 46554
• Best time to visit: Summer and fall season are the best.
• Taking the 10-mile hiking trail.
• Going paddleboarding on the gorgeous lake.

4. Washington Park Beach

I personally think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the charming beauty of the sandy Washington Park Beach! Spreading across more than 100 acres, the large expanse of beach offers a pretty walkway onto the beach.

Walk out on the Pier or launch your kayaks from the beach. The Lighthouse Museum provides a wonderful history of the area. Sit around and witness the stunning sunset with the Chicago skyline at the backdrop, or enjoy the beach sports along the dunes, the beach is fun for all to enjoy.

• Address: City Hall & 100 E. Michigan, Michigan City, IN 46360
• Best time to visit: spring to fall seasons are considered best. Summer season is usually crowded.
• Taking a stroll along the long concrete pathway that leads to a lighthouse directly from the beach. 
• Going kayaking.

5. Indiana State Capitol Building 

Indiana’s statehouse is an outstanding majestic structure rebuilt in 1888 on the previous state capitol building. Designed by architect Edwin May, the current building is the fifth state building in America’s heartland, Indianapolis.

Constructed on Indiana limestone and white oak, the beautiful rotunda has lovely stained glass with grand staircases on both sides of the building.

Decorated with classical paintings, sculptures, murals, and opulent chandeliers, in my opinion, the stunning architecture sets a perfect model for state capitols around the nation!

• Address: 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
• Best time to visit: the building is open for year-round tours.
• Learning about the history on a tour.
• Visiting the nearby Eiteljorg Museum.

6. Brown County State Park

Amidst the winding roads and rugged vistas, Indiana’s largest state park, the Brown County State Park occupies nearly 16,000 acres.

Also called the “Little Smokies”, the state park features fog-shrouded ravines, steep slopes, deep gullies, ridges, and lush forestland. Established in 1929, the park memorialises the state’s renowned humorist, “Kin Hubbard”.

Indiana’s fall colour hot spot, the state park, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with various activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, camping, and lots more outdoor fun.

I would recommend enjoying the scenic vistas of sunrise or sunset or exploring the surrounding county and the town of Nashville; this wonderful place takes you a step back in time! 

• Address: 1801 IN-46, Nashville, IN 47448
• Best time to visit: Spring and fall seasons are the best time to observe vibrant foliage and wildflowers bloom.
• Hiking the trail to reach the fire tower.
• Camping overnight in the large campground.

7. Mounds State Park

The tranquil Mounds State Park near Anderson is a Native American heritage comprising unique earthworks built by prehistoric Indians.

The largest earthwork, often called the “Great Mound”, dates back to around 160 B.C. The mounds were used as a gathering place for religious ceremonies.

Today, the peaceful state park offers hiking, camping, bird-watching and water activities to enjoy all nature has to offer. On the northwest of the park lies the Mounds State Recreation Area.

I personally think it’s a great place to go and walk around and enjoy the scenery, as the park offers fairly easy trails through the woods.

Address: 4306 Mounds Rd, Anderson, IN 46017

The best time to visit: spring and fall seasons.

• Spending overnight at the campsite.
• Visiting the nature center and watching the birds (there’s a room where you can spot them from inside).

8. Turkey Run State Park

Discover Indiana’s ancient remains in Turkey Run State Park on a trip through time. Located in Parke County, less than a 90-minute drive from Indianapolis, the Turkey Run State Park is a place to reconnect with nature.

Discover the deep canyons of sandstone amid old-growth forests and hemlock groves.

Flowing through the park’s heart is the picturesque Sugar Creek, known for fishing and canoeing. The ruggedly beautiful hiking trails, swimming pool, and picnic area offer a stunning natural retreat.

• Address: 8121 Park Rd, Marshall, IN 47859
• Best time to visit: any season except the winter.
• Buying delicious cinnamon tolls at the Golden Forrest gift shop.
• Going on a canoeing tour.

9. Cataract Falls

Nestled in northern Owen County along with west-central Indiana, the stunning Cataract Falls is the largest waterfall in Indiana.

Part of the Lieber State Recreation Area, the Cataract Falls were formed by ancient glacial bedrock ridges. The flat rocks consist of two sets of waterfalls a mile apart on Mill Creek, which are great for picnicking, hiking, or just enjoying the view.

In my opinion, the picturesque scenery, rushing cascades, and bubbling waters make it a lovely place to spend an entire day! 

• Address: Bolinas Fairfax Road, Fairfax, CA 94970
• Best time to visit : Spring and fall.
• Photographing the stunning upper and lower cataract falls.
• Relaxing on the shores of Cagles Mill Lake.

10. Griffy Lake Nature Preserve 

The Griffy Lake Nature Preserve is just minutes from downtown Bloomington, a striking preserve teaming up with scenic woodlands and vast fauna and flora.

Originally designed as a reservoir, Griffy Lake is now a paradise for nature seekers. Covering a wide area of 1,200 acres, the unique Preserve offers a variety of activities.

Hike along the wooded ridges or rent a canoe; this beautiful spot is perfect for catching glimpses of bluegill, largemouth bass, and catfish. A great place to hike and explore; I personally think the tranquil lake is a perfect spot for a family picnic! 

• Address: 3400 N Headley Rd, Bloomington, IN 47408
• Best time to visit : Spring season to view blooming wildflowers.
• Paddleboarding on the gorgeous lake.
• Making use of the picnic tables.

11. East Pierhead Lighthouse

Often called the Michigan City Breakwater Lighthouse, the East Pierhead Lighthouse is located in the harbor of Michigan City. Built in 1904, the lighthouse has become a historical symbol of Michigan City.

The only operating lighthouse in Indiana is the pier and the lighthouse off Michigan City Beach. The elevated lighthouse, popularly called the “catwalk”, is a great spot to watch sunsets.

The pier is also a favorite destination for photographers and local artists for a pretty lighthouse picture.

• Address: Constitution Ave, Bedford, IN 47421
• Best time to visit: late spring to early fall season.

My favorite highlights

• Going for a tour at Michigan City Lighthouse Museum.
• Relaxing on the beach.

12. Hoosier National Forest

Nestled in the lush green hills of south-central Indiana, the Hoosier National Forest is managed by the United States Forest Service. Amid the rolling hills, rural crossroads, and backcountry trails, the beautiful forest spread over 200,000 acres is a local treasure.

Minutes away from Bloomington is Indiana’s expansive national forest with miles of hiking, cycle trails, camping, and amazing sightseeing activities. The headquarters are in Bedford, and popular attractions include the Lick Creek Settlement and the Potts Creek Rockshelter Archeological Site.

• Address: 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250
• Best time to visit: Spring and fall season for natural beauty.
• Hiking the Hemlock Cliffs.
• Exploring the BlueSpring Caverns.

13. Clifty Falls State Park

The rugged geological splendor of the Clifty Falls state park is known to enthral visitors with its enchanting beauty. The Clifty Falls State Park is part of the Indiana State Park in Jefferson County.

Popular attractions of this state park include Clifty Creek, Little Clifty Creek, and a canyon. The Creek’s bed features fossil remnants of the ancient marine ecosystem.

I would suggest witnessing the forces of nature at work with the deep-cut gorges, sheetrock walls, and plenty of hiking to get the best view of the man-made cave and downtown Madison.

Best time to visit: Spring and fall for gorgeous scenery.

• Going on the fun Rockin Thunder River Tour.
• Sampling wines at Lanthier Winery & Distillery.

14. Holliday Park

One of the oldest parks in Indianapolis, Holliday Park offers some of the most diverse ecosystems, with natural springs, wetlands, woodlands, ponds, ornamental gardens, and much more.

A part of the country estate donated by John and Evaline Holliday in 1916, visitors can stroll around the extensive nature gardens or hike the exciting trails.

Along with the heavily wooded forests, visitors can find innumerable native species of birds and animals and relish the serene beauty of this park.

• Address: 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260
• Best time to visit: spring or fall season. Summer is usually crowded.
• Exploring the Holiday Park Ruins, which are the historical remains of a mansion.  
• Taking a stroll along the banks of White River

15. Sapphire Natural Pool, White Rock Park

Named for its pristine blue waters, the Sapphire natural pool in White Rock Park is one of the most stunning attractions in St. Paul. Initially a quarry, the natural pool is now a great place for thrill-seekers.

Experience the thrill of cliff diving or scuba diving; this natural pool is a perfect place to relax and camp.

Bubbling with water sports, you can enjoy serene boating long with this idyllic setting or zip lining over the blue waters.

• Address: 7080 750 E, St Paul, IN 47272
• Best time to visit: Summer. 
• Swimming in the cool blue water.
• Watching the brave cliff-divers!

16. Clifty Falls State Park

Clifty Falls is a state park on 1,416 acres near Madison, IN. The majestic waterfalls change their mood with the weather and season and can vary from roaring plunges to graceful bridal-veil mists to sparkling frozen titans.

The park receives an estimated 370,000 visitors annually, and once there, I highly recommend exploring peaceful nature trails or even having a camping experience.

• Best time to visit: Spring and fall season.
• Bringing my camera and taking photographs of the scenic beauty.
• Visiting the Nature Center and seeing the educational displays.

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• USA Travel Guide

Top 20 Indiana Attractions You Must See

Last Updated on January 19, 2024 by Nikki Jain

Indiana, or the Hoosier State, is in the Midwest, offering access to the Great Lakes and the attractions related to them. There is an abundance of things to do in Indiana, ranging from cultural attractions, museums, and sports to outdoors and shopping.

The highlight of the state is its capital, Indianapolis , where you will find the most museums and events, but don't be afraid to venture outside of the city to get some fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty of Indiana.

As the Crossroads of America, it is easy to get to Indiana, and once you do, you'll be entertained for weeks, whether you choose to visit casinos, wineries, festivals, museums, or national parks. Take a look at some of the top tourist attractions in Indiana.

Things To Do in Indiana

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1: Indianapolis Zoo

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The Indianapolis Zoo is one of the top family-friendly places to go in Indiana.

The zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals that belong to 320 species and subspecies.

The park opened to the public in 1964. Since then, it has grown into a place to discover and encounter animals from different ecosystems.

There are numerous adventures people of all ages can embark on at the Indianapolis Zoo. Spend your day wandering on your own through the different exhibits, or try out a new experience, like swimming with dolphins.

The zoo is the only spot in the Midwest where you can meet dolphins up close and in the water!

Visit the White River Gardens and learn about what you can do to help conserve plants and animals at their Conservatory Show.

The main attraction of the zoo is the five biomes, where each biome consists of plants and animals from a similar habitat. These biomes are Oceans, Plains, Deserts, Forests and Flights of Fancy.

A visit to the Indianapolis Zoo will be one of a kind experience for the whole family as you will get a chance to explore a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden all under one roof.

Address: 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222

Visit Website

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Indianapolis

2: Indianapolis Motor Speedway

If you want to satisfy your need for speed, head to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the IndyCar Series, the NASCAR Cup Series, and other top races.

Head to the speedway to watch a highly anticipated race, like the Indy 500. Or take a test drive with an on-track experience.

The Indy Racing Experience Driving Program lets you take the wheel for a change.

Get behind a real NTT IndyCar Series car – one that competed in the Indy 500. The speed is up to you and your comfort level, but you can power up to 180 miles per hour!

After some time on the track, take an IMS tour provided by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. You'll get behind-the-scenes access to important landmarks at the speedway, including a detailed history of the complex.

At the museum, you'll encounter rare sports cars, trophies, and other unusual artifacts from the world of motorsports.

Address: 4790 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222

Also Read: Best Race Tracks in the US

3: Indianapolis Children's Museum

One of the top things to do in Indiana for families is the Indianapolis Children's Museum .

Your kids will have a blast exploring five floors of interactive exhibits that feature the arts, sciences, world cultures, and humanities.

The Riley Children's Health Sports Legends Experiences allows kids to learn the best ways to stay active inside and outside – by doing what you love!

The National Art Museum of Sport features masterpieces highlighting the top moments in sports history.

Children and adults alike will enjoy learning about art and sports at the same time. There are also opportunities to take photos with North America's largest water clock, a historic carousel, and a large Bumblebee.

Other exhibits include a 43-foot-tall sculpture of blown glass, a series celebrating 20th-century children who changed the world, and a display where you can see what it's like in space and aboard the International Space Station.

Address: 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208

Also Read: The Best Children's Museums in the USA

4: Holiday World & Splashin Safari

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari has become one of the best vacation spots in Indiana, thanks to its diverse attractions that offer plenty of fun for the entire family.

Aptly named Holiday World, the theme park is split into four themed sections that celebrate Christmas, Thanksgiving, Halloween, and the Fourth of July.

Each area features rides, entertainment, games, and other attractions to enjoy.

There are three famous wooden rollercoasters in Holiday World, including The Legend, The Raven, and The Voyage. There are also several other rollercoasters to get your thrills on.

The park advertises itself as one of the best value attractions in Indiana. Guests will enjoy free soft drinks, parking, sunscreen, and WiFi.

At Splashin' Safari, Holiday World's safari-themed water park, guests can enjoy two of the world's longest water coasters. There are also raft rides, water slides, wave pools, and much more to enjoy on a hot summer's day.

Address: 452 East Christmas Boulevard, Santa Claus, IN 47579

5: Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art

Situated in downtown Indianapolis, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art is an excellent choice of attraction for art lovers and culture seekers.

You will find an impressive collection of both Western American and Native American art here as well as some of the world’s best Native contemporary work. The museum can be found at the White River State Park, where you will also find a range of other attractions to enjoy.

If you appreciate great art and want to take in some stunning collections and exhibitions, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art is a place that you should definitely pay a visit to.

Address: 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

6: White River State Park

Spanning 250 acres, White River State Park in Indianapolis is a place where you will find natural beauty, exciting attractions and plenty of activities at your fingertips.

You will find something to suit all ages and preferences at this site, including the Indiana State Museum, the stunning White River Gardens, Indianapolis Zoo, and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art amongst others.

You can also enjoy the great outdoors in the many acres of green space – and you can even explore the park by bike, boat or segway. With so much to see and do, you will be able to enjoy a full and exciting day of diverse entertainment at this park.

Address: 801 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222

Also Read: Best Tourist Attractions in Indianapolis

7: Lucas Oil Stadium

The Lucas Oil Stadium is a historic complex that is home to the Indianapolis Colts.

Opened in 2008, the stadium features a retractable roof and window that bring in light and fresh air while enjoying a football or soccer game, concert, or other exciting events.

It's the top spot to attend an event when you visit Indiana.

Lucas Oil Stadium hosted Super Bowl XLVI in 2012, the 2015 NCAA Men's Basketball Final Four, and welcomed artists like Taylor Swift, U2, One Direction, and more.

When there's no event, visitors can take a stadium tour and learn all about this fantastic stadium's history.

The 75-minute tour will take visitors onto the field, into an NFL locker room, and more. Explore the press box and other unique areas, depending on availability.

Groups can also book private tours for a more intimate experience inside Lucas Oil Stadium.

Address: 500 S Capitol Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46225

Also Read: Top 10 Most Amazing Arenas And Stadiums In America

8: Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument

Located in the heart of Indianapolis, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument is one of the most prominent monuments in the United States.

The monument honors the Hoosiers who sacrificed and served in the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Mexican War, the Civil War, and more.

Built in 1888 with a public dedication in 1902, the monument has become a symbol of the city as the state capital of Indiana.

In 2016, the memorial was a part of the expansion of the Indiana World War Memorial Plaza National Historic Landmark District to honor more Indiana natives who served in wars.

The Soldiers and Sailors Monument is the largest outdoor memorial in Indiana and welcomes visitors and locals alike to visit and honor those who served in past wars.

There are several outdoor sculptures, including War, Peace, The Dying Soldier, and The Return Home. Other sculptures surrounding the monument include the bronze statues of William Henry Harrison, James Whitcomb, and other notable Hoosiers.

Address: 1 Monument Cir, Indianapolis, IN 46204

9: Conner Prairie Interactive History Park

A living history museum, the Conner Prairie Interactive History Park is a fascinating way to delve into the past. Located in Fishers, Indiana, this is a recreation of local life in the nineteenth century and is fun, fascinating and educational.

The William Conner home can also be found onsite, and this is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There are plenty of activities, exhibits and interactive fun here for adults, children and families to enjoy and your time here will definitely be unique and exciting.

This attraction provides the perfect way to step back in time and see just what life was like all those decades ago.

Address: 13400 Allisonville Rd, Fishers, IN 46038

10: Marengo Cave National Landmark

Discovered by two school children back in 1883, the Marengo Cave National Landmark in Indiana is a fascinating attraction that has been providing tours for more than 130 years.

You will find the inside of the cave breathtaking as you take in the rock formations and enjoy the walking tours that are offered here.

You can also enjoy a variety of other activities such as gemstone mining, the cave simulator and even water activities at the river just by the cave.

There are two key walking tours on offer, which includes the forty minute Crystal Palace tour and the sixty minute Dripstone Trail.

Address: 400 East State Rd 64, Marengo, IN 47140

11: Fort Wayne Children's Zoo

The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo focuses on connecting kids with wildlife and encouraging people of all ages to care about them.

Children's ability to interact with animals like nowhere else makes this zoo one of the top places to visit in Indiana.

Since its opening in 1965, the zoo has welcomed locals and vacationers alike to see over 1,000 animals.

Kids can hang around goats, explore jungle trails, and watch giraffes roam around. Feed giraffes and goats, or head on the pony trail to encounter beautiful ponies.

There are also several rides to keep the excitement going, including a railroad, carousel, a sky ride, and more.

Zookeepers at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo are always on-hand to educate children on caring for the animals and other exciting information.

The zoo also hosts year-round events, including spring break camps and summer camps for kids to learn and enjoy being in nature.

Address: 3411 Sherman Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46808

Also Read: 30 Best Zoos in the USA

12: Brown County State Park

Brown County State Park's rolling hills, rustic cabins, and ample space for outdoor activities make it one of the best sights to see in Indiana.

With over 15,000 acres of land, it's the largest state park in Indiana and is home to Weed Patch Hill, one of the state's highest points.

Brown County State Park first opened in 1929. As the park grew in popularity for locals and out-of-state visitors, park officials planned and developed a lodge, cabins, a swimming pool, and even a saddle barn.

The Abe Martin Lodge is open year-round and features comfortable lodging in Indiana's wilderness.

A more rustic visit might include a stay at one of the park's cabins. Visitors will also find miles upon miles of scenic hiking and mountain biking trails.

Brown County State Park also has a nature center where you can find a snake exhibit, explore a bird-watching room, and wander through several interactive displays.

Address: 1801 Indiana 46 East, Nashville, IN 47448

Also Read: 25 Best State Parks in the USA

13: Turkey Run State Park

Indiana's second state park, Turkey Run State Park, is one of the most beautiful places in the US to the miles of rolling forests and natural setting.

Home to more than 2,000 acres, the park is best known for the wild turkeys who would huddle in warm canyon bottoms, also known as "runs." The surrounding area was aptly named after these creatures.

From creeks to tall rocks and forests, the park is a beautiful way to spend time in the state's bountiful nature. Hike, bike, canoe, or horseback ride your way around the park and discover legendary canyon trails.

There are also several 19th-century historic homes on Turkey Run State Park's land. One of the oldest homes in the park made up of virgin timber is Lieber Cabin.

An 1871 log church stands as a symbol of the religious heritage left by the country's founders. It still holds services today. The Colonel Lieber Memorial pays tribute to Richard Lieber, a benefactor and key figure in building Indiana State Parks.

Address: 8121 Park Rd, Marshall, IN 47859

14: Indiana Dunes State Park

Indiana Dunes State Park is one of the best places to visit in Indiana on Lake Michigan's shores.

Thousands of years of shifting landscapes shaped the sandy beaches you see today.

Opened to the public as a state park in 1925, visitors will find a three-mile stretch of dune-lined shores and outdoor spaces to explore.

Indiana Dunes State Park offers spectacular views of Lake Michigan at sunrise, sunset, and every hour in between.

There are more than 70 miles of trails to hike and 15 miles of coastline to swim and splash around. Take the Three Dune Challenge and climb up the park's three tallest dunes.

Explore the dunes' natural wonder and immerse yourself in Hoosier history through different experiences the park offers.

Encounter numerous species of flora and fauna unique to the area and capture them in unforgettable photos.

Address: 1600 N 25 E, Chesterton, IN 46304

Also Read: 25 Best State Parks to Visit in the US

15: Snite Museum of Art

The University of Notre Dame is home to the Snite Museum of Art.

This top Indiana tourist attraction focuses on shared human experiences and beliefs through historical masterpieces.

Ten permanent exhibitions span five floors as well as five rotating galleries. Outside, the Charles B. Hayes Family Sculpture Park features towering installments and breathtaking topography.

The Snite Museum of Art features an African art exhibit that explores the theme of power in the culture. Explore how African royalty used art to project their power and how religious groups used it to promote faith.

The museum has more than 29,000 works of art in its collection. Top collections in the museum include Mesoamerican art, modern art, and Native American pieces.

Spend hours or the entire day wandering through the museum's halls, discovering masterpieces from across history.

Address: 100 Moose Krause Cir, Notre Dame, IN 46556

16: Studebaker National Museum

The Studebaker National Museum promotes itself as a center for education and preservation of design and innovation.

The museum shares the history of the automotive and industrial business through different displays and exhibits.

Since 2005, the museum welcomes guests to explore three gallery levels where visitors can learn about innovation throughout time.

The Studebaker Museum features remarkable artifacts, including the carriage Abraham Lincoln used to ride the Ford's Theatre the night of his assassination.

The museum's halls include permanent displays of historic cars and military vehicles, each with information on history and use. Every artifact will inspire and educate you as you wander through the facility.

The Studebaker Museum also has various rotating exhibits. In the past, the museum housed an exhibition celebrating the Studebaker's company from transitioning factories and building cars in Fort Bend, Indiana.

It also featured an exhibition showcasing the company's sports car from the mid-20th century: the Studebaker Hawk line.

Address: 201 Chapin St, South Bend, IN 46601

17: Antique Alley

If you're looking for unique things to do in Indiana, look no further than Antique Alley.

Two interlocking trails allow you to meander through the streets with more than 1,200 antique dealers at your fingertips.

Antique shops of all shapes and sizes line the streets of historic eastern Indiana, giving you the chance to find a unique treasure to take home.

There are thousands of vintage items to find in Antique Alley, from farm tools and furniture to textiles and glassware.

Antique Alley's hub is Cambridge City, where 12 shops offer exciting shopping in a two-block area.

Spend one day looking through a few shops or turn your stay into multiple nights to find the treasure you adore.

There are endless opportunities to discover antique objects that will add the perfect touch to your home.

Address: 5701 National Road East, Richmond, IN 47374

18: University of Notre Dame

Founded in 1842, the University of Notre Dame is a globally famous Catholic university known for great sports and top-notch academics.

While the university's primary focus is on its students and groundbreaking research, the campus is open to the public for historic and scenic tours.

A free-of-charge public tour begins at the Eck Visitors Center. It gives guests a historical and social aspect of life at the University of Notre Dame.

You'll visit the Grotto, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the Golden Dome, and even the "Touchdown Jesus" Hesburgh Library.

Don't end your adventure at Notre Dame. If you're a football fan, take a tour of the stadium for photo opportunities on the field and in front of the famous "Play Like a Champion Today" sign.

The campus is open to all, so spend time on your own exploring the beautiful campus, and you'll quickly understand why it's one of the best places to visit in Indiana.

Address: Notre Dame, IN 46556

19: Wellfield Botanic Gardens

Wellfield Botanic Gardens is one of the top Indiana attractions you can't miss.

Located in Elkhart, Indiana, the gardens are home to 36 acres of meandering pathways through scenic landscapes.

Christiana Creek wanders through the heart of the gardens while water features, sculptures, pagodas, and more dot the landscape.

Visitors of all ages can visit this Indiana tourist attraction at no charge.

Take a self-guided tour, or learn about the gardens' history and flora and fauna inside it with a guided professional tour. Golf carts provide accessibility for all ages and abilities.

There are also catered box lunches available, as well as different events throughout the year.

The Wellfield Botanic Gardens prides itself on staying open year-round. Enjoy a warm summer day walking through seasonal gardens or visit during the winter holidays to immerse yourself in a completely different experience.

Address: 1011 N Main St, Elkhart, IN 46514

Also Read: Best Botanical Gardens in the US

20: Indiana State Capitol

The Indiana State Capitol is more than the state government's hub; it's an architectural and historical wonder.

Since 1888, the statehouse has served as the center for civic life in the state. While the original Capitol building stands today, the Indianapolis location was built to accommodate a growing government.

The statehouse is made of Indiana limestone and designed with classic Renaissance Revival style in mind.

Visit for yourself and marvel at the wondrous design influenced by the United States Capitol Building. Step inside and see the spectacular stained-glass dome, granite columns, and marble floors.

The Indiana Statehouse Tour Office offers scheduled tours. Professional guides will take you through open offices and chambers while teaching you about the state government's history and the building architecture.

Walk around your own outside the building on the manicured grounds beneath the towering statehouse.

Address: 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Also Read: Top 10 Most Beautiful State Capitol Buildings in the USA

21: Santa Claus Museum & Village

Santa Claus, Indiana, is home to one of the best attractions in Indiana: the Santa Claus Museum and Village.

The museum is where you'll discover historical photos and artifacts that take you through the history of the town of Santa Claus.

Pages of children's letters to the jolly old man and antique toy displays bring the magic of Christmas alive.

Take your young ones to the Original Santa Claus Post Office, where they can write free letters to Santa. Leave your name and address, and Santa and his elves might write back!

The Santa Claus Church, built in 1880, is another historic landmark in the town and features most of the building's original furnishing.

The museum gift shop offers different holiday-themed products throughout the year for you to take home and cherish.

And while the complex is centered around one holiday, Santa and the elves celebrate holidays and seasons throughout the year, including a spooky Halloween celebration!

Address: 69 North, IN-245, Santa Claus, IN 47579

22: Oliver Winery

Follow the Indiana Uplands Wine Trail to the Oliver Winery; a vineyard started in the 1960s by Indiana University law professor William Oliver as a result of his deep interest in winemaking.

The vineyard opened to the public in 1972 and quickly became one of the top Indiana attractions.

At the winery, guests can enjoy delectable wine, wander through gardens, and get to know the people behind Indiana's largest winery.

The winery sources and grows dozens of grapes to create some of the best-tasting wines in the area.

The timber-lined wine tasting room offers a rustic spot to enjoy over 40 wines. Picnic areas provide space for outdoor events among 15 acres of landscaped scenery.

The Oliver Winery is open for tastings and shopping. Guests can choose from a variety of wine flights to enjoy outdoors. Taste great wines and find your favorite to take home.

Address: 200 E Winery Rd, Bloomington, IN 47404

23: Monroe Lake

Monroe Lake is one of the top Indiana attractions to take the family for a day of outdoor adventures.

With swimming, boating, and hiking all at your fingertips, spend the day or a weekend enjoy all that Indiana nature has to offer.

The lake is open for ice fishing in the winter, but the real fun is during the warm months.

Spend a day on the lake, boating, and fishing. Or hike through miles of trails and explore the Nature Center.

There are also several reservable picnic areas and shelter houses to host a group event.

There are hiking trails easy to moderate and offer different scenic vistas. Swim at one of the lake's two beaches or rent a boat to go waterskiing or paddleboarding.

When the day is over, set up your tent and roast some marshmallows at a campground.

Address: 4850 S State Road 446, Bloomington, IN 47401

Also Read: 25 Most Beautiful Lakes in the US

24: Spring Mill State Park

Water flowing from cavern springs led to an industrial village taking root in the early 19th century. Pioneers used the spring water to build grist mills, a distillery, and mills.

Today, the land is home to a historic state park that you need to put on your list of things to do in Indiana.

Human-made features, including a lake, still stand in Spring Mill State Park, but nature is slowly taking over.

Visitors can learn about this storied history at the Pioneer Village, the Nature Center, the Grissom Memorial, and the Twin Caves Boat Tour.

Attend public programs year-round further to immerse yourself in this scenic and historic land.

Guests can also tour select caves. Self-guided tours allow you to head underground and learn more about the cave systems and the spring water that powered the mills all those years ago.

The boat tour also takes you through a stream passage, where you'll encounter unique cave formations and try to spot animals, like the blind cavefish.

Address: 3333 IN-60 E, Mitchell, IN 47446

25: Indianapolis City Market

The Indianapolis City Market is one of the best places in Indiana to shop, dine, and explore.

The historic landmark is home to dozens of local vendors, where you can find handmade products, ethnic foods, and much more.

Shop for groceries or catch up with an old friend over coffee. The opportunities to enjoy Indianapolis are endless at the City Market.

Since 1886, the market has been welcoming people to enjoy the city culture. One of the market's highlights is its catacombs tour.

Visitors can head beneath the market and tour the Romanesque cavern graveyard. The hidden ruins feature crypts, unique architecture, and other ruins not found anywhere else in the United States.

Another popular attraction is the Original Farmers' Market, central Indiana's longest-running and largest farmers' market.

Open every Wednesday in the warm season, the Original Farmer's Market invites local vendors and shoppers to find homemade goods and locally grown produce.

Address: 222 E Market St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

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18 Best Things To Do in Indianapolis

Updated January 13, 2023

Besides the Indianapolis Motor Speedway  and Hall of Fame Museum (which is a must-see for most visitors), the city offers the truly wonderful Newfields that's home to the  Indianapolis Museum of Art . If you're traveling with kids in tow,

• All Things To Do

White River State Park White River State Park free

Anchoring the west side of Indianapolis, the White River State Park offers 250 acres of green space dotted with memorials and museums as the Central Canal and the White River offer waterways in the park. The White River bisects the park from north-to-south. On the west side of the river sits the Indianapolis Zoo , which can be accessed by the White River Pedestrian Bridge. On the east side, you'll find the Indiana State Museum , the Eiteljorg Museum  and the Military Park. Additionally, Victory Field is within White River State Park, providing visitors and locals a chance to relax and catch a baseball game. Want to get active? The park features five walking and biking trails (fully paved), like the Canal Walk and Cultural Trail, the River Promenade and Waterfront Trail.

As the central park in Indianapolis, most find it close to many attractions and hotels. Recent visitors were amazed by White River State Park, and one recent visitor called it a "treasure." Some explored the park on foot, while others rented bikes or kayaks. If you plan on driving, note that parking entrances can be hard to find, according to past visitors.

Central Canal Central Canal free

In the 1830s, the Indiana state government conceived a plan to build a 296-mile waterway through the state to increase commerce. Though the Central Canal never came to full fruition, sections of the canal were developed. Today, the Canal Walk – a refurbished portion of the Central Canal – is a 3-mile loop that flows by the Indiana State Museum  and  Eiteljorg Museum , among other popular attractions. You can walk alongside the canal or rent of the bikes from the two different Pacers Bikeshare Stations along the canal. If it’s a special occasion, hire a singing gondolier or rent a pedal boat or kayak.

Whatever mode of transport you choose, you'll enjoy a spectacular view of the Indianapolis skyline, not to mention a 17-foot waterfall, some of the city's best contemporary architecture, and the USS Indianapolis Memorial and Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial. Keep your eye out for colorful murals on the canal underpasses, too. According to recent reviewers, this is the spot for quiet relaxation in Indy. Aside from the peaceful atmosphere, travelers also love how clean the area is. Other visitors were delighted when they found the Central Canal by accident on their trip.

Newfields Newfields

Spread out across 152 acres, Newfields is a complex dedicated to the arts and nature including gardens, a green house, a nature park and the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Featuring more than 50,000 works of art, the Indianapolis Museum of Art is an impressive institution. Not only does the IMA offer an impressive collection of neoimpressionist paintings and Asian art, but it also boasts one of the largest contemporary art parks in the U.S. Stroll through Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park for an acclaimed outdoor space that features a 35-acre lake and art installations set amidst woodlands and wetlands. While you're outside, consider visiting the Lilly House and The Gardens, an early 1900s French-inspired estate that is a National Historic Landmark.

Recent visitors highly recommended including Newfields your itinerary and said it was a great way to spend a day in Indy. Some particularly loved the gardens and the special events and exhibits, like the harvest and holiday displays.

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Eiteljorg Museum Eiteljorg Museum

If you're interested in learning more about the art, history and cultures of the American West and Native Americans, then a stop at the Eiteljorg Museum is a must. Another selling point: The Eiteljorg Museum is the only museum of its kind stationed in the Midwest, and one of only two museums east of the Mississippi that explore both Native America and American West art.

Its permanent collection includes works from Andy Warhol, T.C. Cannon, Georgia O’Keefe and Frederic Remington, among many others. But the real star is the museum's collection of contemporary Native art, which has been ranked among the world's best. And then there are the special exhibitions, which have covered subjects like the history and development of contemporary Native art. Plus, each year the museum hosts the Indian Market and Festival

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

If you're in Indianapolis with kids, a visit to this museum is a must. Spanning 472,900 square feet and boasting 11 galleries, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis lives up to its title as the world's largest children's museum. Exhibits at the highly praised facility include a planetarium, the "Dinosphere: Now You're in Their World" (featuring eight different species) and the "National Geographic Treasures of the Earth" exhibit, which showcases re-creations of three archaeological sites, including an Egyptian tomb, a pirate shipwreck and China's Terra Cotta Warriors. Beyond these standouts, there are also several more floors of exhibits and even some Chihuly glass for decoration. Plus, the museum boasts an impressive 12,500-year-old mastodon skeleton and a carousel. Seasonal outdoor exhibits about sports are also available.

Recent visitors said you can't leave Indy without taking a spin through this museum. Some reviewers even said it's worth adding to your itinerary if you don't have kids in tow thanks to the museum's well-designed exhibits. Plus, parents who visited felt the museum's fun, educational environment encourages interaction not just for little ones, but for teens and parents, too.

Indiana War Memorial Plaza Indiana War Memorial Plaza free

Considered an historic district, the Indiana War Memorial Plaza comprises Soldiers and Sailors Monument, Indiana World War Memorial and Museum, University Park, American Legion Mall, Veteran's Memorial Plaza and USS Indianapolis CA35 Memorial. In all, the historic district offers 25 acres dedicated to the veterans. So, if you're a fan of the National Mall in Washington, D.C ., you'll likely enjoy spending a few hours here. In fact, Indianapolis is second only to D.C. in acreage and number of monuments and memorials dedicated to veterans.

With its 30,000 square-feet, you'll want to spend the majority of your time in the Indiana War Memorial Museum, especially the Shrine Room. Described by recent visitors as "breathtaking" and "peaceful," the Shrine Room is dedicated to fallen soldiers of World War I and features materials hailing from around the globe, which symbolizes the worldwide effort it took to end the war. The main floor showcases the history of Indiana's veterans, from the Battle of Tippecanoe through the present. Among the artifacts on display are the USS Indianapolis gallery, military firearms and uniforms, and an AH-1 Cobra Attack Helicopter.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has been around since 1909, and every Memorial Day weekend drivers start their engines for the Indianapolis 500: 200 laps around the famed 2.5-mile oval. This epic track is actually on the National Register of Historic Places. With a host of racing events throughout the year, there's more to see than the Indy 500. Other races include the GMR Grand Prix, Brickyard Vintage Racing Invitational and the NASCAR Cup Series. 

Also at the complex is the 37,500-square-foot Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. Located inside the famous oval track, the museum was established in 1956 to showcase the importance of motorsports. The museum features over 25 cars that have won the Indianapolis 500 along with additional cars (some antique), photographs, racing memorabilia and even fine art depicting racing. The Tony Hulman Theatre shows an 8-minute film about the track. Visitors have the choice to see the complex by purchasing race tickets, visiting only the museum or taking the very popular (and comprehensive) grounds tour.  

Indiana State Museum Indiana State Museum

Within the White River State Park and close to downtown Indianapolis, the Indiana State Museum tells the story of Indiana from the Ice Age to present day. Part of the permanent exhibits, visitors can explore a replica of an ice cave along with animal skeletons, including the saber-toothed tiger and the dire wolf. Other exhibits include the rocks and minerals found in Indiana along with Indiana's animal species from mounted birds to hoofed animals, some in real-life settings.

Another permanent exhibit tells the story of Indiana's Native Americans. "First Nations" explores artwork, traditional pottery, recipes, navigation techniques and other innovations of pre-Columbian Native Americans as well as the Potawatomi people. 

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Conner Prairie Conner Prairie

Located northeast of Indianapolis in the suburb of Fishers, Conner Prairie is a 800-acre property that guides visitors through history with hands-on exhibits and demonstrations. Visitors explore indoor and outdoors areas like the 1836 Prairetown, where costumed interpreters go about life as if it is still 1836, cooking, blacksmithing and pottery making included. The Lenape Indian Camp takes visitors to the earliest period presented at Conner Prairie, 1816. Learn about the Lenape Indians' relationship with settlers as well as the impact of Indiana's statehood on the local economy and environment. The property also includes the William Conner house, the former home of the man who once owned the area. Children will want to see the farm animals at Conner Prairie as well.

Some recent visitors compared Conner Prairie to Williamsburg, Virginia . Others commented that they had remembered more demonstrations on previous visits. Most were impressed by the history they learned while visiting, even if they lived in the Midwest. A recent visitor advised the traffic to Connor Prairie was more than they had anticiapated.

Lucas Oil Stadium Lucas Oil Stadium

Home to the NFL's Indianapolis Colts, Lucas Oil Stadium is a must-see for sports fans, according to recent travelers. With the capacity to hold 67,000 fans and a retractable roof that features unbeatable views of the downtown Indianapolis skyline, visitors consistently describe the stadium (which opened in 2008 and hosted the 2012 Super Bowl) as a "beautiful sports venue." The Colts regular season runs mid-September until mid-January with preseason games starting in the end of August. The official Colts schedule is released in the spring along with ticketing information on its website . If football isn’t your thing, then keep a look out for the stadium's concert lineup.

Recent fans who visited said the stadium was clean and noted that the design is easy to navigate. Sports hounds who caught a game during some warm Indy weather particularly appreciated the retractable roof. Wintertime spectators said the stadium was cold.

Victory Field Victory Field

As the home to the Indianapolis Indians, Triple-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Victory Field offers some the best views of the Indy skyline and can accommodate more than 14,000 visitors. Even if you're not a fan of baseball, you should consider attending a game at Victory Field, especially if you've got kids in tow with its Knot Hole Kids Club and kids programs (best for families seeing a few games).

Recent visitors with kids especially liked that there is ample grass space for children to play and families can spread out blankets to enjoy the game. Reviewers also reported that the crowd and staff are friendly and fun. Victory Field was praised by locals and travelers alike for its cleanliness and affordable prices.

Eagle Creek Park Eagle Creek Park

As the largest park in Indianapolis, Eagle Creek Park's 3,900-acre property never feels crowded to visitors. During the warmer months, Eagle Creek Park offers visitors activities like over 16 miles of hiking trails, a 36-hole golf course, a summertime concert series on Wednesday evenings and even a dog park. For visitors wanting to get out on the water, rent a paddleboard, canoe, kayak, pedal boat or rowboat. Fishing is allowed in Eagle Creek Park (adults must have a valid Indiana fishing license). For those who want to explore the park from its treetops, the Go Ape Treetop Adventures offers a 2 to 3 hour experience combining zip lines, rope ladders, crossings and swings. Winter sports enthusiasts can cross-country ski on ungroomed loops.

Recent visitors did many of the activities, like kayaking, hiking and fishing, and all enjoyed their time in the park. Other visitors said they spotted plenty of wildlife. Most commented the park and its facilities were well-maintained. Another visitor suggested grabbing a park map at the entrance since the park is large.

Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden

The 10,000-square foot Garfield Park Conservatory hearkens back to another era. Inside the art deco structure, visitors can explore a tropical oasis with palm trees, bananas, orchids, vanilla vines, coffee trees, and cacao trees. In addition to the conservatory, a 3-acre sunken garden pulls design features from European formal gardens, including springtime tulip plantings and fountains. If visiting with children, explore Blake's garden (dedicated to a local boy and cancer patient) located next the conservatory. Its garden displays encourage children to explore with their senses. In addition to the gardens, the 122-acre Garfield Park features an outdoor pool and a performing arts center along with playing fields, tennis courts and a playground. 

Nearly all recent visitors appreciated the reasonable admission fee to enjoy the Garfield Park Conservatory. Many travelers visited the conservatory in the winter to escape the cold weather and learn about the tropical plants. Other visitors commented on the knowledgeable staff.

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Indiana State Capitol Indiana State Capitol

As a centerpiece of downtown Indianapolis, the Indiana State Capitol was constructed in 1888. It is a Renaissance Revival-style building and includes a stained glass dome and highly decorated rotunda. It houses all three branches of the Indiana state government and offers free tours of the building. The 30 to 45-minute guided tour takes visitors through the building, including chambers that aren't in use by officials, and guides discuss the Indiana government along with the architecture of the building.

Most recent visitors commented on the beauty of the rotunda and the nice and knowledgeable staff. Some visitors took the guided tour and raved about it, others choose a self-guided tour and enjoyed discovering the Indiana State Capitol on their own.

Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

Tour the home of the only U.S. president from Indiana, Benjamin Harrison, who served from 1889 to 1893. Historic house fans will enjoy touring the 10,000 square-foot Italianate home and its original furnishings. History buffs will appreciate the Harrison family artifacts as well as pieces from 21 other U.S. presidents, including political memorabilia like ribbons, medals and awards.

 The Harrison family built the home on a double lot off West Delaware Street in 1874 in the Italianate style. The home featured luxuries like running water, a coal furnace and gaslights throughout in the 10,000 square-foot home. Benjamin Harrison and his first wife Caroline oversaw much of the construction of the home. After Harrison’s death, it was home to Harrison’s second wife and child before changing hands several times. It was declared a National Historic Landmark and underwent a restoration. Now, visitors can take guided tours of the home and view an extensive collection of Harrison’s belongings.

Indianapolis Zoo Indianapolis Zoo

Spread across 64 acres and home to more than 1,200 animals from 230 different species and 47,000 plant species, the Indianapolis Zoo is a favorite among families visiting Indy. The zoo is separated into five biomes: Oceans, Deserts, Plains, Forests and Flights of Fancy. Each of these areas have their own animals and plants that represent the biome. Highlights for recent guests were the underwater dolphin viewing dome in Oceans (be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes before start time) and the orangutan center. The zoo also offers special zoo experiences (not included in admission) ranging from swimming with dolphins to watching a zoo animal paint a work of art (that you get to take home).

Recent visitors raved about the zoo and noted that it was clean and the guides were friendly. The only downside: visitors felt the special zoo experiences were a little pricey, and not reasonable for families on a budget. Reviewers also cautioned against eating at the zoo, as some felt the menus expensive; other visitors wanted more water bottle filling stations. 

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Top 9 places in the Tri-State to view the April 8 solar eclipse

CINCINNATI — We're just days away from a total solar eclipse that will pass through a portion of the Tri-State on Monday, April 8.

The eclipse is spanning multiple states, with the partial solar eclipse beginning around 1:51 p.m. and most of our area's maximum times between 3:08-3:10 p.m. The partial eclipse then continues through 4:24 p.m. For a full list of viewing times per town, click here.

No matter where you plan to view the eclipse, thousands are expecting to flood the Tri-State area. Here are the top places you can view the phenomenon.

Oxford, Ohio

Oxford is home to Miami University, and it's also the host of the Total Eclipse of the Parks event for the solar eclipse. The city is holding an Eclipse Festival the Saturday prior filled with live music and food trucks. On Monday, multiple locations will be having watch parties, including Uptown Parks, Oxford Community park, Cook Field at Miami University and more. The watch party at Uptown Parks will also have live music by The Thumbtack Mechanics before and after the eclipse.

Metamora, Indiana

If you want to enjoy the eclipse but don't want to venture too far from the Cincinnati area, Metamora is the place for you. The Indiana town is one of the closest to Cincinnati, and it's hosting Dark Side of the Moon Festival at Gateway Park. The festival's slogan is "don't get caught in the dark alone" and it will have live music, food and more during the eclipse event.

Batesville, Indiana

Another good option for those wanting to hopefully make a quick getaway after the eclipse is over is Batesville, Indiana. The small town is location right off of I-74, and it's hosting a Batesville Blackout event at the Bill Gillespie Soccer Complex. The event is free to the public and will have food options from food trucks and vendors.

Hamilton, Ohio

Downtown Hamilton will be hosting a "Total Eclipse Weekend" with a variety of events leading up to the eclipse. On Monday, there will be multiple viewing parties and promotions at local businesses near downtown's Marcum Park. There will also be a variety of specialty eclipse-themed desserts, cocktails and more to enjoy in Hamilton's Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area.

Connersville, Indiana

For those wanting to get the most out of the eclipse, Connersville, Indiana, will be the spot for you. Connersville is one of the closest towns to the center of totality, which is wear the total eclipse lasts the longest. In Connersville, the viewing time will last 3 minutes and 45 seconds. Other towns with longer viewing times include Laural, Indiana, Liberty, Indiana, and West College Corner, Indiana.

College Corner, Ohio

Music festival-lovers who also want to experience the eclipse can enjoy it during the Dark Side of the Moon Music Festival. Held at Hannon's Camp America, the festival, which costs $100, runs April 6-8, and it has two days of music, vendors, yoga classes and more leading up to the eclipse. Acts set to perform include Bohemian Funk, the Pushing Daisies Band, Act Casual, Glostik and more. For those interested, you can click here to purchase tickets.

Brookville, Indiana

Brookville, Indiana, is hosting its Mooned on Main event at the Courthouse lawn. The event will have music, food vendors, and family-friendly events, including a bounce house and interactive science centers for kids. All of the shops along Main Street are also still set to be open during the eclipse.

Dayton, Ohio

Though Dayton isn't super close to the center of totality, the city will still experience 2 minutes and 51 seconds of totality. The city is hosting a free watch party on the grounds of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. The museum will have ample parking and viewing space, and attendees will be able to access the museum's exhibits.

Cincinnati, Ohio

Ok, so Cincinnati isn't in the path of totality, but there are still watch parties for the eclipse. Cincinnati will experience 99% totality, and the Cincinnati Observatory is hosting a sold-out watch party and the observatory, as well as a watch party at Rhinegeist Brewery. $1 per pint sold on Rhinegeist's rooftop from 2-4 p.m. Monday will be donated to the observatory. Since the brewery is outside of totality, there will be a live stream of the eclipse, as well. Tickets for Rhinegeist's watch party are $20, and they come with entry, a pair of eclipse glasses and a voucher for one beer. You can click here to purchase tickets.

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NASA's interactive map shows best times, places to watch total solar eclipse

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Millions of Americans will get the chance to see a total solar eclipse when the rare event crosses the country next week.

The total solar eclipse is expected on Monday, April 8 - the first one in seven years to pass over the U.S.

So what exactly will you be able to see during Monday's solar eclipse? That's what an interactive NASA map is for.

The interactive lets you type in your city or zip code into a map to see what the eclipse will look like in your neighborhood and what time it will happen. NASA's interactive can be viewed here .

RELATED: How much of the solar eclipse will be visible in California?

Southern California is not in the best position to see the total eclipse, but people can still get a partial view. For example, the interactive shows Los Angeles residents will be able to see that only the bottom portion of the sun will be covered, and it'll happen around 11 a.m.

In places like Columbus, Ohio - which is in the path of totality - users of the interactive will see that the entire sun will be covered during the event.

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

ABC News contributed to this report.

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• SOLAR ECLIPSE
• U.S. & WORLD

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Looking for the best places to see the April 8 solar eclipse in the totality path? You may have to dodge clouds.

By Eric Henderson

Updated on: April 2, 2024 / 2:12 PM EDT / CBS News

America is gearing up for the April 8 total solar eclipse , and in less than a week many will be scrambling to find the best location to watch within the path of totality. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the latest models, and while it won't be until a few days prior to the event that the national forecast will be fully cooked, historical data suggests those hoping to view the corona and see a fully darkened midday sky may find themselves dodging clouds due to April weather patterns.

The last time a total solar eclipse traversed an elongated path across the continental U.S. — on Aug. 21, 2017 — Americans could be caught gazing at the midday dark from Oregon all the way to South Carolina. Most spots along the path of totality enjoyed reasonably clear, summer skies.

Those living or visiting along the path of totality next week may not end up so fortunate, as historical weather maps show the odds of experiencing a cloud-free sky at this time of year are somewhat less than ideal. In fact, finding a totally clear view at any given time is closer to the exception than the rule.

"According to NASA, at any given time, 70% of the earth is covered in clouds," said Mike Augustyniak , CBS Minnesota director of meteorology.

Not only is North America in the middle of the volatility of changing seasons during this year's solar event, but meteorologists note that we're also currently in an El Niño pattern, albeit one that's proven quieter than usual.

"An El Niño pattern tends to increase the chances of cloudy, rainy weather in those areas. Interestingly, though, that is not how this winter and spring have played out," said Augustyniak. "Since the start of 2024, Texas Hill Country and western Texas areas have been markedly drier than average; if that trend holds for the next few weeks, that would be good news for eclipse watchers."

The path of totality is only about 150 miles wide, and in America stretches roughly 2,500 miles from the Texas border to the last few towns in northeastern Maine. That leaves only so many places where you can seek the full show, though the path's width will be significantly wider than it was in 2017, according to NASA , as the moon will to be closer to Earth on this pass than it was then.

So will April showers bring spectator flowers? Here's a breakdown of which places along the path of totality are most likely to give eclipse chasers the best odds.

Viewing the eclipse in Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas

Augustyniak said at this transitional time of year, the further south you can go, the more likely you are to experience clear skies during eclipse totality.

"Of the areas where the total eclipse will be visible on April 8, that includes the Hill Country of Texas, and the Mexican states of Coahuila and Durango," Augustyniak said.

Of course, the further south you get, the more you increase your chances of running into not only clouds, but rain.

"Spring is our storm season of course," said Jeff Ray , chief meteorologist for CBS Texas.

Ray said that you can almost bet on needing to do a little bit of reverse storm-chasing — in other words, doing some last-minute navigation to dart away from the oncoming clouds, rather than toward them — on or around the eclipse in Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma.

"There will be storms around the day of April 8. I say that because we rarely get through a week in spring without a couple of rounds coming through the area during this time of the year. Will they arrive a day before and be gone? Not start up until later that day? Maybe two days later? We are looking at our long-range model the GFS for the date and it looks like storms on the eighth," Ray said, with a caveat. "Long-range models are notoriously inaccurate for a specific day. But there is a good chance the storms the model sees will materialize, give or take a 36-hour period."

Ray said that Texas sees, on average, a sunny or mostly sunny April day only about 28% of the time. Conversely, the region gets April days with mostly cloudy or fully overcast conditions about 36% of the time.

"High clouds can arrive several days before the storm system, they are overhead in April around 22% of the time. A sky with some kind of cloud cover is likely," said Ray. "A typical April day would have near overcast skies in the morning, then the heating of the day makes for more sunshine. So an afternoon even has better odds of a good view of the eclipse."

The eclipse will reach totality in Texas from about 1:30 p.m. CT near Elm Creek until wrapping up near the Oklahoma border a few minutes before 2 p.m. Some of the most populous areas along the path of totality will be during this leg, from San Antonio and Austin to Dallas-Fort Worth.

One final factor to consider if you're heading to the area — tornadoes. Ray said that the National Weather Office in Fort Worth has tallied all the confirmed tornadoes since 1880, and in April and May, north Texas has seen more than 1,100 twisters, compared with the nearly 900 seen in all other months.

"So more tornadoes in the 61-day window than all of the other days of the year combined," Ray said, "but the tornado count varies greatly from year to year."

Ultimately, Ray said that April is traditionally the third-stormiest month of the year in Texas.

"In short, April is not the best, nor the worst, time of the year to hope for clear or mostly clear skies. The best would be July or August. The worst would be January or February," he said. "We get a decent idea of the expected weather about seven days out. Four days out we get more comfortable talking about the timing of a rain or storm event. But it's the weather, we are trying to throw a lasso around chaos. It is not rare we forecasters look like fools."

Viewing the eclipse in Missouri, southern Illinois and Indiana

While many are likely to head as far south as possible, some of the biggest cities in the Midwest are likely to fuel day-of migration to spots in Missouri and Illinois, many of them likely seeing a total eclipse for the second time in a decade. A small zone centered around Carbondale, Illinois, was along the path of totality in 2017, and will be once again this month.

While those in the St. Louis area seeking areas to watch in southeastern Missouri will find historical odds for cloud-free viewing roughly comparable to Arkansas, and those in the Chicago metro area should find their best bet is to head toward the southern part of Illinois.

"If you're unable to travel (to Texas or Arkansas), then Southern Illinois and Indiana present your best opportunity for a clearer sky, supported by the 43-year average and, of course, weather permitting," said Albert Ramon , chief meteorologist for CBS Chicago.

There will likely be some who decide that 90% or 95% totality is enough for them. But Ramon warns that those in the Chicago metro area could be at a higher risk to find their view obscured by clouds.

"Based on a comprehensive 43-year average , April 8 typically brings cloud cover chances ranging from 60 to 80% across Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, with similar patterns observed in Indianapolis, where cloud cover hovers between 60 to 70%," Ramon said.

Viewing the eclipse near the Great Lakes and Pennsylvania

Ramon said another factor that could make viewing along the path of totality something of a challenge in the Midwest is the lingering influence of an El Niño weather pattern.

"Its presence elevates the chances of clouds across the Midwest and Great Lakes regions," Ramon said. "This year may even be a bit more cloudier than the normal."

The Great Lakes portion of totality's path includes large sections of Ohio, including Cleveland, along with the area of Ontario south of Toronto, Niagara Falls, and Erie, Pennsylvania. CBS Pittsburgh meteorologist Ray Petelin said many of these areas are subject to the wildcard that is the Great Lakes.

"They are known for lake-effect snow, but it is the lake-effect clouds that could hide the eclipse. Erie, which is in the path of totality, averages only six clear days during the month of April. Pittsburgh, which has the potential to see around 97% of totality, only averages four clear days in April," Petelin said.

Petelin says that a southerly breeze and warmer-than-average temperatures would go a long way toward helping the Great Lakes region out on April 8. 

"While the historical data suggests the chances for a clear day are low, this winter and early spring have been exceptionally bright and warmer than usual. Let's keep our fingers crossed that we can get that perfect weather for when it matters most," Petelin said.

As it stands, the areas near the shores of the Great Lakes historically show a higher probability for clearer skies than areas inland.

Viewing the eclipse in New England

The eclipse will wrap up its march across the U.S. when the path of totality cuts across state lines from New York to Vermont just before 3:30 p.m. ET. By this point in the event, the duration of totality along the central line will have already fallen off from its peak — about 4 minutes, 30 seconds near Nazas, Mexico — to just over 3 minutes, 30 seconds, according to NASA.

"The southern edge of the totality line passes right through the towns of Middlebury, Northfield and Barre. You will need to get just north of these areas. Some suggested 'larger' towns include Montpelier, St. Johnsbury, Newport and Burlington," said Terry Eliasen , executive weather producer for CBS Boston.

In New Hampshire, the southern edge of totality will pass just north of the White Mountains. And in Maine, you'll need to get north of major cities like Portland, Augusta and Bangor. Eliasen said the entirety of Baxter State Park will be in the totality path, including Mount Katahdin.

The bad news: Eliasen said that those in the New England area face possibly the stiffest odds in the country for catching clear skies next Monday, based on historical patterns. The data says you're more likely to be negatively impacted by clouds pretty much anywhere in these three states than not.

"Frankly, northern New England is probably the worst place (historically speaking) in the path of totality as far as cloud cover goes," said Eliasen. "Of course, we could get lucky."

No luck? There's always the 2045 total solar eclipse

As a last-ditch hope for those who opt to stay put no matter where they're located, there's one last meteorological ace-in-the-hole that could offer reprieve, one fueled by the astronomical event itself.

"It's worth noting that, as totality approaches and sunlight is reduced, temperatures are likely to fall noticeably. Cooler temperatures can stabilize the atmosphere – like when the sun sets after a hot summer day – leading to a decrease in cloud cover," said Augustyniak. "Still, your best plan is to find an area that has no clouds to begin with."

And if the clouds end up sullying the view for some this month, another chance comes around in August 2045 , when a line of totality will stretch from northern California all the way to Miami Beach. Which, of course, will fall during the height of hurricane season.

Eric Henderson is Managing Editor, Midwest for CBSNews.com. He has won three Emmy Awards, an Eric Sevareid Award and two Edward R. Murrow Awards.

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20 Natural Wonders in Indiana That Will Amaze You

From canyons and caves to waterfalls and wildlife, Indiana’s wilderness is simply breathtaking. We’ve created a list of 20 Natural Wonders in the Hoosier State that you’ll need to see to believe. This list was part of The 20 IN 20 . Even though 2020 is behind us, you still have to see our 400 must-see, must-do Indiana experiences ! Find images shared by visitors and the full natural wonders list below!

Indiana State Nature Passport

Many of the destinations listed below are part of the Indiana State Nature Passport! Check-in and explore participating locations throughout the state to earn great prizes! The more you visit, the more you win.  This program is 100% free, but property entrance fees apply when you visit.  Learn More.

Natural Wonders in Indiana

McCormick’s Creek Canyon and Wolf Cave/Twin Bridges at McCormick’s Creek State Park

Indiana’s first state park, McCormick’s Creek State Park , has amazed visitors with its natural features since opening in 1916. From unbelievable canyons and a picturesque waterfall to a cave that will freak out the claustrophobic and natural bridges that will take your breath away, there’s a reason that McCormick State Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Learn more.

This location is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport.  Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE! 

Portland Arch Nature Preserve, Covington

Dedicated as a State Nature Preserve in 1972, Portland Arch in Fountain County is beautiful with its dramatic sandstone gorge and the meandering creek that follows the well-worn path of the preserve. Also found are an assemblage of natural communities and features including cliffs, forests, open prairies, spring-seep wetlands, and savannas—all offering an abundance of plants, wildflowers, and trees. The preserve’s calling card is an incredible natural archway, located on the North Trail. The North Trail is currently closed for trail and boardwalk rehabilitation and is scheduled to reopen on October 1. The South Trail at the preserve remains open to visitors. As this property is a nature preserve, this property protects vulnerable plants and animals that call the ecosystem home, so visitors must do their parts to conserve this natural resource, including carrying out any garbage they bring in and not removing anything from the property that is there naturally. Learn more.

Charles C. Deam Wilderness, Bloomington

The Charles C. Deam Wilderness area is located within the Hoosier National Forest and covers nearly 13,000 acres. It is a protected wilderness area, to preserve the natural surroundings, and provide a place for guests to find solitude. There are 37.3 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. Primitive camping is allowed in the Deam Wilderness, with certain restrictions. Since its designation as a wilderness, visitor use in the area increased to the point that significant damage was occurring. Special restrictions are in place to protect the wilderness character. Visitors to this special place are asked to follow these restrictions to lessen your impact and share responsibility in preserving this unique natural resource. Learn more. 

The Caves on Trail 3 at Spring Mill State Park, Mitchell

Spring Mill State Park provides an incredible link between the natural and cultural worlds. Pioneer Village, founded in 1814, is full of 20 historic buildings to explore. However, it’s the caves that are truly breathtaking. Trail 3 winds past Donaldson Cave overlook, then Bronson Cave, and lastly on to Twin Caves. Spring Mill’s location on the  Mitchell Karst Plain allowed the caves to form in the limestone through the years. A hike is the only way to experience the caves for now since the Twin Caves Boat Tour won’t be offered again until 2021. But be sure to put it on your bucket list! Learn More.

Cataract Falls at Lieber State Recreation Area

Comprised of two waterfalls about a mile apart, Cataract Falls is the largest waterfall by volume in the state. It’s Upper and Lower Falls have heights around 45 and 30 feet, respectively. Two pre-glacial bedrock ridges buried beneath ancient lake sediments of the Illinoisan glacier developed the falls, making them true natural wonders. Thus, it’s no surprise that voters chose Cataract Falls as Indiana’s best waterfall ! Note that the falls are located near in Cataract Falls SRA which is part of Cagles Mill Lake and near Lieber State Recreation Area .

Jug Rock, Shoals

Just outside of Shoals, the sandstone’ Jug Rock’ is the largest tea-table rock formation east of the Mississippi River. Don’t worry about it tipping over, as it has stood tall and proud for approximately 300 million years!  Jug Rock is preserved in the  Jug Rock Nature Preserve , with a small parking lot just off Albright Lane. Marvel and maybe even take a photo in front of this genuine natural wonder.

Pine Hills Nature Preserve at Shades State Park

Steep ravines, cliffs, and sandstone bluffs feature a diverse forest at Pine Hills Nature Preserve . Indiana’s first dedicated nature preserve is famous for the Devil’s Backbone. After passing through ‘the slide’, hikers will be entranced by the steep-sided wall that sits about 6 feet wide and towers almost 100 feet wide. Honeycomb Rock is arguably the second most breathtaking feature, which gets its name from small pockets n the sandstone cliff. Pine Hills can be accessed through Shades State Park. Read More .

Williamsport Falls, Williamsport

A height of 90 feet makes Williamsport Falls the second tallest waterfall in Indiana. A wide trail leads down to the streambed. Upon arrival, the spectacular falls and sandstone ‘amphitheater’ will be begging your camera for a flash. Many adventurers love to meander behind the falls to get an up-close view of this roaring beauty. Warning: You will get wet!

Indiana Birding Trail

Indiana’s diverse habitats are home to over 400 documented bird species, making it the perfect place for a birding adventure. The Indiana Audubon Society  recently created the  Indiana Birding Trail , featuring 64 great bird watching locations throughout the entire state. The experiences won’t disappoint, from the one-of-a-kind migration of Sandhill Cranes to rare bird sightings among the dune and swale habitats of Indiana Dunes National Park. For the complete Indiana Birding Trail Guide, click here .

Some locations on the Indiana Birding Trail are part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE! 

Thistlethwaite Falls, Richmond

Thistlethwaite Falls was voted one of the top 10 waterfalls in Indiana and there’s no secret why! Timothy Thistlethwaite blasted a new channel in the West Fork of the Whitewater River to direct water over the rock formation in the 1800s. Even though the falls itself is humanmade, it’s an excellent spot to search for ancient fossils! Collect loose fossils along the trail or in the stream bank at the base of Thistlethwaite Falls.

Salamonie River State Forest

R ocky Hollow-Falls Canyon Nature Preserve at Turkey Run State Park

Our readers decided Turkey Run is the best state park in Indiana, and there is no secret why. A walk north on the suspension bridge of Sugar Creek takes visitors to Rocky Hollow-Falls Canyon Nature Preserve . The first step into the preserve feels as if you’ve been transported into another Avatar-like world. Deep mossy sandstone ravines, waterfalls, monstrous cliffs, ladders, and streams will amaze even the most well-traveled visitors.  This section of 1,609 acres might be Indiana’s most beautiful topography.

Sand Dunes at Indiana Dunes State and National Park

The beaches along the Indiana Dunes are second to none and perfect for a daytime escape. However, be sure to take in the enchanting, towering dunes.  The sand dunes at both Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana Dunes State Park have taken thousands of years to form. Some even tower nearly 200 feet above Lake Michigan! A challenge like none other, the 1.5-mile  3 Dune Challenge features the three tallest dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park, which combine for a height of 552 vertical feet.

Indiana Dunes State Park is part of the Indiana State Nature Passport. Learn more about how to start earning prizes for FREE! 

Seven Pillars, Mississinewa

One of Indiana’s most beautiful natural formations may be one of its most underappreciated. The magnificent Seven Pillars sit along the Mississinewa River about four miles south of Peru. Its “pillars” were formed over hundreds of years as water and wind eroded the limestone. Round buttresses and alcoves were thus carved into the rock, making them what they are today. The Frances Slocum Trail runs along the top of the formation. Read more .

Fossil Beds at Falls of the Ohio State Park

In Southern Indiana, the Falls of the Ohio presented the biggest natural challenge for early travelers on the Ohio River. But underneath the flowing water sits a 390-million-year-old Devonian-era fossil bed, one of the oldest of its kind in the world. These days, guests can stop by a state park interpretive center to learn more about the region’s topography and a treasure trove of findings through interactive displays and exhibits before walking out into and onto the bed itself at the edge of the river. Although you can’t take any fossils  you find home with you (collecting is prohibited), visitors are certainly welcome to observe and admire the different types on display.

Hemlock Cliffs at Hoosier National Forest

Hemlock Cliffs is a box canyon showcasing unique beauty in southern Indiana . A cool climate, sandstone rock formations, and seasonal waterfalls are responsible for the unique trees and plants that grow here. The area features sandstone rock outcrops, overhangs, cliffs, rock shelters, and ravines. Much of the sandstone is “Honeycombed” by weathering of iron ores. Springs, small caves, and subterranean drainage conduits are in the underlying Glen Dean Limestone.

Cowles Bog & Pinhook Bog at Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park’s biodiversity ranks 7th out of all 400+ National Park Service destinations . Two of the best way to experience the incredible environment of the Dunes are Cowles Bog and Pinhook Bog . The 4.7-mile Cowles Bog trail including ponds, marshes, swamps, black oak savannas, and beaches. Steep sand dunes near Lake Michigan make Cowles Bog an arduous but rewarding journey. The Pinhook Trail System features two very distinct habitats. The Upland Trail highlights a rich beech and maple forest growing on top of a glacial moraine formed about 15,000 years ago. The second habitat, known as the Bog Trail, leads to a depression in the moraine created when a large piece of ice broke off the melting glacier. Pinhook Bog Trail is only open on scheduled days with rangers present. Learn more here.

Bison at Kankakee Sands

The Nature Conservancy introduced a herd of 23 wild bison from South Dakota to Kankakee Sands in 2016. The herd has grown steadily as the Bison give birth to calves, and more are brought from South Dakota. They happily roam free in the 1,060-acre pasture at Kankakee Sands , where the herd is now thriving. The Bison Viewing Area is the best spot at Kankakee Sands to learn more about and see the Kankakee Sands bison herd. The Viewing Area has four informational panels about bison and Kankakee Sands, and short graveled walking paths to the top of a sand top dune for good views of bison, prairies and the landscape. The Bison Viewing Area is open from 7 a.m. to dusk (Central Time). Learn more. 

Plan your #The20IN20 trip by checking out all 20 Natural Wonders in Indiana below!

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Where can you watch the solar eclipse in Columbus? Here are several places

Usually, the date in April that most people are waiting on pins and needles for involves getting income taxes done on time. But this year, they'll be anticipating a very different kind of "return" a week earlier.

Set for April 8, the total solar eclipse will cross the U.S. from southern Texas traveling northeast through the Midwest and Ohio to Maine. It comes less than seven years after the last one on Aug. 21, 2017. The 2017 eclipse was the first one to sweep the nation since 1918.

Other eclipse viewings in Ohio: Public events and camping options for the big day

The last total solar eclipse visible in Ohio occurred in 1806 , and the next one is more than 70 years away, so this one's a pretty big deal.

While folks in Columbus will not see 100% coverage of the sun by the moon, there has been much ado about the upcoming big day, with numerous local sites offering residents opportunities to witness the celestial phenomenon.

What is a total solar eclipse?

During a total solar eclipse, the moon blocks the entire face of the sun — known as the photosphere — briefly revealing its outer atmosphere, the corona, or “crown.” 

As described by the American Astronomical Society : "At the beginning and end of totality, the thin middle layer of the sun’s atmosphere, the  chromosphere,  blazes in an arc of ruby red. The sky darkens to a deep twilight blue, with yellow, orange, and pink sunrise/sunset colors on the horizon in all directions. Bright stars and planets shine forth, and the air temperature drops noticeably."

Where in Ohio can I see the eclipse?

People within a 124-mile-wide band in Ohio will experience the rare total solar eclipse, which crosses the state from southwest to northeast, passing through cities such as Dayton, Springfield, Marion, Mansfield, Lima, Bowling Green, Toledo, Sandusky and Cleveland.

Still, places to the north and south of the eclipse band in Ohio, such as Columbus and Cincinnati, will see nearly the entire eclipse at 99% totality.

What time will the eclipse be visible?

The Ohio Emergency Management Agency website says the total eclipse wlll begin in Ohio at 3:08 p.m. with the final exit of the moon’s shadow at 3:19 p.m. The partial eclipse will begin at approximately 1:59 p.m. on April 8 and end at 4:29, according to NASA.

How long will the eclipse last?

 According to NASA , most places along the centerline (path of totality) will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes.

What's so special about the 2024 eclipse?

The path of totality is much wider during the upcoming total solar eclipse than it was during the 2017 eclipse and crosses a more densely populated areas as well,  according to NASA . An estimated 31.6 million people, including Ohioans, live in the path of totality this year, compared to 12 million in 2017. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Where are some places I can go in the Columbus area to view the solar eclipse?

Here are some events in the area where you can catch a glimpse of the eclipse on April 8:

• Columbus Zoo & Aquarium Solar-bration , 4850 W. Powell Road, Powell, noon to 4 p.m. - COSI will bring a hands-on activity and demonstrate how the moon blocks the sun during a solar eclipse. Also, Columbus Recreation and Parks will host a trivia game centering around eclipse and conservation questions and Velvet Ice Cream will offer a special "SUNdae" for April 8 only. This event is included with Zoo admission. For admission prices, visit columbuszoo.org/hours-and-rates . ( columbuszoo.org/events/solar-eclipse-solar-bration )
• COSI Solar Eclipse Experience 2024 , 333 W. Broad St., 1-4 p.m. - COSI will offer hands-on educational STEAM demonstrations and activities, a live video stream of the eclipse in totality, free solar eclipse glasses and STEAM kits (while supplies last), and more. While you're there, check out of the new video, "Eclipse: The Musical," made in partnership with Alphabet Rockers. Tickets to COSI will be available for those who want to continue the learning experience. ( cosi.org/2024eclipse/index.html )
• COSI and Land-Grant Brewing Eclipse Party , 424 W. Town St., Franklinton, noon to 6 p.m. - Doors open at 11 a.m. The first 4,000 people will get free solar glasses. Guests can enjoy hands-on demos from COSI from noon to 4 p.m. At 3:20 p.m., Moon Voyager will perform Pink Floyd’s "The Dark Side of the Moon" and other solar- and lunar-themed tunes. For the adults, Land-Grant and COSI are introducing a special eclipse beer, Totality, a black ale with a smooth, dark finish. ( landgrantbrewing.com/events )
• COSI and Columbus Metropolitan Library Solar Eclipse Watch Party , 96 Grant Ave., 1-4:40 p.m. - Kids and their families can take part in hands-on science activities and hear stories about space and the eclipse. ( columbuslibrary.org/solar-eclipse-2024 )
• Dublin in the Dark , Riverside Crossing Park, 6635 Riverside Drive, and Coffman Park, 5200 Emerald Parkway, 1:30-4:30 p.m. - These viewing events will include music by a DJ and strolling entertainment. ( dublinohiousa.gov/eclipse )
• Under the Sun: Solar Eclipse Viewing , The Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Road, Newark, 2-4 p.m. - In addition to hands-on activities for all ages to celebrate the total solar eclipse, representatives from the Newark Earthworks will be on hand to discuss the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks and astronomy. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets and solar eclipse viewers. ( dawesarb.org/calendar-events-dawes-arboretum )
• Boardman Arts Park , 154 W. Williams St., Delaware, 1-4 p.m. - Eclipse glasses will be sold for $2 per pair and free commemorative stickers will be handed out while supplies last. Crowd size is uncertain, so guests are urged to RSVP ahead of time. ( givebutter.com/solareclipseatboardman )
• Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks --- Five parks will have 100% totality, including Glacier Ridge, Highbanks, Homestead, Prairie Oaks and Sharon Woods. More than a dozen other parks will have more than 99% coverage. For more information, visit www.metroparks.net/blog/total-eclipse-of-the-parks-what-to-know-about-the-2024-solar-eclipse/ .

What else should I know about eclipse watching?

If you're going to be gazing at the sky on Eclipse Day, remember that safety comes first.

The most affordable and safest way to view the upcoming celestial event is through eclipse glasses. Make sure the glasses are certified for eclipse viewing: Look for the ISO 12312-2 label printed on them or in the description on the packaging, and get them from a reputable store or seller.

Eclipse glasses usually consist of a cardboard frame with two pieces of filtering material where the lenses would be in normal glasses. According to information from Ohio Wesleyan University's Perkins Observatory, these filters remove 99.9% of the sun's visible light and 100% of harmful ultraviolet rays.

There are two kinds of eclipse glasses: the older type with filters made from aluminized Mylar and the newer models with black polymer lenses. The newer glasses cost a little more than the Mylar ones, but they provide a more natual color and can be used to view sunspots anytime the sun is visible.

Always check glasses thoroughly for tears, scratches and pinholes before using.

For every do, there's a don't, and there are many of them when it comes to observing the eclipse. When considering whether or not a viewing method is safe, ask yourself, "Is this method specifically designed for solar viewing?"

If the answer is no, then don't do it. Among the variety of improper and potentially dangerous to your sight methods people have indeed tried to view eclipses include using: sunglasses or multiple pairs of sunglasses, Mylar balloons or food wrappers, CDs or CD-ROMs, X-ray film, camera film negatives, smoked glass, stacked welder's glass and filters used for liquids such as coffee, tea or sun tea.

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• Solar Eclipse 2024

See the 2024 Solar Eclipse’s Path of Totality

A total solar eclipse is expected to pass through the United States on April 8, 2024, giving stargazers across the country the opportunity to view the celestial phenomenon in which the sun is completely covered by the moon.

The eclipse will enter the U.S. in Texas and exit in Maine. It is the last time a total solar eclipse will be visible in the contiguous United States until 2044.

Here's what to know about the path of the eclipse and where you can see it.

Read More : How Animals and Nature React to an Eclipse

Where can you see the total solar eclipse?

The eclipse will cross through North America, passing over parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada. 

The eclipse will enter the United States in Texas, and travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse.

Much of the eclipse's visibility depends on the weather. A cloudy day could prevent visitors from seeing the spectacle altogether.

When does the solar eclipse start and end?

The solar eclipse will begin in Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT. It will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

The longest duration of totality—which is when the moon completely covers the sun — will be 4 minutes, 28 seconds, near Torreón, Mexico. Most places along the path of totality will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes.

Read More : The Eclipse Could Bring $1.5 Billion Into States on the Path of Totality

Where’s the best place to see the total solar eclipse?

The best place to witness the event is along the path of totality. Thirteen states will be along the path of totality, and many towns across the country are preparing for the deluge of visitors— planning eclipse watch parties and events in the days leading up to totality.

In Rochester, NY, the Rochester Museum and Science Center is hosting a multi-day festival that includes a range of events and activities. Russellville, Arkansas will host an event with activities including live music, science presentations, tethered hot-air balloon rides, and telescope viewings.

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Total solar eclipse April 8, 2024 facts: Path, time and the best places to view

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality.

Scroll down to see the list of U.S. cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be visible, the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com .

"Eclipse Across America," will air live Monday, April 8, beginning at 2 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu as well as network social media platforms.

On April 8, 2024, a historic total solar eclipse will cast a shadow over parts of the United States, prompting a mass travel event to the path of totality -- from Texas to Maine and several states and cities in between.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and, for a short time, completely blocks the face of the sun, according to NASA .

The track of the moon's shadow across Earth's surface is called the path of totality, and to witness the April 8 total solar eclipse, viewers must be within the 115-mile-wide path. To discover when to see the solar eclipse in totality or the partial eclipse in locations across the U.S. outside of the path, check out NASA's Eclipse Explorer tool .

Eclipse travel

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality, bringing the celestial phenomenon to their doorsteps, Michael Zeiler, expert solar eclipse cartographer at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told ABC News.

MORE: Eclipse glasses: What to know to keep your eyes safe

But for individuals outside of the path, investing time and money are needed to experience the event in totality.

Eclipse chasers, or umbraphiles, are individuals who will do almost anything, and travel almost anywhere, to see totality, according to the American Astronomical Society .

"There's a very active community of solar eclipse chasers and we will go to any reasonable lengths to see solar eclipses anywhere in the world," Zeiler said. "All of us are united in pursuing the unimaginable beauty of a total solar eclipse."

MORE: The surprising reason why a Texas county issued a disaster declaration ahead of April total solar eclipse

Bringing together both eclipse experts and novice sky watchers, the total solar eclipse on April 8 is projected to be the U.S.'s largest mass travel event in 2024, according to Zeiler, who likened it to "50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation."

"When you look at the number of people expected to come to the path of totality for the solar eclipse, we estimate those numbers are roughly the equivalent of 50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation, from Texas to Maine," he said.

Eclipse map, path of totality

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

Best times, places to view eclipse

Below is a list of some American cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be most visible -- pending weather forecasts -- the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

• Eagle Pass, Texas, 1:27 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Uvalde, Texas, 1:29 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 16 seconds
• Kerrville, Texas, 1:32 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Austin, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 1 minute, 53 seconds
• Killeen, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 17 seconds
• Fort Worth, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 34 seconds
• Dallas, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 47 seconds
• Little Rock, Arkansas, 1:51 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 33 seconds
• Jonesboro, Arkansas, 1:55 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 24 seconds
• Poplar Bluff, Arkansas, 1:56 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 1:58 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 6 seconds
• Carbondale, Illinois, 1:59 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Mount Vernon, Illinois, 2:00 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Evansville, Indiana, 2:02 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 2 seconds
• Terre Haute, Indiana, 3:04 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 57 seconds
• Indianapolis, Indiana, 3:06 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 46 seconds
• Dayton, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 46 seconds
• Wapakoneta, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 55 seconds
• Toledo, Ohio, 3:12 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 54 seconds
• Cleveland, Ohio, 3:13 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 50 seconds

Pennsylvania

• Erie, Pennsylvania, 3:16 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 43 seconds
• Buffalo, New York, 3:18 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 45 seconds
• Rochester, New York, 3:20 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Syracuse, New York, 3:23 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 26 seconds
• Burlington, Vermont, 3:26 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 14 seconds
• Island Falls, Maine, 3:31 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 20 seconds
• Presque Island, Maine, 3:32 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 47 seconds

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Where to see solar eclipse 2024: NASA eclipse map shows the best places

• Published: Apr. 02, 2024, 7:37 a.m.

The eclipse will happen on April 8 and will be the last total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. until Aug. 23, 2044. David Petkiewicz, cleveland.com

• Leada Gore | [email protected]

We’re a week away from the Great North American Eclipse when people across the continental U.S. will be treated to the wonders of a total solar eclipse. The eclipse will happen on April 8 and will be the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous U.S. until Aug. 23, 2044.

A total solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the sun. People located in the center of the moon’s shadow – the area known as the path of totality - when it hits Earth will experience a total eclipse, NASA explains.

While all states in the contiguous U.S. will experience some level of the eclipse, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, as well as small parts of Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee are along the path of totality.

In the U.S., the path of totality will start in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CT and will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. ET (2:25 CT.) In those states, the periods of greatest darkness will reach up to 4 minutes, 27 seconds. You can see NASA’s map showing the path of totality below.

Courtesy of NASA. NASA

According to Astronomy.com , people wanting the best views of the eclipse in the U.S. should go to:

• Radar Base, Texas – 4 minutes, 27 seconds duration of totality, 120.9 miles width of moon shadow
• Kerrville Texas – 4 minutes 25 second duration of totality, 120.2 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Lampasas, Texas – 4 minutes, 24 seconds duration of totality, 119.7 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Hillsboro, Texas – 4 minutes, 23 seconds duration of totality, 119.2 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Sulphur Springs, Texas – 4 minutes 21 seconds duration of totality, 118.4 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Russellville, Arkansas – 4 minutes, 11 seconds duration of totality, 117.2 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Cape Girardeau, Missouri – 4 minutes, 6 second duration of totality, 115.5 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Vincennes, Indiana – 4 minutes, 5 seconds duration of totality, 114.5 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Indianapolis, Indiana – 3 minutes, 49 seconds duration of totality, 114 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Lima, Ohio – 3 minutes, 51 seconds duration of totality, 113 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Cleveland, Ohio – 3 minutes, 49 seconds duration of totality, 111.9 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Erie, Pennsylvania – 3 minutes, 42 seconds duration of totality, 111.2 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Niagara Falls, New York – 3 minutes, 31 seconds duration of totality, 110.8 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Buffalo, New York – 3 minutes, 45 seconds duration of totality, 110.7 miles width of moon’s shadow
• Plattsburgh, New York – 3 minutes, 33 seconds duration of totality, 108.4 miles width of moon’s shadow

You can go here to search by ZIP code to how much of the eclipse you will see from where you live.

During the eclipse, the sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk. Weather permitting, people in the path of totality will be able to see the sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere, which is usually obscured by the bright face of the sun, NASA explains. Outside the path of totality, viewers will see a partial eclipse with the moon covering varying degrees of the sun.

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Your ultimate guide to the total solar eclipse, its path and how to watch

Mark your calendars — on April 8, a total solar eclipse will sweep across North America , blocking out the sun momentarily for millions of viewers along a path stretching from northern Mexico to Maine.

Not since 2017 has the United States experienced a total solar eclipse, and we won’t see another until 2044. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for this rare celestial phenomenon.

2024 total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will pass across the United States on Monday, April 8. See what the eclipse will look like in your city .

Path of totality: Our interactive visual map allows you to traverse the eclipse’s path from Mexico to Maine. If you’re traveling for the eclipse , we rounded up the top things to do in several major cities prime for viewing. In Carbondale, Ill., lucky residents are preparing to experience totality for the second time in seven years .

Preparing for the eclipse: The most important thing you’ll need is eclipse glasses — here’s how to get them and avoid buying fakes . If you want to capture the magic of the moment, check out our guide for photographing the eclipse with your phone. Here’s what to expect in terms of cloud cover and eclipse traffic .

The science: This eclipse may be especially dramatic because the sun is at its most active period in two decades. In the past, solar eclipses have helped scientists learn more about the universe . Here’s everything else you need to know about the solar eclipse.

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