15 Best Things to Do in Indiana

Forget everything you think you know about Indiana. While the Hoosier State might be famous for its cornfields and basketball, you’re about to discover a vibrant tapestry of natural wonders, thrilling adventures, rich history, and surprising cultural gems that stretch far beyond the stereotypes. From the majestic sand dunes of the north to the rolling hills and charming small towns of the south, Indiana is a crossroads of America in every sense, offering something truly special for every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly escapade, a romantic getaway, or a solo journey of discovery, prepare to be captivated by its diverse landscapes and welcoming spirit. The best times to visit are undoubtedly spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the natural beauty, from blooming wildflowers to fiery autumn leaves, is at its peak. Summer offers a plethora of festivals and perfect conditions for outdoor activities, while winter brings a quiet charm to its snow-dusted parks. A car is highly recommended for exploring this expansive state, allowing you the freedom to uncover its many hidden treasures at your own pace.

Brown County State Park

Prepare to be enveloped by the breathtaking beauty of Brown County State Park, Indiana’s largest state park, often dubbed the “Little Smokies” due to its resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains. This sprawling natural wonderland is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering over 16,000 acres of forested hills, ravines, and scenic vistas. You can spend your days hiking or biking on miles of trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs that reward you with panoramic views of the vibrant foliage, especially stunning in the autumn.

Horseback riding is incredibly popular here, with guided rides available, allowing you to explore the park’s serene backcountry. Two lakes within the park, Ogle Lake and Strahl Lake, offer opportunities for fishing, and you might even spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, or a variety of bird species. The park’s rustic charm is enhanced by its historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) architecture, including log cabins and shelters that blend seamlessly into the landscape. This park is perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers seeking a refreshing escape into nature.

Antique Alley

Embark on a treasure hunt along Indiana’s Antique Alley, a sprawling network of antique shops, vintage boutiques, and collectible stores stretching across East Central Indiana, particularly around Richmond. This isn’t just a place to shop; it’s an immersive journey through time, where you can uncover unique pieces of history, from antique furniture and vintage clothing to rare books and quirky memorabilia. Each shop has its own personality, often housed in charming historic buildings, adding to the allure. You’ll find everything from high-end curated collections to dusty barns overflowing with hidden gems, making every stop an exciting discovery.

The thrill lies in the hunt, never knowing what piece of the past you might stumble upon. It’s a fantastic experience for collectors, interior decorators, or anyone who appreciates the stories behind old objects. Allow yourself to wander, chat with shop owners who are often passionate experts, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere. This is a perfect activity for a leisurely day trip or a weekend exploration, ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who love to browse.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Step into a world of wonder and discovery at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the largest children’s museum in the world, a true gem that captivates visitors of all ages. This isn’t just for kids; it’s an incredibly engaging and interactive experience for adults too, making it a must-visit for families. You’ll find five floors of dynamic exhibits, ranging from a life-sized dinosaur display that includes a working paleontology lab to a massive sports experience where you can try your hand at various athletic challenges.

Explore cultures from around the globe, delve into space exploration, or journey back in time to ancient civilizations. The museum constantly updates its temporary exhibits, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to explore. The attention to detail and the emphasis on hands-on learning make this museum truly unique. It’s an ideal destination for families with children of all ages, offering hours of educational fun and imaginative play.

Spirit of Jasper Train

All aboard for a nostalgic journey on the Spirit of Jasper Train, offering scenic excursions through the picturesque countryside of Southern Indiana. This isn’t your average train ride; you’ll experience the elegance of rail travel from a bygone era aboard beautifully restored passenger cars, including dome cars with panoramic views and classic dining cars. The train offers various themed rides throughout the year, from leisurely dinner excursions and wine tastings to holiday-themed journeys and fall foliage tours.

As you roll through the landscapes of Dubois County, you’ll pass charming small towns, lush forests, and rolling hills, providing a unique perspective of Indiana’s natural beauty. The service is impeccable, and the experience is designed to be relaxing and memorable. This is an ideal activity for couples seeking a romantic outing, history buffs interested in vintage rail, or anyone looking for a unique and leisurely way to explore the region. It’s a delightful step back in time.

Parke County’s Covered Bridges

Step into a postcard-perfect scene in Parke County, Indiana, famously known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World.” Here, you’ll discover over 30 historic covered bridges, each a charming testament to 19th-century craftsmanship, nestled amidst rolling hills and scenic waterways. This isn’t a single attraction but a delightful region to explore by car, following various self-guided driving tours that lead you from one picturesque bridge to the next. The bridges are not merely structures; they are gateways to a bygone era, surrounded by pristine natural beauty, especially vibrant during the fall foliage season.

You can stop at each bridge, take photos, and soak in the tranquility of the countryside. The annual Parke County Covered Bridge Festival in October is a massive event, drawing crowds from all over. This area is perfect for photographers, history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic drive. It’s a wonderful way for families and couples to spend a day or two exploring Indiana’s rural charm.

Turkey Run State Park

Prepare for an exhilarating outdoor adventure at Turkey Run State Park, a rugged wilderness gem in West Central Indiana. What makes this park unique are its deep sandstone canyons, carved by Sugar Creek and its tributaries, creating a dramatic landscape unlike any other in the state. You’ll spend your time hiking through these impressive ravines, navigating slippery rocks, ladders, and even wading through shallow streams, making for an incredibly engaging and sometimes challenging experience.

Beyond the canyons, the park boasts miles of well-maintained trails through old-growth forests, leading to scenic overlooks and the iconic suspension bridge spanning Sugar Creek. Canoeing and kayaking on Sugar Creek are popular activities, offering a different perspective of the park’s towering cliffs. The historic Lusk Home and the nature center provide educational insights into the area’s ecology and history. This park is ideal for active adventurers, hikers, families with older children, and nature photographers looking for a truly unique landscape.

Indiana Dunes State Park

Discover a surprising coastal paradise at Indiana Dunes State Park, a natural wonder nestled along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. This park is part of the larger Indiana Dunes National Park and is famous for its towering sand dunes, some reaching nearly 200 feet high, that dramatically meet the freshwater lake. You can challenge yourself by hiking the “3 Dune Challenge,” conquering the three tallest dunes for incredible panoramic views of the lake and the Chicago skyline in the distance.

The pristine sandy beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking in the warmer months, offering a tranquil escape. Beyond the dunes and beach, the park boasts diverse ecosystems, from wetlands and oak savannas to forests, supporting a remarkable array of plant and animal life. Birdwatching is exceptional here, especially during migration seasons. This unique blend of beach, forest, and desert-like dunes makes it an ideal destination for families, nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a refreshing outdoor experience.

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari

Get ready for double the fun at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, a unique theme park and water park combo located in Santa Claus, Indiana. What makes this park truly special is its commitment to family fun, offering free soft drinks, free sunscreen, and free parking – a rare and welcome perk! Holiday World features themed sections celebrating holidays like Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the 4th of July, each with its own rides, shows, and festive atmosphere. You’ll find world-class roller coasters, including some of the top wooden coasters in the world, alongside gentler rides for younger visitors.

Splashin’ Safari, the adjacent water park, is home to some of the longest and tallest water coasters on the planet, along with wave pools, lazy rivers, and splash pads. The combination means you get two parks for the price of one, offering a full day (or two!) of excitement. This destination is an absolute dream for families with children of all ages, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking for a high-value, fun-filled adventure.

Indy 500

Experience the legendary spirit of speed at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the iconic Indy 500 race. While attending the actual race is a unique annual event, you can immerse yourself in its rich history and thrilling legacy year-round. Start your visit at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, located within the track’s oval. Here, you’ll marvel at an incredible collection of historic race cars, trophies, and memorabilia, tracing over a century of racing heritage.

You can also take a bus tour of the track, which includes a stop at the famous Yard of Bricks, where winners traditionally kiss the finish line. Feeling adventurous? Opt for a “Kiss the Bricks” tour that takes you directly onto the track. This is an essential pilgrimage for motorsports fans, history buffs, and anyone curious about one of the world’s most famous sporting venues. It’s a fantastic experience for solo travelers, groups, and families with older children.

Falls of Ohio State Park

Journey back in time at Falls of the Ohio State Park, a truly unique geological and paleontological treasure located on the banks of the Ohio River in Clarksville, just across from Louisville, Kentucky. What makes this park exceptional are its extensive, exposed Devonian fossil beds, dating back 390 million years, making it one of the largest and most accessible fossil beds in the world. During low water periods (typically late summer to fall), you can walk directly onto the rock shelves and discover thousands of fossilized corals, brachiopods, crinoids, and other ancient marine life.

The Interpretive Center offers fascinating exhibits that bring the ancient past to life, explaining the geology, paleontology, and natural history of the area. You’ll also learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition, which departed from this very spot. This park is a dream for budding paleontologists, geology enthusiasts, families with curious children, and anyone fascinated by Earth’s ancient history.

Tour des Lakes

Embrace the scenic beauty of Indiana’s lakes region with the Tour des Lakes, an annual recreational bike ride that takes you through the charming lakeside communities of Syracuse and North Webster. While the organized ride is a specific event, the spirit of Tour des Lakes encourages you to explore this picturesque area by bike or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Wawasee and Syracuse lakes year-round. You’ll discover tranquil routes winding past sparkling waters, lush woodlands, and quaint lake houses.

The area offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and simply relaxing by the water. Even if you don’t participate in the official ride, you can rent bikes locally and create your own mini-tour. This region is perfect for active travelers, cyclists, water sports enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful lakeside retreat. It’s ideal for couples and families looking to enjoy Indiana’s natural aquatic beauty.

Conner Prairie Interactive History Park

Step back in time at Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, an immersive outdoor museum that brings 19th-century Indiana to life. This isn’t your average historical site; here, you’ll encounter costumed interpreters who portray real historical figures, engaging you in conversations and activities as if you’ve truly traveled to the past. Explore a bustling 1836 Prairietown, help with chores on a pioneer farm, or witness a hot air balloon launch from the 1859 Balloon Voyage.

The park’s commitment to interactive storytelling makes history incredibly accessible and fun for all ages. You can learn about native cultures, participate in crafts, or even try your hand at blacksmithing. Beyond the historical areas, Conner Prairie also features a modern museum center with engaging exhibits and a Treetop Outpost for adventurous kids. It’s an exceptional experience for families, history buffs, and anyone curious about America’s past, blending education with entertainment seamlessly.

Eiteljorg Museum

Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of the American West and Native America at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. This museum offers a stunning collection of art and artifacts that tell the stories of diverse peoples and landscapes. You’ll discover masterpieces by renowned Western artists like Frederic Remington and Charles Russell, alongside a vibrant array of contemporary Native American paintings, sculptures, and traditional crafts.

The museum’s exhibits are thoughtfully curated, providing deep insights into the history, traditions, and resilience of Indigenous peoples, as well as the myths and realities of the American West. Interactive displays and engaging programs make the experience accessible and educational for all ages. It’s a must-visit for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of American cultural heritage. The Eiteljorg is a peaceful yet profound experience, perfect for solo contemplation or a thoughtful visit with family and friends.

Monument Circle

Stand at the vibrant heart of Indianapolis at Monument Circle, a majestic urban space dominated by the iconic Soldiers and Sailors Monument. This isn’t just a roundabout; it’s a bustling public square, a popular gathering spot, and a symbol of the city’s rich history. You can ascend to the observation deck of the 284-foot monument for incredible panoramic views of downtown Indianapolis and beyond (weather permitting). At its base, grand sculptures and fountains commemorate Indiana’s veterans.

The Circle is surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and restaurants, creating a lively atmosphere. During the holidays, it transforms into a magical wonderland with the “Circle of Lights” display, a truly spectacular sight. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, people-watching, or simply soaking in the urban energy. Monument Circle is a must-see for first-time visitors, history buffs, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the pulse of Indianapolis. It’s easily accessible and enjoyable for all ages.

Historic Metamora

Step back into the 19th century at Historic Metamora, a charming canal town frozen in time along the Whitewater Canal. What makes Metamora truly unique is its perfectly preserved canal system, complete with an operational grist mill and a working canal boat, the Ben Franklin III. You can take a leisurely ride on the horse-drawn canal boat, experiencing what transportation was like in the 1800s, as you float through a covered bridge and past scenic landscapes.

Explore the restored grist mill, where you can see corn being ground into flour, and wander through the quaint village filled with antique shops, craft stores, and small eateries housed in historic buildings. It’s a delightful glimpse into Indiana’s pioneer past and its significant role in early transportation. Metamora offers a peaceful escape and a fascinating educational experience, making it perfect for history enthusiasts, families with young children, and anyone looking for a serene day trip with a touch of nostalgia.

Plan Your Visit

As you can see, Indiana is far more than just a flyover state; it’s a vibrant mosaic of experiences waiting to be discovered. From the rugged canyons of Turkey Run and the towering dunes of Lake Michigan to the historic charm of Metamora and the thrilling energy of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Hoosier State truly offers something for every interest and every traveler. You’ll find yourself immersed in natural beauty, captivated by interactive history, and delighted by world-class attractions.

So, whether you’re planning a budget-friendly road trip or a luxurious getaway, Indiana invites you to explore its hidden gems and iconic landmarks. Remember to plan your itinerary, consider renting a car for maximum flexibility, and don’t hesitate to engage with the friendly locals who are always eager to share their favorite spots. Your Indiana adventure, filled with unexpected wonders and unforgettable memories, is just waiting to begin!