You’re thinking about taking a trip to Indiana this year, but don’t really know what places to visit in Indiana. Well, even though Indiana might not be on every traveler’s radar, this underrated state actually has some pretty cool places to visit and explore!
Indiana has a good mix of attractions for all tastes and interests from its vibrant cities and quaint small towns to its stunning natural sights. So get ready to discover the best places to visit in Indiana on your next vacation!
Indianapolis
As Indiana’s capital and largest city, Indianapolis deserves a spot on your itinerary.
While some assume Indianapolis is just an urban jungle, it actually has some fun neighborhoods, cool museums, and a blossoming food scene that will surprise you.
One must-see attraction is the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway – home of the Indy 500 race. The Speedway has a museum and offers tours of the track when races aren’t happening.
Other highlights in Indiana include Monument Circle in downtown, the canal walk near White River State Park, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. Also, hip and trendy areas like Fountain Square and Broad Ripple Village are loaded with shops, cafes, and brewpubs.
Indiana Dunes National Park
This Indiana Dunes National Park stretches for 25 miles along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The Indiana Dunes National Park is a hidden natural gem with diverse landscapes.
Hike trails wind you past huge sand dunes, mysterious wetlands, wooded forests, and Lake Michigan beaches.
Must-see sights include the Mount Baldy sand dune that reaches almost 130 feet tall, Cowles Bog’s unique habitat, Inland Marsh Overlook, and the shoreline at West Beach.
Keep your eyes peeled for pretty wildflowers in spring or migrating birds in fall too. The nearby Indiana Dunes State Park also offers more natural scenery to admire.
Fair Oaks Farms
One of the third best places to visit in Indiana is Oaks Farms which is calling all food and farming fans! Fair Oaks Farms in northwest Indiana has to be on your must-visit places to visit in Indiana list.
This hugely popular agritourism attraction lets you get an inside look at a real modern dairy farm in action.
Interactive exhibits and glass-walled barns give you a glimpse into how cows are milked and cared for.
You can also learn about other aspects of agriculture in the crop fields, swine barn, and greenhouses. Besides, the experience concludes with delicious ice cream tasting too! It’s both educational and fun.
Bloomington
Home to Indiana University’s flagship campus, the youthful college town of Bloomington in southern Indiana certainly deserves a visit.
Eclectic Kirkwood Avenue boasts lively cafes, galleries, and live music venues. On the lush IU campus, be sure to see the iconic Memorial Union and the Sample Gates entrance.
Fans of the classic movie Breaking Away will also want to explore the town’s cut-stone architecture that inspired the film.
Besides, nature lovers shouldn’t miss hiking trails through forests and caves at nearby Brown County State Park – especially in autumn when the leaves glow!
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Amish Country
Northeast Indiana has the USA’s third largest Amish settlement, so you can get a taste of Amish culture and simple living around the towns of Shipshewana and Middlebury.
Tour the countryside around Amish farms on buggy rides or visit Amish markets bursting with tasty jellies, fresh produce, homemade pies, and authentic crafts.
The Amish Acres historic farm and heritage resort also lets you stay overnight, take workshops, or see musical shows for more immersion into Amish life.
From flea markets to furniture shops to quilt gardens, exploring the Amish communities offers a window into a slower-paced lifestyle.
South Bend
Most famous as the home of the University of Notre Dame and its Fighting Irish football team, the city of South Bend in northern Indiana also has some special attractions to check out.
Architecture buffs will adore the ornate Gothic Revival buildings of the Notre Dame campus on a guided tour.
The Studebaker National Museum is nirvana for car enthusiasts, with its displays of classic cars from the iconic brand once headquartered here.
Furthermore, chocolate lovers must visit the South Bend Chocolate Factory for heavenly smells and tastes while learning about candy making.
Marengo Cave
Venture underground to marvel at magnificent rock formations and glowing crystals on a tour through Marengo Cave – considered one of Indiana’s most outstanding natural wonders.
This national historic landmark lies near Wyandotte Caves State Park and offers guided tours along well-lit, paved walkways past stalactites, stalagmites, mirror pools, and more.
Kids and adults alike will be wowed by the geological beauty uncovered across centuries. Above ground, relax by fishing the Blue River or exploring trails through the wooded state park.
Holiday World
What list of cool places to visit in Indiana would be complete without mentioning Holiday World? Located in Santa Claus, Indiana, this popular amusement and water park offers rollercoasters, rides, and slides themed around Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the 4th of July.
Little ones adore the new Peppermint Twist indoor wooden coaster too. When you need a break from the rides, catch shows, meet holiday-themed characters for photos, or splash in water areas like The Infinity Wave pool. From coasters to cookies, Holiday World promises festive family fun all season long!
