Whether you are looking for a new destination to explore, a relaxing hotel with a spa, or a romantic vineyard, there are many great places to visit in Indiana. Get away to Indianapolis, Bloomington, Fort Wayne, Jasper, Vincennes or South Bend where you can visit excellent museums, historic attractions and unique shops. Or head out to the country in Northern and Southern Indiana for wine tasting, romantic walks and fresh outdoor air.


Morris Inn - 2 hours 40 minutes from Indianapolis, Indiana

Morris Inn - 2 hours 40 minutes from Indianapolis, Indiana

© Morris Inn

The AAA 4 Diamond Morris Inn, situated on the campus of Notre Dame, is a charming hotel with 132 guest rooms and 18 spacious romantic suites. The Grand Suites and ideal for couples looking for more space and offer 48-inch TVs, one and a half baths and 900 square feet of living space. The inn offers three dining options, including Sorin’s which serves fresh seafood, Rohr’s that serves light fare and Wind Family Fireside Terrace for casual outdoor meals.

Activities include golf on the Warren Golf Course at Notre Dame, football games at the stadium and performances at the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center. Ask about the Romance Package.

130 Morris Inn, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, Phone: 800-280-7256


JW Marriott Indianapolis

JW Marriott Indianapolis

© JW Marriott Indianapolis

JW Marriott Indianapolis is a modern hotel with over one thousand guest accommodations, an indoor pool, fitness center and a multi-million dollar Public Art Plaza. Once you are done visiting museums and city attractions, relax in the comfort of your room or suite.

Watch a game at the Lucas Oil Stadium, followed by drinks at High Velocity, a trendy sports bar. Have a romantic dinner at Osteria Pronto which serves mouthwatering Italian cuisine.

10 S West Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204, Phone: 317-860-5800


New Harmony Inn Resort & Conference Center - 2 hours 50 minutes

New Harmony Inn Resort & Conference Center - 2 hours 50 minutes

© New Harmony Inn Resort

The 90-room New Harmony Inn Resort & Conference Center has an old-world feel and a choice of 18 romantic rooms with a fireplace. Request one of the rooms with a scenic patio overlooking the lake. For even more space and privacy, ask for one of the three guest houses with private gardens.

Facilities include a heated pool, sauna, fitness center and tennis. There are beautiful nature trails along the river, bike rentals, boutiques, art galleries and historic buildings. More info

504 North St. PO Box 581, New Harmony, Indiana 47631, Phone: 800-782-8605


Charley Creek Inn - 1 hour 40 minute Getaway from Indianapolis, Indiana

Charley Creek Inn - 1 hour 40 minute Getaway from Indianapolis, Indiana

© Charley Creek Inn

Located in Wabash, Charley Creek Inn is a restored 30-room inn with 20-century décor, and contemporary amenities. Guest rooms and suites feature custom bedding, Wi-Fi, and spacious bathrooms. Inside, you will find décor inspired by the Regency, Victorian, and French periods. The Wine & Cheese Shoppe is a favorite spot for tasting delicious wines and unique cheeses.

For those with a sweet tooth, The Ice Cream & Candy Shoppe offers many delicious eats. Have a romantic dinner at the end of the day at Twenty which serves a diverse menu.

111 West Market St, Wabash, Indiana 46992, Phone: 260-563-0111

More Midwest Vacation Ideas: From Minneapolis, Ohio, MN, From Detroit, Michigan


French Lick Springs Hotel

French Lick Springs Hotel

© French Lick Springs Hotel

Enjoy excellent service and views in this classic American hotel. Recipient of a AAA Four-Diamond award, the French Lick Springs Hotel is the perfect home base for a relaxing getaway vacation or cheerful celebration. Guests will marvel at the surrounding Hoosier National Forest while enjoying the upscale modern amenities in any of the 443 guest rooms and suites. Guests will also have a lot to do nearby including taking a swing at the golf course, unwinding at the spa, taking a hike through the different trails, and much more. The hotel also offers a 24-hour fitness center as well as heated indoor/outdoor pools and a hot tub. Finally, you can enjoy a casual meal or celebrate a special occasion with their casual and fine dining options. More info

8670 West State Road 56, French Lick, Indiana 47432, Phone: 888-936-9360


The Joseph Decuis Farmstead Inn, Indiana - 2 hours

The Joseph Decuis Farmstead Inn, Indiana - 2 hours

© The Joseph Decuis Farmstead Inn

Located about two hours from Indianapolis, The Joseph Decuis Farmstead Inn has six guest rooms while the Inn at Joseph Decuis offers four guest rooms with period décor. Breakfast incorporating fresh local items is served at the Farmstead Inn.

If you want more dining choices, there are several great options nearby. Activities in the surrounding area include golf, museums and shopping.

6756 E. 900 South, Columbia City, Indiana 46725, Phone: 260-672-1715


Serenity Springs, a Couples' Getaway in Indiana - 3 hours

Serenity Springs, a Couples' Getaway in Indiana - 3 hours

© Serenity Springs

Check into one of the 36 romantic cabins at Serenity Springs, a beautiful 85-acre property with a lake, biking and cross-country skiing trails. Guest cabins are decorated in rustic style and feature romantic fireplaces, sunken whirlpool tubs and flat screen TVs.

In the afternoon, relax on the private deck with a firepit and reconnect in a country setting. Michigan City is a short drive away, offering outlet shopping, wineries, breweries and restaurants.

5888 U.S. 35, La Porte, Indiana 46350, Phone: 219-861-0000


Cornerstone Inn - 1 hour 10 minutes

Cornerstone Inn - 1 hour 10 minutes

© Cornerstone Inn

Located in downtown Nashville, IN, Cornerstone Inn offers 39 guest rooms, a new log cabin and a historic home. Relax with refreshments in the common area, have some tea, pastries and popcorn.

Head to the dining room in the morning for a full hot breakfast, fresh fruit and homemade granola. Nearby, you will find fun shops, art galleries and a choice of restaurants.

54 E. Franklin Street, Nashville, Indiana 47448, Phone: 812-988-0300


The Story Inn - 1 hour 10 minutes

The Story Inn - 1 hour 10 minutes

© The Story Inn

The 18-room Story Inn is located in a quaint village in Southern Indiana which offers beautiful fall foliage displays, covered bridges and romantic ambiance. In addition to the 18 rooms, the inn has private cottages with hot tubs which make a weekend getaway here extra relaxing. None of the accommodations have TVs, phones or clocks, providing guests with a rustic hideaway from the stress of modern life.

The Story Still Tavern serves dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

6404 South State Rd. 135, Nashville, Indiana 47408, Phone: 812-988-2273


Affordable The Oliver Inn for Couples - 2 hours 40 minutes

Affordable The Oliver Inn for Couples - 2 hours 40 minutes

© The Oliver Inn

Located in South Bend, Indiana the Oliver Inn is a small Victorian-style getaway with nine rooms and suites. Couples should request one of the rooms with a double whirlpool tub and a fireplace for added romance when planning their weekend getaway from Indianapolis. Gourmet breakfast is served in the morning at the inn, or you can take a walk to one of the restaurants nearby.

Vacation activities in the area include museums, art galleries, golf and walking trails. If you are looking for affordable weekend getaways from Indianapolis, this charming inn is a great option.

630 W. Washington St., South Bend, Indiana 46601, Phone: 574-232-4545


The Iron Gate Inn - 2 hours

The Iron Gate Inn - 2 hours

© The Iron Gate Inn

The Iron Gate Inn offers three guest rooms with private bathrooms in a converted 1840 Federal home with a garden, comfortable sitting areas and a dining room where breakfast is served in the morning. Nearby, guests will find several restaurants, wineries and cafes.

Downtown Madison is home to unique shops, museums, art galleries and outdoor activities. Rooms are quite affordable.

708 East Main Street, Madison, Indiana 47250, Phone: 812-273-8959

If you are looking for spa getaways in Indiana, try the French Lick Resort where you will have access to two relaxing spas as well as scenic golf.


West Baden Springs Hotel

West Baden Springs Hotel

© French Lick Resort

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or to host a special event, the West Baden Spring Hotel can provide you with a truly luxurious experience you’ll never forget. Proudly established over a century ago, the longstanding hotel is an expert in welcoming and pampering guests with its excellent service and modern amenities. Enjoy several complimentary services such as valet, resort-wide shuttle services, and wireless internet. Within the hotel, you’ll find several dining options, a fitness center, as well as an indoor-outdoor pool and hot tub. More attractions and facilities are a quick trolley ride away including the casino, formal gardens, the French Lick Spring hotel, and many more. While you’re there, be sure to visit and take a photo by the hotel’s landmark atrium which stands beautifully at 200 feet tall.

8670 West State Road 56, French Lick, Indiana 47432, Phone: 888-936-9360


The Nestle Inn

The Nestle Inn

© The Nestle Inn

If you are looking for a place with plenty of charm and personal service in downtown Indianapolis, check into the Nestle Inn which offers six renovated guest rooms. Amenities include flat screen TVs, Wi-Fi and plush robes.

Relax in one of the common areas at the inn, read a book in the library, and enjoy snacks and beverages which are provided by the inn staff.

637 North East Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, Phone: 317-610-5200


Market Street Inn Bed And Breakfast

Market Street Inn Bed And Breakfast

© Market Street Inn Bed And Breakfast

The Market Street Inn in Jeffersonville is a historic building with over 10,000 square feet of space. The building has seven guest rooms, all with private baths. All of the guest baths have whirlpool bathtubs and all rooms include fireplaces and cable TV. The house has plenty of rooms for guests to explore, including a large rooftop party deck, an antique & gift shop, and a large front porch to relax on.

There are also two dining rooms within the bed and breakfast. A three-course breakfast is served in the main dining room. This meal includes items such as coffee or tea, yogurt, bacon, eggs in any style, oatmeal, French toast or pancakes. There are a large number of restaurants within a couple blocks of the inn. For entertainment, guests can also find theaters, museums, golf clubs, and shopping nearby.

330 West Market Street, Jeffersonville, Indiana 47130, Phone: 812-285-1877


The Mary Rose Herb Farm and Retreat - 2 hours 50 minutes

The Mary Rose Herb Farm and Retreat - 2 hours 50 minutes

© The Mary Rose Herb Farm and Retreat

Located near St. Meinrad, Indiana, the Mary Rose Herb Farm and Retreat offers two unique yurts with climate control and full-sized beds. There are two Japanese soaking tubs on the property, a Zen garden and a pond.

Grill your own meat and veggies at the outdoor grills and the fire put. The food served at the Mary Rose Herb Farm and Retreat is prepared with fresh local ingredients.=

23112 Cattail Road, Bristow, Indiana 47515, Phone: 812-357-2699


Caesars Southern Indiana - 2 hours 20 minutes

Caesars Southern Indiana - 2 hours 20 minutes

© Caesars Southern Indiana

The 503-room Caesars Southern Indiana features a full-service spa, pool, fitness center and a hot tub. The four-deck riverboat hotel has a casino, boutique shops and seven restaurants. Nearby attractions include the Kentucky Derby Museum, the Kentucky Science Center and Churchill Downs. If you are planning a weekend trip with kids, this unique hotel offers plenty to do to keep them busy.

11999 Casino Center Drive, Elizabeth, Indiana 47117, Phone: 866-676-7463


IN Getaways: Oakwood Resort

IN Getaways: Oakwood Resort

© Oakwood Resort

Rest easy and soak in the magnificent lakeside views at the Oakwood Resort. Established in 1893, this locally-owned hotel stands on 27 acres of land right next to the largest natural lake in Indiana— Lake Wawasee. Guests can breathe in the fresh air while enjoying many activities like hiking trails, a mile-long bike route, lawn games, and water sports. The restaurant and bar, which offers indoor and outdoor dining, has an impressive menu selection along with live entertainment during weekends. Choose from their different rooms and suites, or stay in your own private lake house by renting one of their five lakeside vacation homes.

702 E. Lake View Road, Syracuse, Indiana 46567, Phone: 574-457-7100


Pleasant Grove Farms

Pleasant Grove Farms

© Pleasant Grove Farms

Disconnect and immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery of Indiana’s wetlands at Pleasant Grove Farms. Set on a hill overlooking 50 acres of Greene County, guests can admire the state’s largest wetland restoration which is home to an array of wildlife and greenery. A stay in any of the historic farm’s homey rooms or cottages will give you an opportunity to recharge and be at peace with nature. While there, guests can take a walk through their nature trails as they watch from wildlife, and enjoy small lake-side gatherings in the outdoor pavilion which is equipped with several picnic benches and firepit.

2750 S Pleasant Grove Farms, Lyons, Indiana 47443, Phone: 812-512-9007


Bottleworks Hotel

Bottleworks Hotel

© Bottleworks Hotel

History intersects with modern luxury in this refurbished boutique hotel. Making its home in what used to function as a Coca-Cola bottling factory in the 1920’s to 1960’s, the Bottleworks Hotel boasts of a style and architecture which embraces the building’s unique roots. The hotel retained the original exterior and terrazzo floors, and restored the building’s architecture which is reminiscent of the roaring 20’s. The building’s vintage elements tie seamlessly with the hotel’s thoughtful and modern amenities such as spa-like marble bathrooms, upscale event spaces, and plush beddings. Several accommodations are available from their beautifully designed standard rooms to their crowning penthouse suite. During your stay, you’ll be steps away from some of the best foods and drinks Indianapolis has to offer.

850 Massachusetts Avenue, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204, Phone: 317-556-1234


Ironworks Hotel Indy

Ironworks Hotel Indy

© Ironworks Hotel Indy

Make yourself at home in the multi-award-winning Ironworks Hotel Indy. Designed with contemporary, industrial elements while ensuring the modern amenities that every guest would hope for, a stay here will surely be luxurious and memorable. There are several guest rooms and suites to choose from, all equipped with a Keurig coffee maker, spa-like bathrooms with rainfall showerheads, plush robes to lounge in, free Wi-FI, an in-room safe, and a minibar. All the rooms are a comfortable size as well— starting at 319 square feet in their Traditional Room going up to a whopping 982 square feet in their Founder’s Suite. When you aren’t lounging in your room, you may visit their different hotel amenities including a 24-hour fitness center or dine in the numerous available dining options within and nearby the hotel.

2721 East 86 Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46240, Phone: 463-221-2200


Ameristar Casino Hotel East Chicago

Ameristar Casino Hotel East Chicago

© Ameristar Casino Hotel East Chicago

Play, dine, and rest in the grand Ameristar Casino Hotel East Chicago. Guests will enjoy the massive four-floor casino with more than 50,000 square feet of gaming space. Here you’ll find over 1,700 state-of-the-art slot machines, 72 table games, a designated Baccarat room, and more. When you’re not playing, you can grab a delicious meal from a diverse range of cuisines from sandwiches to seafood. And when you’re ready to call it a night, you’ll rest easy and luxuriously in one of their 288 guest rooms. With several room categories to choose from, including accessible guest rooms, you’re sure to find a room that suits your needs.

777 Ameristar Boulevard, East Chicago, Indiana 46312, Phone: 219-378-3000

More Vacation Inspiration:

Romantic Weekend Getaways in Nebraska
Midwest Weekend Getaways
Weekend Getaways from Columbus, Ohio
Small Town Weekend Getaways
Missouri Weekend Getaways


Hotel Carmichael, Autograph Collection, Indiana

Hotel Carmichael, Autograph Collection, Indiana

© Hotel Carmichael, Autograph Collection

This beautifully designed boutique hotel is ready to inspire and pamper any guest who walks through its doors. The Hotel Carmichael awes visitors with its wonderful architecture and vintage design while providing quality modern amenities and superior hospitality services. Every room is well equipped with spa-inspired bathrooms, Amazon Echos, BeyondTV streaming capabilities, a minibar, and Nespresso maker. Guests may also enjoy access to the hotel’s fitness center and event spaces, as well as dine in the many delicious restaurants within and around the hotel. Centrally located in the culturally rich city of Carmel, there are many things to see and do nearby such as catching a concert in The Palladium next door.

1 Carmichael Square, Carmel, Indiana 46032, Phone: 317-688-1700


Blue Gate Garden Inn - Shipshewana Hotel

Blue Gate Garden Inn - Shipshewana Hotel

© Blue Gate Garden Inn - Shipshewana Hotel

Recently remodelled, the Blue Gate Garden Inn in Shipshewana offers guests a cozy and unique stay. They offer 155 guest rooms ranging from classic queen rooms for solo or couple travellers to multi-room suites for the entire family. Whichever room you choose, you’ll enjoy thoughtful amenities including a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, iron/ironing board, and hair dryer. There are loads to do around the hotel as well such as swimming in their pool and hot tub, breaking a sweat in their fitness center, playing games in the arcade, or shooting hoops at their basketball court. For something more relaxing, you can grab a bite at The Ice Creamery and unwind at the outdoor patio equipped with a firepit.

105 E Middlebury Street, Shipshewana, Indiana 46565, Phone: 260-768-4725

Worth Checking Out:

Anniversary Vacation Ideas
Top 25 Romantic Weekend Getaways
Romantic Weekend Getaways from Kansas City, Missouri
Weekend Getaways in North Dakota
Weekend Getaways in Colorado


South Bend

South Bend

© Scott/stock.adobe.com

Home of the highly acclaimed University of Notre Dame and snuggled on the banks of the St. Joseph River, South Bend is a modern city with 150 years of history. Visit the History Museum with a range of exhibits depicting the history of South Bend and the area.

Find out what local and regional artists are doing at the South Bend Museum of Art. As you stroll along the river in downtown South Bend, you can enjoy River Lights, an interactive light show with colorful light displays. Kids will probably equally enjoy a visit to the 400 wild animals at the Potawatomi Zoo and the free samples at the South Bend Chocolate Factory and Museum.

More getaways:

Romantic Weekend Getaways from Boulder, Colorado
Romantic Weekend Getaways in South Dakota
Weekend Getaways from Denver
Romantic Weekend Getaways in Utah
U.S. Rocky Mountains
Romantic Getaways in Michigan
Cabin Getaways in Ohio


Weekend Getaways in Indiana: Omni Severin Hotel

Welcoming guests for over 100 years, the Omni Severin Hotel knows how to provide a memorable and stress-free stay for anyone who walks through its doors. In fact, it’s known as the longest-running luxury hotel in downtown Indiana. Restored to keep its early 1900’s elegance, the hotel’s age definitely doesn’t get in the way of offering modern amenities. Every room features a luxurious granite and marble bathroom amongst other thoughtful amenities, and guests are free to use the fully serviced fitness center and indoor pool. Dining options are endless, with a Starbucks in the hotel lobby along with other dining options within and nearby the hotel. It’s central location provides guests loads to do, only walking distance from the Circle Centre Mall, Indianapolis Convention Center, Lucas Oil Stadium, and Bankers Life Fieldhouse.

40 West Jackson Place, Indianapolis, Indiana 46225, Phone: 317-634-6664

Bloomington

Many people living in Bloomington are students at Indiana University Bloomington. No wonder so much of what is going on in Bloomington is linked to the University. Take a tour of the university campus, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. Once at the campus, visit the world-renowned Indiana University Art Museum with more than 45,000 priceless works of art.

Indiana University Jacobs School of Music is another highly acclaimed university institution with a range of performances. Take a tour of the Wylie House Museum with its beautiful garden. Today a museum, it was once the home of Andrew Wylie, the first president of Indiana University. Even Oliver Winery, the largest in the country, is linked to the Indiana University – it was founded by the University law professor William Oliver in the 1960. Take a tour of the winery and the vineyards and enjoy some excellent samples.

Jasper

Jasper is charming small town on the banks of picturesque Patoka River. Start your exploration at the Dubois County Museum with 36,000 objects, including the faithful reconstruction of an 1890s main street, an 1850 log house, and a model train display. Enjoy a stroll along the two-mile Jasper Riverwalk or take a trip on the antique restored Spirit of Jasper Train.

Baseball fans should not miss a visit to the Indiana Baseball Hall of Fame, and history buffs will definitely want to check out the historic Jasper City Mill where Abraham Lincoln used to grind his grain with his father in 1828. You do not have to be a Catholic to enjoy the beauty of the Romanesque Revival style St. Joseph Catholic Church with its 235-foot tall bell tower.

Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne is a modern, lively city that grew around the fort built to protect the pioneers and settlers from the native Indian tribes in 1794. Visit the reconstructed Old Fort Wayne and the grounds around it to learn about the way of life of the early settlers. Visit the History Center located in the historic 1893 City Hall to see a number of original artifacts and documents.

Eagle Marsh Nature Preserve is a birder’s paradise with more than 200 birds that make their home on the marshy lands. The African/African-American Historical Museum tells the story of the culture and history of the African American population of Fort Wayne. Try to catch a show and a dinner at the popular community Arena Dinner Theatre. Lakeside Park & Rose Garden will enchant you with stunning blooms and the fragrance of more than 1,500 roses.

Indiana Dunes State Park

Along the three miles of the magnificent Lake Michigan southern shore lays an ancient primitive landscape of huge sand dunes created by the relentless work of winds and waters. Towering two hundred feet over the shoreline, the dunes form a diverse range of habitats for plants and animals that adapted to this stark world.

To protect this unique environment, scientists and the government established a park in 1925 with the goal of protecting the species that make their home among the dunes, as well as to provide controlled access and enjoyment for the people of Porter County and the rest of the world. Hikers can access the renowned Calumet Trail from the dunes, birders can enjoy spotting a variety of birds depending on the season and swimmers,and fishermen can enjoy the calm lake waters and fine sandy beach.

Nashville

Tiny village of Nashville, Indiana does not have the bright lights and notoriety of its namesake in Tennessee, but it has more than its share of charm, artists, galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

Catch a play at the lively Little Nashville's Brown County Playhouse, see what the local artists are creating at the Brown County Art Gallery Artists, or visit T. C. Steele State Historic Site to learn more about this renowned Nashville artist and his works. Take the kids to the popular Brown County State Park where they can hike, ride a bike, ride ponies, or swim.

Michigan City

When snows melt and the winds across the vast Lake Michigan fade away, Michigan City opens up like a flower to the tourists from Chicago and elsewhere, allowing them to enjoy the beautiful and diverse attractions found indoors and outdoors. The city's iconic Michigan City Lighthouse, the only one still working in Indiana, is located in scenic Washington Park together with the city zoo, a sandy beach, and kids' playground.

Visit LaPorte County Historical Society Museum to see, among other interesting exhibits, one of the largest collections of antique firearms in the world. Enjoy the art created by local artists at the Lubeznik Center for the Arts, have some fun at the huge Blue Chip Casino, and sample some surprisingly good Lake Michigan wines at the Shady Creek Winery.

French Lick

French Lick residents are used to people making fun of this small spa town's name, but French Lick has been famous for its Sulphur springs with healing properties since the 19th century. Animals tend to lick minerals coming freely out of the soil, hence the name. The 20th century brought casinos, and the city spa became popular among the rich and famous from the area, including Joe Luis and Al Capone.

Better known today for its famous son Larry Bird, French Lick offers fun for all ages. Enjoy the lovely scenery of the Hoosier National Forest on board of the French Lick ScenicRailway. Kids will have endless fun at the Big Splash Adventure Hotel & Indoor Water Park. Pick a unique gift at the Fox Hollow Gallery,which offers the works of more than 25 local artisans. Try your luck at the French Lick Casino, admire the imposing Greek Revival Orange County Courthouse, and learn about the history of the area at the Orange County Museum. More ideas: French Lick Resort.

Santa Claus

It is easy to feel like Christmas is every day in Santa Claus, Indiana when the city's attractions are named Santa's Candy Castle, Santa Claus Museum, Christmas Lake Golf Course, Lake Rudolph Camp ground, and Santa Claus Post Office (this is where letters to Santa go.)The residents of this small Indiana town are taking full advantage of their town's odd name and making their town a popular tourist destination for families. But, not everything in Santa Claus is about Christmas.

Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial is the place where young Abraham Lincoln spent his childhood. You can try to catch a concert at the magnificent Lincoln Amphitheatre, an outdoor performance venue in Lincoln Park. Take a tour of the Colonel Jones Home, a 1834 Federal-design house and museum that shows the way of life in 19th century Indiana.

Evansville

Evansville is a modern metropolis on the beautiful Ohio River with a thriving economy, fun attractions, and beautiful outdoor spaces. Visit The Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science with more than 30,000 exhibits and learn about city's German origins at the Germania Maennerchor.

See giant rock formations at the Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest, or you can visit fascinating AMAZONIA at the Mesker Park Zoo and see the tropical world of the South American jungles. Explore Angel Mounds State Historic Site,which tells the fascinating story of the Middle Mississippian people who lived in this area from 1000 A.D. to 1450 A.D.

Brookville

Brookville is quaint, pretty little town on the Whitewater River and Brookville Lake, world famous for its wall eye fishing. Stroll through the Brookville Historic District with beautiful examples of Greek Revivaland Federal architecture.One of the greatest examples is Franklin County Seminary,a historic 1831 school. Visit Hermitage, home and studio of artist J. Ottis Adams.

The outdoor life naturally revolves around the beautiful Brookville Lake, which offers great sandy beaches for swimming and an endless expanse of quiet lake waters for boating, sailing, and fishing. There are miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails along the lake that provide great opportunities for bird and wildlife watching and enjoying the spectacular views from the surrounding forested hills.

Turkey Run State Park

Spectacular sandstone ravines and gorges cut deeply into the unique Mansfield sandstone rock by the relentless passage of Sugar Creek waters – these are the main features of Turkey Run State Park, located southwest of Crawfordsville on Sugar Creek.

If you are looking for romantic things to do in Indiana, the park offers spectacular hiking through narrow gorges with high, steep walls, a suspension bridge, and steep ladders. In the summer, going down the creek in inner tubes, kayaks, or canoes is great fun. A must see is Lieber Log Cabin built from the native, locally grown tulip trees in 1848. It isnow the museum honoring Colonel Richard Lieber, Indiana State Parks system's first director.

Lafayette

Located on the banks of the Wabash River and home to Purdue University, Lafayette, Indiana, is a history-buff's dream and a lively college town with spectacular parks and gardens. Learn about the city's history at the Tippecanoe Battlefield & Museum. Explore diverse habitats of the beautiful Prophets town State Park with numerous hiking trails, an aquatic center, picnic areas, and camp grounds.

Stroll through the Lafayette down town with its lovely turn-of-the-century buildings, quaint historic neighbourhoods, and elegant churches. Learn about Indiana 19th and 20th century art at theArt Museum of Greater Lafayette. Try to catch a performance at the Purdue Theatre or Purdue Black Cultural Center. Get the map of Lafayette's spectacular outdoor public art and conduct a self-guided tour of some of the work of the country's most renowned artists.

Spring Mill State Park

Located about 3 miles from the town of Mitchell, Spring Mill State Park is a 1,358-acre parkon the Mitchell Karst Plain where soft limestone gives way to the park's numerous sink holes and caves. There is a fun tour of one of the biggest, Twin Caves, which goes about 500 feet into the bowels of the earth.

The area was heavily exploited at the beginning of the 19th century, and there is only a small stand of virgin timber left, protected today as part of the Donaldson Woods Nature Preserve. The original settler village with a historic watermill is located in a small valley in the park. In contrast to the historic features, there is also a memorial to Mitchell's native resident Gus Grissom, anastronaut who died in the tragic accident of Apollo 1.

Indianapolis

Best known for the world famous Indianapolis 500 car races, Indianapolis is a beautiful planned city on the confluence of Fall Creek and White River. Stroll through the lovely Canal and White River State Park in the heart of the city and watch the modern office towers reflected in the clear waters. To see the old Indi, stroll through the charming shady streets of the Lockerbie Square Historic District.

Visit Indianapolis Museum of Art with its 54,000 art pieces by masters such as Gauguin and Turner. The Indy Racing Experience allows you to drive a racecar on the Indianapolis 500 track, either alone or with a driver. Sport car enthusiasts should not miss the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Hall of Fame Museum with a great collection of famous racecars. Kids will love the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, and they will be thrilled with the 3,800 animals from 320 species living in the Indianapolis Zoo.

From Indianapolis To      Driving Time
South Bend2 hours 40 minutes
Evansville2 hours 50 minutes
Wabash1 hour 40 minutes
Madison2 hours
Roanoke2 hours
Michigan City3 hours
Nashville1 hour 10 minutes
Bristow2 hours 50 minutes
Elizabeth2 hours 20 minutes

Table of Contents: