Day Trips in Indiana

Indiana

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What makes Indiana a great destination for day trips?
- From the extensive caves of Southern Indiana to the Great Lakes of the north and northeast, Indiana has no shortage of destinations that can be easily accessed as a day trip from Louisville, Cincinnati, or Chicago.
What historic sites can visitors explore in Indiana?
- Visitors can explore historic early 19th-century townships, including the childhood home of President Lincoln.
Where can visitors experience Amish culture in Indiana?
- Spend a day immersed in Amish culture, visiting local markets and communities.
Where can visitors find great antique shopping in Indiana?
- Indiana is home to some of the Midwest’s best antique marts and flea markets, perfect for treasure hunters and collectors.

Best Time for Day Trips in Indiana:

April to June – Spring brings wildflowers, waterfalls, and perfect weather for exploring parks, trails, and charming small towns.
July to August – Summer is great for lake days, fairs, covered bridges, and family-friendly attractions.
September to October – Crisp air and colorful foliage make fall ideal for scenic drives, pumpkin patches, and festivals.
November – Cool and peaceful—great for museums, quaint downtowns, and cozy cafés.
December to March – Winter offers snowy charm, holiday lights, and relaxing getaways in historic villages or nature parks.

Bloomington

Walk along scenic campus streets, explore vibrant art scenes, and admire charming historic architecture.

Bloomington

What is Bloomington known for?
- Bloomington is home to Indiana University, and the Hoosiers are an influential presence in this vibrant college town.
What natural features surround Bloomington?
- The city is surrounded by forests, hills, and serene lakes, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
What can visitors do on the Indiana University campus?
- Visitors can explore the campus, attend a football game, enjoy a musical performance, or visit the museums and galleries.
What attractions are in downtown Bloomington?
- Downtown Bloomington features a historic quarter with buildings made of local limestone.
- Visitors can enjoy a variety of shops, restaurants, nightlife, and arts and cultural events.
What outdoor activities are available near Bloomington?
- Visitors can take a kayak, paddleboard, or party boat excursion on Lake Monroe.
- Cycling enthusiasts can begin an adventure with Indiana Jim’s.
- For a unique experience, visitors can take a mile-long underground boat tour through the caves at Bluespring Caverns Park.

Bridgeton

Visit a historic covered bridge, walk along scenic trails, and explore small-town charm.

Bridgeton

What is Bridgeton known for?
- Bridgeton is home to Indiana’s most famous covered bridge, the 1907 Conley Ford Bridge.
What historic structures can visitors see in Bridgeton?
- The town’s first two blocks are listed with the National Register of Historic Places.
- Historic structures include:
  - The 1822 log cabin
  - The 1878 Bridgeton House
  - The 1823 Bridgeton Mill
Is the Bridgeton Mill still operational?
- Yes! The Bridgeton Mill continues to operate today, grinding corn and flour into meal using 200-year-old French grindstones.
What is the Covered Bridge Festival?
- The town comes alive in October each year for the Covered Bridge Festival, which hosts over 400 arts, crafts, collectible, and antique vendors.
What is the Mountain Man Rendezvous?
- The Mountain Man Rendezvous takes place each April and offers a weekend of pioneer reenactments, bringing history to life.

Brown County State Park

Hike through rolling hills, admire stunning fall foliage, and explore scenic overlooks.

Brown County State Park

What is Brown County State Park?
- Brown County State Park is the largest state park in Indiana, covering 16,000 acres.
What makes Brown County State Park special?
- The park is open year-round but is especially beautiful in the fall when the deciduous trees change color.
- Due to its rolling hills and scenic beauty, the park has been nicknamed “Little Smokies” because it closely resembles the Great Smoky Mountains.
What accommodations are available at the park?
- The Abe Martin Lodge, built in 1932 using timber and local stone from the park, offers:
  - Lodging accommodations
  - Dining facilities
  - An indoor water park
What activities can visitors enjoy at Brown County State Park?
- Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including:
  - Climbing a 90-foot-tall fire tower for panoramic views of the hills
  - Hiking or mountain biking along miles of trails
  - Swimming in the water park pool at the lodge
  - Taking a guided horseback ride from the park’s saddle barn
What special natural features can be found in the park?
- Along Trail 5, visitors can see the endangered Yellowwood tree, a rare and significant species in the park.
Where is Brown County State Park located?
- 1405 S.R. 46 West, Nashville, IN 47448,
  Phone: 812-988-6406

Corydon

Walk through Indiana’s first state capital, explore historic landmarks, and admire charming downtown streets.

Corydon

What is special about Corydon, Indiana?
- Corydon is Southern Indiana’s historic downtown, offering a mix of shopping, dining, wineries, and rich history.
- Corydon was Indiana’s first state capital and holds historical significance from the earliest pioneers to the Civil War.
What historical sites can visitors explore in Corydon?
- The Battle for Corydon Memorial Park commemorates the only Civil War battle fought in Indiana.
- Visitors can also take a walking tour of the historic city center to explore sites from the state's early history.
Where can visitors experience local art?
- The Harrison County Artist’s Center showcases the work of local artisans, offering a glimpse into the region’s artistic talent.
What are some great places to eat and drink in Corydon?
- Visitors can end their day with a craft beer at the Beaver Street Tap Room, known for its great atmosphere and locally brewed beverages.
What outdoor adventures are available in Corydon?
- For a thrill, visitors can head to the Indiana Caverns Family Adventure Park to enjoy ziplining and roller coasters.
- Those interested in underground exploration can take a tour of Southern Indiana’s caves with the Deep Darkness experience at Indiana Caverns.

Farmland

Visit local farms, explore charming small-town streets, and admire rustic countryside scenery.

Farmland

What is special about Farmland, Indiana?
- Farmland is a historic rural small town in East Central Indiana, known for its unique shops, restaurants, and cultural events.
- The town features a walkable, charming historic district that has been lovingly preserved.
What events take place at the Farmland Cultural Center?
- The Farmland Cultural Center hosts several well-attended events throughout the year, including:
  - Live music performances
  - Dinner concerts
  - Theatrical productions
  - Yoga classes
  - Charity events
What historic sites can visitors explore in Farmland?
- Visitors can explore the old fire station, listen to the bells of the local church, and enjoy the town’s historic charm.
Where can visitors shop and dine in Farmland?
- The town offers a variety of unique shops and restaurants in its historic downtown district.
What is the annual Christmas Walk?
- The annual Christmas Walk takes place on the first Tuesday in December and features:
  - A chili supper
  - A window display competition
  - Free carriage rides
  - A chance to meet with Santa

Franklin

Stroll through a lively downtown, explore unique shops, and admire historic architecture.

Franklin

What is special about Downtown Franklin, Indiana?
- Franklin is a quaint community with a rich history located in Johnson County, Indiana.
- The main street community has been nationally accredited with the Trust for Historic Preservation and is a vibrant and thriving area that embraces its historic charm.
What can visitors do in Downtown Franklin?
- Visitors can enjoy a Saturday morning farmer’s market, where they can find:
  - Locally grown fruits and vegetables
  - Handmade crafts
- They can also enjoy a farm-to-table meal at one of the many local restaurants.
What is the Strawberries on the Square festival?
- The Strawberries on the Square festival takes place each May and features:
  - Live music
  - Food vendors
  - A classic car show
What is the Hops and Vines event?
- The Hops and Vines event takes place in August and offers:
  - An outdoor beer garden
  - Wine tastings
  - Food vendors and more

Indiana Dunes National Park

Walk along sandy beaches, explore scenic hiking trails, and admire breathtaking lake views.

Indiana Dunes National Park

What is Indiana Dunes National Park?
- Indiana Dunes National Park is a scenic park bordering Lake Michigan that offers a wide variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.
What activities can visitors enjoy at Indiana Dunes National Park?
- The park offers activities for every season, including:
  - Swimming in the summer
  - Cross-country skiing in the winter
  - Hiking among wildflowers in the spring
  - Enjoying the fall foliage in autumn
What does the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center offer?
- The visitor center is open daily and provides:
  - Information about the park and surrounding area
  - Displays of local artwork
  - Two brief orientation films
Are there historic sites within the park?
- Yes! There are over 60 historic sites within the park, including:
  - The Chellberg Farm
  - Camp Good Fellow
Are there guided programs at Indiana Dunes National Park?
- Yes! The park offers over 400 ranger-led tours and interpretive programs annually.
- Programs begin at either the visitor’s center or the Center for Environmental Education, which is named after Senator Paul Douglas, who played a key role in the park’s founding.
Where is Indiana Dunes National Park located?
- 1215 North State Road 49, Porter, IN 46304,
  Phone: 219-395-1882

Knightstown

Visit a historic gym, walk along charming streets, and explore local antique shops.

Knightstown

What is Knightstown known for?
- Knightstown is a small rural town best known as the filming location for the movie Hoosiers, which tells the story of a small-town basketball team winning the state championship.
What is the Hoosier Gym?
- The Hoosier Gym has been transformed into a community center and museum while maintaining the same look from the 1986 movie.
What attractions are at Jellystone Park in Knightstown?
- Visitors to Jellystone Park can:
  - Meet Yogi Bear
  - Rent cabins
  - Enjoy swimming pools, paddleboats, and a playground
Can visitors try panning for gold in Knightstown?
- Yes! Visitors can pan for gold at Bonnieville Gold Camp, which is located within Jellystone Park.
What historic architecture can be found in downtown Knightstown?
- The downtown business district features historic American architecture.
- A notable site includes a 1938 mural in the post office, painted by Raymond L. Morris.

Madison

Stroll along a scenic riverfront, admire beautifully preserved mansions, and explore vibrant local shops.

Madison

What makes Madison, Indiana a great place to visit?
- Madison, Indiana, is a thriving small community known for its historic sites, antiquing, shopping, dining, and wine tasting.
What historic routes pass through Madison?
- Madison is bisected by three scenic historic routes:
  - The Underground Railroad Self-Guided Driving Tour
  - The Ohio River Scenic Route
  - The Michigan Road Historic Byway
What historic college is located in Madison?
- Visitors can explore Hanover College, Indiana’s oldest four-year institution, founded in 1827.
How can visitors explore downtown Madison?
- Guests can take a carriage ride through the historic downtown district.
- Other unique options include boarding a vintage passenger trolley or an antique funeral caisson.
What activities are available on the Ohio River?
- Visitors can take a jet boat tour of the Ohio River from spring through fall.
- Madison also hosts the Madison Regatta and the RiverRoots Music and Folk Arts Festival.
What is the Nights Before Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes?
- In December, the Nights Before Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes allows visitors to explore the area’s historic properties in a festive holiday setting.

Marengo Cave

Walk through stunning underground passageways, admire breathtaking rock formations, and explore a natural wonder.

Marengo Cave

What is Marengo Cave?
- Marengo Cave is the most visited natural attraction in Indiana and a designated U.S. National Landmark.
What walking tours are available at Marengo Cave?
- Visitors can choose between two guided walking tours:
  - The Crystal Palace Tour (40 minutes) – Takes visitors past large flowstone deposits and rooms filled with beautiful cave formations.
  - The Dripstone Trail Tour (60 minutes) – Known for its totem pole stalagmites and soda straw formations.
  - Combination tours are also available for those who want to experience both trails.
Are there any additional adventure tours at Marengo Cave?
- Yes! Additional tours include:
  - Canoeing adventures just 4 minutes from the caves.
  - The Crawl – A wet and muddy underground adventure for those looking for a more hands-on caving experience.
What is the temperature inside Marengo Cave?
- The caves remain a cool 52 degrees year-round, making it a comfortable visit in any season.
What activities are available for children?
- Children of all ages can mine for gemstones in a replica sluice located outside the cave’s entrance.
Is there a gift shop at Marengo Cave?
- Yes! A 3,000 square foot gift shop on site offers a variety of educational items and souvenirs.
Where is Marengo Cave located?
- 400 East State Road 64, Marengo, IN 47140,
  Phone: 812-365-2705

Plan Your Trip

Table of Contents:

1. Bloomington
2. Bridgeton
3. Brown County State Park
4. Corydon
5. Farmland
6. Franklin
7. Indiana Dunes National Park
8. Knightstown
9. Madison
10. Marengo Cave