Looking for lakeside fun, family attractions, and Midwestern charm? Head to Monticello, Indiana! Located between Lafayette and South Bend, Monticello is home to Indiana Beach Amusement Park, scenic lakes, and a welcoming small-town vibe. It’s a great getaway for boaters, families, and outdoor lovers.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Monticello is in late spring through early fall (May–September). Warm weather makes it ideal for lake activities, amusement park fun, and outdoor events. Fall also brings colorful foliage and fewer crowds.
How to Get There
- By Car: Monticello is accessible via US-421 and IN-39, about 1.5 hours from Indianapolis and just over an hour from South Bend.
- By Air: Fly into Indianapolis International Airport (IND) or South Bend International Airport (SBN), then rent a car to drive to Monticello.
- By Bus: Regional bus service is limited, so driving is the most convenient option.
Where to Stay
- Blue Door Cottages – Quaint lakeside cabins with direct access to Lake Shafer and cozy accommodations.
- Best Western Plus Brandywine Inn & Suites – Comfortable stay with pool, fitness center, and close proximity to town attractions.
- Indiana Beach Lodging – On-site hotel and cabins with easy access to the amusement park and boardwalk.
Top Attractions
⮕ Shop for your favorite wine at Fruitshine Wine
Located on a heritage farm which dates back to the 1890’s, Fruitshine Wine is produced from the finest sun-ripened Indiana blueberries and other fruits. Initially the farm harvested fresh fruit and only used excess unsold fruit for wine making, following an age-old Spanish recipe. As the years passed the demand for their fresh fruit wines increased and more fruits were added to the production. Today you can choose from a wide range of delicious fruit wines made just the way they used to be in grand-mother’s day. Choose from blueberry, blackberry, apple, peach, pear, and, of course, the noble grape. Visitors are welcome to come and find their favorite flavor as they enjoy a tasting in the screen porch tasting room.
Address: Fruitshine Wine, 11752 W. 1100 N, Monticello, IN 47960, Phone: 574-808-9229
⮕ Go on a thrilling ride at Indiana Beach Amusement and Water Park
Located on Lake Shafer, Indiana Beach Amusement and Water Park was established back in 1926. The resort started off as a simple lakeside beach with a refreshment stand and a bathhouse. Shortly afterwards the first thrilling ride was built and the amusement and water park became a popular tourist attraction in Monticello. Although the park closed in 2018 a new owner has been found and today the park is once again drawing the crowds as the Indiana Beach Boardwalk Resort. The park offers over 40 thrilling roller-coaster rides, including 4 water rides. There are several more rides planned for when the park re-opens in March for the 2021 season.
Address: Indiana Beach, 5224 E. Indiana Beach Road, Monticello, IN 47960, Phone: 574-583-4141
⮕ Go hiking in Altherr Nature Park
Encompassing a total of 16.5 acres, the Altherr Nature Park owes its existence to a generous donation of land by William Altherr. The park was intended to provide a family-friendly outdoor recreation area for Monticello residents and visitors. After much-needed renovation and restoration, the park now has neatly tended trails suitable for walking/hiking through a pleasant natural area with trees, shrubs, gardens and a prairie area. There is a small amphitheatre with a fire pit and a Nature Center is under construction. It is planned that the center will offer talks and courses where families will be able to learn about various aspects of nature and conservation.
Address: Altherr Nature Park and Gardens, 724 S. Main Street, Monticello, IN 47960, Phone: 574-583-3983
Attractions for Couples
⮕ Stop by Tall Timbers Marina
With locations on Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman, Tall Timbers Marinas are family owned and operated. Many residents and visitors come to Monticello expecting to enjoy the great outdoors on the water. Tall Timbers Marina is your one-stop shop for everything you need to make the most of your vacation on the lakes. The boat shop stocks a wide range of pleasure boats as well as life vests, jet-skis, wave-runners and outboard motors. They can also assist you with accessories, gas pumps, and just about everything the boating family could require. The Lake Freeman location is open year-round while the Lake Shafer branch closes during the off-season.
Address: 4773 NW Shafer Dr, Monticello, IN 47960
⮕ Take a cruise aboard Madam Carroll
Your visit to Monticello would be incomplete without enjoying a cruise on the Madam Carroll, the largest boat in Indiana. The Madam Carroll is a favorite venue for special celebrations including weddings and reunions, but the public are welcome to come and experience a day (on evening) on Lake Freeman by joining a scheduled dinner or brunch cruise. While you cruise you will be served a delicious meal and enjoy live music entertainment. Evening cruises leave at 6pm, returning by 9pm while brunch cruises board from 10am and return around 1pm. If you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground but still enjoy a nautical theme you can visit the (stationery) Luse Lounge, a very pleasant dockside boat bar with a view of the lake.
Address: Madam Carroll, 12244 N. Upper Lakeshore Drive, Monticello, IN 47960, Phone: 574-583-3545
⮕ Take your kids to the Hollow Acres Golf Center
Family-owned and operated for more than 60 years, the Hollow Acres Golf Center is the place to go for outdoor family fun. The center started off back in 1960, with a 9-hole Par 3 golf course and an 18-hole mini-golf course, a snack bar and a driving range. Over the years a number of improvements have been added and the center has remained a popular outdoor facility for all ages. Although the course is not officially open during the winter months, visitors are free to play the 9-hole course and just leave a small honesty fee in the mail slot.
Address: 8291 N. US 421, Monticello, IN 47960, 574-965-2182
Where to Eat
- Riverside – Local favorite offering American classics, steaks, and hearty breakfasts with river views.
- USA Restaurant – Cozy diner serving comfort food, pancakes, and homemade pies.
- Sportsman’s Bar & Grill – Casual lakeside spot with burgers, fried fish, and cold drinks after a day on the water.
Local Events
- Monticello Lakes Festival (June) – Celebrate summer with a parade, fireworks, craft booths, and lake activities.
- Indiana Beach Summer Concerts (Seasonal) – Live music and themed events throughout the summer at the amusement park.
- Downtown Fall Festival (October) – Enjoy pumpkin painting, vendors, and autumn fun on Monticello’s historic square.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Monticello, Indiana
- Indiana Beach Boardwalk Resort (5–10 min) – Ride roller coasters, enjoy water slides, and stroll the lakeside boardwalk on Lake Shafer.
- Lake Freeman (5–10 min) – Rent a boat, fish, or cruise the lake aboard the historic Madam Carroll paddlewheel boat.
- Whyte Horse Winery (5–10 min) – Sample locally made wines in a peaceful countryside setting with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Monticello City Park (0–5 min) – Enjoy shaded trails, tennis courts, a skate park, and seasonal community events near downtown.
- Tippecanoe River State Park (25–30 min) – Hike wooded trails, paddle scenic river stretches, or camp under the stars in a tranquil natural setting.
- Riverside Roller Rink (5–10 min) – Glide around a classic skating rink with music, arcade games, and family-friendly vibes.
- Altherr Nature Park (5–10 min) – Walk peaceful trails through prairie, forest, and wildflower meadows in this local nature preserve.
- Twin Lakes Golf Club (10–15 min) – Tee off on a scenic 18-hole course with mature trees and water features.
- White County Historical Society Museum (0–5 min) – Explore artifacts, photographs, and exhibits tracing the region’s rich agricultural and cultural past.
- Norway Dam (5–10 min) – Relax by the water, take photos, or fish near this historic dam between Lakes Shafer and Freeman.
FAQ
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Where is Monticello located?
- Monticello is located in White County and is a popular tourist destination with something to offer everyone.
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What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Monticello?
- There are two beautiful lakes where you can enjoy fun-filled days on the water.
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What amusement park is in Monticello?
- Your family will be over the moon when you take them to enjoy a day of fun at the Indiana Beach Boardwalk Resort, which boasts more than 40 thrilling rides.
At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes.
Blue Door Cottages – A cozy lakeside stay near Lake Shafer.
Explore Indiana Beach Amusement Park – Enjoy rides, games, and waterfront fun.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for lake activities and outdoor adventures.
Best Western Plus Brandywine Inn & Suites – A comfortable stay with great amenities.
Go boating on Lake Freeman – Rent a boat or take a cruise on the scenic lake.
Fall (September-November) – Beautiful fall colors and a relaxed atmosphere.
Pine View Resort – A budget-friendly option close to local attractions.
Visit the Whyte Horse Winery – Enjoy wine tastings in a charming countryside setting.
Plan Your Trip