Best Places to Visit in Indiana
To me Indiana isn’t just about famous landmarks. It’s about the unique experiences, the favorite traditions, and the best underrated gems that make the state special.
The best places to visit in Indiana are some of the most unique and surprising destinations in the Midwest, and they’re easily among my favorite spots for history, outdoor fun, and small-town charm. I’ve been covering Indiana for 30 years, which makes me a true local expert
What makes Indiana so special is its variety. You can explore unique cultural attractions in Indianapolis, relax by the shores of Lake Michigan, or discover the underrated beauty of historic towns and state parks. Each destination feels different, giving you endless opportunities to find new favorite places across the state.
From the museums and nightlife of Indianapolis to the lakeside beauty of Indiana Dunes, and from the college-town energy of Bloomington to the underrated charm of French Lick, Indiana blends history, culture, and outdoor adventure in unforgettable ways. Add in local festivals, scenic drives, and welcoming communities, and it’s no wonder these spots are considered some of the best in the Midwest.
From vibrant cities to peaceful countryside, Indiana offers some of the best getaways if you are looking to experience the heart of the Midwest.
Best Places to Visit in Indiana:
Indianapolis, Indiana
We flew from Austin to Indianapolis (2 hour 15 minute nonstop flight). Round-trip fares start around $155. Once I landed, driving gave me the freedom to explore
When I think about the best places to visit in Indiana, Indianapolis always comes to mind because it’s such a vibrant city with a mix of culture, food, and fun. I find it to be the perfect weekend getaway whether you’re looking for something family-friendly, romantic, or just a cool city escape. The downtown area is filled with hidden gems, from world-class museums to unusual art installations that make exploring feel exciting every time.
One of my favorite things to do is wander near Monument Circle, where the city’s energy really shines. I love how walkable everything is, and it feels like there’s always something happening. Just steps away, you’ll find Spoke & Steele, an exceptional spot for handcrafted cocktails and inventive bites. I thought it was the coolest place to kick off an evening—the vibe is modern, stylish, and totally unforgettable.
Indianapolis also has amazing underrated attractions like the Canal Walk, which feels almost magical at sunset. Whether I’m biking, walking, or simply sitting by the water, it’s one of those joyful experiences that makes me appreciate the city’s unique character. Another hidden gem is the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, where I discovered spectacular outdoor gardens alongside fascinating exhibits. It’s affordable, inspiring, and truly one of the top places in the state to spend a day.
Every visit to Indy feels different, and that’s why I consider it one of the most exciting and coolest cities in the Midwest. From Spoke & Steele’s upscale flair to family adventures at the zoo, Indianapolis is a dream destination that keeps surprising me with new favorites.
South Bend, Indiana
We drove about 150 miles north from Indianapolis (roughly 2 hours 30 minutes on US-31) to South Bend, a city of around 103,000 residents along the St. Joseph River. There’s also an Amtrak line and intercity buses that connect the two cities.
South Bend, Indiana always surprises me with its mix of history, charm, and cool energy. I find it to be one of the best places for a weekend getaway because it’s affordable, vibrant, and packed with exciting things to do. Every time I visit, I discover something new that makes me appreciate the city even more.
The best highlight has to be the University of Notre Dame. Walking across the campus feels magical, with the golden dome glistening in the sun, the Basilica standing tall, and the beautiful historic buildings that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a dream. I love capturing photos here, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite places in all of Indiana.
Downtown South Bend adds even more to the experience. I’ve enjoyed joyful evenings along the riverfront, where the River Lights installation transforms the water into a glowing, colorful spectacle. It’s unusual, romantic, and yet perfect for families too—one of the coolest city attractions I’ve come across.
The city’s food scene is another highlight for me. I’ve found hidden gems in cozy cafés, buzzing breweries, and unique restaurants that serve up amazing bites. The Studebaker National Museum is also a brilliant idea for a visit, showcasing fascinating history that’s both interesting and exciting. I think it’s one of the most unique museums in the Midwest.
South Bend, to me, is an exceptional mix of culture, history, and fun—a hidden treasure in Indiana that always feels special and memorable.
Bloomington, Indiana
We drove about 50 miles south from Indianapolis (just under an hour on IN-37) to Bloomington, a lively college town of around 80,000 residents.
Bloomington, Indiana has to be one of the coolest small cities I’ve explored, and it’s easily among my favorite weekend getaways in the Midwest. The city feels both vibrant and relaxed, with a mix of college-town energy and hidden gems that make every visit feel exciting and new. I love how affordable it is, yet it offers some of the most unique and interesting experiences in Indiana.
Right near the heart of downtown, I found Tranquil Vibe Day Spa, and it was honestly the best way to unwind. The atmosphere was serene and soothing, and I felt like I had stepped into a dream the moment I walked in. Whether it’s a massage, facial, or just a moment to relax, this spa is such a joyful escape from the busy energy of the city. It’s definitely one of those underrated spots that makes Bloomington so special.
For something completely different, I headed to Cardinal Spirits, a local craft distillery that blew me away with its creativity. Their cocktails are exceptional, the atmosphere is lively, and I thought it was the coolest way to spend an evening. Sipping on their inventive drinks while overlooking the B-Line Trail felt like the perfect mix of urban and laid-back vibes. I consider it a brilliant idea for both romantic nights and fun outings with friends.
From the hidden charm of Tranquil Vibe Day Spa to the exciting flavors at Cardinal Spirits, Bloomington offers the best mix of relaxation, culture, and nightlife. It’s one of those amazing Indiana gems that keeps calling me back.
Evansville
Evansville, Indiana is one of those underrated Midwest gems that truly surprised me with how much it has to offer. I think it’s an amazing city for a weekend getaway because it combines history, riverfront beauty, and plenty of cool things to do. Every visit feels exciting and gives me a new reason to call it one of my favorite places in southern Indiana.
The best part for me is the Ohio Riverfront. Walking along the greenway with the water glistening beside me is such a joyful experience, especially at sunset. It feels both romantic and family-friendly, and I love how vibrant the area becomes with events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year. It’s one of those magical spots that feels unforgettable.
Downtown Evansville is filled with hidden treasures, from historic theaters to cool cafés and unique boutiques. I especially enjoyed catching a show at the Victory Theatre—it’s an unusual mix of old-world charm and lively entertainment that makes the night feel extra special. For something more educational, the Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science is an affordable and fascinating place to spend a few hours.
I also think Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden is one of the city’s most underrated attractions. I had a spectacular time exploring the lush gardens and seeing animals in a setting that felt both exciting and relaxing. It’s a brilliant idea for families but just as fun for adults. Evansville may not always get the spotlight, but to me, it’s one of Indiana’s coolest and most interesting hidden gems.
Fort Wayne
We drove about 120 miles northeast from Indianapolis (just under 2 hours on I-69) to Fort Wayne, Indiana’s second-largest city with around 265,000 residents
Fort Wayne, Indiana has become one of my favorite underrated gems in the Midwest because it offers such a joyful mix of culture, nature, and cool city energy. I think it’s one of the best spots for a weekend getaway, whether you’re looking for a family adventure, a romantic escape, or just an affordable trip filled with unique experiences.
One of the highlights for me is the spectacular Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo. It’s not only fun for kids but also amazing for adults—I found it to be one of the most exciting and well-designed zoos I’ve ever visited. Every corner felt vibrant and full of life, and I loved seeing how interactive and engaging it was. It’s definitely one of the city’s coolest attractions.
Another favorite is the beautiful Promenade Park along the St. Marys River. Walking the trails, crossing the modern canopy bridge, or just sitting by the water gave me such a relaxing yet magical vibe. I thought it was the perfect hidden treasure for a romantic evening stroll or a fun family outing. The way the park blends nature with downtown energy makes it one of the best urban spaces in Indiana.
Fort Wayne also surprised me with its food and drink scene. I enjoyed discovering unique local breweries, cozy coffee shops, and creative restaurants that gave the city a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Pair that with cultural gems like the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, and you have an experience that’s both exciting and inspiring. To me, Fort Wayne is an exceptional and underrated Indiana destination that always feels special.
Terre Haute, Indiana
We drove about 75 miles west from Indianapolis (just over 1 hour on I-70) to Terre Haute, a city of roughly 58,000 people along the Wabash River.
Terre Haute, Indiana is one of those underrated Midwest gems that completely won me over with its mix of history, charm, and cool energy. I think it’s an amazing choice for a weekend getaway because it’s affordable, easy to explore, and filled with unique attractions that make every visit feel special. It may not always get the spotlight, but to me, it’s one of Indiana’s most interesting cities.
Downtown Terre Haute has such a vibrant and joyful atmosphere. I loved strolling past the historic buildings, cozy cafés, and local boutiques—it felt like discovering a hidden treasure with every block. The Arts Corridor especially stood out to me, filled with murals and creative spaces that made the whole area come alive. It’s the perfect spot for anyone who appreciates culture and creativity.
One of my favorite experiences was visiting the Candles Holocaust Museum and Education Center. It’s a powerful and meaningful place that offers both reflection and inspiration, making it one of the city’s top cultural gems. I thought it was an unusual but important stop that added depth to my trip.
For something lighter, I enjoyed the Swope Art Museum, which is free and filled with spectacular works that range from American realism to modern pieces. I also loved spending time outdoors at Deming Park, which is a brilliant idea for families or anyone wanting a joyful, green escape within the city. Terre Haute may be underrated, but I think it’s one of the coolest Indiana destinations to explore.
Carmel
I drove about 20 miles north from downtown Indianapolis (roughly 30 minutes on US-31) to Carmel, a fast-growing suburban city of about 103,000 residents. Known nationally for its extensive network of traffic roundabouts (more than 140, the most of any U.S. city), Carmel also consistently ranks as one of America’s best places to live.
Carmel, Indiana is easily one of the most spectacular and underrated gems in the Midwest. I think it’s one of the greatest places for a weekend getaway because it blends small-town charm with a vibrant, modern energy. Every time I visit, I’m struck by how joyful, clean, and exciting this city feels, making it one of my favorite Indiana destinations.
The Carmel Arts & Design District is at the heart of the city and absolutely magical to explore. I loved wandering past the unique galleries, interesting boutiques, and cozy cafés—it felt like a hidden treasure filled with creativity. The street sculptures and public art made every corner Insta-worthy, and the lively atmosphere gave me such a cool and unforgettable vibe.
Another highlight for me is the Monon Trail, which runs right through Carmel. Biking or walking along this scenic path gave me one of the most relaxing and joyful experiences I’ve had in Indiana. It’s affordable, family-friendly, and romantic all at once, especially if you stop along the way for ice cream or a drink at one of the local spots.
In the evenings, I loved catching a show at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. The building itself is spectacular, and the performances are top-notch, making it one of the city’s best cultural gems. Pair that with Carmel’s thriving food scene—from farm-to-table restaurants to hidden cocktail lounges—and you have the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. For me, Carmel is one of Indiana’s coolest dream getaways.
Chesterton
I drove about 45 miles east from Chicago (roughly 1 hour along I-94) to Chesterton, a small town of around 14,000 residents near the southern shore of Lake Michigan.
Public transit is possible. The South Shore Line commuter train runs from downtown Chicago to nearby Dune Park station in about 1 hour 20 minutes for under $10 if you don't like driving.
Chesterton, Indiana is one of those hidden gems in the Midwest that instantly feels like a dream getaway. I think it’s one of the best small towns in the state because it combines natural beauty with a cool, welcoming vibe. Every visit feels joyful and exciting, and it’s an affordable option for both romantic weekends and family adventures.
The highlight here is Indiana Dunes State Park, which is right near Chesterton. I loved walking along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, climbing the spectacular dunes, and soaking in the unusual mix of beach and forest trails. It felt magical to see such a vibrant natural landscape so close to a small town—it’s easily one of my favorite outdoor escapes in the entire Midwest.
Downtown Chesterton has its own unique charm. I enjoyed wandering through local boutiques, antique shops, and cozy cafés that gave the town such an inviting character. The Chesterton European Market, held on weekends, is an exceptional experience filled with local food, art, and music. It’s one of those cool community events that makes you feel like a part of something special.
I also loved discovering the smaller hidden treasures around town, from family-owned restaurants serving up delicious comfort food to art galleries showcasing regional talent. Every corner of Chesterton seemed to offer something interesting and memorable. For me, Chesterton is one of Indiana’s most underrated gems—a place where natural beauty and small-town magic come together for an unforgettable getaway.
Columbus, Indiana
We drove about 45 miles south from Indianapolis (just under an hour on I-65) to Columbus, a small city of around 50,000 people.
Columbus, Indiana is one of the most unusual and spectacular small cities I’ve ever explored, and I think it’s truly one of the best hidden gems in the Midwest. What makes it so cool is the way this city blends small-town charm with world-class modern architecture—it’s actually known as one of the top architectural destinations in the United States. Every street feels vibrant, creative, and full of unique details that make it a dream for design lovers like me.
One of my favorite things to do is wander through downtown Columbus, where I found myself surrounded by striking buildings designed by some of the world’s most famous architects. From sleek churches to bold public spaces, I thought the city had an exciting energy that felt both sophisticated and welcoming. It’s an affordable way to experience truly exceptional art and design without leaving Indiana.
Mill Race Park is another highlight. I loved walking along the trails, relaxing by the water, and taking in the spectacular covered bridge. The park felt joyful and peaceful at the same time, and it was the perfect spot for a romantic stroll or a fun family picnic. I thought it was one of those hidden treasures that gave me a break from the city vibe while still being close to everything.
Pair all that with cool local restaurants, interesting galleries, and unique boutiques, and Columbus becomes a brilliant idea for a weekend getaway. To me, it’s one of Indiana’s most underrated gems—a city filled with creativity, beauty, and unforgettable experiences.
Elkhart
I drove about 15 miles east from South Bend (roughly 25 minutes on US-20) to Elkhart, a city of around 54,000 residents at the confluence of the Elkhart and St. Joseph Rivers. Public transportation exists via the South Shore Line and Amtrak connections.
Elkhart, Indiana is one of those underrated gems in the Midwest that completely surprised me with how much character it has. I think it’s one of the best small cities to visit because it offers a joyful mix of history, arts, and hidden treasures, all wrapped up in a cool and affordable package. Every time I’ve been, I’ve found something new to love, which makes it one of my favorite Indiana getaways.
The highlight here is the RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum. I thought it was such an unusual and interesting place to explore, filled with vintage campers and fascinating exhibits about America’s RV culture. It’s family-friendly, fun, and definitely one of the most unique museums I’ve ever visited. For me, it was an exciting and unexpected highlight of Elkhart.
Downtown Elkhart has its own vibrant charm. I loved walking through the Riverwalk, where the paths along the St. Joseph and Elkhart Rivers felt magical at sunset. The flowers, lights, and peaceful views created a spectacular atmosphere that was both romantic and relaxing. It’s one of those hidden treasures that made me slow down and just enjoy the moment.
I also enjoyed discovering the city’s arts scene at the Midwest Museum of American Art, which was an affordable and inspiring stop filled with exceptional works. Pair that with local breweries, cozy cafés, and unique restaurants, and you have an exciting little city that delivers way more than you’d expect. To me, Elkhart is one of Indiana’s coolest and most interesting gems—a place where history, culture, and beauty all come together.
Conclusion
After exploring so many of these incredible Indiana destinations I’ve realized just how spectacular and diverse the Hoosier State really is. Each place has its own unique charm, hidden treasures, and unforgettable experiences that make every trip feel special. Whether it’s sipping cocktails at Spoke & Steele in Indy, relaxing at Tranquil Vibe Day Spa in Bloomington, or watching the sunset over the Ohio River in Evansville, I’ve found that Indiana offers the best mix of culture, nature, and small-town magic.
What I love most is how affordable, welcoming, and exciting these getaways can be. You can plan a romantic weekend in Carmel, a family adventure in South Bend, or a joyful day outdoors in Columbus—and every visit will feel like discovering a new favorite.
To me, Indiana is filled with underrated gems just waiting to be explored, and each destination brings its own kind of magic.
If you’re looking for the coolest and most memorable Midwest experiences, Indiana’s cities and towns are truly the perfect place to start.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
