Best Places to Visit in Indiana
Indiana is a state full of beautiful small towns, cities with lots to do, and beautiful outdoor escapes, making it a wonderful place to explore... I spent four weeks exploring this Midwest state in July and found these unique places that really won me over.
1. Indianapolis, Indiana
When I think about the best places to visit in Indiana, Indianapolis instantly comes to mind. Why? Because it’s such a cool city with lots to see and do, whether you like culture, food, or even outdoor fun.
We flew from Austin to Indianapolis (2 hour 15 minute nonstop flight). Once we landed, getting into a rental car and driving gave us the most freedom to explore (although if you are just visiting Indianapolis for a quick weekend getaway, public transportation is great in the city and you don't need a car). I think that Ironworks Hotel Indy is the best place to stay (it won the prestigious AAA Four Diamond award).
I like to tell people to start exploring downtown Indianapolis first. You can check out world-class museums there, along with unusual art installations, and the Canal Walk (my favorite!) which dates back to the 1800s!
I think that the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields is a must see hidden gem. If you have kids don't miss The Children's Museum of Indianapolis which has been ranked #1 in the country. Indianapolis Zoo is another favorite with families.
My personal highlight was the Canal Walk at sunset because it really makes me appreciate the city’s unique character.
2. Bloomington
If you'd rather head south, head to Bloomington, a lively college town of around 80,000 residents just under an hour south from Indianapolis. We stayed at 3-star Hyatt Place Bloomington for two days.
Bloomington, Indiana has to be one of the coolest small cities I’ve explored, and it’s easily among my favorite places in the Midwest.
Right near the heart of downtown, I spent two hours at Tranquil Vibe Day Spa to unwind with a 60-minute massage followed by some time in the sauna.
Top attractions in Bloomington are the Eskenazi Museum of Art, WonderLab Museum, and the Indiana University campus.
For something completely different, visit Cardinal Spirits, a local craft distillery that's super creative. Their cocktails are exceptional, the atmosphere is lively, and it's the coolest way to spend an evening on a romantic date.
Bloomington's s one of those amazing Indiana gems that keeps calling me back.
3. Fort Wayne
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.
Fort Wayne's about 120 miles northeast from Indianapolis (just under 2 hours on I-69) to Fort Wayne, Indiana’s second-largest city. We checked into The Bradley for two days.
In Fort Wayne, enjoy the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo, explore the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, catch a show at the Embassy Theatre, or visit the Fort Wayne Museum of Art. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Promenade Park, Lakeside Park & Rose Garden, and the Fort Wayne Trails, while Science Central is an amazing destination for families.
To me, Fort Wayne is an exceptional and underrated Indiana destination that always feels special.
4. Terre Haute, Indiana
Though larger than it first appears, Terre Haute feels distinctly old-fashioned due to its elegant early-1900s architecture and a walkable downtown.
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. I thought it was a perfect day trip from Indianapolis but we stayed two nights at 4-star Terre Haute Casino Resort.
I began my afternoon on Wabash Avenue, admired the Indiana Theatre, checked out small art galleries, and stopped in Fairbanks Par.
Dinner that night was at The Copper Bar, a comfortable place downtown with an old-world feel.
My favorite highlight was Twelve Points Historic District with antique shops, cafés, and colorful restored buildings.
5. Carmel, IN
I thought that Carmel, IN was one of the easiest day trips from Indianapolis (roughly 30 minutes on US-31). Even so, we stayed overnight at the Hotel Carmichael to get to know Carmel. The hotel's French-inspired décor and elegant lobby bar gave it a grand-hotel feel inspired by the Midwest.
I began my visit in Carmel’s Arts & Design District where I saw restored 19th-century buildings, along with cafe and shops. Sculptures appear at nearly every corner too. Lunch at Bub’s Burgers & Ice Cream was casual, followed by a stroll down Main Street.
Also worth exploring for an hour or two is the Monon Trail, the city’s scenic pedestrian path that winds through parks.
6. Elkhart
We 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 if you prefer.
During my two day stay at the Hotel Elkhart, I had coffee overlooking Main Street, and then visited the Midwest Museum of American Art for two hours, where I admired an impressive collection of 19th and 20th-century works.
I also checked out the Heritage Trail that links Elkhart to neighboring Amish Country towns like Goshen, Nappanee, and Shipshewana.
Back in town, we went on a romantic walk at the Wellfield Botanic Gardens, truly a hidden gem in the city.
Evenings were the best by the Riverwalk, where locals gathered for sunsets over the water.
7. South Bend, Indiana
As far as road trips go, for me the drive from Indianapolis north to South Bend is worth it. There’s also an Amtrak line and intercity buses that connect the two cities (you'll be able to sit back and relax while you enjoy the scenery).
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. We stayed at 3-star Larkspur Landing Hotel South Bend for two comfortable days.
Although eight times smaller than Indianapolis, South Bend has a lot to offer visitors and it's affordable so you can stay longer. That's why I think it's the second best place to visit in Indiana.
My personal highlight was the University of Notre Dame. Walking across the campus feels like being in a different time, with the golden dome, the Basilica and other beautiful historic buildings that completely won me over. It was busy in July due to summer vacationers.
Downtown South Bend adds even more to the experience. The riverfront is lovely, one of the coolest city attractions I’ve come across. Don't skip the Studebaker National Museum if you are a fan of history and cars. I thought it was one of the coolest museums in the Midwest. There are many unique restaurants to choose from, such as the Fiddler's Hearth offering old-world setting, or The Lauber if your kids are demanding a good burger and fries.
If you have time, take a detour even further north afterwards to check out the best beaches in Michigan.
8. Evansville
Downtown Evansville felt historic yet alive, with brick buildings now home to boutiques, art spaces, and restaurants.
We drove from Bloomington, a scenic two-hour journey through farmland, small towns, and countryside. Evansville is a graceful river city with Victorian elegance, late-19th-century structures and Art Deco landmarks downtown.
I spent the afternoon exploring the Reitz Home Museum, a beautifully preserved 1871 mansion. From there, I wandered along Main Street, and then toward the riverfront for sunset. Dinner at The Rooftop meant sweeping views over the Ohio River.
I stayed two restful nights at the DoubleTree by Hilton Evansville, a smartly updated downtown hotel attached to the historic Ford Center.
My personal highlight was the way the Ohio River reflects the golden glow of the city’s vintage-style lamps in the evening.
9. Chesterton
Just an hour from Chicago, Downtown Chesterton was instantly welcoming. We spent 90 minutes browsing the European Market and tasting some amazing fresh pastries. Later, I drove just a few minutes north to Indiana Dunes State Park, one of my favorite beach spots on Lake Michigan.
Public transit is possible here too if you plan ahead and check the schedule. 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.
10. Columbus, Indiana
I found this charming Midwestern town to be a hidden gem worth exploring this month from our comfortable base at 3-star Hotel Indigo Columbus Architectural Center for two days. 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.
The streets were alive with color, due to public art and the wonderful flower displays. The Columbus Farmers Market is a highlight, complete with live music, and local produce.
From our hotel overlooking Mill Race Park, we wandered through the Columbus Visitors Center, and admired the world-famous buildings designed by Eero Saarinen and I.M. Pei
Relaxing by the Driftwood and Flatrock Rivers was lovely in the summer. We visited the cozy Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor & Museum for an old-fashioned treat. Evenings were spent exploring small galleries, and catching a performance at the Commons.
My personal highlight was sampling local craft beer at Upland Columbus Pump House by the river.
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.
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.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
