10 Best Places to Visit in Indiana

Indiana is a state that offers a lot of diversity and charm to its visitors. Whether you are looking for history, culture, nature, or adventure, you will find something to suit your taste in Indiana. From the bustling capital of Indianapolis to the serene countryside of Amish Country, Indiana has something for everyone.

Map of Places to Visit in Indiana

10 Best Places to Visit in Indiana

10. Columbus

Columbus is a small city that boasts a big reputation for its artistic and architectural treasures. Thanks to the generous patronage of the Cummins engine company, Columbus has attracted some of the world’s most renowned architects and designers to create stunning public and private buildings and artworks. You can admire the modern masterpieces of I.M. Pei, Cesar Pelli, Richard Meier, and more as you explore the city’s streets and parks.

Some of the highlights of Columbus include the North Christian Church, the Miller House and Garden, the Columbus City Hall, and the Large Arch sculpture. You can also visit the Columbus Area Visitors Center to learn more about the city’s history and culture, and join a guided tour to see the best of Columbus.

Some of the attractions and activities that you can do and see in Columbus are:

• Explore the Columbus Area Visitors Center, which is a striking modern building designed by Kevin Roche. The center offers a variety of services and resources for visitors, such as maps, brochures, tours, and exhibits. You can also see the Chaos I sculpture by Jean Tinguely, which is a kinetic artwork that moves and makes sounds.
• Visit the Miller House and Garden, which is a National Historic Landmark and one of the finest examples of mid-century modern architecture and design. The house was designed by Eero Saarinen, the landscape by Dan Kiley, and the interiors by Alexander Girard. You can tour the house and see its elegant and colorful features, such as the sunken conversation pit, the geometric rugs, and the modern art collection.
• See the North Christian Church, which is a remarkable religious building designed by Eero Saarinen. The church has a hexagonal shape and a 192-foot spire that points to the sky. The church also has a circular sanctuary that is surrounded by windows and a skylight, creating a serene and luminous atmosphere.
• Enjoy the scenery and wildlife of the Mill Race Park, which is a 85-acre park that features a lake, trails, and playgrounds. You can also see the Observation Tower, which is a 84-foot tall structure that offers panoramic views of the park and the city. The tower was designed by Stanley Saitowitz, and has a spiral ramp that leads to the top.

Columbus is a gem of the Midwest that will surprise and delight you with its scenic and cultural opportunities. You can find more information about the city on its official website or on Wikipedia. You can also check out some travel guides and reviews on other websites. Have a great time and enjoy your visit! 😊

9. Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial

If you are interested in the life and legacy of one of America’s most famous presidents, you should visit the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial. This is the site where Abraham Lincoln spent his childhood years, from 1816 to 1830, and where he learned the values and skills that shaped his character and career.

At the memorial, you can see the remains of the original Lincoln cabin, as well as a replica of a pioneer farm where costumed park rangers demonstrate the daily chores and activities of the 19th century. You can also visit the museum to see exhibits and artifacts related to Lincoln and his family, and watch a film that tells the story of his Indiana years. Don’t miss the Lincoln Living Historical Farm, where you can see live animals, crops, and gardens.

Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial is a park that commemorates the heroic exploits of George Rogers Clark, a Revolutionary War general who led a daring expedition to capture the British-held Fort Sackville in 1779. This victory secured the Northwest Territory for the United States and paved the way for the expansion of the nation.

The park features a massive granite memorial that stands on the site of the former fort. Inside the memorial, you can see a bronze statue of Clark, as well as seven murals that depict the scenes of his life and campaign. You can also visit the visitor center to see exhibits and artifacts related to Clark and the Revolutionary War, and watch a film that narrates the story of his mission.

The park is located in Vincennes, Indiana, on the banks of the Wabash River. The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The admission is free, but donations are welcome. You can find more information about the park on its official website¹ or on Wikipedia². You can also check out some travel guides and reviews on other websites³. Have a great time and enjoy your visit! 😊

8. New Harmony

New Harmony is a historic town that was once the site of two utopian experiments in the early 1800s. The first was led by a group of German religious dissenters called the Harmonists, who built a prosperous and peaceful community based on their faith and communal living. The second was led by a wealthy Scottish industrialist named Robert Owen, who tried to create a secular and progressive society based on education and social reform.

Today, New Harmony is a charming and tranquil place that preserves the legacy of these visionary movements. You can visit the historic buildings and landmarks that reflect the town’s unique history, such as the Harmonist Labyrinth, the Roofless Church, the Atheneum, and the Working Men’s Institute. You can also enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of the town, which is surrounded by the Wabash River and lush forests.

Some of the attractions and activities that you can do and see in New Harmony are:

• Explore the Harmonist Labyrinth, which is a circular maze of hedges that symbolizes the spiritual journey of the Harmonists. You can walk through the labyrinth and reach the center, where you will find a small chapel and a grotto.
• Visit the Roofless Church, which is a unique architectural masterpiece designed by Philip Johnson. The church has no roof, walls, or windows, and is open to the sky and nature. The church features a sculpture by Jacques Lipchitz, called the Descent of the Spirit, which represents the universal spirit of religion.
• See the Atheneum, which is a striking modern building designed by Richard Meier. The Atheneum serves as the visitor center and museum of New Harmony, and showcases the history and culture of the town. The Atheneum also has a theater, a library, and a restaurant.
• Learn about the history and culture of New Harmony at the Working Men’s Institute, which is the oldest continuously operating public library in Indiana. The institute also has a museum and an art gallery, which display various artifacts and artworks related to New Harmony and its people.
• Enjoy the scenery and wildlife of the Wabash River and the Harmonie State Park, which offer many opportunities for outdoor recreation. You can go fishing, boating, hiking, biking, or camping in the park, or join a guided tour to see the historic sites and landmarks along the river.

New Harmony is a gem of the Midwest that will surprise and delight you with its scenic and cultural opportunities. You can find more information about the town on its official website¹ or on Wikipedia. You can also check out some travel guides and reviews on other websites. Have a great time and enjoy your visit! 😊

7. Amish Country

If you want to experience a simpler and slower way of life, you should visit the Amish Country in northern Indiana. This is where you can find one of the largest and oldest Amish settlements in the nation, with over 20,000 Amish people living in the area. The Amish are a religious group that shun modern technology and follow a strict code of conduct and dress.

In the Amish Country, you can see the traditional farms, houses, and shops of the Amish, and witness their horse-drawn buggies and carriages on the roads. You can also sample their delicious homemade food, such as pies, bread, cheese, and jams, and buy their handcrafted goods, such as quilts, furniture, and pottery. You can also learn more about the Amish culture and history at the Menno-Hof museum, or join a guided tour to visit some of the Amish communities.

Some of the towns and attractions that you can visit in Amish Country are:

• Shipshewana: This is the heart of Amish Country, and a popular destination for tourists. You can find the Midwest’s Largest Flea Market here, which takes place every Tuesday and Wednesday from May to September. You can also visit the Shipshewana Auction and Antique Gallery, which sells a variety of items, such as furniture, art, and collectibles. You can also enjoy the cultural and musical shows at the Blue Gate Theatre, or the animal exhibits at the Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park.
• Nappanee: This is a historic town that has a rich heritage and a vibrant arts and crafts scene. You can visit the Nappanee Center, which houses the Nappanee Area Chamber of Commerce, the Evelyn Lehman Culp Heritage Collection, and the Nappanee Public Library. You can also visit the Coppes Commons, which is a former furniture factory that has been converted into a shopping and dining complex. You can also enjoy the in-home Amish dining experience, which allows you to have a home-cooked meal with an Amish family in their home.
• Middlebury: This is a charming town that is surrounded by scenic countryside and nature trails. You can visit the Das Dutchman Essenhaus, which is an all-in-one Amish destination that features a restaurant, a bakery, a hotel, a theater, and a mini-golf course. You can also visit the Krider World’s Fair Garden, which is a beautiful park that showcases the plants and structures that were displayed at the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair. You can also enjoy the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail, which is a 17-mile trail that follows the former route of the Pumpkinvine Railroad.
• Goshen: This is a lively and diverse city that offers a variety of attractions and activities. You can visit the Old Bag Factory, which is a former industrial site that has been transformed into a public park and beach. You can enjoy the views of the lake and the skyline, or have a picnic, play, or fish at the pavilion, plaza, or pier. You can also access the water trail, which is a 9-mile route that follows the Burns Waterway and Lake Michigan.

6. George Rogers Clark National Historical Park

George Rogers Clark National Historical Park is a park that commemorates the heroic exploits of George Rogers Clark, a Revolutionary War general who led a daring expedition to capture the British-held Fort Sackville in 1779. This victory secured the Northwest Territory for the United States and paved the way for the expansion of the nation.

The park features a massive granite memorial that stands on the site of the former fort. Inside the memorial, you can see a bronze statue of Clark, as well as seven murals that depict the scenes of his life and campaign. You can also visit the visitor center to see exhibits and artifacts related to Clark and the Revolutionary War, and watch a film that narrates the story of his mission.

The park is located in Vincennes, Indiana, on the banks of the Wabash River. The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The admission is free, but donations are welcome. You can find more information about the park on its official website¹ or on Wikipedia². You can also check out some travel guides and reviews on other websites³. Have a great time and enjoy your visit! 😊

5. Bloomington

Bloomington is a vibrant and lively city that is home to Indiana University, one of the most prestigious and beautiful campuses in the country. The university is the cultural and intellectual hub of the city, offering a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors. You can tour the campus and see its historic buildings and landmarks, such as the Sample Gates, the Indiana Memorial Union, and the Showalter Fountain. You can also visit the university’s museums and galleries, such as the Eskenazi Museum of Art, the Mathers Museum of World Cultures, and the Lilly Library.

Besides the university, Bloomington also has a thriving arts and entertainment scene, with many theaters, music venues, festivals, and events throughout the year. You can catch a show at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, listen to live music at the Bluebird Nightclub, or join the fun at the Lotus World Music and Arts Festival. You can also enjoy the city’s diverse and delicious dining options, ranging from farm-to-table restaurants to ethnic eateries.

Bloomington also has a rich and diverse heritage, which is reflected in its monuments and landmarks. You can visit the Monroe County Courthouse, which is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, or the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center, which is a peaceful and spiritual retreat. You can also visit the WonderLab Museum of Science, Health, and Technology, which is a hands-on science center for kids and adults.

If you are looking for some nature and recreation, you will find plenty of options in Bloomington. The city has many parks and green spaces that offer a variety of activities and amenities. You can visit the Griffy Lake Nature Preserve, which is a 1,200-acre park that features a lake, trails, and wildlife, or the Cascades Park, which is a 73-acre park that features waterfalls, playgrounds, and picnic areas. You can also visit the Lake Monroe, which is the largest lake in Indiana, and enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and camping.

Bloomington is a gem of the Midwest that will surprise and delight you with its scenic and recreational opportunities. You can find more information about the city on its official website or on Wikipedia. You can also check out some travel guides and reviews on other websites. Have a great time and enjoy your visit! 😊

4. South Bend

South Bend is a city that is best known for being the home of the University of Notre Dame, one of the most famous and respected Catholic universities in the world. The university is the main attraction of the city, with its stunning Gothic architecture, rich history, and legendary sports teams. You can visit the campus and see its iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Dome, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, and the Hesburgh Library. You can also watch a football game at the Notre Dame Stadium, or visit the Snite Museum of Art and the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes.

In addition to the university, South Bend also has other attractions and activities to offer, such as the Studebaker National Museum, which showcases the history and legacy of the Studebaker automobile company, the Potawatomi Zoo, which is the oldest zoo in Indiana, and the East Race Waterway, which is a man-made whitewater rafting course. You can also explore the city’s downtown area, which has many shops, restaurants, bars, and parks.

South Bend is not only a historical and cultural center, but also a fun and exciting destination for visitors of all ages and interests. The city has many attractions and activities to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the things you can do and see in South Bend:

• Enjoy the thrill and beauty of nature at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, which features over 1,000 animals from around the world, such as lions, tigers, giraffes, penguins, and monkeys. You can also feed the giraffes, ride the Sky Safari, or pet the stingrays at the zoo.
• Experience the arts and entertainment at the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, which showcases a variety of plants and flowers in different environments, such as a tropical rainforest, a desert oasis, and a seasonal garden. You can also attend special events and exhibits at the conservatory, such as the Butterfly Exhibit, the Holiday Show, or the Live Butterfly Release.
• Learn about the history and culture of Fort Wayne at the History Center, which displays over 26,000 artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the city and its people. You can also visit the Old Fort, a reconstructed fort that hosts historical reenactments and events, such as the Siege of Fort Wayne, the Muster on the St. Marys, or the Colonial America on the Frontier.
• Have fun and exercise at the Headwaters Park, which is a 30-acre park that offers a variety of amenities and activities for the whole family. You can enjoy the splash pad, ice rink, playground, and picnic areas at the park, or join the festivals and events that take place throughout the year, such as the Three Rivers Festival, the Germanfest, or the HolidayFest.
• Shop and dine at the downtown area, which has many shops, restaurants, bars, and parks to explore. You can find unique and local products at the Fort Wayne Farmers Market, or sample the diverse and delicious cuisine at the restaurants, such as the Hoppy Gnome, the Dash-In, or the Coney Island. You can also relax and enjoy the scenery at the Rivergreenway, which is a 25-mile trail that follows the rivers and connects the city’s parks and attractions.

3. Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park is a park that protects a spectacular stretch of shoreline along Lake Michigan, featuring towering sand dunes, diverse habitats, and scenic views. The park is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering over 50 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. You can also enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and camping on the lake, or join a ranger-led program to learn more about the park’s ecology and history. And Also top places to visit in indiana

One of the most popular attractions in the park is the 3 Dune Challenge, which is a 1.5-mile trail that climbs over the three highest dunes in the park, with a total elevation gain of 552 feet. The challenge is a fun and rewarding way to experience the beauty and diversity of the park, as well as to test your endurance and fitness.

Another attraction that will appeal to history and culture buffs is the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm, which are two historic sites that showcase the life and legacy of the early settlers and farmers in the region. You can visit the restored buildings and learn about the stories and traditions of the Bailly family, who were fur traders and pioneers, and the Chellberg family, who were Swedish immigrants and dairy farmers.

If you are looking for some relaxation and recreation, you can visit the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, which is a former industrial site that has been transformed into a public park and beach. You can enjoy the views of the lake and the skyline, or have a picnic, play, or fish at the pavilion, plaza, or pier. You can also access the water trail, which is a 9-mile route that follows the Burns Waterway and Lake Michigan.

Indiana Dunes National Park is a gem of the Midwest that will surprise and delight you with its scenic and recreational opportunities. You can find more information about the park on its official website or on Wikipedia. You can also check out some travel guides and reviews on other websites. Have a great time and enjoy your visit! 😊

2. Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne is a city that combines history, culture, and fun in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The city was founded as a military outpost in 1794, and played an important role in the War of 1812 and the American Civil War. You can learn more about the city’s past at the Old Fort, a reconstructed fort that hosts historical reenactments and events, or at the History Center, which displays over 26,000 artifacts and exhibits. And Also unique places to visit in indiana

Fort Wayne is also a cultural and artistic center, with many museums, galleries, and theaters to visit. You can see the works of local and regional artists at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, or enjoy a performance at the Embassy Theatre or the Fort Wayne Civic Theatre. You can also visit the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, which features a tropical garden, a desert garden, and a showcase garden.

Fort Wayne is also a great place for families, as it has many attractions and activities for kids of all ages. You can visit the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, which is one of the top zoos in the nation, or the Science Central, which is a hands-on science center with over 200 exhibits. You can also have fun at the Fort Wayne TinCaps baseball game, or at the Headwaters Park, which has a splash pad, ice rink, and playground.

Fort Wayne is not only a historical and cultural center, but also a fun and exciting destination for visitors of all ages and interests. The city has many attractions and activities to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the things you can do and see in Fort Wayne:

• Enjoy the thrill and beauty of nature at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, which features over 1,000 animals from around the world, such as lions, tigers, giraffes, penguins, and monkeys. You can also feed the giraffes, ride the Sky Safari, or pet the stingrays at the zoo.
• Experience the arts and entertainment at the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, which showcases a variety of plants and flowers in different environments, such as a tropical rainforest, a desert oasis, and a seasonal garden. You can also attend special events and exhibits at the conservatory, such as the Butterfly Exhibit, the Holiday Show, or the Live Butterfly Release.
• Learn about the history and culture of Fort Wayne at the History Center, which displays over 26,000 artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the city and its people. You can also visit the Old Fort, a reconstructed fort that hosts historical reenactments and events, such as the Siege of Fort Wayne, the Muster on the St. Marys, or the Colonial America on the Frontier.
• Have fun and exercise at the Headwaters Park, which is a 30-acre park that offers a variety of amenities and activities for the whole family. You can enjoy the splash pad, ice rink, playground, and picnic areas at the park, or join the festivals and events that take place throughout the year, such as the Three Rivers Festival, the Germanfest, or the HolidayFest.
• Shop and dine at the downtown area, which has many shops, restaurants, bars, and parks to explore. You can find unique and local products at the Fort Wayne Farmers Market, or sample the diverse and delicious cuisine at the restaurants, such as the Hoppy Gnome, the Dash-In, or the Coney Island. You can also relax and enjoy the scenery at the Rivergreenway, which is a 25-mile trail that follows the rivers and connects the city’s parks and attractions.

1. Indianapolis

Indianapolis is the capital and largest city of Indiana, and a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are into sports, culture, history, or nature, you will find plenty of things to see and do in Indianapolis.

Indianapolis also has a rich and diverse heritage, which is reflected in its monuments and landmarks. You can visit the Indiana War Memorial Plaza, which is a 24-acre park that honors the veterans and fallen heroes of Indiana, or the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, which is a 284-foot tall obelisk that stands at the center of the city. You can also visit the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, which is the former home and museum of the 23rd president of the United States, or the Crown Hill Cemetery, which is the final resting place of many famous and influential people, such as James Whitcomb Riley, John Dillinger, and President Harrison himself.

If you are looking for some nature and recreation, you will find plenty of options in Indianapolis. The city has many parks and green spaces that offer a variety of activities and amenities. You can visit the White River State Park, which is a 250-acre park that features a zoo, a botanical garden, a canal, and a concert venue, or the Eagle Creek Park, which is one of the largest city parks in the nation, with over 3,900 acres of land and water. You can also visit the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, which is an 8-mile urban bike and pedestrian path that connects the city’s cultural districts and attractions.