Often overlooked by visitors as a tourist destination, the slow-paced Midwestern state is primarily famous for the Indy 500 race, its once-thriving industrial towns, and the Amish communities.
Bordering Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Illinois, it’s also home to a hugely diverse range of stunning landscapes, including golden lake shores flanked by moody dunes, swaying cornfields, leafy parks, and interesting caves. Here are my all-time favorite spots…
1. Indiana Dunes National Park
Formerly known as Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana Dunes National Park is the 61st national park in the U.S. Located within 40 miles of Chicago, Indiana Dunes State Park is part of the national park.
Running along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, the majestic national park spreads across 15,000 acres. Comprising some of the most beautiful diversities with towering dunes, marshes, wetlands, prairies, and vast fields of wildflowers, this charming landscape is a favorite of mine!
I recommend hiking along the peaceful forests or dipping your toes on the beach; in my opinion, the adventure-filled wilderness is a perfect getaway from the bustling city!
- Address: 1600 N 25 E, Chesterton, IN 46304-1142
- Best time to visit: Spring to early fall
My favorite highlights…
- Hiking through the dunes to reach the lakeshore and then heading North where I stumbled upon the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore.
- Enjoying a picnic on the beautiful beach.
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2. Coxhall Gardens
I personally think a visit to Carmel is incomplete without touring the most picturesque park, Coxhall Gardens. Jesse and Beulah Cox donated the 125-acre park to Hamilton County Parks and Recreation in 1999.
An oasis amid the sea of homes, Coxhall Gardens’ freshly manicured lawns, water bodies, colorful flowers, and expansive garden make It a popular destination for visitors and photographers.
This park includes a museum, an elegant centerpiece, bell towers, and mirroring ponds with plenty of green space. This serene location is ideal for walking, biking, and enjoying the beautiful outdoors!
- Address: 11677 Towne Rd, Carmel, IN 46032
- Best time to visit: Spring is the best when the flowers bloom.
My personal highlights…
- Taking a stroll around the beautiful landscapes and photographing the colorful flower beds and ornamental trees.
- Having a picnic near the lake shores.
- Attending the Annual Posh Picnic, which takes place every August.
3. Potato Creek State Park
Tucked away in north-central Indiana’s South Bend, the Potato Creek State Park was a territory of Native Americans in the 1830s. One of the most visited parks in the state, the sprawling state park covers 3840 acres, and Lake Worster is the focal point.
The park offers a prime spot to get close to nature, with mature woodlands, restored prairies, old fields, and diverse wetlands.
The park provides many activities, including hiking, kayaking, swimming, picnicking, mountain biking, and bird watching. With year-round camping and forested beauty, the campground allows access to some of the best outdoor activities.
- Address: 25601 IN-4, North Liberty, IN 46554
- Best time to visit: Summer and fall season are the best.
My highlights…
- Hiking the 10-mile Potato Creek Trail which took me in a scenic loop around the park.
- Going paddleboarding on the lake (rentals are available in the park).
4. Washington Park Beach
I personally think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the charming beauty of the sandy Washington Park Beach! Spreading across more than 100 acres, the large expanse of beach offers a pretty walkway onto the beach.
Walk out on the Pier or launch your kayaks from the beach. The Lighthouse Museum provides a wonderful history of the area. Sit around and witness the stunning sunset with the Chicago skyline as a backdrop, or enjoy beach sports along the dunes. The beach is fun for all to enjoy.
- Address: City Hall & 100 E. Michigan, Michigan City, IN 46360
- Best time to visit: spring to fall seasons are considered best. Summer season is usually crowded.
My personal highlights…
- Taking a stroll along the long concrete pathway that leads to a lighthouse directly from the beach.
- Going kayaking (there are rentals).
5. Indiana State Capitol Building
Indiana’s statehouse is an outstanding, majestic structure rebuilt in 1888 on the previous state capitol building. Designed by architect Edwin May, it is the fifth state building in America’s heartland, Indianapolis.
Constructed on Indiana limestone and white oak, the beautiful dome has lovely stained glass with grand staircases on both sides of the building.
The stunning architecture, decorated with classical paintings, sculptures, murals, and opulent chandeliers, sets a perfect model for state capitols nationwide!
- Address: 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
- Best time to visit: the building is open for year-round tours.
My personal highlights…
- Learning about the history of the building on a guided tour.
- Visiting the nearby Eiteljorg Museum which had many interesting American Indian artefacts and Western Art.
6. Brown County State Park
Amidst the winding roads and rugged vistas, Indiana’s largest state park, the Brown County State Park occupies nearly 16,000 acres.
Also called the “Little Smokies,” the state park features fog-shrouded ravines, steep slopes, deep gullies, ridges, and lush forestland. Established in 1929, it memorialises the state’s renowned humorist, Kin Hubbard.
Indiana’s fall colour hot spot, the state park, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers various activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, camping, and outdoor fun.
I recommend enjoying the scenic vistas of sunrise or sunset or exploring the surrounding county and the town of Nashville; this wonderful place takes you a step back in time!
- Address: 1801 IN-46, Nashville, IN 47448
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall seasons are the best time to observe vibrant foliage and wildflowers bloom.
My highlights…
- Hiking Trail 10, which took me to the striking fire tower.
- Camping overnight in Taylor Ridge Campground, surrounded by unspoilt nature and woodland.
7. Mounds State Park
The tranquil Mounds State Park near Anderson is a Native American heritage comprising unique earthworks built by prehistoric Indians.
The largest earthwork, often called the “Great Mound”, dates back to around 160 B.C. The mounds were used as a gathering place for religious ceremonies.
Today, the peaceful state park offers hiking, camping, bird-watching and water activities to enjoy all nature has to offer. On the northwest of the park lies the Mounds State Recreation Area.
I personally think it’s a great place to go and walk around and enjoy the scenery, as the park offers fairly easy trails through the woods.
Address: 4306 Mounds Rd, Anderson, IN 46017
The best time to visit: spring and fall seasons.
My highlights…
- Spending a few nights at Mounds State Recreation Area where we went hiking and boating.
- Visiting the nature center and watching the birds (there’s a room where you can spot them from inside).
8. Turkey Run State Park
Discover Indiana’s ancient remains in Turkey Run State Park on a trip through time. Located in Parke County, less than a 90-minute drive from Indianapolis, the Turkey Run State Park is a place to reconnect with nature.
Discover the deep canyons of sandstone amid old-growth forests and hemlock groves.
Flowing through the park’s heart is the picturesque Sugar Creek, known for boating and canoeing. The ruggedly beautiful hiking trails, swimming pool, and picnic area offer a stunning natural retreat.
- Address: 8121 Park Rd, Marshall, IN 47859
- Best time to visit: any season except the winter.
My personal highlights…
- Trying delicious cinnamon rolls bought from the Golden Forrest gift shop.
- Going on a canoeing tour.
9. Cataract Falls
Nestled in northern Owen County along with west-central Indiana, the stunning Cataract Falls is the largest waterfall in Indiana.
Part of the Lieber State Recreation Area, the Cataract Falls were formed by ancient glacial bedrock ridges. The flat rocks consist of two sets of waterfalls a mile apart on Mill Creek, which are great for picnicking, hiking, or enjoying the view.
In my opinion, the picturesque scenery, rushing cascades, and bubbling waters make it a lovely place to spend an entire day!
- Address: Bolinas Fairfax Road, Fairfax, CA 94970
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall.
My personal highlights…
- Photographing the stunning upper and lower cataract falls.
- Relaxing on the shores of Cagles Mill Lake.
10. Griffy Lake Nature Preserve
The Griffy Lake Nature Preserve is just minutes from downtown Bloomington. It is a striking preserve with scenic woodlands and vast fauna and flora.
Originally designed as a reservoir, Griffy Lake is now a paradise for nature seekers. Covering 1,200 acres, the unique Preserve offers a variety of activities.
Hike along the wooded ridges or rent a canoe. This beautiful spot is perfect for catching glimpses of bluegill, largemouth bass, and catfish. It is a great place to hike and explore, and I personally think the tranquil lake is a perfect spot for a family picnic!
- Address: 3400 N Headley Rd, Bloomington, IN 47408
- Best time to visit: Spring season to view blooming wildflowers.
My favorite highlights…
- Paddleboarding on the gorgeous lake.
- Making use of the picnic tables which were surrounded by stunning scenery.
11. East Pierhead Lighthouse
Often called the Michigan City Breakwater Lighthouse, the East Pierhead Lighthouse is located in the harbor of Michigan City. Built in 1904, the lighthouse has become a historical symbol of Michigan City.
The only operating lighthouse in Indiana is the pier and the lighthouse off Michigan City Beach. The elevated lighthouse, popularly called the “catwalk”, is a great spot to watch sunsets.
The pier is also a favorite destination for photographers and local artists for a pretty lighthouse picture.
- Address: Constitution Ave, Bedford, IN 47421
- Best time to visit: late spring to early fall season.
My favorite highlights
12. Hoosier National Forest
Nestled in the lush green hills of south-central Indiana, the Hoosier National Forest is managed by the United States Forest Service. Amid the rolling hills, rural crossroads, and backcountry trails, the beautiful forest spread over 200,000 acres is a local treasure.
Minutes away from Bloomington is Indiana’s expansive national forest, which offers miles of hiking, cycle trails, camping, and fantastic sightseeing activities.
The headquarters are in Bedford, and popular attractions include the Lick Creek Settlement and the Potts Creek Rockshelter Archeological Site.
- Address: 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall season for natural beauty.
My favorite highlights…
- Hiking the Hemlock Cliffs.
- Exploring the interesting BlueSpring Caverns on an underground boat tour.
13. Clifty Falls State Park
The rugged geological splendor of Clifty Falls State Park, part of Indiana State Park in Jefferson County, enthralls visitors with its enchanting beauty.
Popular attractions of this state park include Clifty Creek, Little Clifty Creek, and a canyon. The Creek’s bed features fossil remnants of the ancient marine ecosystem.
I suggest witnessing the forces of nature at work with the deep-cut gorges, sheetrock walls, and plenty of hiking to get the best view of the man-made cave and downtown Madison.
Address: 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for gorgeous scenery.
My favorite highlights…
- Going on the fun Rockin Thunder River Tour, which was a unique jet-boat tour.
- Sampling handcrafted wines at Lanthier Winery & Distillery, I recommend the Cranberry Grande!
14. Holliday Park
One of Indianapolis’s oldest parks, Holliday Park, offers some of the most diverse ecosystems, with natural springs, wetlands, woodlands, ponds, ornamental gardens, and more.
Part of the country estate donated by John and Evaline Holliday in 1916, the extensive nature gardens are open to visitors, who can stroll through them or hike the exciting trails.
Along with the heavily wooded forests, visitors can find innumerable native species of birds and animals and relish the serene beauty of this park.
- Address: 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260
- Best time to visit: spring or fall season. Summer is usually crowded.
My favorite highlights…
- Exploring the Holiday Park Ruins, which are the interesting historical remains of a mansion.
- Taking a stroll along the banks of the scenic White River
15. Sapphire Natural Pool, White Rock Park
Named for its pristine blue waters, the Sapphire natural pool in White Rock Park is one of the most stunning attractions in St. Paul. Initially a quarry, the natural pool is now a great place for thrill-seekers.
Experience the thrill of cliff diving or scuba diving; this natural pool is a perfect place to relax and camp.
Bubbling with water sports, you can enjoy serene boating long with this idyllic setting or zip lining over the blue waters.
- Address: 7080 750 E, St Paul, IN 47272
- Best time to visit: Summer.
My favorite highlights…
- Swimming in the cool blue water.
- Watching the brave cliff-divers! (I wasn’t brave enough to try)!
- Going ziplining.
16. Clifty Falls State Park
Clifty Falls is a state park on 1,416 acres near Madison, IN. The majestic waterfalls change their mood with the weather and season and can vary from roaring plunges to graceful bridal-veil mists to sparkling frozen titans.
The park receives an estimated 370,000 visitors annually, and once there, I highly recommend exploring peaceful nature trails or even camping.
- Address: 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall season.
My favorite highlights…
- Taking photographs for my Instagram, it’s a very photogenic spot!
- Checking out the educational display at the Nature Center.
