Spice things up and hit the road!
Here's a list of ideas of fun day trips that you can take from Indy for a good change of pace. All of these places are accessible with one tank of gas or less for a round trip, so you spend less time on the road and more time getting your fun on. Can’t feel those spring vibes yet? Get the heck out of town! No, really. Hit the road.
Image Via: Little Tibet
Bloomington
International + Vegan Food Tour
Bloomington, Indiana is the seat of some of the best international and vegan dining in the whole state, making it an ideal starting point for expanding your palate. While there has always been a lot of international influence in the home of Indiana University, the explosion of authentic Asian dining has been one of the biggest highlights. Both Longfei and the long-standing Little Tibet are must-visits, and somewhere in the middle, take a walk to Rainbow Bakery for some vegan treats that aren’t missing a thing.
It goes without saying that IU has one of the most beautiful, walkable campuses in the nation, so carve out plenty of time to walk and gaze.
Image Via Holiday World & Splashin' Safari
Holiday World
Indiana’s Best Campy Theme Park
We will hear no besmirching of the good name of Holiday World, which retains its crown as the best value for a driveable theme park. It’s weird and campy and fun and cheap, and they’ve got free sunscreen and soda all day, and everyone who works at the park is so darn nice. There’s not much around the park aside from hotels, so plan to make a full day of it — don’t worry, there’s plenty of stuff to do at the park.
The water park doesn’t open until May, but if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, plan your visit for a weekday. Also, take a few ibuprofen if you’re over 30 and plan to ride the wooden coasters.
Image Via Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana Dunes
Gotta Climb Em All
The little scoop of Lake Michigan we get to claim is enveloped in enormous sand dunes (and recently became a national park) that beg to be climbed. It’s like the most beautiful, terrible workout you’ll ever have, but the views from the top of the dunes are absolutely stunning. Prepare for a chilly breeze off the water in spring and read all the warnings about getting stuck in the sand (it’s a real thing and it’s terrifying) and have fun. No need to bring a picnic as the area is surrounded by cute cafes and ice cream shops for tourists.
Please keep in mind that the dunes are a protected area, so where you see a wood trail, use that instead of hoofing it for the sake of the delicate ecosystem.
Image Via Cataract Falls Lodge
Cataract Falls
Watch Spring Come Alive
It’s one of the tallest waterfalls in Indiana, with two separate falls that make for a gorgeous hike when the trees start to green out. The falls drop a total of 86 feet along the falls, which was, at one point, the epicenter of nearly all the commerce in what used to be called Jennings Township. Bring a camera, as the scenes of the surrounding Lieber State Park in spring bloom, will make you wish you could keep it forever in hi-res.
Make a stop at either El Cantarito or Lou’s Diner in Cloverdale for two sides of the same home-cooked, homestyle coin.
Image Via Patrick T'Kindt
Fort Wayne
Indy But With A Twist
Just northeast of Indy lies Fort Wayne. If you haven't been, it is 100% worthy of a day trip! The city has so much to do. Festivals are regularly occurring, and any local will tell you that you have to see Three Rivers Fest in person! Otherwise, the Farmer's Market is full of great (and delicious vendors). Otherwise, don't forget to stop by Fort Wayne's Famous Coney Island for a wiener in coordination with stopping by the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo. Fort Wayne is also home to several sports teams that are fun to watch, like the TinCaps and the Komets.
Image Via French Lick Resort
French Lick/West Baden Springs
The Best Place To Relax
If you've never been, that probably means you're due for a trip down south. French Lick and West Baden Springs put R&R at the forefront. It's an isolated, darling part of the state that seeks to soothe you of all your worries. French Lick Resort is home to a 27,000-square-foot spa and features 28 various rooms full of luxurious treatments.
Image Via Visit Madison Indiana
Madison
Nature Galore
Madison, Indiana is a beautiful town along the southern Indiana border. It's nestled along the Ohio River and offers beautiful scenery like Clifty Falls State Park and Madison Riverwalk. In between your walking and hiking, you can also hit up downtown shops, and cafes.
What are your fav day trips to take from Indy? Let us know at [email protected]
