There’s something about spring weather that makes us want to get out there and explore! While taking a long, out-of-state road trip is always fun, there are plenty of visit-worthy destinations right here in our home state.
1.) Exotic Feline Rescue Center, Center Point, IN
www.exoticfelinerescuecenter.org/
A nationally-acclaimed leader in big cat rescue, conservation, and care, the Exotic Feline Rescue Center (EFRC) is home to around 200 exotic cats. With nine different species under their care, the center is one of the largest rescue centers in the United States for abused and abandoned felines. The EFRC makes clear that they are not a zoo, but a working rescue. If you visit, they recommend planning for an hour-long walking tour on outside gravel paths. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Children under the age of five must be held at all times and they recommend strollers for younger children.
2.) DeBrand Fine Chocolates Tour, Fort Wayne, IN
www.debrand.com/aboutus/tours/
Founded in 1987, DeBrand Fine Chocolates employs nearly 100 people with retail stores in Fort Wayne and Indianapolis. When you visit the beautiful corporate headquarters of DeBrand Fine Chocolate in Fort Wayne, Indiana, be sure to not just sample the goods, but take a peek at their chocolatiers in action. The tour starts with a short video on the history of DeBrand. From there, you’ll be able to see the kitchens. Tours even include a tasting of several gourmet chocolate samples! Each tour typically lasts 30-45 minutes.
3.) Windsurfing on Wolf Lake, Hammond, IN
hammondportauthority.com/activities/wind-surfing/
When you think of Indiana, windsurfing isn’t typically the first sport that comes to mind. However, the New York Times acknowledges Wolf Lake, in Hammond, Indiana, as one of the premier spots for windsurfing in the country! Covering more than 800 acres, Wolf Lake is divided by the Indiana-Illinois state line. If you’re looking to surf the brisk winds from Lake Michigan that blow across Wolf Lake’s surface, it’s recommended that you launch onto the lake near the splash pad of the Wolf Lake Aquatic Play Center.
4.) Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Speedway, IN
www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com
Speaking of sports that come to mind when you think of Indiana, we would be remiss not to mention the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), especially near the month of May.
When the Indianapolis Motor Speedway officially opened in June of 1909, a gallon of gas was six cents and the average price of a new car was $1,280! Today, IMS is home to multiple events throughout the year including the INDYCAR Grand Prix, Brickyard Vintage Racing Invitational, Red Bull Air Race, and of course, the beloved Indy 500. If you aren’t able to make it to one of the official races or time trials throughout the year, the IMS Museum is all year round, except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day and it’s collection features cars from many series including IndyCar, NASCAR, Formula One, Sprint and Midget.
5.) Architectural Tour, Columbus, IN
https://columbus.in.us/tour-options/
If quiet tours of architecture and modern art are more your style, then Columbus, Indiana, might be your type of destination. Despite its relatively small population, Columbus is home to more than 70 buildings designed by renowned architects. The American Institute of Architects even named the city as America’s sixth-best city for architectural innovation. Information for self-guided walking tours are available. Or for a fee, you can opt for a guided bus tour that visits more than 40 structures and works of art. Be sure not to miss the 1950s Miller House and Gardens, which is touted as one of the best examples of mid-century modern architecture in the country.
No matter where your travels take you, we hope you stay safe and enjoy your trip. The certified technicians at Jiffy Lube of Indiana are always here to help keep your car in road trip condition. If you decide to take your vehicle elsewhere before heading out on the road, be sure you have a thorough inspection that includes checking your oil and other fluids, serpentine belts, wiper blades, filtration system, exterior lights, tire pressure, and chassis. Happy roadtripping!
