Explore your state and take a weekend road trip. No matter your interests – historic, athletic, family-friendly, etc. – there are plenty of worthwhile destinations right here in Indiana. Here are a few ideas to get you started!
Marengo Cave – Marengo, IN
http://marengocave.com/
Drive about two and a half hours south from Indianapolis and you’ll arrive upon Marengo Cave, a U.S. National Landmark. The cave is approximately five miles long. Activity choices include easy walking tours, cave exploration trips, gemstone mining, cave simulator, or canoeing adventures on the nearby Blue River. Reservations are not required for show cave visitors.
Kids Commons – Columbus, IN
http://www.kidscommons.org/
Located in downtown Columbus, Kids Commons is an inviting museum for children of all ages to learn about the community and world. In one of their more popular exhibits, exploraHouse, kids can explore everything about a home, including their world famous giant toilet!
Conner Prairie – Fishers, IN
http://www.connerprairie.org/
As one of the most visited outdoor museums in the country, Conner Prairie is a must-see Indiana attraction. Set up as an interactive history park, the grounds are divided into separate eras in history. The William Conner house, which is located within Conner Prairie, is believed to be one of the first brick structures built in Indiana in 1823. A visit to Conner Prairie is an interactive experience where you can talk to staff dressed in period clothing and participate in historic activities such as making candles or a daily classroom lesson in an old school house.
Indiana Dunes – Chesterton, IN
http://www.indianadunes.com/
If you’re up for a bit of a physical challenge, plan a trip to tackle the three tallest dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park. The toughest trail at the park is a 1.5 path with a 552 vertical climb. At the end of the hike, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.
Holiday World, Santa Claus, Indiana
http://www.holidayworld.com/
Established in 1946 as Santa Claus Land, the park has evolved over time into Holiday World – a combination water park and theme park celebrated for its family-friendliness. The park is divided into four holiday themed sections-Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the Fourth of July. In addition to being known for its wooden roller coasters, Holiday World is also known for offering free sunscreen, soft drinks, and parking.
Angel Mounds, Evansville, IN
https://www.indianamuseum.org/angel-mounds-state-historic-site#
Did you know that one thousand years ago southwest Indiana was the home of an ancient community of Mississippian Indians? You can explore the site of one of the best-preserved, pre-contact Native American inhabitants at the Angel Mounds. This Historic State Site contains 11 earthen mounds the population built as well as an interpretive center and recreations of Mississippian buildings.
