8 Ideal Indiana Destinations for a 3-Day Weekend in 2024
Looking to get away for a long weekend? These eight Indiana destinations are perfect for a long, relaxing three-day weekend. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or thrill-seeker, these towns promise a delightful escape. Soak in the natural mineral springs at French Lick or travel back in time to Indiana’s oldest city, Vincennes. Indiana has a little of everything, from beaches to forests to bustling cities ready to explore. The Hoosier State offers so much adventure for a fantastic three-day weekend.
Nashville
Visitors looking to escape from suburbia need not look further than Nashville, Indiana. Nicknamed the "Little Smokies," tourists don’t have to travel to the Southern United States to get lost in the wonders of the mountains. For the best experience, Brown County State Park awaits. It boasts a striking resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains and offers magnificent views and plenty of hiking trails to spend the day.
Much like its Southern counterpart, Nashville, Indiana, has a thriving arts scene in its historic downtown district. To this end, art lovers can’t miss the T.C. Steele State Historic Site, the former home of the famous Indiana artist T.C. Steele. Those who plan to visit during the summer can catch a local festival such as the Brown County Music Festival, the Brown County Studio Tour, or the Indiana Wine Fair. Hang up your hat at the Brown County Inn, which offers a cozy setting with a restaurant and nightly live entertainment.
Winona Lake
Another great spot to relax and unwind from the chaos of the larger cities is the charming town of Winona Lake. It’s an excellent spot for nature lovers and those who need a little more excitement in their lives. Enthusiasts can spend a peaceful afternoon at Winona Lake Park, walking the hiking trails or swimming in the lake. Meanwhile, shopaholics should visit the charming Village at Winona, which is packed with unique shopping opportunities, delicious cafes, and lakeside dining.
As a bustling lakeside town, the downtown area is a hub for many local festivals and events. Plan your trip in the summer during the Winona Lake Art Fair or the annual Canal Days festival to catch live music and amazing food. Winona Lake has many local B&Bs and cabins available for rental. One of the popular spots is The Blue Heron Guest House, situated on the peaceful shores of Winona Lake.
French Lick
French Lick is one of those unique towns with a perfect marriage of adventure, excitement, and relaxation. Starting with excitement, tourists can test their luck at the French Lick Resort Casino via slots, poker, or various table games. This casino also has live entertainment at one of the many restaurants located within the premises. Those who live for adventure and nature opt for Hoosier National Forest instead, boasting plenty of scenic trails and lush foliage. Or, put away your hiking shoes and enjoy the view from the French Lick Scenic Railway.
After a long day of hiking (or trying your luck at the casino), unwind at the French Lick Resort. Pamper yourself at the spa or take a guided tour of the historic property. No stay at French Lick is complete without a dip in the historic mineral springs at the French Lick West Baden Museum.
Michigan City
Nestled on the scenic shore of Lake Michigan is the town of Michigan City, known for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly attractions. Most people spend the day soaking up the sun at one of the more popular attractions of Michigan City, Indiana Dunes National Park. Home to 15,000 acres of beautiful outdoors, it checks all the boxes of a relaxing beach vacation: sunbathing, birdwatching, swimming, and hiking.
For more excitement, head inland to the Washington Park Beach and Zoo, where one can explore various animal exhibits and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Swap out the natural sights with paved streets to experience the bustling downtown area. Along with shops and restaurants, it hosts many seasonal festivals like the Michigan City In-Water Boat Show and Fourth of July fireworks. When you’re ready to call it a day, check-in at the Blue Chip Casino, Hotel, and Spa for luxurious accommodations and a full-service spa.
Angola
Tucked into the Northeast corner of Indiana is the hidden gem of Angola. Its rustic charm, amazing views, and small-town energy make it the perfect spot to unwind for a long weekend. Pokagon State Park is one of the most popular destinations in the state, and it’s a great place to visit four seasons out of the year. Hike the trails during the summer and check out the park's refrigerated toboggan run in the winter.
Head to the historic downtown area for an afternoon of shopping at their quaint shops and boutiques. After shopping, you can’t miss the towering Soldiers’ Monument (constructed in 1917) in the heart of downtown. In addition to the static attractions, Angola hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Angola Balloons Aloft, a hot air balloon festival, and the annual Cruise to the Monument classic car show. Visitors can stay in the lovely Wingate by Wyndham Angola or book a peaceful lakeside cabin on Lake James.
Patoka Lake
While not technically a town, Patoka Lake is the perfect relaxing spot to unwind over a long weekend. As Indiana’s second-largest reservoir, it offers fantastic sunsets, outdoor adventure, and wooded views everywhere you look. Head to Patoka Lake State Park for a full day of hiking, relaxing on the beach, or camping. Moreover, Patoka Lake itself covers about 8,800 acres, making it a perfect place for fishing, swimming, or taking a boat out on the water.
After a long day on the water, make sure you check out Patoka Lake Winery. Here, one can enjoy a locally crafted wine on their rustic deck while taking in the beautiful scenery. While there are plenty of affordable hotels in the area, the Patoka Lake Floating Cabins are a special treat. These cozy cabins are situated right on the water, and visitors can wake up to stunning views of Patoka Lake.
New Harmony
Those looking for Utopia on their weekend rejoice at the unique town of New Harmony. Fun Fact: it’s the home of a social experiment conducted in the early 19th century by George Rapp to create the perfect human paradise. The Utopia vision may have failed in the 1820s, but its striking beauty and cultural attractions make it a wonderful place for a long weekend. Before taking in the town’s charm, visitors should charge their batteries at the New Harmony Inn Resort, which offers spa services, a lovely garden, and an in-house restaurant.
Most tourists head straight to The Roofless Church, one of New Harmony’s most sacred spaces that symbolizes the heart of town. Other peaceful attractions include the Harmonist Cemetery and the Historic New Harmony Atheneum grounds, both offering a glimpse into local heritage. If you plan your stay just right, you can partake in one of their many community festivals, such as Kunstfest (celebrating the town’s German heritage) and the Golden Raintree Antique Show.
Vincennes
As the oldest city in Indiana, Vincennes has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1732. The town was once owned by the French (hence the name), then owned by the British, and eventually became an American city after the Revolutionary War in 1776. Thus, it’s the perfect long weekend retreat for history buffs. Visitors who fit this category have to check out notable landmarks like the Saint Francis Xavier Old Cathedral and the Harrison Mansion Grouseland. The former was once a crude log structure and the site of Indiana’s first Catholic parish. For more history, the historic downtown district is full of rustic buildings, antique stores, and plenty of eateries to keep you going.
Taking advantage of its location along the Wabash River, Vincennes hosts the Riverfest in summer, a night filled with live music, local food, and friendly locals. On the other hand, winter is also a vibrant time here thanks to the lovely Christmas Parade and Festival. No matter how you spend your day, the night is sure to be comfortable, thanks to Vincennes’s many affordable accommodations. Among these, the best places to stay in Vincennes are the Lechner House and Hampton Inn Vincennes, both offering a relaxing ambiance ideal for a three-day stay.
Unwind in the Hoosier State
No matter what you love, these Indiana destinations are perfect for everyone. Whether you want to relax on a floating cabin on Patoka Lake or travel back in time to the historic town of Vincennes, Indiana is the place to be. Moreover, visitors can look forward to events like Michigan City’s Fourth of July fireworks and the bustling Riverfest in Vincennes. Or just treat yourself to a spa weekend at the New Harmony Inn Resort to capture Utopia over the long weekend. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover what Indiana has in store.
