7 Most Scenic Drives in Indiana

Known for its Hoosier hospitality and rolling farmland, Indiana also boasts a variety of scenic drives that reveal the state’s diverse landscapes and history. From riverfront roads to lush forests, Indiana’s drives showcase the state’s blend of picture-perfect views and photo opportunities, historic landmarks, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or casual road-tripper, several drives through Indiana are worth the journey.

Ohio River Scenic Byway

The Ohio River Scenic Byway is a feast for the senses, blending sweeping river views with historic architecture and natural beauty over approximately 36 miles from Rising Sun to Madison via State Road 56. Start your journey in Rising Sun, where the picturesque riverwalk and quaint local shops invite you to linger before heading out. An optional detour into northern Kentucky brings you to the Rabbit Hash General Store, a beloved historic spot brimming with rustic charm and unique finds. Back on State Road 56, the route hugs the Ohio River, offering expansive views of the Ohio River framed by lush forests. Your drive concludes in the enchanting town of Madison, known for its 133-block historic district, one of the largest in the Midwest with beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings. This drive highlights Indiana’s riverfront charm, featuring panoramic views of the Ohio River, the historic district of Madison, and the natural splendor of Clifty Falls State Park, with its dramatic waterfalls and forested trails.

Heritage Trail Drive

For a taste of Indiana’s Amish heritage and pristine rural landscapes, the Heritage Trail Drive spans approximately 27 miles from Goshen to Middlebury via County Road 16. Start in Goshen, a bustling hub known for its thriving Amish markets and locally crafted goods. Pick up fresh produce or handmade items at the Goshen Farmers Market, then hit the road. The journey takes you past rolling farmland and calm countryside. Stop at Bonneyville Mill County Park, where trails and vibrant wildflowers surround a working grist mill. Another highlight is the Krider World’s Fair Garden, a peaceful oasis featuring gardens originally designed for the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair. Your drive ends in Middlebury, a charming small town where the slower pace of life allows you to truly unwind. Explore the countryside or enjoy a hearty Amish-style meal at a local eatery. This peaceful drive takes you through Indiana’s Amish countryside, where the working grist mill at Bonneyville Mill County Park and the historic Krider World’s Fair Garden provide unique glimpses into the region’s heritage.

Indiana Dunes Scenic Route

Discover the striking contrasts of Indiana’s Lake Michigan shoreline, where towering sand dunes meet lush wetlands and sandy beaches along the 14-mile Indiana Dunes Scenic Route from Chesterton to Beverly Shores via US-12. The route offers access to hiking trails with views of the Chicago skyline on clear days, adding a unique visual element to the journey. Begin in Chesterton, the gateway to Indiana Dunes National Park, where miles of sandy lakeside beaches, towering dunes, and diverse ecosystems create a paradise for hikers, birdwatchers, and beachgoers alike. Along the way, stop at the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm to explore the lives of early settlers through interactive exhibits and historic buildings. End your journey in Beverly Shores, known for its Century of Progress Homes, originally displayed at the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair. These striking, modernist houses add a touch of architectural intrigue to the area’s natural beauty. This drive is perfect for those who love the outdoors, combining beachside relaxation with fascinating history.

Wabash River Drive

The Wabash River Drive spans approximately 19 miles from Delphi to Lafayette via State Road 25, weaving through some of Indiana’s most historic and tranquil landscapes. Start in Delphi, home to the Wabash & Erie Canal Center, where you can learn about the region’s canal era and take a walk along restored towpaths. As you follow the winding Wabash River south, make a stop at Prophetstown State Park, which showcases restored prairie landscapes and offers a fascinating glimpse into Native American culture through the park’s living history exhibits. Your drive ends in Lafayette, a lively city that blends historic charm with modern energy. Visit the Battle Ground Memorial, which commemorates the pivotal Battle of Tippecanoe, or explore Lafayette’s vibrant downtown area for dining and shopping. This route offers a blend of Indiana’s rich canal era at the Wabash & Erie Canal Center and tranquil riverside views along the Wabash River, making it an educational and relaxing day trip.

Hoosier Hills Drive

The Hoosier Hills Drive offers a vibrant journey through Indiana’s woodlands, spanning approximately 40 miles from Nashville to Bloomington via State Road 46. Start in Nashville, a quaint artist colony in the heart of Brown County, where you can browse local art galleries before heading into Brown County State Park. Brown County State Park’s winding roads and overlooks burst with vibrant colors in autumn, making it a must-visit destination during the fall foliage season. Stop at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site, the home and studio of one of Indiana’s most renowned painters, where the rolling hills and lush landscapes inspired Steele’s work. End your journey in Bloomington, home to Indiana University, where you can explore historic buildings, a vibrant arts scene, and eclectic dining options. This drive weaves together art, nature, and culture, from the galleries of Nashville’s artist colony to the landscapes that inspired T.C. Steele’s iconic paintings.

Lincoln Heritage Trail

Step back in time on the Lincoln Heritage Trail, which spans approximately 25 miles from Santa Claus to Rockport via State Road 162. Begin in Santa Claus, a town that embraces its festive name with year-round Christmas-themed attractions. Families will love Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, a popular amusement park. As you drive toward Rockport, stop at the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, where you can explore the site where Abraham Lincoln spent much of his youth. The park features a reconstructed pioneer homestead and interactive exhibits. Your drive ends in Rockport, a historic riverside town where Lincoln worked as a young man. This route offers a family-friendly journey through history, from the interactive exhibits at the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial to the reconstructed pioneer homestead that brings Lincoln’s early years to life.

Whitewater Valley Drive

The Whitewater Valley Drive offers a nostalgic journey through Indiana’s canal era over approximately 15 miles from Brookville to Metamora via US-52. Start in Brookville, an idyllic town near Brookville Lake, which is perfect for fishing, boating, or hiking. Follow US-52 to Metamora, a charming canal town where time seems to stand still. Visit the Whitewater Canal State Historic Site, where you can take a canal boat ride pulled by horses or stop by the Laurel Feeder Dam for a peaceful picnic spot. This drive immerses travelers in Indiana’s canal era, with highlights like the horse-drawn canal boat rides in Metamora and the serene views of Brookville Lake.

Indiana’s Scenic Drives: A Road Trip Adventure

Indiana’s scenic drives offer something for every traveler, from the serene countryside of Amish country to the dramatic shores of Lake Michigan. Trace the paths of early settlers, explore vibrant small towns, or immerse yourself in the state’s natural beauty. Whether following the riverfronts of the Ohio or winding through the hills of Brown County, these routes promise memories that will linger long after the journey ends.