9 Great Road Trips to Take in Indiana
Indiana is known for its gently rolling hills and vibrant, far-spanning farmlands. This landscape makes it the perfect state for a scenic road trip with friends or family. The Hoosier State is also known as "The Crossroads of America” and offers plenty to see and do no matter which route you take. From major cities like Indianapolis to peaceful state parks, roadtrippers can enjoy iconic roadside attractions and unique stops as they make their way from point A to point B. So don’t wait, pack the car and hit the road today with these 9 great Indiana roadtrip ideas.
Indianapolis to Indiana Dunes National Park
The drive from Indianapolis to Indiana Dunes National Park spans roughly 156 miles and, without stopping, should take around three hours to complete. Travelers will start their journey on Meridian Street, where they hop on the I-70, eventually reaching US-12. Along the way, views of lush trees and gently rolling plains provide a relaxing atmosphere for everyone in the car. Beyond the views, roadtrippers will also find plenty of alluring stops along the way. History buffs will be especially interested in places such as the Weller-Calloway Round Barn and the Grissom Air Museum. The round barn has long been considered a historic staple in Indiana’s Miami County, while the Air Museum boasts hands-on experience and plenty of historic aircraft from the Cold War era. As for rest stops, travelers will find a decent variety of restaurants along the way, including the Dutch Cafe and Los Primos Grill and Bar. Another great stop along the way is the Big Rocking Chair in Peru, Indiana. The giant yellow rocker once advertised at a nearby furniture store but now serves as a fun roadside photo opportunity. Once arriving at Indian Dunes National Park, the real fun begins. Here, visitors can enjoy a huge array of activities, including hiking, birdwatching, stargazing, swimming, camping, fishing, and, of course, the dunes. Depending on the time of year, travelers may also get to participate in the park's annual festivals, including the Maple Sugar Time Festival and the Outdoor Adventure Festival.
Fort Wayne to Turkey Run State Park
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Turkey Run State Park in Marshall, Indiana, is the perfect road trip destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park sees over 1 million visitors each year and offers over 14 miles of memorable hiking trails. To get there from Fort Wayne, Indiana, travelers will start on I-69 South and drive roughly 187 miles, or about three hours to the final destination. Along the route are several great road trip stops, including everything from delicious places to eat to museums and EV charging stations. When hunger strikes, a stop at Ford's Garage is a must. The popular restaurant not only offers delicious American fare, but the establishment's car theme really ties the road trip together. This road trip will take travelers through Indianapolis, opening them up to stops like The Children's Museum of Indianapolis and Newfields-a 152-acre campus housing the Indianapolis Museum of Art, The Garden, Lilly House, and the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. Both stops offer a fun-filled way to get out and stretch your legs while staying entertained. In Anderson, Indiana, road trippers will drive past the giant Nesquik Bunny statue. While taking a photo with the chocolate milk-loving rabbit is tempting, it is not advised to stop in this area due to high traffic. Upon arrival at Turkey Run State Park, travelers can set out on another adventure-hiking the 5-mile challenge. This hike starts at the Nature Center, crosses a canyon, up (or down) 140 steps, down ladders, and past historic sites. Those who complete the challenge in one hike will win a special sticker, according to the park's website.
Evansville to French Lick
Those looking for a slightly shorter road trip will love the journey from Evansville, Indiana, to French Lick, Indiana. This trip is under 100 miles and should take roughly 1.5 hours to complete without stopping. Despite the slightly shorter length, this drive is quiet, offering views of the Ohio River and Patoka Lake along the way. As far as destinations go, French Lick is filled with family-friendly activities, making it a wonderful spot for a day trip. That said, there is plenty to see and do along the way as well. Before departing Evansville, take a walk through the Evansville Wartime Museum, which features walk-through galleries and exhibits detailing the town's history and wartime achievements. Those traveling on a Saturday or Sunday will want to stop at Bokeh Lounge for a mouth-watering Evansville brunch experience to fuel up for the drive. Once on the road, pit stops such as the Museum of the Coal Industry in Lynnville, the Patoka Lake Swimming Beach, and the Tucker Lake Dam are worthwhile. Upon arrival in French Lick, travelers will be spoiled for choice. Highlights of the town include the French Lick Casino, the Big Splash Adventure water park, and the French Lick West Baden Museum. If time permits, a ride on the French Lick Scenic Railway is a must. The historic railway offers a variety of trips, including sightseeing rides, dinner trains, and special holiday-themed excursions.
South Bend to Madison
The drive from South Bend, Indiana, to Madison, Indiana, is not for the faint of heart. Spanning nearly 250 miles, this road trip begins on the West and will take around 4 hours to complete without stopping. However, a longer trip means there is more to see and do along the way. For history lovers, places such as the Stude Baker National Museum and The Oliver Mansion are perfect. Those traveling with kids might find more appeal in places, including the Children's Museum of Indianapolis or the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. Adventure lovers looking to stretch their legs will find a wide variety of places to do so as well. Eagle Creek Park, for example, is a great way to break up the long ride and go for a peaceful hike. Another great place to stretch your legs is the Clegg Memorial Garden. Plenty of fast food restaurants and rest stops line the route. However, those looking for a tasty but affordable spot to feed the whole car should check out Beef O’Brady’s in Peru, Indiana. Once in Madison, the list of things to see and do only gets longer. Some town highlights include Clifty Falls State Park, the Lanier Mansion State Historic Site, and the Schroeder Saddletree Factory Museum. Vino lovers will be pleased to find a few wineries in town, including the beautiful Lanthier Winery and the Thomas Family Winery.
Lafayette to Nashville
Picture this: 112 miles of nothing but rolling hills, wide open farmland, and the beauty of the Yellowwood State Forest for company. Sound good? Then, a trip from Lafayette, Indiana, to Nashville, Indiana, is in order. The fastest route begins on the I-65 South and, without stops, would take roughly two hours to complete. That said, with places like Eagle Creek Park and the Indiana State Museum along the way, it would be impossible not to make a few stops. Just before the halfway point of the trip, travelers will find a Flying J Travel Center in Lebanon, Indiana, where gas, snacks, and coffee can all be replenished. For a more nutritious meal, check out Indy's Family Restaurant in Martinsville, where travelers can enjoy affordable diner staples. The fun doesn’t stop upon reaching the destination, either. While Nashville, Indiana, is far from its Tennesee counterpart, the area is oozing with small-town charm. Brown County State Park-known locally as “Little Smokies” due to its resemblance to the Rocky Mountains-is a great place to start the adventure. Those who time their trips accordingly can enjoy a live performance at the historic Brown County Playhouse as well.
Bloomington to Marengo Cave
Destination: underground. Those looking for a relatively short road trip with a huge payoff will enjoy the drive from Bloomington, Indiana, to the popular Marengo Cave in Marengo, Indiana. The trip is roughly 75 miles long and begins on State Highway 446 South. There are shorter routes available, however this route takes travlers past the gorgeous Monroe Lake, making the drive all the more scenic. Along the way, local restaurants such as Cabin Restaurant & Longe and Trailhead Pizzaria make for excellent pit stops. Just before Monroe Lake, travelers can pull over and stretch their legs on the Pate Hollow Trail- a 7.7-mile hike featuring lush hardwood forest and beautiful lake views. Further down the line, the travelers will also find the Lick Creek Trailhead in Hardinsburg, Indiana. This trail stretches 7.1 miles and passes by “an early 19th century free African American settlement.” Once at the destination, it's time to head underground. The Marengo Cave is advertised as “Indianna’s Most Visited Natural Attraction,” and travelers can choose from a range of tours, including an overnight option that allows for an underground sleepover.
Terre Haute to Pokagon State Park
The trek from Terre Haute to Pokagon State Park is another long one. Coming in at 245 miles, this trip will take roughly 4 hours to complete without stops. The trip cuts through major cities, including Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, so there is plenty to see and do along the way. In Indianapolis, the Pogues Run Art and Nature Park is a fun area to get out and stretch while enjoying art and nature. Also, in Indianapolis, travelers will find The Journey, a buffet that serves sushi, prime rib, and seafood. Approximately halfway in the small town of Gaston, Indiana, travelers will stumble upon an SB Pipe Creek Rest Area where bathrooms, vending machines, and beautiful scenery can be enjoyed. Near the end of the trip, don’t forget to stop at the Fort Wayne Zoo to admire the animals. Once at Pokagon State Park, activities including fishing, hiking, picnicking, boating, volleyball, and camping are all available.
Gary to Shipshewana
The drive from Gary, Indiana, to Shipshewana, Indiana, spans about 100 miles and, without stopping, should take under two hours to complete. The starting city, Gary, sits at the tip of Lake Michigan and is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Michael Jackson. Those looking to grab a bite to eat before hitting the road can stop at The Great Lakes Diner for a delicious meal and some nostalgic 50s-style decor. After getting a belly full, it’s time to set out on US Highway 12 toward Shipshewana. The scenery along this route is a healthy mix of bustling urban communities and lush, green farmland. Along the way, plan to stop at Indiana Dunes National Park, where hiking, birdwatching, fishing, camping, swimming, and stargazing are all available. In Mishawaka, Indiana, hop out of the car and stretch those legs on the Mishawaka Riverwalk, where travelers can soak up beautiful views of the St. Joseph River. After finally arriving at Shipshewana, the list of fun things to see and do gets even longer. Enjoy a buffet meal at Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery, then get up close and personal with the lovely animals at Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park. Finally, the trip will end with a hunt for souvenirs at the Shipshewana Flea Market.
Muncie to Patoka Lake
Is there anything better than a day at the lake? Indiana’s Patoka Lake is a beloved location boasted as “Southern Indiana’s #1 recreation area.” The drive from Muncie, Indiana, to the lake spans approximately 180 miles and consists of roughly three hours of non-stop driving. Along the way, travelers will drive through Indianapolis, where an endless number of restaurants and activities are available. Outside of that, Lower Cascades Park and WonderLab Museum of Science, Health & Technology in Bloomington, Indiana, make great pitstops for those traveling with kids. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park is another great Bloomington stop for those who have a bit more time. A little further down the road in Bedford, Indiana, travelers will find the Johnny Junxions convenience store. The family-owned business has far more to offer than snacks and gas. The shop's 50’s diner-style decor, incredible hot food offerings, ice cream, and various events make Johnny’s a must-stop. Those who need to stretch their legs and enjoy nature can also hop out at the Avoca Park & Recreation Area. The park features a few small ponds and an easy walking path. Upon arriving at the lake, travelers can visit the Patoka Lake Marina, go swimming, and even camp by the lake if time permits.
These 9 road trip ideas offer a healthy blend of fun urban attractions and stunning, untouched rural scenery. Whether you’re looking to spend a day at the lake or want to see all you can between two wonderful cities, these trips have you covered. So don't wait; make a playlist, pack the car, and hit the road for a fun-filled day of driving and exploring all that Indiana has to offer.
