9 Ideal Destinations For A 3-Day Weekend In Indiana
Indiana, known as the "Hoosier State" after John Finley's poem "The Hoosier's Nest," is popular for its location on the Great Lakes, picturesque Salem Limestone, and basketball, as the state is home to the most NBA players per capita.
When planning a three-day weekend in Indiana, it is no secret there is plenty to see and do as the state is full of natural and man-made marvels. Watch the sun disappear below the horizon over Lake Erie in Syracuse, wander the charming downtown of Bloomington, or walk along the boardwalk steps in Indiana Dunes National Park. Whatever it may be, adventure awaits in Indiana.
Michigan City
As the name suggests, Michigan City sits on the south shore of Lake Michigan. Because of its proximity to the water, it comes as no surprise that the area is a popular beach spot, ideal for swimming, boating, and coastal living, not to mention watching sunsets and surfing. Washington Park is the best location for a beach-based vacay, featuring sparkling blue waters, sandy shores, and even a zoo with over 90 different animals.
The town is also home to the Old Lighthouse Museum, which documents maritime history and a number of shipwrecks, and even offers tours of the nearby 1858 Michigan City Lighthouse. Annual July 4th festivities also draw visitors in, featuring fireworks, food trucks, and parades, as does the Blue Chip Casino Hotel and Spa.
Syracuse
Syracuse is a small town in Kosciusko County nestled on Syracuse Lake and Lake Wawasee, which happens to be the largest lake in Indiana. With plenty of lake views, there is no shortage of things to do in terms of water recreation, such as swimming, fishing, sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more. While there are many parks in the area, Lakeside Park and Beach is the largest and boasts breathtaking Saucer Magnolia trees, ideal for springtime visits.
When planning a couples vacation or trip with your best pals, consider a day trip on the Nauti Mule and Nauti Mare, which are floating bars on Lake Wawasee. For a more complex tour of the glistening waters and surrounding area, hop aboard the Oakwood Resort Tour Boat or SS Lillypad. The Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum is a popular attraction amongst history buffs, while adventurers might find themselves drawn to the 11-mile network of the Syracuse-Wawasee Trails.
Valparaiso
Known as one of the best college towns in Indiana for its vibrancy, bustling energy, and midwestern charm, Valparaiso hosts a plethora of things to do to fill a three-day vacay. Local boutiques, restaurants, antique shops, and historic buildings line the prospering city's downtown area, while inviting parks line the outskirts, ideal for a relaxing getaway. The city always keeps things interesting with events all throughout the year, such as the Central Park Plaza Market, Summer Rhapsody Music Festival, and the ever-so-filling Popcorn Fest. When visiting with family, be sure to stop by the retro 49er Drive-In Theatre, the enticing Gabis Arboretum, and the fun-filled Zao Island. For those with an interest in all forms of art, offerings include the Memorial Opera House, the Brauer Museum of Art, and the Chicago Street Theatre.
Bloomington
Bloomington is one of the most charming cities in Indiana, earning its name from the "haven of blooms" that impressed settlers in 1818. It is also home to Indiana University, which boasts the Eskenazi Museum of Art, featuring sculptures and pieces of art from all around the world. Historic homes, locally owned boutiques, and an endless array of eateries line the historic downtown streets. And if you visit on a Saturday, stop by the Community Farmers' Market, where homemade goods, crafts, and fresh fruits and foods are plentiful. WonderLab science museum is a great interactive spot for kids, with unique exhibits and displays featuring reptiles and insects. Lake Lemon and Lake Monroe are also nearby, ideal for a day trip to the beach or an afternoon spent sailing.
French Lick
French Lick is a picturesque small town most well known for its historical mineral springs, ideal for a refreshing and revitalizing vacation, home to the French Lick Resort and Casino. Visitors can try their hand at a game of poker, relax in the warm hot springs and resort, or dive into history at the French Lick West Baden Museum. Other popular attractions include the drive-thru safari at Wilstem Wildlife Park, Abbeydell Hall dinner theater, and Murder Mystery Weekends at West Baden Springs Hotel. As an added bonus, the town is just 12 miles from the ski town of Paoli, ideal for a winter trip spent skiing and relaxing in the spas of French Lick.
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the best places to enjoy the starry night skies, but it is also known for its diverse landscape, featuring rolling sand dunes, vast woodlands, inviting wetlands, and breathtaking prairies. Diana's Dare is one of the most popular hikes in the national park, commemorating the life of Alice Mabel Gray who lived there in the 1900s. The area also hosts a plethora of plants and wildlife, so be sure to grab a pair of binoculars and an identification booklet. The park encompasses 15,000 acres of land, chock full of hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping spots for a fun-filled weekend exploring the location. Visitors enjoy every outdoor sport imaginable, including swimming, snowshoeing, and hiking through wildflower feels, with something to jump into no matter the season.
South Bend
South Bend is one of the biggest and most beautiful cities in Indiana, situated near the southernmost bend of the St. Joseph River. Its location on the river leaves room for all types of fun in the sun, ideal for visitors in search of a weekend spent on the water, with activities ranging from swimming and sunbathing, to water skiing and sailing. Catch a South Bend Cubs baseball game with the kids for memories that last a lifetime or tour through all the ice cream shops in the area, being sure to try a taste of each flavor and pick your favorites (write them down for the next time you visit!). Museums and art galleries are woven throughout the town, as are eateries and locally owned shops. There is also a rich nightlife for couples and friends to enjoy, as well as the historic campus of the University of Notre Dame.
Patoka Lake
Patoka Lake is one of the best spots to chill out in Indiana, encompassing 26,000 acres of land and water that is a habitat for a variety of different animals, including bald eagles, river otters, and jellyfish. With so much land to explore, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, including an archery range, fishing (and ice fishing), hunting, picnicking, and camping. There are four main hiking trails in the area. The Main Trail takes about three hours to hike, with Totem Rock as the main attraction, and is popular amongst birdwatchers. Garden Rock Loop Trail is another option, only taking around a half hour, featuring inviting greenery and plant life that may pique a plant lover's interest. French Lick and West Baden are nearby for visitors who would like to accompany their trip to the lake with a stay in one of the charming small towns.
New Harmony
New Harmony has a reputation as one of the friendliest towns in Indiana, located along the Wabash River in southwest Indiana. The town considers itself a "historic utopia," with historic buildings lining the streets, a quaint and inviting atmosphere, and plenty of restaurants and shops that welcome visitors from all over. Harmonie State Park is an especially popular spot, well-loved for its beauty and where the town hosts many annual events, including the Harvest Craft Fair, Haunted Harmonie, and Monarch Mania. The Cathedral Labyrinth is a great place for adults and children alike to enjoy a relaxing walk and take a moment to meditate, which the Wabash River is a wonderful spot to stop and swim, enjoy the sandy beaches, or stay late into the evening and watch fireflies light up the tree line.
Enjoy a Trip to Indiana
From gorgeous state parks to charming main streets and unique museums, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Indiana. The beauty of Indiana is sure to make itself seen to visitors from far and wide, whether it is a small town's charm that draws you in or the excitement of city life. Once you visit one of these destinations in the "Hoosier State," you will return every chance you get for another fun-filled three-day escape.
