Where is Indiana, U.S.A?
Indiana is located in the Midwestern United States and is one of the eight states known collectively as the “Great Lakes region.”
Once known as “The Crossroads of America” because of its central location in the Great Lakes region, Indiana is in the Midwestern U.S. region. And with over six million residents, it’s the 17th most populous state.
It stretches from the southern tip of Lake Michigan to its southernmost border with Kentucky. The Ohio River carves its eastern edge, and Illinois sits to its west.
What’s the capital city of Indiana?
Its capital city is Indianapolis, located centrally in the seat of Marion County. A population of nearly one million makes it the fifteenth-most populous city in the United States (and a very underrated city to visit).
What is there to do in the state of Indiana?
Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s see what there is to do in this vibrant state and see what the guidebooks aren’t telling you?
In this post, we’ll go into all the details you’ll need to see the best of Indiana.
Let’s check it out.
1. Indiana Dunes
Indiana Dunes is one of the most popular natural attractions in the state.
You can swim at the beach on Lake Michigan, hike through the Indiana Dunes trails, and even grab some fantastic food along the way.
Indiana Dunes State Park runs for 15 miles throughout the Indiana Dunes NATIONAL Park (don’t get the two confused). It’s one of the Midwest’s most ecologically diverse areas.
2. French Lick
If you’re looking for luxury in Indiana, head to the French Lick Springs Hotels.
You’ll have access to luxury golf courses, horse riding trails, pools, bike rentals, and a casino.
You can also luxuriate at the West Baden Springs Hotel. Built in 1902, this historic hotel has a 100-foot atrium crowning the resort in a magnificent dome.
3. Parke County’s Covered Bridges
The Wabash River Valley – which is just west of the state capital – is world-renowned for its charming covered bridges.
They even host a Covered Bridge Festival in the fall. You can also download maps that will show you the way through this historical span of roadway.
4. Brown County’s Scenery
…and Art! That’s right, there’s more to Brown County than its secluded paths and panoramic views. It’s also a great place to shop at boutiques and get the latest artsy finds.
5. Conner Prairie
Conner Prairie in Fishers, Indiana, is an interactive history park. It spans nearly eight hundred acres and includes a historically accurate 1836 town, complete with a working farm.
Families will love the costumed re-enactments of one of the most vibrant periods of American history.
You can also take the 1859 Balloon Voyage and soar nearly 350 feet over the prairies to see some truly spectacular views of Indiana. Visiting in the fall is a particular treat.
6. Amish Country
Indiana is proud of its Amish heritage and has many different sites in LaGrange and Elkhart counties that give a flavour of Amish life.
Bike down the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail or take a visit to the Wellfield Botanic Gardens. Or you can drive around and enjoy the tidy farms and towns full of small quilt gardens.
7. Eskenazi Museum of Art
This museum opened its doors in 1941 and houses an impressive 40,000 items in its collection.
If you need a bit of art therapy, there’s no better place than this fantastic museum in Bloomington, Indiana. See both Claude Monet and Pablo Picasso’s masterpieces there.
8. Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo
Since it opened way back in 1965, this zoo has been one of Indiana’s most popular locations.
The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo serves as a home and shelter to animals from all over the world.
9. Turkey Run State Park
Sixty-five miles west of Indianapolis, you’ll find Turkey Run State Park. There is plenty to do there for naturalists and families alike.
Fish, canoe, horseback ride, hayride, deep wood hiking, and lodging are all available.
You’ll also find Turkey Run Inn, which boasts an Olympic-sized swimming pool.
What’s the number one attraction in Indiana?
The Indianapolis 500 is the most famous race in all motorsports. And it has been for over 100 years.
It has everything, speed, daring, thills, and betting. It can also be deadly in the snap of a finger as speeds top nearly 220 mph down the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
What is there to do in Indianapolis?
Indianapolis may be a small city, but it is bursting with things to do. In fact, there’s so much that you’ll have no trouble finding unique things to do throughout the city.
1. Lucas Oil Stadium
Opened to the public in 2008, this stadium sits in the heart of Indy. It’s the home of the Indianapolis Colts and gives you some unique views of the Indianapolis skyline.
You can also take guided tours of Lucas Oil Stadium, where you can see the player locker rooms, playing field, press box and more.
2. White River State Park
Located in central Indy, White River State Park is an urban park with plenty of green space and pathways along a river.
Rent a paddleboat and see the Central Canal in historic Indianapolis. You can also find plenty of concerts in the summer along the White River.
3. Monument Circle
Another centrally located attraction. You can find iconic monuments and memorial buildings at Monument Circle spread out over some beautifully landscaped public spaces. Check out the following:
- Soldiers and Sailors Monument from 1902
- The Indiana War Memorial Museum
- Indiana War Memorial Plaza
- Veterans Memorial Plaza
- USS Indianapolis Memorial
…and a whole lot more.
What’s the number one attraction in Indianapolis?
The best activity to check out in Indianapolis has got to be the colossal Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.
Fun for the entire family, this kiddie wonderland is nearly 500,000 square feet, and it’s the largest children’s museum in the entire world.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for some family-friendly fun or some out-of-this-world scenic beauty, Indiana is a state that has something for everyone.
