I just got back from a road trip through Indiana, and honestly? It totally surprised me. Sure, it might not be the first place you think of for adventure, but I found everything from golden beaches and wild dunes to mysterious caves and deep forests. Here are the spots that made me fall in love with the Hoosier State…
1. Indiana Dunes National Park
This place was an absolute vibe—15 miles of sandy shoreline along Lake Michigan, with massive dunes rising behind the beach. I stayed four days at the funky Al & Sally’s Motel (less than an hour from Chicago!) and spent my time hiking Mount Baldy, bird-watching at Great Marsh Trail, and exploring the historic Chellberg Farm. Just a heads-up: check the water quality before swimming—it can vary.
My favorite moment:
Spotting rare Eastern Prickly Pear cacti with bright yellow flowers blooming right on the dunes. So cool against the blue sky!
2. East Pierhead Lighthouse
This might be the most Instagrammable spot on the whole trip. The red-topped lighthouse from 1904 stands at the end of a long pier in Michigan City. I walked the catwalk out to the tower and stayed for sunset—the sky turned pink, orange, and gold over the water. So worth it.
3. Turkey Run State Park
This park is an absolute hidden gem. I’m talking deep sandstone canyons, old-growth forests, and a killer suspension bridge over Sugar Creek. I tackled Trail 3 (which has ladders and narrow passages!) and cooled off in the park’s Olympic-sized pool. Felt like a real adventure.
Must-try: The triple-berry cheesecake and local sage soap from the Golden Forest Gift Shop. Yes, really.
4. Washington Park Beach
Two miles of soft sand with killer views of Lake Michigan and even the Chicago skyline on a clear day. I chilled here after visiting the lighthouse, swam a little, and just soaked up the sun. In winter, I heard the waves freeze into crazy ice sculptures. How cool is that?
5. Brown County State Park
They call this place Indiana’s “Little Smokies,” and I get why. Rolling hills, foggy valleys, and some of the best fall colors I’ve ever seen. I stayed at the Abe Martin Lodge, hiked around Ogle Lake, and ate persimmon pudding on my cabin porch. Cozy doesn’t even cover it.
6. Cataract Falls
Indiana’s largest waterfall! It drops 86 feet in two sections and is surrounded by flat rocks perfect for picnics. I did the easy mile-long loop trail, crossed the cute covered bridge, and just hung out listening to the water. Super peaceful.
7. Hoosier National Forest
This felt like real backcountry—limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and quiet lakes. I crawled through Sullivan Cave, hiked Hemlock Cliffs, and even found a massive turquoise sinkhole called Wesley Chapel Gulf. Felt like discovering a secret.
8. Indiana State Capitol
Located in downtown Indianapolis, this place is stunning. Built in 1888 from Indiana limestone, the building features marble staircases, stained glass, and a gorgeous dome. I took a tour and loved seeing the historic Supreme Court chamber. Felt like stepping back in time.
9. Clifty Falls State Park
This was the perfect end to my trip. Four gorgeous waterfalls, deep canyons, and even an abandoned railroad tunnel. I camped nearby and woke up to sweet cornbread with honey butter at the Riverboat Inn. Yes please.
10. Holliday Park
A cool mix of nature and art right in Indianapolis. There are actual ruins from a New York skyscraper standing in the middle of the woods! I wandered the trails, spotted frogs and dragonflies, and loved the artsy, laid-back atmosphere.
11. Griffy Lake Nature Preserve
A quiet lake just outside Bloomington perfect for kayaking and short hikes. I saw turtles, frogs, and even a bald eagle! Super chill spot for a picnic.
12. Mounds State Park
Ancient Native American earthworks hidden in the forest. I hiked to the Great Mound (from 160 B.C.!) and followed trails along the White River. So much history—and so peaceful.
13. Coxhall Gardens
Beautiful gardens, bell towers, and sculptures in Carmel, IN. I picnicked here and tried blueberry soda and maple bourbon popcorn. Perfect place to relax and people-watch.
14. Sapphire Natural Pool
This old quarry turned swimming hole has unbelievably blue water. People were zip-lining and cliff jumping (no lifeguards though—so be careful!). I didn’t jump, but I loved watching the daredevils go for it.
Where Even Is Indiana?
Right in the Midwest! It’s tucked between Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, and Michigan, with Lake Michigan to the north and the Ohio River to the south. Easy to get to—and totally worth the trip.
