Visiting obscure and little known attractions is a great way to get to know what life in Indiana is really like. Still, there are some popular attractions well worth visiting. If you’re looking for great places to explore in the Hoosier state, make sure these 10 tourist traps are at the top of your list.
1. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore - Porter
This stunning, 15,000 acres lakeshore spans nearly 25 miles and contains beaches, bogs, prairies, swamps, marshes, savannas, forests, rivers, and much more. You'll find scenic hiking trails, epic camping spots, bird watching, boating, and much more year round at this gorgeous slice of heaven. It definitely lives up to the hype. You'll find it at 1215 N State Road 49, Porter, IN 46304.
2. Holiday World & Splashin' Safari - Santa Claus
This beloved theme park is popular for good reason - it contains two parks in one! With incredible roller coasters and tons of kids rides, as well as an unforgettable water park, thrill-seekers of all ages will love exploring this theme park in warmer weather. You'll find Holiday World & Splashin' Safari at 452 E Christmas Blvd, Santa Claus, IN 47579.
3. Indianapolis Motor Speedway - Indianapolis
This speedway becomes famous two nights a year when hundreds of thousands of spectators pack into the stands to watch huge races. However, this speedway also offers great experiences throughout the year, including a festive Christmas lights show, an amazing racecar museum, and chances to get behind the driver's seat of a real Indy car. You'll find this speedway at 4790 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222.
4. Marengo Cave - Marengo
This mesmerizing cave is Indiana's most popular attraction and is a U.S. National Natural Landmark. You can take two different, scenic tours through this cave to view the stunning stalagmites the cave is known for and view its unique natural formations. You'll find this cave system at 400 East State Rd 64, Marengo, IN 47140.
5. Cataract Falls - Cataract
This waterfall consists of an upper and lower falls area and is actually Indiana's largest waterfall by volume. While it's great to visit in warmer months, it's absolutely mesmerizing in the winter time. You can check out these frozen falls at 1050 North, 2605 N. Cataract Road, IN 47460.
6. Spring Mill State Park - Mitchell
This incredible historic park is packed full of fun for all ages. Enjoy Pioneer Village and the historic mill to learn more about life for early settlers of Indiana. You can also enjoy a boat tour of Twin Caves, enjoy waterfalls and hiking trails, pack a picnic lunch, visit the nature center, and much more. You'll find this adventurous park at Sr 60, Mitchell, IN.
7. Fort Wayne Children's Zoo - Fort Wayne
This legendary zoo is full of fun for the whole family. You'll find tons of interactive exhibits that get you up close with some of the coolest zoo animals. There's also an aquarium, canoe and train rides, and special events hosted throughout the year. Make sure you visit this top-notch zoo at 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46808.
8. New Harmony
This eclectic little town is full of history and unique sights to explore. You'll find lots of neat historical remnants of the town's utopian society past to explore. You'll want to visit the serene Roofless Church, both of the New Harmony labyrinths, and the incredible Atheneum, to start. Make sure to also browse the local vintage stores and grab a bite at one of their charming eateries.
9. Brown County State Park - Nashville
This gorgeous state park might be the most popular state park in the Hoosier state. It's not hard to see why - with beautiful rolling hills, breathtaking scenery, forests, hiking trails, horseback riding, and cabins perfect for camping, there is no shortage of ways to experience this beloved slice of nature. Find it at 1405 S.R. 46W, Nashville, IN 47448.
10. Basilica of the Sacred Heart - Notre Dame/South Bend
This absolutely breathtaking Roman Catholic church can be found on the grounds of the University of Notre Dame. It's a National Historic place and was constructed in the neo-gothic style. You don't have to be religious to appreciate the beauty of this famous building up close. Find it at 114 Coleman Morse Ctr, University of Notre Dame, South Bend, IN 46556.
Have you been to visit any of these popular tourist traps in Indiana? Which was your favorite?
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