The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Indiana
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Courtney Johnston
Author
Warm weather and day trips are a pretty awesome combination. In Indiana, we have so many day trip possibilities to choose from that making a decision can be difficult. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of of the best day trips in Indiana so you can try them all! What are some of your all-time favorite things to do in Indiana? Let me know in the comments – and check out some of these ideas:
1. Visit this incredible discovery park in Carmel
Cool Creek Park Nature Center, 2000 E 151st St, Carmel, IN 46033, USA
If you have kids, the Cool Creek Park & Nature Center is the perfect daytime outing. It has playgrounds, a library, a bird observation room, and tons of neat critters they can meet and pet.
2. Take a relaxing sunset wine cruise in Birdeye
Patoka Lake, Indiana, USA
If you love being on the lake, love wine, and good company, you have to try one of these evening cruises. Spend the day on a wine cruise on Patoka Lake, relaxing and unwinding, then enjoy fantastic wine tastings on this incredible boat tour. Sounds delightful, right?
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3. Discover this unique elephant ranch in Paoli
Wilstem, 4229 US-150, Paoli, IN 47454, USA
You've likely seen elephants at the zoo before, but have you ever touched or bathed an elephant? Wilstem Ranch brings the wonder of elephants right in front of you, offering two incredible touring opportunities. This year they're also including giraffe experiences, so don't miss out!
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4. Explore the magic of the quilt gardens in Elkhart County
Quilt Garden, Nappanee, IN 46550, USA
If you love flowers, natural beauty, or seeing artistry come to life, you absolutely have to take a tour of this stunning quilt garden in Indiana this spring and summer in Elkhart County. This incredible exhibit kicks off at the end of May and comes along with art fairs and other downtown celebrations.
5. Dive into this gorgeous swimming hole in St. Paul
White Rock Park, 7080 750 E, St Paul, IN 47272, USA
Are you looking for a new swimming hole to check out this year? White Rock Park has an incredible natural pool that offers fishing, swimming, zip lining, and even cliff diving. Of course, you can watch all of the action from the sidelines with a good book, too.
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6. Go on a delicious chocolate factory tour in South Bend
South Bend Chocolate Co, 30 Monument Cir, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
If you have a sweet tooth, you'll absolutely love this fun and interesting tour of the South Bend Chocolate Company. You and your family can witness the magic of creating delicious chocolate treats, check out the chocolate museum, and then go wild in the gift shop.
7. Explore the treetops at Go Ape in Indianapolis
Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park, 5855 Delong Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46254, USA
If you love outdoor adventure, Go Ape Indiana is the perfect daytime outing for you! Enjoy dozens of canopy walks, high above the trees in Eagle Creek Park. You'll also get to experience Tarzan swings, zip lines, and much more!
8. Uncover cultural fun and learning in Berne
Berne, IN 46711, USA
This incredible interactive museum offers visitors a firsthand look at Swiss culture and life. Experience traditional Swiss buildings and trades like basket weaving. You'll also get to participate in Swiss games and the awesome rope ride. Plus, you'll also love exploring Berne, an adorable Swiss village in Indiana.
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9. Discover Indiana's largest and oldest winery in Bloomington
Oliver Winery, 200 E Winery Rd, Bloomington, IN 47404, USA
If you're a wine lover, you absolutely want to plan on taking a trip to Oliver Winery in Bloomington. This gorgeous winery offers breathtaking scenery where you can picnic and explore, as well as superb wine tastings and tours inside.
10. Explore Indiana's version of a Grand Canyon in Marshall
Turkey Run State Park, 8121 Park Rd, Marshall, IN 47859, USA
Who says Indiana is completely flat? Discover the beauty of deep cut canyons, incredible rock formations, a suspension bridge, and so much more at Turkey Run State Park.
11. Plan a trip to this tasty cheese factory in Middlebury
Heritage Ridge Creamery, 11275 W 250 N, Middlebury, IN 46540, USA
Do you love cheese? If so, you and your family will absolutely delight in a visit to Heritage Ridge Creamery. Arrive before noon to watch as they make the cheese and try delicious samples in their shop.
What do you think of my list? Are there any attractions you would add to the list? Share those with me in the comments! For more incredible activities to check out in the Hoosier state, consider doing these awesome daytime things to do in Indiana!
Looking for a place to stay while you’re here? Check out the awesome options from our friends at VRBO.
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More to Explore
Best Day Trips In Indiana
What are the most thrilling attractions in Indiana?
Thrill-seekers don’t have to look far to find attractions around Indiana that get their adrenaline pumping.
- Soar through the treetops on The Bat Chaser, a suspended, single-rail zip coaster at Indiana Caverns in Corydon. This family-friendly spot is full of fun-filled activities like escape rooms and cave tours everyone will enjoy.
- See incredible views of Conner Prairie from a helium balloon on the 1859 Balloon Voyage. This living history museum offers exciting historic adventures and tours of 19th-century life.
- For more extreme fun, brave daredevils can take an unforgettable plunge from 13,000 feet, traveling at a cool 120 mph on a tandem jump at Skydive Indianapolis.
What can I do with kids in Indiana?
Kid-friendly and parent-approved activities can be found in all regions of The Hoosier State making it easy to plan fun group outings.
- The Children’s Museum in Indianapolis is an excellent destination to ignite the imaginations of your little ones. The museum hosts outdoor and indoor exhibits, fascinating and educational interactive programs, and a children’s theatre.
- Ranked among the best zoos in the country, spend a day falling in love with the 1,000 animals at The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo. This favorite spot features four themed biomes representing different world regions and is located on 40 acres in Franke Park.
- In New Harmony, get lost in the lush greenery of The Labyrinth. This hedge maze dates back to the early 19th century and has just one true path to the center. Good luck!
What are the best small towns in Indiana?
When you’re looking for a quick day trip or a charming getaway destination, visit one of Indiana’s many quaint and friendly small towns.
- In Johnson County discover Franklin where visitors can take in charming sights wandering the town, voted as one of Indiana’s best main streets.
- USA Today named the lovely town of Angola as one of America’s Best Historic Small Towns. Check out the fascinating historical sights, peruse the excellent local shops, or visit the
Neighboring Pokagon State Park for outdoor activities.
- In Hancock County, the town of Greenfield is notable for many reasons and well known as the birthplace of Hoosier Poet, James Whitcomb Riley. This lively community boasts a compelling history dating back to 1828 and offers visitors plenty of educational and outdoor activities.