Searching for some day trips in Indiana? There are tons of magical outdoor places that are worth exploring in Indiana, particularly during the summer months. From camping to overnight trips, there are incredible natural sites worth uncovering and fun things to do in IN. And if you’re looking for awesome summer day trips, just take a look below.

1. Take an excursion on a wine train.
Spirit of Jasper, 201 Mill St, Jasper, IN 47546, USA
Spirit of Jasper Excursions/Facebook
The Spirit of Jasper offers incredible day trips for Hoosiers, including this awesome wine trip. Enjoy beautiful scenery, great wine, and local chocolates on this awesome evening train ride. Learn more about The Spirit of Jasper.
2. Visit this incredible park.
Spring Mill State Park, 3333 IN-60 E, Mitchell, IN 47446, USA
Cliff T/TripAdvisor
Spring Mill State Park has everything you're looking for in one unique location. From cave exploring to learning about pioneer life to the awesome Grissom Memorial, this scenic park is ideal for both children and adults alike. Get the full scoop on this IN day trip.
3. Take a dip in this gorgeous sapphire swimming hole.
7080 S 750 E, St Paul, IN 47272, USA
White Rock Park/Facebook
When it comes to fun things to do in IN, this is a great spot. Whether you're into ziplining and cliff diving or you're just wanting to swim, fish, or lounge, White Rock Park is the perfect place for you. Learn more about this beautiful natural swimming hole in IN.
4. Get wild at Wilstem Ranch.
Wilstem, 4229 US-150, Paoli, IN 47454, USA
Wilstem Ranch/Facebook
Still wondering what to do in Indiana? Do you love exotic animals? Wilstem Ranch is home to elephants and giraffes, and it offers one-of-a-kind, up-close experiences with these majestic animals. Have the experience of a lifetime. Get the full details on Wilstem Ranch!
5. Visit a unique, vibrant new city.
Elkhart, IN, USA
Paul Sableman/Flickr
For a day trip in Indiana that's full of fun, explore somewhere new, like Elkhart, Indiana. This vibrant city has tons of interesting museums such as the Hall of Heroes, the Midwest Museum of American Art, and the RV Hall of Fame. You'll also find an incredible oasis on Island Park, a world of whimsy and wonder at Linton's Gardens, and you can even take in the quilt gardens. Learn more about this unique city in Indiana.

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6. Check out this awesome canopy walk.
Eagle Creek Park, 7840 W 56th St, Indianapolis, IN 46254, USA
LauraADRich/TripAdvisor
If you're looking for a day trip adventure that's a little more hands-on, be sure to check out the Go Ape obstacle course at Eagle Creek Park in Indianapolis. This incredible obstacle course has canopy walks, Tarzan swings, and ziplining all in one. Get more information on this canopy walk in Indiana.
7. Take a trip to this hidden water park.
Prophetstown State Park, Park Entrance: 5545 Swisher Road Office:, 4112 IN-225, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
MEKA354/TripAdvisor
Prophetstown State Park has a water park that most people don't know about. Kids can enjoy tons of slides, a lazy river, and swimming, and there is even a section for little kids at this hidden paradise. It's a really great choice for an IN day trip. Learn more about this water park in Indiana.
8. Spend a day at the Indiana Dunes.
Indiana Dunes National Park, Porter, IN 46304, USA
TBianco248/TripAdvisor
The Indiana Dunes is full of fun for everyone. From the stunning, sandy white beaches, to the incredible blue waters of Lake Michigan, it's the perfect beach location for water lovers. You can also enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, and other fun things to do in IN at this breathtaking location. Find out more about Indiana Dunes.
9. Spend an afternoon floating down a lazy river.
Tippecanoe River, Indiana, USA
Melissa S/Trip Advisor
Want to enjoy the water and warm weather without putting in so much work? Spend the day floating down the Tippecanoe River on this lazy river tubing adventure. Find out more about the Tippecanoe River and tubing.
10. Take a wine cruise across Patoka Lake.
Patoka Lake Marina & Lodging, 2991 Dillard Rd, Birdseye, IN 47513, USA
Patoka Lake Marina and Lodging
Do you love wine and being on the water? If so, then this awesome wine cruise is the perfect way to spend your day. Enjoy the beauty of the Patoka Lake while sampling local wines with a group of friends. Get the full details on this Indiana wine cruise.

What are some of your favorite day trips in Indiana? Are there any spots you’d add to this list? What about some day drives? Let us know in the comments below.

For another awesome place to enjoy this summer, be sure to check out this underrated Indiana lake.

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best day trips in indiana

Jennifer Young | March 22, 2022

What are three of Indiana's most unique attractions?

There are many unique things to do around Indiana. One of The Hoosier State's most popular attractions is Wilstem Wildlife Park, which is located in Paoli. During your visit to this wildlife park, you'll encounter giraffes, kangaroos, sloths, and more. It's an absolute must-visit for animal lovers of all ages. Another unique attraction is the Annie Oakley Natural Perfumery, which is located in Ligonier. This perfumery was established in 1980 and is the only one of its kind in the U.S. The Bob Ross Experience in Muncie is another unique attraction in Indiana. While here you'll get to tour his old studio, which is now a museum filled with paint equipment, memorabilia, and more.

Where are three of the best places in Indiana for a day trip?

Have you ever asked yourself "What are some of the best day trips near me?" If so, you're in luck because we've listed three of our favorite Indiana day trip destinations below.

1. Brown County State Park

Covering nearly 16,000 acres, Brown County State Park is Indiana's largest state park. Located in Nashville, this state park offers a variety of outdoor activities for all ages, including hiking, fishing, camping, and more. It was established in 1929, which also makes it one of Indiana's oldest state parks.

2. Marengo Cave

Marengo Cave is Indiana's most visited natural attraction. This historic cave remains a cool 52 degrees all year long, and a variety of tours are offered. Located in Marengo, it attracts cave enthusiasts of all ages from all over the world. In addition to cave tours, other activities are offered, including Pedal Karting, Gem Mining, Mega Maze, and more.

3. Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park, which is located in Porter, covers approximately 15,000 acres and is open year-round. It offers a variety of recreational activities for all skill levels, including hiking, swimming, fishing, camping, and more. Also, more than 60 historic sites are located within the park, which is an added bonus for history lovers.

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