8 Incredible Vacation Spots In Indiana
Indiana may be best known for its farmland and fast cars, thanks in part to the iconic Indianapolis 500, but it is also full of unexpected vacation gems. From peaceful lakes and forested parks to artsy small towns and Amish charm, the Hoosier State reveals a surprising mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and genuine hospitality. Whether you are chasing quiet scenery or curious experiences, these destinations promise something memorable. Here are the eight incredible vacation spots in Indiana worth exploring.
Brown County State Park
Nicknamed the “Little Smokies” for its striking resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains, Brown County State Park is a rugged, rolling expanse of wilderness in southern Indiana that draws visitors in every season, especially in the fall. Spanning nearly 16,000 acres, this is the largest state park in Indiana and one of the largest in the country. Its dramatic ridges, misty ravines, and steep wooded hills were sculpted by glacial meltwaters from long ago, creating a uniquely scenic escape just an hour from Indianapolis.
Nearly 20 miles of winding, tree-lined roads carve through the forest, revealing sweeping vistas and photo-worthy overlooks around every bend. Whether you are hiking a shaded trail, biking the park’s challenging mountain terrain, or taking in the view from your saddle on a horseback ride, the park makes it easy to feel far removed from everyday life. With over a million visitors each year, Brown County State Park has become a beloved retreat for those seeking serenity, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure—an incredible vacation spot that feels timeless and wild, no matter the season.
French Lick
French Lick provides a remarkable vacation experience, blending thrilling family fun with sophisticated entertainment for every visitor. It is a destination where you can create lasting memories and discover a world of diverse activities. For family thrills, Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark & Resort offers a climate-controlled escape with its retractable roof. Guests can make a big splash zipping down the Jolly Roger Jetty and the daring Pirate’s Plunder slide, plunging into the famous "toilet bowl" feature, or simply floating on the leisurely Lost River. At the same time, gaming enthusiasts can test their luck at French Lick Casino, a spectacular 51,000-square-foot facility designed in a Vegas style, with impressive 27-foot ceilings. Players can seek a big win on a large selection of slot machines or progressive jackpots at live tables, including blackjack, roulette, and craps.
For a scenic journey, the Indiana Railway Museum serves as a depot for historic locomotive trips through a nearby national forest. This individual attraction, complete with a gift shop, is a memorable way to see the beautiful landscape. Alternatively, to dive into local culture, the French Lick West Baden Museum houses a diverse collection of local history exhibits. A highlight is the detailed scale model of the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, a true treasure for circus fans and history buffs.
Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana Dunes National Park is a natural treasure where towering dunes meet an ever-changing lakeshore, creating a one-of-a-kind outdoor escape. Stretching along 15 miles of Lake Michigan, the park features vast sandy beaches, windswept dunes nearly 250 feet tall, and more than 50 miles of hiking trails that wind through wetlands, oak savannas, and quiet forests.
Formed by the retreat of ancient glaciers, this diverse landscape supports an astonishing range of wildlife. With over 1,100 plant species and 350 types of birds recorded, it is among the most biodiverse areas in the entire national park system. Birdwatchers flock to hotspots like Cowles Bog, Pinhook Bog, and Miller Woods, where rare habitats harbor a sanctuary for native and migratory species. Indiana Dunes is not just for nature lovers—it is a playground for paddlers, campers, photographers, and anyone who craves fresh air and water views.
Shipshewana
Nestled in the heart of Amish Country, Shipshewana offers a relaxing escape with plenty to see and do. Families love Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park, where visitors can hand-feed animals from around the globe. Take a wagon ride through the grounds and meet everything from zebras to camels, or stop by the petting area to interact with friendly farm favorites. It is a delight for kids and grown-ups alike. For a deeper look into the region’s heritage, the Menno-Hof Mennonite - Amish Visitor Center has immersive exhibits, multimedia displays, and recreated historical settings that shed light on the beliefs, history, and lifestyle of Amish and Mennonite communities.
Furthermore, the Michiana Event Center brings big energy to this small town with trade shows, rodeos, concerts, and festivals year-round. From professional bull riding to national expos, there is always something exciting happening here. And no trip to Shipshewana is complete without a visit to the Blue Gate Theater, with Broadway-style Amish musicals and concerts by major artists that entertain thousands every season.
Marengo Cave
An extraordinary vacation spot, Marengo Cave has been amazing visitors since its discovery in 1883. This privately owned natural wonder, located in Marengo, presents a wide variety of activities for all ages, remaining open year-round.
Marengo Cave has two distinct subterranean adventures. The leisurely Dripstone Trail is a one-mile journey through the cavern, taking approximately 60-70 minutes to complete. Alternatively, the shorter Crystal Palace tour is a one-third-mile excursion lasting 35-40 minutes. Since both paths show unique sections of the cave, a return visit allows for a completely new experience. Beyond the guided walks, you can pan for gemstones, navigate the twists and turns of a cave simulator, or even venture into an undeveloped natural cavern.
Clifty Falls State Park
Clifty Falls State Park in southern Indiana is a truly remarkable vacation spot for lovers of nature, geology, and wildlife. The park’s landscape is a portal to the past, with ancient shale and limestone formations that are among the state's oldest, containing a rich collection of marine fossils. Visitors can trek along the picturesque stone bed of Clifty Creek, enjoying scenic views shaped by the park’s four named waterfalls.
A historic railroad tunnel, now a thriving bat habitat, cuts through the hillside and showcases a special journey for explorers. All around the park, you can admire the robust stonework and bridges built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, which remain fully functional. Beneath the rugged bluffs, a tranquil woodland flourishes with springtime wildflowers. The park's diverse ecosystem is home to songbirds, majestic hawks, and soaring vultures, as well as deer, wild turkeys, and foxes that roam the meadows.
Patoka Lake
Patoka Lake stands as a premier vacation destination in southern Indiana, boasting a vast 8,800-acre lake and surrounding natural property. This expansive area provides a multitude of recreational opportunities, from water skiing and boating to hiking, biking, and camping. The lake itself is a true gem, having exceptionally clean, clear water and plenty of space to roam without feeling crowded. During the week, it can feel like your very own private haven. As evening approaches, the surface becomes remarkably smooth, making it ideal for a final water ski run or a peaceful moment to cast a line.
The region is a photographer’s dream, filled with migrating birds and a diverse population of wildlife. You might spot a majestic bald eagle gracefully swooping down toward a tree overlooking the water. The lake teems with a large variety of fish, having been extensively stocked with bass, bluegill, catfish, and walleye. For those staying on land, there is an archery range, numerous boat ramps, and even a cross-country skiing course.
Holiday World & Splashin' Safari
For an unforgettable family getaway, Holiday World & Splashin' Safari unite a remarkable combination of thrilling rides and a top-tier water park. This destination, which first welcomed visitors in 1946, is designed around a celebratory theme, with four distinct sections dedicated to Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the Fourth of July.
At Holiday World, roller coaster enthusiasts will discover three renowned wooden coasters, including The Voyage, which has frequently been recognized as one of the world's best. The park also includes two impressive steel coasters and a variety of other rides, shows, and games.
The excitement continues at Splashin' Safari, the park's water-based playground that opened in 1993. This area features two of the globe's longest water coasters, including the Guinness World Record-holding Mammoth and its equally massive counterpart, Wildebeest. The water park offers a launched water coaster, raft rides, and numerous other slides and family-friendly attractions to keep everyone entertained. It is the perfect place to create new memories and celebrate the best of the season.
Wrapping Up
These diverse spots prove that Indiana provides an incredible array of vacation experiences. From the misty ravines of Brown County State Park and the ancient geology of Clifty Falls to the family thrills of Holiday World and the serene waters of Patoka Lake, the state has a distinctive escape for every traveler. Whether you seek outdoor adventure, historic charm, or simple relaxation, you will find it here.
