The Best Experiences in Indiana: Top 10 Must-Do Activities (Currently Open)
Indiana is one of those places that quietly exceeds expectations. Ask a dozen travelers what they love most about the Hoosier State and you’ll hear a dozen different answers—towering sand dunes on Lake Michigan, storybook-pretty covered bridges, world-class museums, forest-lined canyons, and even record-breaking water coasters. If you’re planning a weekend getaway or building a longer road trip, this guide pulls together the top 10 must-do experiences in Indiana—all currently open—with practical tips, insider context, and family-friendly ideas that make planning simple.
You’ll find a geographically diverse mix spanning Northern Indiana’s lakefront, Central Indiana’s capital-city culture, and Southern Indiana’s hills and hollows. Each section spotlights what makes the experience special, who it’s best for, and how to get the most from your visit. Ready to discover the best of the Hoosier State? Let’s dive in.
Indiana Dunes National Park & State Park: Shores, Trails, and the 3-Dune Challenge
Few first-time visitors expect a beach day like this in the Midwest. Along Lake Michigan’s southern rim, Indiana Dunes National Park and the adjacent Indiana Dunes State Park deliver miles of sandy shoreline, wind-sculpted dunes, oak savannas, and wetlands teeming with wildlife. It’s one of the most biodiverse corners of the national park system, and it’s an all-season playground.
Why it’s unmissable
Variety in a compact area: sun-soaked beaches, dune climbs, birding hotspots, and forested trails all within easy drives of each other.
The famed 3-Dune Challenge: a calorie-burning loop that rewards you with panoramic lake views.
All ages welcome: boardwalks and short loops for little legs, longer rambles for die-hard hikers.
Top tips
Arrive early on warm-weather weekends—lot fills can happen.
Bring layers (Lake Michigan breezes keep things cooler than you think).
If you’re hiking dunes, closed-toe shoes beat flip-flops every time.
Who will love it: Families, nature photographers, active travelers, and anyone who wants a “wait, this is Indiana?” moment.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis: Imagination on Five Floors
Ask any family to name the single best thing to do in Indiana with kids, and The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis almost always tops the list. It’s the largest children’s museum in the world and a must-see even for grown-ups who love science, art, sports, and history delivered with creativity.
Highlights you shouldn’t miss
Dinosphere with spectacular fossils and immersive environments.
STEM-centric labs that get kids tinkering, building, and experimenting.
The seasonal/outdoor campus with sports-themed play spaces that let kids burn energy in the sunshine.
Planning pointers
Buy tickets ahead for peak days and special exhibits.
Plan at least half a day (a full day is easy to fill).
Pack snacks and take breaks—there’s so much to see that pacing matters.
Why it stands out: It’s hands-on, meticulously curated, and designed to spark curiosity. If you’re building a family-friendly Indiana itinerary, this is the anchor.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum & Track Tour: Racing Royalty
Even if you’ve never watched a lap of open-wheel racing, standing inside Indianapolis Motor Speedway—home of the Indianapolis 500—feels electric. The IMS Museum chronicles more than a century of speed and innovation, while guided tours give you goosebump-worthy access to trackside history.
What makes it legendary
Historic machines: championship cars, engineering breakthroughs, and rare artifacts.
Guided track experiences: kiss the bricks, pose for photos, and feel the scale of the world’s most famous oval.
Year-round access: the museum is open beyond race days, so you can visit on your own schedule.
Make it smoother
Check tour times before you go; they can sell out.
Combine with downtown Indianapolis for a culture-and-cuisine combo day.
Allow time for the museum galleries—you’ll want to read the plaques here.
Perfect for: Sports fans, design and engineering nerds, and anyone who loves a uniquely American story.
Brown County State Park & Nashville: Hills, Overlooks, and Artsy In-Between
When you picture “classic Indiana fall foliage,” you’re likely picturing Brown County. Known as the “Little Smokies,” Brown County State Park offers sweeping ridge-top vistas, wood-planked lookouts, and cabin-cozy lodging. Pair your hike with a stroll through nearby Nashville, a welcoming small town loaded with galleries, boutiques, and cafés.
Why it belongs on your list
Gorgeous overlooks that are equally lovely at sunrise and sunset.
Trail variety: from hour-long loops to longer ridge rambles.
Nashville’s arts scene: pottery, painting, and handcrafted souvenirs.
Quick tips
Peak fall weekends bring crowds; midweek visits are calmer.
Bring trekking poles if you appreciate extra stability on leaf-covered paths.
Make a dinner reservation in Nashville during foliage season.
Best for: Couples, leaf peepers, hikers, and anyone who wants a peaceful base for a long weekend.
Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari (Santa Claus): Family Thrills With Midwest Charm
In Santa Claus, Indiana, a theme park with old-fashioned hospitality meets record-setting attractions. Holiday World is known for wooden coasters, seasonal theming, and perks that families love; Splashin’ Safari adds water coasters and splash zones that make summer visits unforgettable.
Why families rave
One price, all fun: look for on-site conveniences that keep the day easy.
Range of rides: gentle kiddie rides to scream-worthy coasters.
Friendly staff: small-town warmth at big-park scale.
How to plan
Hit headliners early or late for shorter lines.
Pack quick-dry clothing if you’re doing both parks in a day.
Consider two days if your crew wants to do everything without rushing.
Great for: Multi-generational groups, thrill-seekers, and families who want a destination park without the major-metro chaos.
Parke County Covered Bridges: Scenic Drives Through Time
Parke County claims the title of “Covered Bridge Capital of the World,” and a day of wandering its 31 historic bridges is a slow-travel delight. Roll your windows down, cue a favorite playlist, and embrace a back-roads route that weaves through farm fields, creeks, and leafy lanes.
Why this experience endures
Photo-ready bridges in all styles and spans—each with its own story.
Flexible pace: choose a short loop or make a full day of it.
Small-town stops: local bakeries, antique shops, and friendly diners.
Traveler tips
Bring a picnic for creekside pauses.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk across the bridges.
Foliage season is spectacular, but spring wildflowers and summer greens are equally lovely.
Ideal for: Road-trippers, photographers, couples, and anyone who likes their sightseeing with a side of nostalgia.
Turkey Run State Park: Sandstone Gorges and Suspension Bridge Fun
For a rugged counterpoint to beach dunes and rolling hills, Turkey Run State Park delivers sandstone ravines, root-laced trail ladders, and a suspension bridge over Sugar Creek that makes every visit feel like an adventure. Trails range from kid-friendly to challenging, and the scenery is eye-catching year-round.
What sets it apart
Canyon-style hiking you wouldn’t expect in Indiana.
Clear creek scenes that beg for picnic breaks and camera time.
Trails with just enough scramble to thrill older kids and teens.
Know before you go
After rain, trails can be muddy and slick—wear proper footwear.
Bring a small daypack for water and snacks; you’ll want extra time in the ravines.
In summer, canoe or kayak Sugar Creek for an added perspective.
Best for: Active families, hikers, and nature lovers who like varied terrain.
Shipshewana & Amish Country: Markets, Bakeries, and Horse-and-Buggy Pace
Northern Indiana’s Amish Country centers around Shipshewana, where buggy-lined roads, fresh-baked pies, and handcrafted furniture anchor a gentler rhythm. Spend a day visiting country stores, bakeries, and downtown markets, then linger for a homestyle meal that tastes like it came straight from a farm kitchen.
Signature experiences
Amish bakeries and cheese houses featuring old-world recipes.
Hand-crafted goods—quilts, wooden furniture, leatherwork.
Seasonal markets and performances that offer community charm.
How to respect the culture
Ask permission before taking photos of people.
Drive cautiously—horse-drawn buggies share the road.
Plan ahead; some businesses close early or operate limited hours.
Who it’s for: Food lovers, slow travelers, families, and anyone craving a peaceful “step back in time.”
Newfields: Art, Nature, and Seasonal Wonder in One Campus
Newfields—home to the Indianapolis Museum of Art and sprawling gardens and grounds—is one of the Midwest’s most elegant cultural campuses. You can wander galleries of European and American art, then step outside into sculpture-dotted gardens, wooded walks, and seasonal festivals.
Why it belongs on your itinerary
Indoor-outdoor balance: mix fine art with fresh air.
Rotating exhibitions that keep repeat visits exciting.
Seasonal shows (think immersive lights or blooms) that feel celebratory.
Visiting smart
Check the calendar for special exhibits or garden events.
Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll cover surprising ground between galleries and gardens.
If you’re bringing kids, look for family-friendly programming to keep them engaged.
Best for: Art appreciators, couples, and travelers seeking a cultured breather between hikes and thrills.
Fort Wayne’s Riverfront at Promenade Park: Playful Urban Adventure
Fort Wayne has quietly transformed its downtown with the Riverfront at Promenade Park, a modern playground along the St. Marys and St. Joseph Rivers. Think canopy walks, kayak launches, splash pads, and community events that make warm evenings sparkle. Pair the park with downtown dining or a visit to a local science center or zoo for a full day.
What makes it great
Active options: rent a kayak, join a guided paddle, or stroll the riverwalk.
Kid-approved features: interactive play zones and water features.
Evening energy: live music and seasonal happenings add sparkle.
Planning pointers
Summer weekends are lively; weekday visits are more relaxed.
Bring a dry bag if you’re paddling.
Check for pop-up events—you might catch a market or concert.
Who it’s for: Families, couples, and anyone who loves urban green spaces with a fresh, fun vibe.
Bonus Experience Ideas (If You Have Extra Time)
If you’re lingering in Indiana and want to expand your list, consider:
French Lick & West Baden Springs for Gilded-Age grandeur, golf, a casino, and a scenic railway.
Potawatomi Zoo (South Bend) for red pandas, rhinos, and a manageable, family-friendly layout.
Indianapolis Cultural Trail for a citywide, art-peppered biking or walking tour that links neighborhoods and attractions.
How to Build Your Perfect Indiana Itinerary
You can fit two or three of these experiences into a long weekend, or stack five or more into a weeklong road trip. The magic is in the mix: pair outdoor adventures with cultural anchors, and family-friendly play with quiet small-town moments. A few quick frameworks:
Weekend North (Nature-Forward)
Day 1: Indiana Dunes hike + sunset beach time
Day 2: Shipshewana bakeries and markets + leisurely country drive
Weekend Central (Culture + Iconic Indy)
Day 1: Children’s Museum + White River/Canal stroll
Day 2: IMS Museum & track tour + dinner in a buzzing neighborhood
Weekend South (Hills & Thrills)
Day 1: Brown County hiking + Nashville galleries and cafés
Day 2: Holiday World rides & slides
Extended Road Trip (5–7 Days)
Days 1–2 (North): Dunes + Fort Wayne Riverfront
Days 3–4 (Central): Children’s Museum, Newfields, IMS
Days 5–6 (Southwest): Parke County bridges + Turkey Run
Day 7 (South): Brown County or Holiday World, depending on the season and your crew
Insider Tips for a Smooth Indiana Adventure
Seasonality matters: Summer brings beach weather, festivals, and water parks. Fall is prime for Brown County and covered bridges. Spring is mild and blooming, and winter offers quiet museums and cozy small-town weekends.
Reservations help: For marquee attractions (Children’s Museum, IMS tours) and popular restaurants in peak seasons, book ahead.
Pack with purpose: Bring layers, walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a small daypack—you’ll use them everywhere.
Mix your paces: Alternate high-energy days (parks, coasters, big museums) with slower days (covered bridges, gardens, small towns). You’ll enjoy more and burn out less.
Travel with kids? Build in park time (Fort Wayne riverfront, Indy canal paths) to let them reset between attractions.
Frequently Asked (Quick-Hit) Questions
What’s the single best thing to do in Indiana with kids?
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a slam dunk—plan several hours and don’t rush.
Where can I get the best outdoor variety in one place?
Indiana Dunes tops the list. Beach, dunes, forest, and wetlands—choose your own adventure.
Is there an iconic “only in Indiana” experience?
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway—even a quick museum visit feels momentous.
What’s a great romantic weekend?
Brown County State Park for overlooks and hikes, plus dinner and shopping in Nashville.
What’s unexpectedly photogenic?
Parke County’s covered bridges and the gorges at Turkey Run are ready-made for your camera roll.
The Bottom Line: Indiana’s Best Experiences, Your Way
From wind-carved dunes to world-class museums, from story-rich bridges to forest canyons, Indiana’s greatest hits are varied, approachable, and genuinely memorable. Whether you build your plans around family fun at Holiday World, hands-on learning at the Children’s Museum, nature escapes in Turkey Run and Brown County, or culture and gardens at Newfields, you’ll find an itinerary that fits your travel style.