The attractions of Indiana range from quiet hills and covered bridges to the vibrant city of Indianapolis, with its famous motor speedway (home to the Indy 500) and the world’s largest children’s museum. In the north, visit sand dunes along the shores of Lake Michigan or explore the large Amish community that lives in the state. In the south, you can tour charming towns that border the Ohio River. Or make a trip to Brown County, dubbed ‘The Art Colony of the Midwest’, where you’ll find galleries and specialty shops at every turn.
Indiana Highlights
Don't leave without tasting
The Hoosier Breaded Tenderloin. This pork sandwich is a local favourite— and you won’t be able to find one that isn’t larger than the bun on which it is served.
History happened here
As a boy, Abraham Lincoln and his family lived in Southern Indiana. Step back into Lincoln’s day at the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial living historical farm in Lincoln City. The farm is a recreated pioneer homestead, where rangers in period clothing perform a variety of activities typical of the 1820s.
Made in the state
In the 1800s, a large deposit of natural gas was discovered in the Kokomo area, and many glass-making factories moved there to make use of it. Today, you can still find studios, galleries and festivals—all dedicated to the craft of glass. Begin your artisan adventure along the Indiana Glass Trail. As you drive to its various stops, you’ll meet the artists and explore shops filled with unique glass items.
One awe-inspiring building
The community of Columbus is a one-of-a-kind destination for art, culture and history enthusiasts, with both world-class architecture and small-town charm. The Miller House and Garden, designed by Eero Saarinen and regarded as one of the country's best examples of mid-century Modernist architecture, has undergone extensive renovation to restore it to its original condition. The house became a National Historic Landmark in 2000—one of five in Columbus. Tours begin at the Columbus Area Visitors Center.
Only one day here?
Don’t miss the attractions of Indianapolis. Get close to nature at the White River State Park just outside the town. Enjoy close-up views of the giraffe, cheetah and dolphins at the Indianapolis Zoo. Learn about history at the Indiana State Museum, and of student athletes from around the nation at the NCAA Hall of Champions And, during baseball season, find out why Sports Illustrated magazine calls Victory Field, home of the Indianapolis Indians, the best Minor League ballpark in the country; you can enjoy the game from the outfield lawn.
Outdoor excitement
Referred to by many as the father of modern golf course architecture, Pete Dye honed his craft right here. Indiana is home to seven of Mr. Dye's favourite courses; travel along The Pete Dye Golf Trail to play them all.
Roadside attractions
Located along Interstate 65 between Chicago and Indianapolis, Fair Oaks Farms is one of the largest dairies in the United States. Try the cheeses and ice cream made right here, take the Dairy Barn Tour to see the rotary milking station (they pump 300,000 gallons of milk a day), and visit the birthing barn to see where calves enter the world (about 80 are born here each day). Children will love the Mooville play area where they can jump, rock climb and ride the MooChoo train.
Shopping heaven
At the Edinburgh Premium Outlet Mall in Edinburgh, located off I-65 just north of Columbus, you’ll find more than 85 outlet stores—and impressive discounts.
You might be surprised by...
You wouldn’t expect to see a shoreline in Indiana, but we have one. The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is 15 miles of wave-crashing shoreline along Lake Michigan.
Your child will always remember…
A visit to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the largest children’s museum in the world, which offers a myriad of educational and entertaining activities.