Summer Road Trips

Get out and enjoy the weather with a road trip around Indiana this summer! Splash in a lake, catch a ball game, or whatever your summer fun is, you can do it in Indiana. Don’t miss out on these attractions that are only open when the weather is hot!

Summer Road Trips IN Northern Indiana

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A summer road trip through Northern Indiana is a great adventure for families and friends. Explore zoos, water parks, and other attractions to help you stay cool in the summer heat. And don’t forget to fuel up at some local restaurants to keep you going. Plan your route with the links below!



Locations

  • 1426 W. 300 N.

Nestled on 18 acres in Northern Indiana Lake Country, Black Pine Animal Sanctuary is the forever home to over 75 captive-raised exotic and wild animals.

  • 2355 E. 75 S.

This nine lake paddle challenge will take you 5 miles across the park via nine connected kettle lakes. Enjoy the natural landscape from the unique vantage point of your boat. Download or pick up a paddle map to guide you, take pictures along the way at the nine designated locations, and then show…

  • 1915 Scott St.

Home to over 190 animals representing nearly 90 different species, the Columbian Park Zoo offers a variety of educational programs teaching appreciation for the world's wildlife.

  • 9001 E Lincoln Hwy

Deep River Waterpark is a seasonal summer outdoor water park that operates from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, and a winter ice skating rink operated by the Lake County Parks and Recreation Department in Crown Point, Indiana.

  • 126 S Niles Ave

East Race Waterway, located in downtown South Bend, is a one-of-a-kind recreational facility. As the first artificial whitewater course in North America, its rapids rival those of the Colorado River and can generate waves up to six feet or higher. The course is approximately 2,000 feet long, with a…

  • 856 N 600 E.

Escape to the country with outdoor fun, food and learning where you can explore family farms and reconnect with nature animals and our planet.

  • 1301 Ewing Street

Parkview Field is the award-winning home of the Fort Wayne TinCaps (Minor League Baseball's High-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres). But the ballpark is more than baseball. The versatile venue is perfect for companies, non-profit organizations, and individuals.

  • 5224 E. INDIANA BEACH RD

At Indiana Beach, you will find exciting attractions for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you’re riding roller coasters, taking a relaxing boat ride, or spending the day at the waterpark, you can be sure to make lifelong memories with your family.

  • 1100 N Mineral Springs Rd.

Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. the park is comprised of more than 15,000 acres of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers and forests. It contains fifteen miles of Lake Michigan shoreline spanning the…

  • 4640 Indiana Highway 218

Tucked away in lesser-known and tragically underrated Berne is one of the Hoosier State’s best (and oldest) water parks.

  • 450 Lane 100 Lake James

Enjoy beautiful Lake James when you visit Pokagon State Park in Angola. You can stay in the fishing lodge-themed Potawatomi Inn, which is next to the Midwest's only refrigerated toboggan run (come back in the winter to enjoy that). Fun fact: this park is named after Leopold and Simon Pokagon, two…

  • 500 S Greenlawn Ave.

South Bend’s first zoo, the South Bend Zoo, began as a modest duck pond in Leeper Park in 1902. In 1921, the Potawatomi Zoo was established in Potawatomi Park, where it continues to exist today. As one of the oldest zoos in Indiana, the Potawatomi Zoo is rich in history and building a promising…

  • 3421 Cassopolis Street

The annual, award-winning Quilt Gardens along the Heritage Trail joins quilting, gardening and art into a one-of-a-kind event featuring super-sized hand-painted Quilt Murals and more than one million vibrant blooms in gigantic Quilt Gardens.

  • Four Winds Field

The South Bend Cubs are a Minor League Baseball team of the Midwest League and the High-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. They are located in South Bend, Indiana, and play their home games at Four Winds Field at Coveleski Stadium.

  • 1 Stadium Plaza

A day at Steel Yard is non-stop fun, and that's even without the baseball! The RailCats promise a wide array of laugh-out-loud between-inning entertainment, great giveaways, jaw-dropping fireworks and a family-first, kid-friendly atmosphere.

  • 20 N 6th Street

Kick off your shoes, grab your swimsuit and come experience a taste of the tropics in the heart of Indiana. Only Tropicanoe Cove offers the perfect blend of Hoosier hospitality with the pleasure of a watery paradise.

  • 115 Lake Shore Dr.

Located on the southern shoreline of beautiful Lake Michigan since 1928, the Zoo is spread out over 15 acres. Its natural hillside terrain, meandering tree-covered pathways, and historical WPA (Works Progress Administration) structures enhance your visit as you discover the wonders of the natural…

On the shores of a beautiful lake in Kosciusko County sits the small town of Winona Lake, a vibrant destination steeped in history. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this former summer retreat is now a shopping destination, with unique retail and service shops and a variety of…

  • 4004 E 800 N

Located in Greater Lafayette, Wolf Park is an education, conservation and research facility. Take a tour and see the grey wolves, red foxes, grey foxes, and bison that call Wolf Park home.

  • 62 North Main Street

Indiana's largest two-day hot dog festival, complete with 20+ different kinds of hot dogs, the popular DockDogs premier canine aquatics competition, Doxie races and games, hot dog eating contest, state qualifying street vaulting, over 200 vendors, live entertainment, beer/wine, and fun for all ages.

  • 4505 W. U.S. 24 West

Travelers have come to know and love the outdoor recreational facilities of France Park, with scenic trails, beautiful waterfall, clear swimming lake with picturesque cliffs, quiet fishing areas, and spacious camping facilities. While visiting Cass County, discover the best that outdoor recreation…

  • Steuben County

Nearly a dozen ice cream shops scattered throughout Steuben County offer a great variety of delicious treats for young and old alike. With flavors ranging from mint chip to amaretto cherry to lemon cheesecake, you're sure to find one that will satisfy your sweet tooth!

  • 401 N Jefferson Street

Antiqology is a treasure trove of vintage finds and antique treasures. This charming shop is a collection of home decor, furniture, and unique knick-knacks. It's the perfect spot to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir or gift for someone special. Their hand-crafted root beer is their specialty, but you…

  • 3294 US-41

The Nature Conservancy introduced a herd of 23 wild bison from South Dakota to Kankakee Sands in 2016. The herd has grown steadily as the Bison give birth to calves, and more are brought from South Dakota. They happily roam free in the 1,060-acre pasture at Kankakee Sands, where the herd is now…

  • 5822 Fish and Wildlife Lane

Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area provides quality outdoor recreational opportunities including hunting, fishing, and trapping, while maintaining 8,179 acres of wetland, upland, and woodland game habitat. It provides an ideal stopover for migratory birds. More than 15,000 sandhill cranes stop…

Summer Road Trips IN Central Indiana

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Whether you like the fast times of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway or the relaxed surroundings of nature, you can find it all in Central Indiana this summer. You can catch a baseball game, discover historical sites, or eat some fried food at the State Fair. Grab some ice cream and keep cool this summer in Central Indiana.



Locations

  • 3968 N Xavier Rd.

The Badlands Off Road Park is 1400+ acres of multi-directional, diverse terrain. You'll find sand dunes, wooded trails, gravel, mud, and rocks - trails and terrain for all types and skill levels of riders

  • 13400 Allisonville Rd

Conner Prairie invites guests to actively experience the connection between Indiana in the distant past and today. One of the most spacious places to stop on I-69 in Indiana, this spot highlights the exciting intersections of history, nature, art, science, and technology. Here you can explore 11…

  • 2221 E Ashboro Rd.

The Exotic Feline Rescue Center is a nationally recognized leader in big cat rescue, conservation, care and education. They are home to about 150 exotic felines and one of the largest rescue centers in the U.S. Being a 501 (C) 3 NOT FOR PROFIT organization we depend upon the public to care for these…

  • 1202 E. 38th St.

The Indiana State Fair is an annual state fair that spans 18 days in July and August in Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S. The Indiana State Fair debuted in 1852 at Military Park in Indianapolis and is the sixth oldest state fair in the U.S.

  • 650 W. Washington Street

The Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites is a statewide museum system with 12 locations. Whether interested in art or architecture, history or science, there’s something for everyone and every interest. The Indiana State Museum is located in White River State Park in the heart of downtown…

  • 501 W Maryland St

The Indianapolis Indians are a Minor League Baseball team of the International League and the Triple-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. They are located in Indianapolis, Indiana, and play their home games at Victory Field, which opened in 1996.

  • 1200 W Washington St.

Pet sharks, view dolphins, feed giraffes, touch elephants, experience nature and learn how to save it at the Indianapolis Zoo.

  • Canal Walk

The Canal Walk is part of the Indiana Central Canal, which was dug in the early 1800s, to facilitate interstate commerce.

  • Various Courses

Golf getaways are all about relaxation with just a touch of excitement, especially when doing the Pete Dye Golf Trail. Imagine golfing surrounded by some of the most stunning views in the state and then dining at a gourmet restaurant or checking out a local brewery or winery. After a wonderful day…

  • 3000 N Meridian St

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis wows guests of all ages with five floors and nearly half a million square feet of hands-on permanent displays and traveling exhibits. Popular zones include the Dinosphere, Take Me There®: Greece, The Power of Children: Making a Difference, Beyond Spaceship Earth…

  • 8121 E. Park Road

Two of the trails at Turkey Run State Park were voted first and second place among all Indiana trails. Explore the deep sandstone ravines, walk along stands of aged forests, and enjoy the scenic views along Sugar Creek. It’s always fun to cross the suspension bridge, too. Turkey Run has horseback…

  • 305-537 S White River Pkwy Dr W.

From cliff jumping and swimming to camping and fishing, White Rock Park has an entire itinerary of outdoor fun for the full day booked!

  • 5717 N 300 W.

Tuttle Orchards is a fourth-generation family-owned and operated farm in the Indianapolis area. We have been providing our guests with quality, local produce and real agricultural experiences since 1928. Our farm operates year-round, so you can bring your family or group to enjoy the Tuttles…

  • 4000 N Michigan Rd

No romantic trip to Indianapolis would be complete without snapping a selfie in front of Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE sculpture at Newfields. Then, immerse yourselves in the dreamy shifting sounds and images of Monet & Friends in THE LUME followed by a walk through the outdoor gardens to see what’s…

  • 6363 Spring Mill Road

Holliday Park is a 95-acre historic park along White River in Indianapolis. The park hosts concerts in the summer and includes a Nature Center as well.

  • 4010 US-52

A recently opened 5-mile bike park in Lebanon with trails designed for NICA sanctioned racing. There are four riding areas for various levels of riders' skills.

  • 500 W Washington St

Celebrate Native American cultures through art, music, dance, demonstrations and food at this Indy summer tradition. Free admission for ages 17 and under. Admission includes museum access.

Summer Road Trips IN Southern Indiana

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Splash parks, waterfalls, and cool caves are all available in Southern Indiana! Have fun in the sun hiking through parks and kayaking on lakes and cool off in the water or underground. And there are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat to fuel your adventure.



Locations

  • 1801 IN-46

The largest state park in IN boasts exceptional fall color. Hiking, swimming, bridle trails Bring your own horse, mountain bike trails, and saddlebags with escorted rides.

Discover how a small Midwestern city became a "modern architecture mecca"! The Columbus Architecture Tour includes over thirty significant structures and works of art in the city to learn about.

  • 6265 W. State Road 48

Located near Jasonville, Shakamak State Park is known for its great fishing as it’s home to three serene lakes. There’s also a large area for outdoor games, as well as campsites, cabins and hiking trails.

  • 2605 N Cataract Rd

Also, not too far off from I-70 is the largest waterfall in the state, Cataract Falls! Take a short hike to view the beautiful scenery, and be sure to stop at the General Store that's right nearby and has something for everyone.

  • 2221 Clifty Drive

Situated high above the Ohio River near Madison, Clifty Falls State Park provides breathtaking views, not just of the river but also of the many waterfalls for which it’s named. Depending on the season, the falls vary from roaring plunges to delicate mists. The stony bed of the creek has fossil…

  • 8670 IN-56

The best gaming experience in southern Indiana is always nearby at French Lick Casino! Inside our 51,000-square-foot, single-level gaming facility with soaring 27-foot ceilings, you can compete to win big jackpots on slot machines or try your hand at our table games.

  • 452 East Christmas Boulevard

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari is known for its friendly staff, clean park, and great value. Enjoy free soft drinks, free sunscreen, free parking, and free Wi-fi.

  • 250 McCormick Creek Park Rd

McCormick's Creek State Park is Indiana’s oldest state park. Here you can explore the spectacular limestone canyon and scenic waterfalls. This beautiful location also has trails that feature diverse forest trees, spicebush, native wildflowers, and Wolf Cave Nature Preserve. You can stay overnight at…

  • 1545 Mesker Park Drive

Situated on 45 acres of rolling hills on Evansville’s northwest side, Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden is home to hundreds of animals from around the globe. Their mission is to foster the preservation of the Earth’s diverse species and living systems through an active role in education and…

  • 2991 N Dillard Rd,

Patoka Lake is the second-largest reservoir in Indiana with 8,800 acres and one of its best examples of lake ecology. Species that call Patoka Lake home include freshwater jellyfish, bald eagle nesting sites, and river otters. Rolling topography and heavily wooded areas around the property are…

  • 3333 State Road 60 E

In addition to the hiking you’d expect, Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell also has a pioneer village with grist and sawmill as well as a memorial to Hoosier astronaut Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom. You can also take a boat tour through Twin Caves. With so much to do, it’s good you can stay overnight in…

  • 4229 US-150

Go on a guided trail ride and enjoy over 30 miles of scenic trails on 1,100 rolling acres. Experience the thrill of a 4,000-foot-canopy zipline tour, hiking, biking, horseback riding and encounter exotic animals including Elephants, Giraffes, and Kangaroos!

  • 401 N Arthur St.

Historic New Harmony, is a small rivertown with a really interesting history involving two early American Utopian societies who tried at different times to establish model communities. Today visitors can walk the labyrinths, see the roofless church, visit art galleries and browse local shops. Also…

  • 347 Spring St

One of the oldest, continuously operated, family-owned candy businesses in the country, your sweet tooth will love Schimpff's Confectionery! The Candy Museum is located in downtown Jeffersonville, Indiana where you can learn about the history and process of candy making, packaging and advertising.

  • County Rd 480 E.

The Tulip Trestle, a spectacular railroad bridge, was built in 1906 to haul coal out of Greene County. It was the largest trestle in the United States and third-largest in the world at one point. Visitors can experience the massive structure from below by walking along the stream or driving past the…

  • 2991 North Dillard Road

Patoka Lake is the only place in Indiana with floating cabins! Choose between a 2 or 3 bedroom cabin for this memorable on the water experience. Each cabin has its own 12' x 20' deck, gas grill, deck furniture, and private boat slip. Learn more here.

  • 400 East State Rd 64

Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1984 after its discovery by two schoolchildren, Marengo Cave offers several different cave tour options. Two different walking tours, the Dripstone Trail and The Crystal Palace tour are open year-round that take you through a wide variety of cave…

  • 76 S Lake Rd N, , IN

This family-run enterprise is a labor of love that involves an idyllic 36-acre farm in Scottsburg, Ind. just west of I-65 in the shadow of the water tower.

  • 469 S Maple Street

Welcome to French Licks, where we've been serving up delicious artisan treats since 2016! Indulge in handcrafted ice cream, artisan pizzas, and expertly brewed coffee.

  • 6501 W. Honey Lane

We've harvested our honey and invite you to watch us extract and bottle this year's crop. Free tours, eat at our Honey Café, and enjoy lots of family activities.

  • 109 S Sugar Street

Nestled in the hills of Southern Indiana, the town of Brownstown comes alive to celebrate the renowned Watermelons grown in Jackson County. Our music series--Rock The Rind--features some of the hottest artists in country music. Come see for yourself.


 

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