Top 14 Beautiful Places To Explore In Indiana

Often overlooked as a tourist destination, the slow-paced Midwest, bordering states like Michigan and Kentucky, offers stunning landscapes: golden lake shores, moody dunes, swaying cornfields, leafy parks, and unique caves. Here are my favorite spots I’d love to share…

1. Indiana Dunes National Park

I think this is such a tranquil and gorgeous spot! Indiana Dunes National Park – which spreads across 15,000 acres – is now the 61st national park in the U.S. Located just 40 miles from Chicago, I love coming here on day trips when I need a natural beauty fix!

Running along the southern shore of Lake Michigan (so the views of it are incredible!), I’m always won over by the scenery here which includes magnificent towering dunes, expansive marshes and wetlands, sprawling prairies, vast fields of pretty wildflowers (during the spring and summer) and gorgeous sandy beaches backed by sweeping dunes – in fact it has 15 miles of sandy shoreline to explore. 

On my trip, I loved discovering Mount Baldy the extraordinary moving sand dune, bird spotting at Great Marsh Trail (the largest wetland in the region) and seeing herons, and exploring the interesting historic Chellberg Farm, where I learnt about early 20th-century farm life!

I would just say that the water quality is variable here so check the reports before you go if you plan on swimming.

• Visitor Center Address: 1215 N State Road 49, Porter, IN 46304
• Best time to visit: Spring and Summer (to make the most of the wildflowers and beaches).
• Who would enjoy it: nature lovers, outdoor lovers, families, birdwatchers and photographers.
• Activities on offer: hiking, swimming, sunbathing, birdwatching, picnicking, kayaking, camping, biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and exploring historical sites.
• Nearby Accommodation: Dunewood Campground, Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, private cabin rentals and hotels and motels in the nearby towns of Chesterton, Porter, and Michigan City.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking the-3 mile Heron Rookery Trail in the spring – I loved seeing the gorgeous wildflowers in bloom (especially the pretty bluebells and trilliums) and walking alongside the peaceful Little Calumet River. 
• Seeing the unique and rare Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus on a ranger-led guided hike – I loved how bright the yellow flowers were!

2. East Pierhead Lighthouse

I personally think this place is so striking and photogenic! It’s a historic beauty, built in 1904 and located at the end of the pier in Washington Park, on the southern shore of Lake Michigan, it’s become symbol of Michigan City.

It’s also the only operating lighthouse in the state and is also on National Register of Historic Places. I found that it’s not open for public tours inside but I loved viewing it from a scenic stroll along the pier and along the “catwalk” – the walkway which connecting the lighthouse to the shore.

We also visited the nearby Washington Park which had a gorgeous beach and marina and the quaint and interesting Michigan City Lighthouse Museum.

• Address: 1 Washington St, Michigan City, IN 46360
• Best time to visit: late spring to early fall season (but winter is very scenic too).
• Who would enjoy it: Photographers, Instagrammers, tourists, families, couples and history fans.
• Activities on offer: walks around the pier, photography, birdwatching, sightseeing, and sunset viewing, while also exploring nearby beaches and parks such as Washington Park.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Taking a stroll there at sunset – I love how the sky glowed with oranges, pinks, reds, golds and even violet, it was a very romantic thing to do! 
• Visiting during the winter months when ice forms along the shore – I found the dramatic and atmospheric scenery to be incredibly photogenic!

3. Brown County State Park

I think this pristine area is just so dreamy and unspoilt! Established in 1929, it’s located in the southern part of state (near the town of Nashville), this is the largest state park in Indiana and in my opinion it’s one of the most scenic!

Also called the “Little Smokies,” I love the leafy rolling hills, the atmospheric fog-shrouded ravines, deep gullies, steep ridges, and lush forests, clear lakes and picturesque overlooks and it’s one of my favorite places to go leaf-peeping here in the fall! The colors and scenery are bewitching! 

On my trip I loved taking a scenic drive on the main Park Loop Road and exploring the miles of hiking trails in – Trail 9 which had picturesque views of Ogle Lake, and the peaceful Trail 7, which took me through the most picturesque forested areas were my favorites! 

• Address: 1810 State Road 46 East, Nashville, 47448. 
• Best time to visit: Spring and fall (spring for the flowers and fall for the colorful leaves).
• Who would enjoy it: Nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, families, campers, photographers.
• Activities on offer: hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, swimming, picnicking, wildlife viewing, nature programs, scenic drives, and cross-country skiing in winter, along with exploring its nature center and scenic overlooks. 
• Accommodation: Abe Martin Lodge, rustic cabins and four campgrounds.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Hiking Trail 10 which took me through the forest and eventually lead to the park’s historic Fire Tower – I loved being able to climb the 123 steps and seeing the wow-inducing panoramic views of the park at the top! 
• Diving to Hesitation Point and West Lookout on the Park Loop Road and seeing breathtaking fall views.
• Staying over at the family and pet friendly Abe Martin Lodge – I loved the fun indoor water park and staying in a cute rustic-chic cabin which had a cozy wood burner!

4. Washington Park Beach

This is the gorgeous sandy beach that surrounds the striking East Pierhead Lighthouse! I always combine the two beauty spots (of course!) on a trip. Located in the 140-acre park Michigan City, it stretches two miles along the southern shore of the huge Lake Michigan. 

In the summer I love coming here for the gorgeous views of the water, the lighthouse (and on clear days the Chicago skyline!) the relaxing vibe and swimming in the designated areas.

There’s also a great range of concerts and live music held actually on the beach in the summer and the fun atmosphere is just awesome! When here I always make sure I explore the wider Washington Park which has pretty picnic areas, a marina, and family-friendly playgrounds too. I would just suggest checking the water quality reports before you head off.

• Address: City Hall & 100 E. Michigan, Michigan City, IN 46360
• Best time to visit: summer
• Who would enjoy it: families, couples, beachgoers, nature lovers and photographers. 
• Activities on offer: swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, picnicking, hiking, boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, exploring the nearby East Pierhead Lighthouse, seasonal concerts and events.
• Accommodation: beachfront hotels (Blue Chip Casino Hotel), beach cottages, campgrounds at Indiana Dunes State Park, and budget-friendly motels like Quality Inn and Comfort Inn are nearby.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Visiting in January when the cold temperatures freeze the water, I loved seeing the dramatic ice formations and stunning natural sculptures which are made when the waves crash and freeze along the shore!
• Going to the Patriotic Music Festival – the fireworks, the live music and the fun vibe made it an awesome experience!

5. Turkey Run State Park

I’m always won over by this gorgeous beauty spot! Located in Parke County in the west-central part of the state (less than a 90-minute drive from Indianapolis), Turkey Run State Park covers over 2,382 acres and it’s the second oldest national parks in the state. It’s also often voted for as the favorite state parks (by Indianapolis Monthly).

I absolutely love visiting this lush spot and I’m always in awe of the scenery here which includes old-growth forests, deep canyons of sandstone, stunning gorges, hemlock groves, scenic trails, small seasonal waterfalls and picturesque views of Sugar Creek.

On my trip I really enjoyed discovering the intriguing historic home of former settlers, the Lusk Home and Mill Site, swimming in the park’s Olympic-size swimming pool (in the summer!), photographing the scenic suspension bridge over Sugar Creek and hiking the stunning trails. 

• Address: 8121 Park Rd, Marshall, IN 47859
• Best time to visit: any season except the winter.
• Who would enjoy it: nature lovers, outdoor adventurers, history fans, photographers, birdwatchers, and families.
• Activities on offer: hiking, canoeing, kayaking, birdwatching, swimming, camping, picnicking, exploring the historic Lusk Home, and wildlife viewing.
• Accommodation: Turkey Run Inn, park cabins, campgrounds like Sugar Valley Canoe Campground, and nearby lodges such as the Covered Bridge Retreat.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Hiking the challenging Trail 3 which took me through some seriously rugged terrain (even gorges and across ladders!) – but the gorgeous views of Bear Hollow and Boulder Canyon made it worth it! 
• Seeing the fall colors then buying delicious home-made cinnamon rolls and locally made jewelry in the shape of a delicate leaf at the cute onsite Golden Forrest Gift Shop (which sold nature-inspired gifts and souvenirs!). 

6. Indiana State Capitol Building 

This is a fine historic and important attraction! Located in the state’s capital, Indianapolis the current building – which is made of  and locally sourced limestone and white oak – was built in 1888 and designed by architect Edwin May in a neoclassical style.

On my visit I thought the outside was very impressive but the inside is really something quite special and filled with classical paintings, sculptures, murals, and opulent chandeliers and even a stunning stained glass rotunda window.

It was great to explore on a guided tour and learn all about its history and what takes place here in the current day! I would just say it can get very crowded in peak tourist seasons so best to avoid those times! 

• Address: 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
• Best time to visit: it’s open for year-round tours (but closed on weekends and major holidays)
• Who would enjoy it: tourists, history fans, architecture fans, people into politics.
• Activities on offer: guided tours
• Nearby Accommodation: there’s a large range of hotels and private rentals in Indianapolis. 
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Seeing the beautiful dome, the fine grand staircases and the ornate Supreme Court Chamber – it was really great to see where all the legal decisions are made! 
• Visiting the nearby interesting Eiteljorg Museum – I especially loved seeing the moving Native American exhibits! 

7. Hoosier National Forest

I think this gem is hugely underrated! Located in the southern Indiana (near the city of Bloomington), it’s a protected public area which covers over 200,000 acres.

I find the scenery to be just so pristine and tranquil and is filled with thick hardwood forests, rolling hills, rugged trails, interesting caves, striking limestone bluffs and scenic waterways including the sprawling Patoka Lake.

On my visit I loved exploring the superb Sullivan Cave, the majestic Hemlock Cliffs which was filled with beautiful cliffs and Hemlock Cliffs Waterfall, the Charles C. Deam Wilderness which offered backcountry hiking, camping, and the tranquil Hardin Ridge Recreation Area which had superb scenic views. 

• Address: 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250
• Best time to visit: Spring and fall season for natural beauty.
• Who would enjoy it: nature lovers, outdoor adventurers, photographers and families. 
• Activities on offer: hiking, camping, backpacking, wildlife watching, birdwatching, boating, kayaking, swimming, picnicking, mountain biking, exploring caves, visiting waterfalls, nature walks, exploring sinkholes and karst topography.
• Accommodation: campgrounds and cabins, cottages, inns and hotels in nearby towns.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a stunning fall drive along Ohio River Scenic Byway – I loved seeing the incredible colored leaves, the forest scenery and the stopping at the quaint historic towns of Corydon and Madison.
• Exploring the huge and fascinating Wesley Chapel Gulf which is the largest sinkhole in the park – it was easy to drive to and park there and the turquoise color of the water was breathtaking! 

8. Mounds State Park

 

This unique and tranquil spot always charms me! Located in the central-eastern part of the state near the city of Anderson and covering 252 acres, the big focus here is the ancient earthworks built by the prehistoric Native American Adena-Hopewell people.

I’m also enchanted by the other scenery here though which consists of rolling hills lined with hardwood forests, wildflowers (in spring and summer), and stunning stretches of the White River.

There are ten unique mounds located here but I was especially intrigued by the largest which is know as “Great Mound”, dates back to to an incredible 160 B.C. and we climbed to the top for great views! 

I think it’s a very special place I come here to find some peace in nature, gaze in awe at the rich biodiversity and hike the scenic trails (there are six in total, all at varying lengths)! 

• Address: 4306 Mounds Rd, Anderson, IN 46017
• The best time to visit: spring to fall.
• Who would enjoy it: hikers, history enthusiasts, nature lovers, birdwatchers, families.
• Activities on offer: hiking, exploring Native American earthworks, birdwatching, picnicking, fishing along the White River, wildlife viewing, attending interpretive programs, and visiting the nature center.
• Nearby Accommodation: Anderson Inn, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Anderson, and Best Western Plus Anderson, all just a short drive from the park.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Hiking the peaceful Trail 5 which is 1.4 miles in length and took me 50 minutes to finish – it took me along the White River which winds through the park and I loved spotting the great blue heron on the river banks and cute wild turkeys which were foraging for food on the forest floor! 
• Visiting the onsite educational nature center and watching the birds from their cozy bird watching room which had binoculars and large windows which overlooked feeders – I managed to see American goldfinches and ruby-throated hummingbirds! They also had a handy guide so visitors can identify them.

9. Cataract Falls

These spectacular falls always wow me! Located in Owen County in the Lieber State Recreation Area, it’s actually the largest waterfalls in the state with a drop of 86 feet. 

The falls consist of two sets of waterfalls a mile apart on Mill Creek, Upper Falls and the Lower Falls. I think it’s great that they’re surrounded by flat rock formations as I love to come here and picnic and take in the picturesque scenery, rushing cascades, and bubbling waters! 

On my trips I also really enjoy seeing the historic and very photogenic Cataract Covered Bridge (pictured above!) and hiking the picturesque trails here – if you do as well, I recommended bringing your camera! 

• Address: Lieber State Recreation Area, 1317 W Lieber Rd, Cloverdale, IN 46120
• Best time to visit: spring or early summer (as this is when the falls are at their most powerful). 
• Who would enjoy it: Nature lovers, families, hikers, photographers, and history fans
• Activities on offer: hiking, picnicking, exploring the historic Cataract Covered Bridge, wildlife viewing, and taking in scenic views of the Upper and Lower Falls.
• Nearby Accommodation: Lieber State Recreation Area Campground, Cloverdale RV Park, and nearby hotels like Holiday Inn Express and Super 8 in Cloverdale
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Hiking the relaxing mile long trail, the Cataract Falls Loop which took me 45 minutes to complete and took me past breathtaking views of both waterfalls as well as the peaceful Mill Creek.

10. Griffy Lake Nature Preserve 

I have to mention this beautiful and unique hidden gem! Nestled just outside the city of Bloomington, Griffy Lake Nature Preserve is my go-to escape when I need some peace and quiet – it’s my perfect spot to recharge away from the hustle and bustle! 

It’s a protected beauty spot spanning over 1,200 acres, with the huge (109-acre!) Griffy Lake at the center. The other scenery is equally as gorgeous with lush forests, rolling hills and peaceful wetlands and I love that they have a strong wildlife conversation focus including protecting habitats for migratory birds! 

On my trip I love kayaking on the tranquil lake and taking in the leafy views, trying to spot the wildlife and bird life and hiking the picturesque trails! 

• Address: 3400 N Headley Rd, Bloomington, IN 47408
• Best time to visit: Spring to fall
• Who would enjoy it: nature enthusiasts, history buffs, hikers, birdwatchers, archaeologists, and families
• Activities on offer: hiking, exploring ancient earthworks, birdwatching, picnicking, wildlife viewing, visiting the nature center, and attending educational programs.
• Nearby Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Anderson, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Anderson, and nearby camping options within the park itself for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights…

• Hiking the short and easy Wetlands Trail which only took me 30 minutes and took me through the wetlands and I spotted cute frogs and even painted turtles! 
• Having a picnic on the picnic area near the boat launch (there were tables here) and seeing gorgeous lake views as well as herons and bald eagles! 

11. Clifty Falls State Park

This is an awesome spot which is located off the beaten path! Established in 1920 and located near the city of Madison I choose this place when I want to go somewhere far away from the crowds – the rugged terrain isn’t for everyone and keeps the visitor numbers lower!

I love that the scenery and geology here is gorgeously unique and consists of cascading waterfalls, deep canyons, dense forests, deep-cut gorges and impressive sheetrock walls, scenic overlooks and Clifty Creek which contains fossil remnants from 400 million years ago! 

On my trips I love to hike the rugged hiking trails, exploring the four Instagram-worthy waterfalls (Big Clifty, Little Clifty, Hoffman, and Tunnel Falls) and go primitive camping! 

• Address: 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250
• Best time to visit: Spring, summer and fall for extra-special scenery.
• Who would enjoy it: nature lovers, outdoor adventurers, photographers, geology buffs, birdwatchers, and families.
• Activities on offer: hiking, exploring waterfalls, fossil hunting, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, visiting the historic railroad tunnel, camping, picnicking, and taking in scenic overlooks.
• Nearby Accommodation:
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking the challenging Trail 8 which was 4.5 miles and took me 3 hours to complete – I loved seeing the views of downtown Madison and the creepy abandoned tunnel on the historic unused railroad.
• The views of Hoffman Falls from the Hoffman Falls Overlook (one of the best overlooks in the park), which I saw on Trail 5 – I also loved seeing the surrounding gorge, and the park’s breathtaking rugged landscapes!

12. Holliday Park

 

This is a fun (and free!) family-friendly spot! It’s also a very unique place as it’s a park (spanning over 94 acres), where the remnants of the former St. Paul Building from New York City have been repurposed to form an artsy and super Instagram-worthy centerpiece in an outdoor sculpture garden!

I personally think the rest of it is pretty special too with lush woodlands, pretty ponds, ornamental gardens, natural springs, wetlands all bordered by the scenic White River. 

I love coming here and taking a stroll on the picturesque trails, spotting birds and wildlife, going on picnics and we also get involved in some of the recreational activities here including the interesting educational programs. There’s also a nature-themed playground complete with climbing frames, slides, and swings which kids love! 

• Address: 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260
• Best time to visit: spring to fall (summer is great but usually crowded).
• Who would enjoy it: families, nature lovers, walkers, history enthusiasts, garden-lovers and photographers.
• Activities on offer: hiking, wildlife viewing, visiting the Ruins, exploring the nature center, strolling through gardens, picnicking, attending educational programs, and playing at the nature-themed playground.
• Nearby Accommodation: Ironworks Hotel Indy, Drury Plaza Hotel Indianapolis Carmel, and Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis Northwest, all offering comfortable stays within a short drive.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Hiking the short and easy Pond Trail (0.4 miles) which only took us 20 minutes to complete – I loved the views of the large ornamental pond and pretty lily pads! 
• Discovering the interesting Holliday Park Nature Center – I loved the interactive exhibits, the guided nature walks and the bird-watching areas. 

13. Coxhall Gardens 

I personally think these free, beautiful landscaped grounds are well worth visiting! Located in the city of Carmel it’s a 125-acre park which was originally the estate of Jesse and Beulah Cox but they donated it to Hamilton County Parks and Recreation in 1999.

I love how it combines scenic beauty, wide open spaces, historic features and art! The scenery consists of manicured lawns, expansive gardens with colorful flowers, elegant statues and fine sculptures surrounding the huge Coxhall Mansion (which is used for weddings and private events). 

On our trip, we loved the very artistic chiming 90-foot twin bell towers (known as the Carillon Bell Towers), the impressive outdoor amphitheater, the charming Children’s Pavilion and seeing the gorgeous mansion from afar (we weren’t allowed to visit inside though).

• Address: 2000 West 116th Street, Carmel, IN 46032.
• Best time to visit: Spring and summer (as this is when the flowers are in bloom).
• Who would enjoy it: Garden lovers, families, couples, photographers, walkers, event-goers, and nature lovers
• Activities on offer: walking, picnicking, exploring the formal gardens, visiting the Children’s Garden, attending events at the amphitheater.
• Nearby Accommodation: Renaissance Indianapolis North Hotel, Hampton Inn Westfield, and Hilton Garden Inn Indianapolis/Carmel, all conveniently located within a short drive.
• Map Location and Directions

My favorite highlights…

• I loved the mirroring ponds which were designed to reflect their surroundings and stunningly reflected the bell towers, gardens, and sky!
• Taking a stroll around the gardens and then going for a picnic in the designated tables near the Children’s Garden – I loved how peaceful and pretty this place is!

14. Sapphire Natural Pool, White Rock Park

This is a fun and free natural pool and popular swimming spot! Located in White Rock Park in St. Paul, it was initially a limestone quarry, but it filled with natural spring water over time and created something very extraordinary! 

I love how the water is such a clear, vibrant blue color that it almost looks tropical and that there is also lots of other things to do here apart from just swimming. On our trip, we went zip-lining, camping and we watched certified scuba divers descend into the depths. 

Although I just need to say there are no lifeguards on duty here so swimming and all other activities are done at your own risk! 

• Address: White Rock Park 7080 750 E, St Paul, IN 47272
• Best time to visit: summer. 
• Who would enjoy it: adventurers, swimmers, cliff jumpers, couples, scuba divers, campers, and families.
• Activities on offer: swimming, cliff jumping, ziplining, scuba diving, camping, and picnicking.
• Nearby Accommodation: Hampton Inn Greensburg, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Greensburg, and nearby camping spots within the park for those seeking an outdoor experience.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights…

• Although I didn’t do it myself, it was great to watch the brave cliff jumpers leaping from various heights into the quarry pool!