If you are a fan of Parks and Recreation, then you know that the Hoosier State is full of passionate and energetic people who love to share their appreciation for their home. Indiana has a wonderful blend of rural and urban life, highlighting many unique cultural opportunities. The next time you pass through the area, take a chance on one of these Indiana bucket list activities.
10. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
Chesterton
When you think of Indiana, your first thought might not revolve around a day at the beach. However, at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, you can lounge in the sun on the banks of Lake Michigan with your family. The park covers roughly 15,000 acres, so there are plenty of spaces to find a great place for a stroll or a picnic.
9. French Lick, Indiana
(image via Flickr)
This tiny town has wrangled a following due to its unusual name and famous resort. At the French Lick Resort Casino, you can win big at the craps table or relax at the spa. The town is known for being a getaway from city life for everyone from Al Capone to Irving Berlin.
8. Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
Santa Claus
Of all the holiday-themed amusement parks, this one may be the most well-loved. Since 1946, Holiday World has provided excitement surrounding the holidays of Christmas, Thanksgiving, Halloween, and the Fourth of July. In keeping with its traditional atmosphere, the park is known for its three wooden roller coasters: The Raven, The Legend, and The Voyage.
7. Basilica of the Sacred Heart
(image via Flickr)
South Bend
Not to be mistaken for Sacré-Cœur in Paris, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart is the famed chapel of the University of Notre Dame. Vatican painter Luigi Gregory contributed stained glass windows and murals to this Gothic Revival chapel. It routinely finds its way onto lists of the most beautiful university churches around the world.
6. Turkey Run State Park
(image via Flickr)
Marshall
Since 1916, Turkey Run State Park and its wildlife reserve have attracted visitors from around the globe. According to legend, the strange name is based on the habits of wild turkeys that flock to the runs for warmth in the winter, where early settlers would then hunt and trap them.
5. The Handlebar Indy Pedal Pub
Indianapolis
Beer contains a lot of empty calories, so it would make sense that you would want to burn them off as you are drinking. At the Handlebar, you can pedal through downtown Indianapolis while enjoying your favorite beverage. This is a great setting for parties or dates.
4. Indiana World War Memorial Plaza
Indianapolis
There are many tributes to our nation’s fallen heroes, but Indiana World War Memorial Plaza stands out. In 1919, this plot, spanning five city blocks, was established to commemorate the lives lost in World War I. Modeled after the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, the centerpiece captures the troubled emotions surrounding the war.
3. Marengo Cave National Landmark
(image via Flickr)
Marengo
Since 1883, public tours have been led through this underground cavern. Marengo Cave was discovered when a brother and sister happened upon a sinkhole as they were hiking in the woods. Two days later, it was opened to the public as an attraction.
2. Monon Trail
(image via Flickr)
Carmel
Formed on a section of the old Chicago-Indianapolis line of the Monon Railroad, this trail is popular with cyclists and hikers. Starting just north of downtown Indianapolis, it offers a great escape from the bustle of the city. Open year-round, the trail stretches over 18 miles.
1. White River State Park
(image via Flickr)
Indianapolis
Right in the middle of Indianapolis, White River State Park offers a variety of attractions catering to many different interests. There are many popular destinations in and around the park, such as the Indiana State Museum and IMAX Theater, the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, the NCAA Headquarters and Hall of Champions, the Medal of Honor Memorial, Victory Field, Military Park, the Farm Bureau Insurance Lawn Concert Series, and the Indiana Cross Country Arena.
