Typically missed as a vacationer vacation spot, the slow-paced Midwest, bordering states like Michigan and Kentucky, presents gorgeous landscapes: golden lake shores, moody dunes, swaying cornfields, leafy parks, and distinctive caves. Unsure the place to begin? Listed below are my favourite spots I’d like to share…
1. Indiana Dunes Nationwide Park
I believe that is such a tranquil and beautiful spot! Indiana Dunes Nationwide Park – which spreads throughout 15,000 acres – is now the 61st nationwide park within the U.S. Positioned simply 40 miles from Chicago, I like coming right here on day journeys once I want a pure magnificence repair!
Operating alongside the southern shore of Lake Michigan (so the views of it are unimaginable!), I’m at all times gained over by the surroundings right here which incorporates magnificent towering dunes, expansive marshes and wetlands, sprawling prairies, huge fields of fairly wildflowers (throughout the spring and summer time) and beautiful sandy seashores backed by sweeping dunes – actually it has 15 miles of sandy shoreline to discover.
On my journey I liked discovering Mount Baldy the extraordinary transferring sand dune, chook recognizing and seeing herons and on the Nice Marsh path (the biggest wetland within the area), and the attention-grabbing historic Chellberg Farm, the place I learnt about early Twentieth-century farm life! I might simply say that the water high quality is variable right here so examine the reviews earlier than you go in case you plan on swimming.
Customer Middle Deal with: 1215 N State Street 49, Porter, IN 46304
Greatest time to go to: Spring and Summer season (to profit from the wildflowers and seashores).
Who would take pleasure in it: nature lovers, out of doors lovers, households, birdwatchers and photographers.
Actions on supply: mountaineering, swimming, sunbathing, birdwatching, picnicking, kayaking, tenting, biking, snowshoeing, cross-country snowboarding, and exploring historic websites.
Close by Lodging: Dunewood Campground, Indiana Dunes State Park Campground, non-public cabin leases and lodges and motels within the close by cities of Chesterton, Porter, and Michigan Metropolis.
Map Location and Instructions
My favourite highlights…
Climbing the-3 mile Heron Rookery Path within the spring – I liked seeing the beautiful wildflowers in bloom (particularly the beautiful bluebells and trilliums) and strolling alongside the peaceable Little Calumet River.
Seeing the distinctive and uncommon Japanese Prickly Pear Cactus on a ranger-led guided hike – I liked how vivid the yellow flowers have been!
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2. East Pierhead Lighthouse
This place is so hanging and photogenic! It’s a historic magnificence, in-built 1904 and positioned on the finish of the pier in Washington Park, on the southern shore of Lake Michigan, it’s change into image of Michigan Metropolis.
It’s additionally the one working lighthouse within the state and can be on Nationwide Register of Historic Locations. I discovered that it’s not open for public excursions inside however I liked viewing it from a scenic stroll alongside the pier and alongside the “catwalk” – the walkway which connecting the lighthouse to the shore.
We additionally visited the close by Washington Park which had a beautiful seashore and marina and the quaint and attention-grabbing Michigan Metropolis Lighthouse Museum.
Deal with: 1 Washington St, Michigan Metropolis, IN 46360
Greatest time to go to: late spring to early fall season (however winter could be very scenic too).
Who would take pleasure in it: Photographers, Instagrammers, vacationers, households and historical past followers.
Actions on supply: walks across the pier, images, birdwatching, sightseeing, and sundown viewing, whereas additionally exploring close by seashores and parks corresponding to Washington Park.
Map Location and Instructions
My private highlights…
Taking a stroll there at sundown – I like how the sky glowed with oranges, pinks, reds, golds and even violet, it was a really romantic factor to do!
Visiting throughout the winter months when ice types alongside the shore – I discovered the dramatic surroundings to be extremely photogenic!
3. Brown County State Park
I believe this pristine space is simply so dreamy and unspoilt! Established in 1929 it’s positioned within the southern a part of state (close to the city of Nashville), that is the biggest state park in Indiana and for my part it’s one of the crucial scenic!
Additionally referred to as the “Little Smokies,” I like the leafy rolling hills, the atmospheric fog-shrouded ravines, deep gullies, steep ridges, and plush forests, clear lakes and picturesque overlooks and it’s certainly one of my favourite locations to go leaf-peeping right here within the fall! The colours and surroundings are bewitching!
On my journey I liked taking a scenic drive on the principle Park Loop Street and exploring the miles of mountaineering trails in – Path 9 which had picturesque views of Ogle Lake, and the peaceable Path 7, which took me by way of essentially the most picturesque forested areas have been my favourite!
Deal with: 1810 State Street 46 East, Nashville, 47448.
Greatest time to go to: Spring and fall seasons are one of the best time to look at vibrant foliage and wildflowers bloom.
Who would take pleasure in it: Nature lovers, out of doors lovers, households. campers, photographers.
Actions on supply: mountaineering, mountain biking, horseback using, tenting, swimming, picnicking, wildlife viewing, nature packages, scenic drives, and cross-country snowboarding in winter, together with exploring its nature middle and scenic overlooks.
Lodging: Abe Martin Lodge, rustic cabins and 4 campgrounds.
Map Location and Instructions
My highlights…
Climbing Path 10 which took me by way of the forest and ultimately result in the park’s historic Fireplace Tower – I liked having the ability to climb the 123 steps and seeing the wow-inducing panoramic views of the park on the high!
Diving to Hesitation Level and West Lookout on the Park Loop Street and seeing breathtaking fall views.
Staying over on the household and pet pleasant Abe Martin Lodge – I liked the enjoyable indoor water park and staying in a cute rustic-chic cabin which had a comfortable wooden burner!
4. Washington Park Seashore
That is the beautiful sandy seashore that surrounds the hanging East Pierhead Lighthouse! I at all times mix the 2 magnificence spots (after all!) on a visit. Positioned within the 140-acre park Michigan Metropolis, it stretches two miles alongside the southern shore of the large Lake Michigan.
In the summertime I like coming right here for the beautiful views of the water, the lighthouse (and on clear days the Chicago skyline!) the enjoyable vibe and swimming within the designated areas.
There’s additionally an incredible vary of live shows and stay music held truly on the seashore in the summertime and the enjoyable environment is simply superior! When right here I at all times ensure I discover the broader Washington Park which has fairly picnic areas, a marina, and family-friendly playgrounds too. I might simply recommend checking the water high quality reviews earlier than you head off.
Deal with: Metropolis Corridor & 100 E. Michigan, Michigan Metropolis, IN 46360
Greatest time to go to: summer time
Who would take pleasure in it: households, beachgoers, nature lovers and photographers.
Actions on supply: swimming, sunbathing, seashore volleyball, picnicking, mountaineering, boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, exploring the close by East Pierhead Lighthouse, seasonal live shows and occasions.
Lodging: beachfront lodges (Blue Chip On line casino Resort), seashore cottages, campgrounds at Indiana Dunes State Park, and budget-friendly motels like High quality Inn and Consolation Inn are close by.
Map Location and Instructions
My favourite highlights…
Visiting in January when the chilly temperatures freeze the water, I liked seeing the dramatic ice formations and gorgeous pure sculptures that are made when the waves crash and freeze alongside the shore!
Going to the Patriotic Music Pageant – the fireworks, the stay music and the vibe made it an superior expertise!
5. Potato Creek State Park
This place is so much higher than it sounds I promise! It’s truly a gorgeously scenic spot and one of the crucial visited parks within the state , overlaying 3,840 acres of mature woodlands, restored prairies, previous fields, various wetlands, and the serene Lake Worster which acts because the park’s scenic point of interest.
On my journey I liked getting concerned as many out of doors actions as I may (there are numerous on supply!), particularly the gorgeous mountaineering trails – my favorites have been the picturesque Path 1, which had excellent views of Lake Worster, the serene Path 4, which took me by way of wetlands and woodlands, and the wildflower-filled Path 3 the place I found fairly prairies and meadows!
I simply want to say that mozzies love this watery place so I like to recommend avoiding the height bug season which is Might to September.
Deal with: 25601 IN-4, North Liberty, IN 46554
Greatest time to go to: fall (for leaf-peeping and to keep away from the mozzies!)
Who would take pleasure in it: nature lovers, out of doors lovers, birdwatchers, and households.
Actions on supply: mountaineering, biking, fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tenting, birdwatching, wildlife-watching, picnicking, cross-country snowboarding, sledding, and nature packages.
Lodging: fashionable campgrounds, primitive tenting websites and rustic cabins.
Map Location and Instructions
My favourite highlights…
Occurring a free ranger-led tour organized from the park’s nature middle – it was nice to be taught in regards to the park’s conservation initiatives together with how they enhance the ecosystem well being of the wetlands and the park’s historical past.
Making an attempt to identify the birds that stay right here – I managed to see Nice blue herons, red-winged blackbirds round marshes and even some bald eagles hovering overhead me!
6. Indiana State Capitol Constructing
It is a high quality historic constructing which I believe is effectively value exploring! Positioned within the state’s capital, Indianapolis the present constructing – which is product of and regionally sourced limestone and white oak – was in-built 1888 and designed by architect Edwin Might in a neoclassical type.
On my go to I believed the surface was very spectacular however the inside is actually one thing fairly particular and full of classical work, sculptures, murals, and opulent chandeliers and even a shocking stained glass rotunda window.
It was nice to discover on a guided tour and be taught all about its historical past and what takes place right here within the present day! I might simply say it could get very crowded in peak vacationer seasons so finest to keep away from these instances!
Deal with: 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Greatest time to go to: the constructing is open for year-round excursions.
Who would take pleasure in it: vacationers, historical past followers, structure followers, individuals into politics.
Actions on supply: guided excursions
Close by Lodging: there’s a wide range of lodges and personal leases in Indianapolis.
Map Location and Instructions
My favourite highlights…
Seeing the attractive dome, the high quality grand staircases and the ornate Supreme Court docket Chamber – it was actually nice to see the place all of the authorized selections are made!
Visiting the close by attention-grabbing Eiteljorg Museum – I particularly liked seeing the transferring Native American displays!
7. Hoosier Nationwide Forest
I believe this gem is vastly underrated! Positioned within the southern Indiana (close to town of Bloomington), it’s a protected public space which covers over 200,000 acres.
I discover the surroundings to be simply so pristine and tranquil and is full of thick hardwood forests, rolling hills, rugged trails, attention-grabbing caves, hanging limestone bluffs and scenic waterways together with the sprawling Patoka Lake.
On my go to I liked exploring the excellent Sullivan Cave, the majestic Hemlock Cliffs which was full of stunning cliffs and Hemlock Cliffs Waterfall, the Charles C. Deam Wilderness which supplied backcountry mountaineering, tenting, and the tranquil Hardin Ridge Recreation Space which had excellent scenic views.
Deal with: 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250
Greatest time to go to: Spring and fall season for pure magnificence.
Who would take pleasure in it: nature lovers, out of doors adventurers, photographers and households.
Actions on supply: mountaineering, tenting, backpacking, wildlife watching, birdwatching, boating, kayaking, swimming, picnicking, mountain biking, exploring caves, visiting waterfalls, nature walks, exploring sinkholes and karst topography.
Lodging: campgrounds and cabins, cottages, inns and lodges in close by cities.
Map Location and Instructions
My favourite highlights…
Taking a shocking fall drive alongside Ohio River Scenic Byway – I liked seeing the unimaginable leaf colour, the forest surroundings and the stopping on the quaint historic cities of Corydon and Madison.
Exploring the large and engaging Wesley Chapel Gulf which is the biggest sinkhole within the park – it was simple to drive to and park there! The turquoise colour of the water was breathtaking!
8. Mounds State Park
The tranquil Mounds State Park close to Anderson is a Native American heritage comprising distinctive earthworks constructed by prehistoric Indians.
The most important earthwork, usually referred to as the “Nice Mound”, dates again to round 160 B.C. The mounds have been used as a gathering place for non secular ceremonies.
In the present day, the peaceable state park presents mountaineering, tenting, bird-watching and water actions to take pleasure in all nature has to supply. On the northwest of the park lies the Mounds State Recreation Space.
I personally assume it’s an incredible place to go and stroll round and benefit from the surroundings, because the park presents pretty simple trails by way of the woods.
Deal with: 4306 Mounds Rd, Anderson, IN 46017
The perfect time to go to: spring and fall seasons.
My favourite highlights…
Spending in a single day on the campsite.
Visiting the character middle and watching the birds (there’s a room the place you may spot them from inside).
9. Turkey Run State Park
Uncover Indiana’s historic stays in Turkey Run State Park on a visit by way of time. Positioned in Parke County, lower than a 90-minute drive from Indianapolis, the Turkey Run State Park is a spot to reconnect with nature.
Uncover the deep canyons of sandstone amid old-growth forests and hemlock groves.
Flowing by way of the park’s coronary heart is the picturesque Sugar Creek, identified for fishing and canoeing. The ruggedly stunning mountaineering trails, swimming pool, and picnic space supply a shocking pure retreat.
Deal with: 8121 Park Rd, Marshall, IN 47859
Greatest time to go to: any season besides the winter.
My favourite highlights…
Shopping for scrumptious cinnamon tolls on the Golden Forrest reward store.
Occurring a canoeing tour.
10. Cataract Falls
Nestled in northern Owen County together with west-central Indiana, the gorgeous Cataract Falls is the biggest waterfall in Indiana.
A part of the Lieber State Recreation Space, the Cataract Falls have been shaped by historic glacial bedrock ridges. The flat rocks encompass two units of waterfalls a mile aside on Mill Creek, that are nice for picnicking, mountaineering, or having fun with the view.
For my part, the picturesque surroundings, speeding cascades, and effervescent waters make it a beautiful place to spend a complete day!
Deal with: Bolinas Fairfax Street, Fairfax, CA 94970
Greatest time to go to: Spring and fall.
My favourite highlights…
Photographing the gorgeous higher and decrease cataract falls.
Stress-free on the shores of Cagles Mill Lake.
11. Griffy Lake Nature Protect
The Griffy Lake Nature Protect is simply minutes from downtown Bloomington. It’s a hanging protect with scenic woodlands and huge fauna and flora.
Initially designed as a reservoir, Griffy Lake is now a paradise for nature seekers. Overlaying 1,200 acres, the distinctive Protect presents a wide range of actions.
Hike alongside the wooded ridges or lease a canoe. This stunning spot is ideal for catching glimpses of bluegill, largemouth bass, and catfish. It’s a great spot to hike and discover, and I personally assume the tranquil lake is an ideal spot for a household picnic!
Deal with: 3400 N Headley Rd, Bloomington, IN 47408
Greatest time to go to: Spring season to view blooming wildflowers.
My favourite highlights…
Paddleboarding on the beautiful lake.
Making use of the picnic tables.
12. Clifty Falls State Park
The rugged geological splendor of Clifty Falls State Park, a part of Indiana State Park in Jefferson County, enthralls guests with its enchanting magnificence.
Common sights of this state park embrace Clifty Creek, Little Clifty Creek, and a canyon. The Creek’s mattress options fossil remnants of the traditional marine ecosystem.
I recommend witnessing the forces of nature at work with the deep-cut gorges, sheetrock partitions, and loads of mountaineering to get one of the best view of the man-made cave and downtown Madison.
Deal with: 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250
Greatest time to go to: Spring and fall for beautiful surroundings.
My favourite highlights…
Occurring the enjoyable Rockin Thunder River Tour.
Sampling wines at Lanthier Vineyard & Distillery.
13. Holliday Park
One among Indianapolis’s oldest parks, Holliday Park presents a few of the most various ecosystems, with pure springs, wetlands, woodlands, ponds, decorative gardens, and extra.
A part of the nation property donated by John and Evaline Holliday in 1916, the in depth nature gardens are open to guests, who can stroll by way of them or hike the thrilling trails.
Together with the closely wooded forests, guests can discover innumerable native species of birds and animals and relish the serene great thing about this park.
Deal with: 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260
Greatest time to go to: spring or fall season. Summer season is normally crowded.
My favourite highlights…
Exploring the Vacation Park Ruins, that are the historic stays of a mansion.
Taking a stroll alongside the banks of White River
14. Sapphire Pure Pool, White Rock Park
Named for its pristine blue waters, the Sapphire pure pool in White Rock Park is without doubt one of the most gorgeous sights in St. Paul. Initially a quarry, the pure pool is now an incredible place for thrill-seekers.
Expertise the joys of cliff diving or scuba diving; this pure pool is an ideal place to chill out and camp.
Effervescent with water sports activities, you may take pleasure in serene boating lengthy with this idyllic setting or zip lining over the blue waters.
Deal with: 7080 750 E, St Paul, IN 47272
Greatest time to go to: Summer season.
My favourite highlights…
Swimming within the cool blue water.
Watching the courageous cliff-divers!
15. Clifty Falls State Park
Clifty Falls is a state park on 1,416 acres close to Madison, IN. The majestic waterfalls change their temper with the climate and season and may range from roaring plunges to swish bridal-veil mists to glowing frozen titans.
The park receives an estimated 370,000 guests yearly, and as soon as there, I extremely advocate exploring peaceable nature trails and even tenting.
Deal with: 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250
Greatest time to go to: Spring and fall season.
My favourite highlights…
Bringing my digicam and taking images of the scenic gem!
Visiting the Nature Middle and seeing the academic shows.
16. Coxhall Gardens
I personally assume a go to to Carmel is incomplete with out touring essentially the most picturesque park, Coxhall Gardens. Jesse and Beulah Cox donated the 125-acre park to Hamilton County Parks and Recreation in 1999.
An oasis amid the ocean of houses, Coxhall Gardens’ freshly manicured lawns, water our bodies, colourful flowers, and expansive backyard make It a well-liked vacation spot for guests and photographers.
This one-of-a-kind park features a museum, a chic centerpiece, bell towers, and mirroring ponds with loads of inexperienced house. This serene location is right for strolling, biking, and simply having fun with the attractive outside!
Deal with: 11677 Towne Rd, Carmel, IN 46032
Greatest time to go to: Spring is one of the best when the flowers bloom.
My favourite highlights…
Taking a stroll across the stunning landscapes and photographing the flower beds and decorative timber.
Having a picnic materials and trying out the onsite museum.