Prime 14 Stunning Locations To Discover In Indiana

2. East Pierhead Lighthouse

I personally suppose this place is so putting and photogenic! It’s a historic magnificence, inbuilt 1904 and positioned on the finish of the pier in Washington Park, on the southern shore of Lake Michigan, it’s grow to be 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 cherished 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).
• Map Location and Instructions

My private highlights…

• Taking a stroll there at sundown – I really like how the sky glowed with oranges, pinks, reds, golds and even violet, it was a really romantic factor to do! 
• Visiting in the course of the winter months when ice varieties alongside the shore – I discovered the dramatic and atmospheric surroundings to be extremely photogenic!

3. Brown County State Park

I feel 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 scenic!

Additionally referred to as the “Little Smokies,” I really like the leafy rolling hills, the atmospheric fog-shrouded ravines, deep gullies, steep ridges, and luxurious 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 cherished taking a scenic drive on the primary Park Loop Highway and exploring the miles of mountain climbing trails in – Path 9 which had picturesque views of Ogle Lake, and the peaceable Path 7, which took me by probably the most picturesque forested areas have been my favorites! 

• Deal with: 1810 State Highway 46 East, Nashville, 47448. 
• Greatest time to go to: Spring and fall (spring for the flowers and fall for the colourful leaves).
• Map Location and Instructions

My highlights…

• Climbing Path 10 which took me by the forest and ultimately result in the park’s historic Hearth Tower – I cherished with 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 Highway and seeing breathtaking fall views.
• Staying over on the household and pet pleasant Abe Martin Lodge – I cherished the enjoyable indoor water park and staying in a cute rustic-chic cabin which had a comfy wooden burner!

4. Washington Park Seaside

That is the attractive sandy seashore that surrounds the putting East Pierhead Lighthouse! I all the time mix the 2 magnificence spots (in fact!) on a visit. Situated within the 140-acre park Michigan Metropolis, it stretches two miles alongside the southern shore of the large Lake Michigan. 

In the summertime I really like coming right here for the attractive 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 excellent vary of concert events and reside music held really on the seashore in the summertime and the enjoyable ambiance is simply superior! When right here I all the time ensure I discover the broader Washington Park which has fairly picnic areas, a marina, and family-friendly playgrounds too. I might simply counsel checking the water high quality experiences earlier than you head off.

My favourite highlights…

• Visiting in January when the chilly temperatures freeze the water, I cherished seeing the dramatic ice formations and beautiful pure sculptures that are made when the waves crash and freeze alongside the shore!
• Going to the Patriotic Music Competition – the fireworks, the reside music and the enjoyable vibe made it an superior expertise!

5. Turkey Run State Park

I’m all the time received over by this attractive magnificence spot! Situated in Parke County within the west-central a part of the state (lower than a 90-minute drive from Indianapolis), Turkey Run State Park covers over 2,382 acres and it’s the second oldest nationwide parks within the state. It’s additionally usually voted for as the favourite state parks (by Indianapolis Month-to-month).

I completely love visiting this lush spot and I’m all the time in awe of the surroundings right here which incorporates old-growth forests, deep canyons of sandstone, beautiful gorges, hemlock groves, scenic trails, small seasonal waterfalls and picturesque views of Sugar Creek.

On my journey I actually loved discovering the intriguing historic dwelling of former settlers, the Lusk Dwelling and Mill Web site, swimming within the park’s Olympic-size swimming pool (in the summertime!), photographing the scenic suspension bridge over Sugar Creek and mountain climbing the beautiful trails. 

My private highlights…

• Climbing the difficult Path 3 which took me by some significantly rugged terrain (even gorges and throughout ladders!) – however the attractive views of Bear Hole and Boulder Canyon made it value it! 
• Seeing the autumn colours then shopping for scrumptious home-made cinnamon rolls and regionally made jewellery within the form of a fragile leaf on the cute onsite Golden Forrest Reward Store (which offered nature-inspired items and souvenirs!). 

6. Indiana State Capitol Constructing 

This can be a wonderful historic and essential attraction! Situated within the state’s capital, Indianapolis the present constructing – which is product of  and regionally sourced limestone and white oak – was inbuilt 1888 and designed by architect Edwin Could in a neoclassical model.

On my go to I believed the surface was very spectacular however the inside is de facto 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 occasions! 

• Deal with: 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
• Greatest time to go to: it’s open for year-round excursions (however closed on weekends and main holidays)
• Map Location and Instructions

My highlights…

• Seeing the attractive dome, the wonderful grand staircases and the ornate Supreme Courtroom 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 cherished seeing the shifting Native American reveals! 

7. Hoosier Nationwide Forest

I feel this gem is massively underrated! Situated 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, putting limestone bluffs and scenic waterways together with the sprawling Patoka Lake.

On my go to I cherished 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 mountain climbing, tenting, and the tranquil Hardin Ridge Recreation Space which had excellent scenic views. 

My favourite highlights…

• Taking a shocking fall drive alongside Ohio River Scenic Byway – I cherished seeing the unbelievable coloured leaves, the forest surroundings and the stopping on the quaint historic cities of Corydon and Madison.
• Exploring the large and interesting Wesley Chapel Gulf which is the biggest sinkhole within the park – it was straightforward to drive to and park there and the turquoise coloration of the water was breathtaking! 

8. Mounds State Park

This distinctive and tranquil spot all the time charms me! Situated within the central-eastern a part of the state close to town of Anderson and protecting 252 acres, the large focus right here is the traditional earthworks constructed by the prehistoric Native American Adena-Hopewell folks.

I’m additionally enchanted by the opposite surroundings right here although which consists of rolling hills lined with hardwood forests, wildflowers (in spring and summer time), and beautiful stretches of the White River.

There are ten distinctive mounds positioned right here however I used to be particularly intrigued by the biggest which is know as “Nice Mound”, dates again to to an unbelievable 160 B.C. and we climbed to the highest for excellent views! 

I feel it’s a really particular place I come right here to search out some peace in nature, gaze in awe on the wealthy biodiversity and hike the scenic trails (there are six in whole, all at various lengths)! 

My private highlights…

• Climbing the peaceable Path 5 which is 1.4 miles in size and took me 50 minutes to complete – it took me alongside the White River which winds by the park and I cherished recognizing the good blue heron on the river banks and cute wild turkeys which have been foraging for meals on the forest flooring! 
• Visiting the onsite academic nature middle and watching the birds from their cozy hen watching room which had binoculars and enormous home windows which neglected feeders – I managed to see American goldfinches and ruby-throated hummingbirds! Additionally they had a helpful information so guests can determine them.

9. Cataract Falls

These spectacular falls all the time wow me! Situated in Owen County within the Lieber State Recreation Space, it’s really the biggest waterfalls within the state with a drop of 86 toes. 

The falls include two units of waterfalls a mile aside on Mill Creek, Higher Falls and the Decrease Falls. I feel it’s nice that they’re surrounded by flat rock formations as I really like to come back right here and picnic and take within the picturesque surroundings, speeding cascades, and effervescent waters! 

On my journeys I additionally actually take pleasure in seeing the historic and really photogenic Cataract Coated Bridge (pictured above!) and mountain climbing the picturesque trails right here – when you do as properly, I really useful bringing your digicam! 

• Deal with: Lieber State Recreation Space, 1317 W Lieber Rd, Cloverdale, IN 46120
• Greatest time to go to: spring or early summer time (as that is when the falls are at their strongest). 
• Map Location and Instructions

My highlights…

• Climbing the enjoyable mile lengthy path, the Cataract Falls Loop which took me 45 minutes to finish and took me previous breathtaking views of each waterfalls in addition to the peaceable Mill Creek.

10. Griffy Lake Nature Protect 

I’ve to say this stunning and distinctive hidden gem! Nestled simply outdoors town of Bloomington, Griffy Lake Nature Protect is my go-to escape after I want some peace and quiet – it’s my excellent spot to recharge away from the hustle and bustle! 

It’s a protected magnificence spot spanning over 1,200 acres, with the large (109-acre!) Griffy Lake on the middle. The opposite surroundings is equally as attractive with lush forests, rolling hills and peaceable wetlands and I really like that they’ve a powerful wildlife dialog focus together with defending habitats for migratory birds! 

On my journey I really like kayaking on the tranquil lake and taking within the leafy views, attempting to identify the wildlife and hen life and mountain climbing the picturesque trails! 

My private highlights…

• Climbing the brief and simple Wetlands Path which solely took me half-hour and took me by the wetlands and I noticed cute frogs and even painted turtles! 
• Having a picnic on the picnic space close to the boat launch (there have been tables right here) and seeing attractive lake views in addition to herons and bald eagles! 

11. Clifty Falls State Park

That is an superior spot which is positioned off the overwhelmed path! Established in 1920 and positioned close to town of Madison I select this place after I need to go someplace distant from the crowds – the rugged terrain isn’t for everybody and retains the customer numbers decrease!

I really like that the surroundings and geology right here is gorgeously distinctive and consists of cascading waterfalls, deep canyons, dense forests, deep-cut gorges and spectacular sheetrock partitions, scenic overlooks and Clifty Creek which accommodates fossil remnants from 400 million years in the past! 

On my journeys I like to hike the rugged mountain climbing trails, exploring the 4 Instagram-worthy waterfalls (Huge Clifty, Little Clifty, Hoffman, and Tunnel Falls) and go primitive tenting! 

• Deal with: 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250
• Greatest time to go to: Spring, summer time and fall for extra-special surroundings.
• Map Location and Instructions

My favourite highlights…

• Climbing the difficult Path 8 which was 4.5 miles and took me 3 hours to finish – I cherished seeing the views of downtown Madison and the creepy deserted tunnel on the historic unused railroad.
• The views of Hoffman Falls from the Hoffman Falls Overlook (top-of-the-line overlooks within the park), which I noticed on Path 5 – I additionally cherished seeing the encircling gorge, and the park’s breathtaking rugged landscapes!

12. Holliday Park

This can be a enjoyable (and free!) family-friendly spot! It’s additionally a really distinctive place because it’s a park (spanning over 94 acres), the place the remnants of the previous St. Paul Constructing from New York Metropolis have been repurposed to kind an artsy and tremendous Instagram-worthy centerpiece in an outside sculpture backyard!

I personally suppose the remainder of it’s fairly particular too with lush woodlands, fairly ponds, decorative gardens, pure springs, wetlands all bordered by the scenic White River. 

I really like coming right here and taking a stroll on the picturesque trails, recognizing birds and wildlife, happening picnics and we additionally become involved in a few of the leisure actions right here together with the attention-grabbing academic packages. There’s additionally a nature-themed playground full with climbing frames, slides, and swings which children love! 

• Deal with: 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260
• Greatest time to go to: spring to fall (summer time is nice however often crowded).
• Map Location and Instructions

My highlights…

• Climbing the brief and simple Pond Path (0.4 miles) which solely took us 20 minutes to finish – I cherished the views of the massive decorative pond and fairly lily pads! 
• Discovering the attention-grabbing Holliday Park Nature Heart – I cherished the interactive reveals, the guided nature walks and the bird-watching areas. 

13. Coxhall Gardens 

I personally suppose these free, stunning landscaped grounds are properly value visiting! Situated within the metropolis of Carmel it’s a 125-acre park which was initially the property of Jesse and Beulah Cox however they donated it to Hamilton County Parks and Recreation in 1999.

I really like the way it combines scenic magnificence, huge open areas, historic options and artwork! The surroundings consists of manicured lawns, expansive gardens with colourful flowers, elegant statues and wonderful sculptures surrounding the large Coxhall Mansion (which is used for weddings and personal occasions). 

On our journey, we cherished the very inventive chiming 90-foot twin bell towers (generally known as the Carillon Bell Towers), the spectacular outside amphitheater, the charming Kids’s Pavilion and seeing the attractive mansion from afar (we weren’t allowed to go to inside although).

• Deal with: 2000 West 116th Road, Carmel, IN 46032.
• Greatest time to go to: Spring and summer time (as that is when the flowers are in bloom).
• Map Location and Instructions

My favourite highlights…

• I cherished the mirroring ponds which have been designed to replicate their environment and stunningly mirrored the bell towers, gardens, and sky!
• Taking a stroll across the gardens after which going for a picnic within the designated tables close to the Kids’s Backyard – I cherished how peaceable and fairly this place is!

14. Sapphire Pure Pool, White Rock Park

This can be a enjoyable and free pure pool and common swimming spot! Situated in White Rock Park in St. Paul, it was initially a limestone quarry, but it surely full of pure spring water over time and created one thing very extraordinary! 

I really like how the water is such a transparent, vibrant blue coloration that it nearly seems tropical and that there’s additionally numerous different issues to do right here aside from simply swimming. On our journey, we went zip-lining, tenting and we watched licensed scuba divers descend into the depths. 

Though I simply have to say there aren’t any lifeguards on obligation right here so swimming and all different actions are completed at your individual threat! 

My highlights…

• Though I didn’t do it myself, it was nice to observe the courageous cliff jumpers leaping from varied heights into the quarry pool! 

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