There’s nowhere we’d rather live than Indy. But sometimes, we feel the itch to get out of town — barely.
Here are ten driveable day trip destinations to check out the next time you want a low-investment, short notice getaway.
Small-town charm
Nashville, IN | “Gilmore Girls” fans and outdoor adventurers alike know Nashville is the place to be — especially during the fall. The walkable small town is an arts haven with dozens of galleries to explore, plus cutesy cafes and nearby hiking + horseback riding opportunities. Here are a few of our favorite area highlights.
French Lick, IN | This historic town, built around mythical mineral springs that were once believed to cure any ailment, still has an old-world elegance that has to be seen to be believed. Stay in the majestic West Baden Springs or French Lick Springs hotels for some much-needed R+R, or hop on the French Lick Scenic Railway for a cozy tour of the local landscapes.
Vevay, IN | Commonly billed as “Indiana’s weirdest town,” Vevay made headlines a few years ago by welcoming an unlikely new resident: Celebrity tattoo artist + makeup brand owner Kat Von D. It was also named the No. 1 best small town in the Midwest by USA Today readers in 2023 — and when you visit the Historic Hoosier Theater, swanky Roxy’s Bar & Lounge, and the giant roadside rubber duckie, you’ll understand why.
Exploration with education
The Bob Ross Experience | Let’s paint some happy little trees. This museum in Muncie is actually located inside the historic home where “The Joy of Painting” was filmed. You can discover original paintings and artifacts, stand at the iconic easel Ross himself used, and even book a painting workshop to learn his signature “wet-on-wet” technique from a certified instructor.
Larry Bird Museum | Celebrate Indiana’s “state Bird” by visiting this Terre Haute museum dedicated to his career and legacy. You’ll find rare memorabilia, jerseys, interactive exhibits, and never-before-seen interviews — and admission to all of it is free.
Outdoor adventures
Turkey Run | This ever-popular state park has something for everyone. Whether you want to hike, kayak, fish, or ride horseback, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of sandstone ravines and ancient forests.
Indiana Dunes National Park | Visit Indiana’s most ecologically diverse area for sandy hiking trails, sunny beaches, and birdwatching, then refuel at The Goblin Duneside Bar & Eatery. Pro tip: If you really love hiking up massive 450-ft dunes, take a longer weekend trip up to Sleeping Bear Dunes in Michigan.
Foodie fun
Louisville | Did you know we have a sister newsletter in this city less than two hours away? For those interested in the tastes of Kentucky, LOUtoday editor Declan recommends taking a distillery tour on Whiskey Row, eating a meal at an award-winning restaurant, or staying at the home of the Hot Brown. If you want to walk off your meals, Louisville has one of the only completed Olmsted Parks systems in the country — he’s the one who designed Central Park in NYC.
Fort Wayne | Don’t sleep on our northern neighbor’s culinary scene. Editor Shea recommends grabbing brunch at Spanish-influenced Bravas (the patatas bravas are a must-eat), hitting Union Street Market (a food hall similar to The Garage) for dinner, and taking a tour of the DeBrand chocolate factory for dessert. In between your meals, here are other Fort Wayne activities we love.
Jungle Jim’s International Market | This 200,000-sqft destination in Fairfield, OH is part grocery store, part amusement park. It carries items from 70+ countries — meaning whether you’re trying to rediscover a childhood favorite, find a new treat from somewhere else in the world, or hunt down a food you had on a vacation years ago, you’ll probably have good luck here.
