Indianapolis, Indiana-day-trips

Best Day Trips From Indianapolis

Indianapolis is a fantastic city with plenty to offer, but sometimes you crave a change of scenery. Luckily, there are tons of amazing day trip destinations within easy reach of Indy! Here are a few ideas:

Nature & Outdoors:

  • Brown County State Park (1 hour): Hike through stunning hardwood forests, climb to scenic overlooks, or rent a cabin for the night.
  • McCormick’s Creek State Park (1 hour): Explore waterfalls, canyons, and covered bridges in Indiana’s first state park.
  • Turkey Run State Park (1.5 hours): Hike through sandstone gorges, climb ladders to stunning views, and enjoy a picnic by the river.

History & Culture:

  • Connersville (1 hour): Visit the historic Whitewater Canal and ride the Connersville Scenic Railroad for a step back in time.
  • Madison (1.5 hours): Stroll through this charming river town with its beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, antique shops, and art galleries.
  • Bloomington (1 hour): Explore Indiana University’s vibrant campus, visit the quirky Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center, or catch a live music show at the Bluebird Nightclub.

Food & Drink:

  • Nashville (1 hour): Sample award-winning wines at local wineries and enjoy delicious farm-to-table cuisine.
  • Columbus (1 hour 15 minutes): Discover architectural gems by famous designers like Eero Saarinen and I.M. Pei, and indulge in the town’s thriving culinary scene.
  • Franklin (30 minutes): Explore antique shops and art galleries, enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants, and visit the historic Johnson County Courthouse.

Pro-Tips:

  • Check websites for hours of operation and ticket prices before you go.

  • Plan your route in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.

  • Pack snacks and drinks to save money and avoid getting hangry.

  • Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as many of these destinations involve walking.

Have fun exploring the best day trips from Indianapolis!