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7-Day Indiana Itinerary

A mix of historic sites, outdoor adventures, and Midwest charm across Indiana.

Explore Indiana: The Perfect 7-Day Family Road Trip of History, Nature & Small-Town Charm

Day1

Arrive in Indianapolis & Explore

Fly into Indianapolis International Airport (IND).

Top Things to Do in Indianapolis

  • Visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway MuseumHome of the Indy 500!
  • Explore the Indiana State Museum & Historic Sites.
  • Walk the Indianapolis Canal WalkA scenic urban trail.
  • Climb to the top of the Soldiers & Sailors Monument for city views.
  • Dinner in Mass Ave DistrictTry St. Elmo Steak House for the famous shrimp cocktail!

Overnight in Indianapolis.

Day2

Bloomington - Indiana University & Outdoor Fun

Drive from Indianapolis to Bloomington (1.5 hours).

Top Things to Do in Bloomington

  • Stroll Through Indiana University's Beautiful Campus.
  • Kayak or Paddleboard on Monroe LakeIndiana's largest lake!
  • Hike at Leonard Springs Nature Park.
  • Wine Tasting at Oliver WineryOne of the best wineries in the Midwest.

Overnight in Bloomington.

Day3

Brown County State Park & Nashville, IN

Drive from Bloomington to Brown County (30 minutes).

Top Things to Do in Brown County State Park

  • Hike to Hesitation PointStunning fall foliage views!
  • Try Mountain Biking or Horseback Riding.
  • Explore Nashville, INA charming artsy town with local shops & crafts.
  • Enjoy a Beer at Big Woods Brewery.

Overnight in Nashville or Columbus, IN.

Day4

Indiana Caverns & Holiday World Theme Park

Drive from Nashville to Corydon (1.5 hours).

Top Things to Do in Southern Indiana

  • Tour Indiana CavernsExplore underground rivers and caves!
  • Spend the Afternoon at Holiday World & Splashin' Safari (Santa Claus, IN).
  • Visit Lincoln Boyhood National MemorialSee where Abraham Lincoln grew up.

Overnight in Evansville or Jasper.

Day5

Turkey Run State Park - Hiking & Suspension Bridge

Drive from Evansville to Turkey Run (3 hours).

Top Things to Do in Turkey Run State Park

  • Hike the Famous Trail 3Includes ladders, canyons, and waterfalls.
  • Walk Across the Suspension Bridge Over Sugar Creek.
  • Go Canoeing or Kayaking on Sugar Creek.
  • Dinner in a Classic Indiana Diner in Rockville.

Overnight near the park or return to Indianapolis.

Day6

Indiana Dunes National Park - Sand & Lake Michigan

Drive from Indianapolis to Indiana Dunes (2.5 hours).

Top Things to Do in Indiana Dunes

  • Relax on the Beaches of Lake Michigan.
  • Hike the 3 Dune ChallengeA fun and sandy workout!
  • Bike the Calumet TrailA scenic ride along the shoreline.
  • Birdwatching at the Great Marsh.

Overnight in Chesterton or Michigan City.

Day7

Return to Indianapolis & Depart

Drive from Indiana Dunes to Indianapolis (3 hours).

Optional Stops Along the Way

  • Visit the USS LST-325 in EvansvilleA WWII landing ship museum.
  • Stop at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile MuseumClassic cars!
  • Hike at Cataract FallsThe largest waterfall in Indiana.

Fly home from Indianapolis (IND).

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Header photo: Indianadunes, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.