Usually missed as a vacationer vacation spot, the slow-paced Midwest, bordering states like Michigan and Kentucky, gives beautiful landscapes: golden lake shores, moody dunes, swaying cornfields, leafy parks, and distinctive caves. Listed below are my favourite spots I’d like to share…
1. Indiana Dunes Nationwide Park
I feel that is such a tranquil and lovely spot! Indiana Dunes Nationwide Park – which spreads throughout 15,000 acres – is now the 61st nationwide park within the U.S. Situated simply 40 miles from Chicago, I like coming right here on day journeys after I want a pure magnificence repair!
Operating alongside the southern shore of Lake Michigan (so the views of it are unimaginable!), I’m all the time received 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 season) and lovely sandy seashores backed by sweeping dunes – actually it has 15 miles of sandy shoreline to discover.
On my journey, I beloved discovering Mount Baldy the extraordinary transferring sand dune, chicken recognizing at Nice Marsh Path (the biggest wetland within the area) and seeing herons, and exploring the fascinating 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 verify the reviews earlier than you go should you plan on swimming.
Customer Middle Tackle: 1215 N State Highway 49, Porter, IN 46304
Finest time to go to: Spring and Summer time (to take advantage of the wildflowers and seashores).
Map Location and Instructions
My favourite highlights…
Climbing the-3 mile Heron Rookery Path within the spring – I beloved seeing the attractive wildflowers in bloom (particularly the beautiful bluebells and trilliums) and strolling alongside the peaceable Little Calumet River.
Seeing the distinctive and uncommon Jap Prickly Pear Cactus on a ranger-led guided hike – I beloved how vibrant the yellow flowers have been!
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2. East Pierhead Lighthouse
I personally suppose this place is so putting and photogenic! It’s a historic magnificence, inbuilt 1904 and situated on the finish of the pier in Washington Park, on the southern shore of Lake Michigan, it’s turn 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 beloved 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 seaside and marina and the quaint and fascinating Michigan Metropolis Lighthouse Museum.
Tackle: 1 Washington St, Michigan Metropolis, IN 46360
Finest time to go to: late spring to early fall season (however winter may be very scenic too).
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 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 situated within the southern a part of state (close to the city of Nashville), that is the biggest state park in Indiana and in my view it’s one of the vital scenic!
Additionally referred to as the “Little Smokies,” I 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 one among my favourite locations to go leaf-peeping right here within the fall! The colours and surroundings are bewitching!
On my journey I beloved 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 via essentially the most picturesque forested areas have been my favorites!
Tackle: 1810 State Highway 46 East, Nashville, 47448.
Finest 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 via the forest and finally result in the park’s historic Fireplace Tower – I beloved 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 Highway and seeing breathtaking fall views.
Staying over on the household and pet pleasant Abe Martin Lodge – I beloved 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 attractive sandy seaside 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 like coming right here for the attractive views of the water, the lighthouse (and on clear days the Chicago skyline!) the stress-free vibe and swimming within the designated areas.
There’s additionally an important vary of live shows and stay music held truly on the seaside in the summertime and the enjoyable ambiance is simply superior! When right here I all the time ensure that 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 reviews earlier than you head off.
My favourite highlights…
Visiting in January when the chilly temperatures freeze the water, I beloved 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 stay 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 Residence 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 via some significantly rugged terrain (even gorges and throughout ladders!) – however the attractive views of Bear Hole and Boulder Canyon made it price it!
Seeing the autumn colours then shopping for scrumptious home-made cinnamon rolls and domestically 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 made from and domestically sourced limestone and white oak – was inbuilt 1888 and designed by architect Edwin Might in a neoclassical fashion.
On my go to I believed the skin was very spectacular however the inside is de facto one thing fairly particular and stuffed with classical work, sculptures, murals, and opulent chandeliers and even a surprising 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 might get very crowded in peak vacationer seasons so greatest to keep away from these instances!
Tackle: 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Finest 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 gorgeous 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 fascinating Eiteljorg Museum – I particularly beloved seeing the transferring Native American reveals!
7. Hoosier Nationwide Forest
I feel this gem is vastly underrated! Situated within the southern Indiana (close to the 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 stuffed with thick hardwood forests, rolling hills, rugged trails, fascinating caves, putting limestone bluffs and scenic waterways together with the sprawling Patoka Lake.
On my go to I beloved exploring the excellent Sullivan Cave, the majestic Hemlock Cliffs which was stuffed with lovely cliffs and Hemlock Cliffs Waterfall, the Charles C. Deam Wilderness which provided backcountry mountain climbing, tenting, and the tranquil Hardin Ridge Recreation Space which had excellent scenic views.
My favourite highlights…
Taking a surprising fall drive alongside Ohio River Scenic Byway – I beloved seeing the unimaginable coloured leaves, 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 and the turquoise colour 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 the town of Anderson and overlaying 252 acres, the massive 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 season), and beautiful stretches of the White River.
There are ten distinctive mounds situated right here however I used to be particularly intrigued by the biggest which is know as “Nice Mound”, dates again to to an unimaginable 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 seek out some peace in nature, gaze in awe on the wealthy biodiversity and hike the scenic trails (there are six in complete, 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 via the park and I beloved recognizing the nice 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 heart and watching the birds from their cozy chicken watching room which had binoculars and huge home windows which missed feeders – I managed to see American goldfinches and ruby-throated hummingbirds! In addition 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 truly the biggest waterfalls within the state with a drop of 86 toes.
The falls encompass 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 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 get pleasure from seeing the historic and really photogenic Cataract Coated Bridge (pictured above!) and mountain climbing the picturesque trails right here – should you do as effectively, I really helpful bringing your digicam!
Tackle: Lieber State Recreation Space, 1317 W Lieber Rd, Cloverdale, IN 46120
Finest time to go to: spring or early summer season (as that is when the falls are at their strongest).
Map Location and Instructions
My highlights…
Climbing the stress-free 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 lovely and distinctive hidden gem! Nestled simply outdoors the town of Bloomington, Griffy Lake Nature Protect is my go-to escape after I want some peace and quiet – it’s my good 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 heart. The opposite surroundings is equally as attractive with lush forests, rolling hills and peaceable wetlands and I like that they’ve a robust wildlife dialog focus together with defending habitats for migratory birds!
On my journey I like kayaking on the tranquil lake and taking within the leafy views, making an attempt to identify the wildlife and chicken life and mountain climbing the picturesque trails!
My private highlights…
Climbing the brief and straightforward Wetlands Path which solely took me half-hour and took me via 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 situated off the crushed path! Established in 1920 and situated close to the town of Madison I select this place after I need to go someplace far-off from the crowds – the rugged terrain isn’t for everybody and retains the customer numbers decrease!
I 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 comprises 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 (Large Clifty, Little Clifty, Hoffman, and Tunnel Falls) and go primitive tenting!
Tackle: 2221 Clifty Dr, Madison, IN 47250
Finest time to go to: Spring, summer season 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 beloved 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 (among the finest overlooks within the park), which I noticed on Path 5 – I additionally beloved 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 out of doors 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 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 number of the leisure actions right here together with the fascinating academic packages. There’s additionally a nature-themed playground full with climbing frames, slides, and swings which youngsters love!
Tackle: 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260
Finest time to go to: spring to fall (summer season is nice however normally crowded).
Map Location and Instructions
My highlights…
Climbing the brief and straightforward Pond Path (0.4 miles) which solely took us 20 minutes to finish – I beloved the views of the massive decorative pond and fairly lily pads!
Discovering the fascinating Holliday Park Nature Middle – I beloved the interactive reveals, the guided nature walks and the bird-watching areas.
13. Coxhall Gardens
I personally suppose these free, lovely landscaped grounds are effectively price 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 like the way it combines scenic magnificence, broad 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 beloved the very inventive chiming 90-foot twin bell towers (often known as the Carillon Bell Towers), the spectacular out of doors amphitheater, the charming Youngsters’s Pavilion and seeing the attractive mansion from afar (we weren’t allowed to go to inside although).
Tackle: 2000 West 116th Avenue, Carmel, IN 46032.
Finest time to go to: Spring and summer season (as that is when the flowers are in bloom).
Map Location and Instructions
My favourite highlights…
I beloved 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 Youngsters’s Backyard – I beloved how peaceable and fairly this place is!
14. Sapphire Pure Pool, White Rock Park
This can be a enjoyable and free pure pool and well-liked swimming spot! Situated in White Rock Park in St. Paul, it was initially a limestone quarry, nevertheless it stuffed with pure spring water over time and created one thing very extraordinary!
I like how the water is such a transparent, vibrant blue colour that it virtually appears tropical and that there’s additionally plenty of different issues to do right here other than 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 responsibility right here so swimming and all different actions are finished at your individual threat!
My highlights…
Though I didn’t do it myself, it was nice to look at the courageous cliff jumpers leaping from varied heights into the quarry pool!