The state of Indiana, located in the Midwestern United States, is not the first destination that you think of for tourism in the United States. However, there are plenty of reasons to visit the state's vibrant cities and beautiful nature areas. Here are just a few of the reasons to visit The Hoosier State.
Top Reasons To Visit Indiana On Your Next Trip
1. Indianapolis
Indiana’s capital, Indianapolis, is an amazing, vibrant city and one of the best cities to live in in the U.S. Indianapolis is home to plenty of rich history and museums, as well as great dining. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is one of the best in the country, and is a fun place for families to go. Make sure to see Monument Circle, which is a beautiful focal point of the city. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum is here, as well as the Indianapolis Museum of Art, The Eiteljorg Museum of western art, the Indiana War Memorial and the Indianapolis Zoo. Foodies shouldn't miss the world famous St. Elmo Steak House.
2. Sports
Sports in Indiana are one of the top reasons to visit the state. Professional sports teams include the Indianapolis Colts in the newly renovated Lucas Oil Stadium, which has hosted other events like the college basketball Final Four and the Big Ten football championship game each year. University of Indiana basketball in Bloomington is one of the top programs in the history of college basketball (which isn't a surprise, since basketball was invented in Indiana) and a great experience for visitors to watch a game in the historic Assembly Hall arena. Most notably, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway hosts the Indianapolis 500 year to year, one of the most famous auto races in the world as well as NASCAR’s Brickyard 400.
3. Indiana Dunes State Park
Indiana Dunes State Park is one of the most beautiful scenes in the entire state. Located in Chesterton and on Lake Michigan’s southern shore, the beautiful landscape overlooks the amazing waters of one of the Great Lakes. There are over three miles of beach on the shore, and the large dunes of sand, which formulated over thousands of years, are perched over 200 feet above Lake Michigan. The state park see’s over 1.2 million visitors every year who enjoy soaking up the sun and exploring the dunes that the park has to offer.
4. Spirit of Jasper Train
The Spirit of Jasper Train is one of the coolest experiences that the state has to offer. The beautifully restored train takes passengers through the picturesque scenery of southwest Indiana on a two-hour trip to French Lick where there are resorts, a casino and a winery. There’s also a ride and dine option where passengers experience an authentic experience of enjoying the countryside while dining on the train. It can be a very romantic evening for couples who can enjoy a chocolate, wine and dine on the train as well. This is a very unique experience and definitely something to consider when visiting Indiana.
5. Turkey Run State Park
Turkey Run State Park is another incredible, scenic experience for all who love to explore the outdoors. The park has great campsites, trails for hiking and horseback riding, canoeing and fishing in Sugar Creek that runs through the park. Just looking at the photos, you’ll feel the need to explore Turkey Run and its breathtaking natural ravines that hold hundreds of millions of years of history.
This article was written by Cameron Lafontaine.