When you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Fort Wayne, Indiana, set out for a short road trip to one of the many exciting cities and towns in the surrounding area. Go golfing in Plymouth; make a splash at the Holiday World Theme Park in the city of Santa Claus; or zip line above the trees in Nashville. There are plenty of Fort Wayne vacation rentals to stay at or designate as your home base, so you can easily visit neighboring destinations in Indiana.

1. Williamsport

Travel just a little under three hours from Fort Wayne, and find yourself in Williamsport, a quaint Indiana city that hosts the annual Warren County Fair. The sights of the Old Town give you views of the Wabash River and historic sites, such as the Tower House and the Presbyterian Church. Spend your weekend getaway hiking the trails of the city to reach Williamsport Falls, one of the highest falls in the state. Vacation rentals in Williamsport also put you near specialty shops, such as Mind Song Books, and scrumptious dinner options, such as Biggy’s Pizza.

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2. Plymouth

Just an hour and 20 minutes in the car allows you and your family to get away in Plymouth, a small city offering big attractions near rustic cabins and luxurious vacation rentals. Plan your trip for early September and take part in the Marshall County Blueberry Festival, or make your own fun when booking a hot air balloon ride with Michiana Balloon Rides. Golfers can admire the stunning views at the Tri-Way Golf Club when getting in 18 holes before taking in a double feature at the Tri-Way Drive-In Theatre. For even more entertainment, reserve tickets during your weekend getaway for a performance at the Showland Theatre.

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3. Santa Claus

The warm temperatures from May to September make it the ideal time for a weekend getaway in Santa Claus, Indiana, located four and a half hours from Fort Wayne. This magical Indiana city is home to the Holiday World Theme Park, featuring roller coasters for the thrill seekers and water rides to cool off when the sun is beating down. Explore the outdoors during the spring or fall with horseback rides at Santa Stables, or celebrate the Christmas season year-round when stopping in at the Santa Claus Village for some decorations and handmade ornaments. Dinner at the Silent Night Cafe provides you with home-style cooking when you don’t feel like making your own at your vacation rental.

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4. Valparaiso

Valparaiso, located two hours from Fort Wayne, puts you in close proximity to outdoor attractions such as the Talltree Arboretum and Gardens, as well as musical entertainment at the Memorial Opera House. See what the city has to offer with a stop in at the Porter County Museum, or admire the masterpieces at the Brauer Museum of Art Center for the Arts. An afternoon at the Misbeehavin’ Meads Winery gives you a chance to enjoy some sips and casual conversations with the locals before retreating back to your vacation rental for the evening. When the kids are antsy for some outdoor fun, let them spend a few hours at the playground at Butterfly Meadows and Caterpillar Crossing.

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5. Nashville

If your crew enjoys hiking and biking, then Nashville is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway. After a three-hour drive, let the kids soar above the trees with a zip line excursion at Holler Hoppin’ Zip Lines. Then, begin your own explorations by hiking the forests at Brown County State Park. Infuse some culture into your trip with visits to the Brown County Art Guild in a city known as the ‘artist colony of the Midwest.’ When the kids need to expel some energy, hop on the Nashville Express Train Tour to see more sights.

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6. Patriot

When you are craving a weekend away that allows you to float down the river without a care in the world, then book a vacation rental in Patriot. Home to the Ohio River, this small Indiana town offers plenty of opportunities to fish in the river, or kayak and tube with rentals from Patriot Tours and Provisions. Located just three hours and 45 minutes from Fort Wayne, Patriot is the perfect vacation destination for the outdoor enthusiasts, with close proximity to the trails of Posey Park that give you shoreline views of the river. After a fun-filled day on the river or hiking the trails, travel just a few miles to cross the state line into Kentucky for some comfort food at Jane’s Saddlebag in Union, Kentucky.

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7. Riley

Visit a small Indiana city known for its coal mining industry and historical significance, yet also gain access to big city attractions in nearby Terre Haute. This small community is a popular tourist spot for hunters with tours of the Riley Conservation Club that’s home to lake fishing and hunting ranges. Take a hike through Deming Park and grab a family photo near one of the canals. A 15-minute drive to Terre Haute offers plenty of food options, such as a sweet treat at Yogurt in Love, and bar bites and brews at the Terre Haute Brewing Company.

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