The Definitive Guide To Uncovering Indiana’s Best Attractions — Small Towns, Gorgeous Parks, Museums, And More!

If you are a seeker of small-town charm, Indiana has plenty of places to explore. Step back to where life is simple and check out Bridgeton. With a population of only 126 official residents, you won't find many people in this small town but you will find some interesting sights to see, especially for the history buff. Bridgeton is located in Raccoon Township in Parke County. The town's most famous claim to fame is its covered bridge. The one that is standing now is a historically accurate reconstruction of the original that was destroyed by fire in 2005. Stroll through the historical district, visit the Bridgeton Country Store (established 1865), and the Bridgeton Grist Mill. Be sure to plan your visit during the Bridgeton Covered Bridge Festival which starts the second Friday in October.

Nothing takes you back to your childhood like a candy store. The Albanese Candy Factory is among the biggest in Indiana. It is a delightful trip for young and old alike. Enjoy tours and a candy store that will be sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. The factory and outlet store are located in Merrillville and have been a part of the community for over 30 years. One of its most famous treats is its gummy bears. These "official" gummies have an "A" on their bellies so that you can tell them from regular gummies. The massive Jelly Bean display is like a piece of artwork and you can find almost any flavor imaginable. And you simply cannot miss the chocolate fountain! A trip to Albanese Candy Factory is a sensory experience of beautiful colors, tastes, and smells that take you back to your earlier days. It's a delightful experience that's like visiting a real-life Candyland and one that you will want to schedule soon.

When you visit the Indianapolis Museum of Art, you are close to one of the most unique parks in the country. The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park offers 100 acres of sculptures, creative projects, educational events, and exhibits of all kinds. Many of the pieces are focused on nature, such as bird feeders and nesting areas. Stroll the trails that wind through habitats that include woodland, meadows, and wetlands. It also has a gorgeous 35-acre lake. The best part is that it is one big playground that you are free to climb and explore, which makes it perfect for families. The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park should be on your Indiana vacation must-see list.

Rockin Thunder River Tours gives you a unique opportunity to explore 155 miles of the Ohio and Kentucky Rivers by boat. It is a two-day trip that takes you to historic dams that were built as far back as 1838. On the tour, you'll see caves, canyons, and deep forests. You can often catch a glimpse of wildlife like eagles, deer, and bobcats. During the night, you can enjoy dinner at the historical Capital Plaza distillery. You can also take a shorter excursion that includes a catered meal and tour at an 1850s-era house. Rockin' Thunder River Tours is a boat ride that you will not want to miss.

Bargain hunters and treasure collectors will not want to miss the massive Shipshewana Auction and Flea Market. It is located in northern Indiana in the epicenter of Amish Country. This enormous flea market has over 900 vendors and is the largest flea market in the Midwest. If you love antiques, rare items, or bargains, this is the place to be. You can find homemade jellies and jams, vintage items, repurposed items, sauces, spices, dessert, and almost anything else you can imagine. It's like a farmers market, thrift store, and antique store combined. There is also a small restaurant located inside the auction house, so you can take a break and have a bite to eat while you shop. There is so much to see and explore at the Shipshewana Auction and Flea Market that you'll need to spend the whole day. Bring your walking shoes and plenty of spare change!

Indiana has some beautiful sights that are best viewed at a slower pace than a car has to offer. If we had to pick a favorite that is fun for the whole family, it would have to be the French Lick Scenic Railway. The trip is about an hour and 45 minutes and covers 18 miles of some of the most beautiful Indiana scenery. The train passes through Hoosier National Forest and offers a peaceful break. Visit the Railway Museum and enjoy special event train rides throughout the season. Plan your trip on the French Lick Scenic Railway during one of their special events like Wild West Hold-Ups, the Polar Express, and a Day Out with Thomas the Tank Engine.

Indiana is home to some of the most beautiful covered bridges in the country. One of the most remarkable crosses the White River and is located near the town of Medora. The bridge was built in 1875 by J.J. Daniels and took nearly 9 months to complete. Before the building of the bridge, the only way across the river was by ferry boat. It is the longest covered bridge in Indiana at 434 feet and is listed on the National Historic Register. The Medora Covered Bridge is open to foot traffic, so plan to take a stroll across its ancient timbers soon.

Indiana has its fill of odd and unique museums for aficionados of the bizarre. For those who are into obsessive collections, you might want to consider the Antique Fan Museum, Dr. Ted's Musical Marvels, Clabber Girl Baking Powder Museum, or the Museum of Miniature Houses. For those who want a unique adventure, you must visit the Indiana Medical History Museum. A trip to this museum showcases the latest in medical innovation from the 1800s. One of its most unique collections is its display of brains from patients, some of which go back to 1899. If you dare, the Indiana Medical History Museum should be on your visiting list.