8 Things About Indiana That Just Don’t Make Any Sense

Indiana is home to several strange and unique attractions and traditions that surprise both locals and visitors.

We all love the Hoosier State, but even we locals have to agree that there are some things about this place that are pretty weird. From ideas to people to places, Indiana is full of oddities, and these eight just plain don't make no sense. Check it out:

1. The Indiana Dunes

When most people learn that there are sand dunes in Indiana, they are blown away. How is there a huge hilly desert just sitting there right off Lake Michigan in the northwestern corner of the state? What's even more strange is that for every two steps you take up a sand dune, you fall back one step.

2. Caves

Continuing with the natural things about Indiana that just don't make no sense, caves are a major one. Who knew the Midwest had caverns, canyons, and waterfalls that you could explore? You haven't truly enjoyed Indiana until you've checked out these attractions in the central and southern portions of the state.

3. Shoe Tree

Believe it or not, there is a tree (or trees, rather) in Milltown, Indiana that is covered with shoes. It is believed that the sneakers of Larry Bird hang from these branches, and many have followed suit because they think it's cool.

4. The World's Largest Ball Of Paint

Visitors can visit this gargantuan ball of paint and add their own layer. Located in Alexandria, it contains thousands of coats of paint already and hangs in a paint shop. It's weird, but we love it anyway.

5. Laws

Indiana has some very odd laws, especially depending on where you live. Did you know Hoosiers are technically not allowed to take baths between the months of October and March? Check out what other odd laws are in place here.

6. The Amish

While we love their baked goods and quiet communities, it just doesn't make sense to most why anyone would want to live with no electricity, phone lines, or running water. While many like to visit to see what life in an Amish community is like, most are ready to return to the comforts of modern life by the end of the day.

7. Time zones

You may think Indiana is on Eastern Standard Time, but that's not entirely true. The northwest and southwest corners are actually on Central (or Chicago) Time. It'd be much easier for some if the state was the same all over.

8. The polar plunge

This daring winter event is certainly one of the weirdest things Hoosiers like to do. Typically, they take place around the New Year and participants wear swim suits. The purpose of this strange tradition is unknown.

For more strangeness, check out 10 museums in Indiana that are too odd for words.

What else do you find weird about Indiana? Share your thoughts with us below in the comments.

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