5 Easy Day Trips You Can Take From Indianapolis, My Favorite Included

What makes a great day trip? Do you like spending the day at an antique shop in a small town, then strolling through the charming Main Street to rub elbows with the locals? Or would you rather explore a state park: hiking, fishing, or paddling? Perhaps you would prefer an adventure park full of family-friendly activities. No matter the type of getaway you’re searching for, I’ve put together these day trips from Indianapolis that have something for everyone. Plus, I’ve included my all-time favorite road trip destination in Indiana, and chances are, you’ll love it too.

1. Indiana Dunes National Park, Porter

If you ask me, Indiana Dunes National Park is an obvious destination for a day trip, no matter where you live in the state. Not only is this outdoor playground the most popular national park, but it’s also easily accessible. Located just 155 miles north of the city, it will take just over 2 hours driving along I-65 North to get here. The highlight of the park is the 15 miles of sandy beaches along the shores of stunning Lake Michigan. So, although the haven is great year-round, it really comes alive in the warmer months. When you’re not soaking up the gorgeous beaches, enjoy birdwatching, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and boating. And if you would like to extend your time here, book a spot at the Dunewood Campground, open from April to October.  

2. Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, Santa Claus

Searching for a family-friendly day trip jam-packed with non-stop fun? Look no further than Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari. Just two and a half hours from the city, you can’t go wrong with a trip here. Part theme park and part water park, your entire family can enjoy the best of both worlds. Main attractions include the Voyager, one of the longest wooden roller coasters in the world, and the Bahari Wave Pool and Lazy River. Check out the waterslides: Zinga, Bakuli, and the Cheetah Chase Water Coaster. There are also lots of rides and games for the little ones. The best part? Admission includes free unlimited soft drinks, free sunscreen, free parking, and free Wi-Fi. If that isn’t enough reason to visit, I don’t know what is. Visit the Holiday World & Splashin' Safari website for tickets and season passes.

3. Nashville, Brown County

Nashville is one of those destinations that, when you visit, will leave a lasting impression. The quirky town with just under 1,400 residents is an hour away from the capital. As an art lover’s paradise, you’ll find artisan shops, antique stores, museums, and galleries. It’s one of our favorite destinations for a small-town getaway in Indiana. There is so much to do and see here, including the lovely gardens at T.C. Steele State Historic Site. If you get hungry, indulge in a pulled pork sandwich or a bratwurst from Trolly's BBQ. Chances are, you’ll run into some locals there. Don’t leave without exploring the Brown County State Park. It’s the largest state park in Indiana and, due to its 16,000 acres of gorgeous rolling hills, earned it the nickname “Little Smokies.” 

4. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

Who says you need to leave Indy for an exciting day trip adventure? I’ve got the perfect destination promising tons of family-friendly fun. As the largest children’s museum in the world (yes, the entire world), the Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a must-visit. Even the adults will be impressed with the five floors of displays, and the jaw-dropping dinosaur exhibit with real fossils, animations, lights, and sounds. Plus, there is a historic carousel ride that will take you back to your childhood, and you can sit inside a real IndyCar. You could literally spend hours here exploring all the fun things to do at this fantastic museum. Visit the Children's Museum of Indianapolis website to purchase tickets.

5. Turkey Run State Park, Marshall

What’s not to love about Turkey Run State Park? Can you blame me for it being my favorite destination for a road trip from Indianapolis? If I could describe the park in one word, it would be: otherworldly. The deep canyons: Rocky Hollow, Bear Hollow, and Falls Canyon will take your breath away. Wander through 14 miles of hiking trails, featuring dense forest, ravines, canyons, waterfalls, and tranquil waterways. I love that the trails connect, so you can create your adventure here. Of course, I can’t forget to mention the 200-foot-long suspension bridge that spans Sugar Creek. It’s a great backdrop to snap some pics…that’s if you’re brave enough to cross it. This park is a quick one-hour drive from Indianapolis, so you’ll have no issues getting to it.  

What do you think about our list of easy day trips from Indianapolis? For more ideas, check out 12 more favorite destinations for a day trip in Indiana.