Summer is in full swing, friends, and we all know what that means: it's time for summertime shenanigans, and luckily for us, I just so happen to be the Summer Shenanigans Master of Ceremonies (a title I just now made up), and I've compiled a shortlist of some of the best must-do items to add to your seasonal bucket list. I've found that year after year, summer is looked forward to more than any other season for a reason (or 10). Check out this fun list of ideas for stuff to add to your summer bucket list in Indiana. Summer in Indiana's never been so much fun!

Holiday World n' Splashin' Safari is THE single greatest amusement park in the entire state of Indiana. It's home to not one, not two, but FIVE incredible roller coasters that are sure to thrill. Besides, what better time of year to visit an epic amusement park located right on the water than summer? I think never. Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the line and enjoy.

Lake Michigan is so much more than "just" the most beautiful lake in Indiana - it's a place so like the ocean that, should you feel that itch to find the sea, you can come here and scratch it. The water goes on endlessly into the horizon, and on sunny days, the blue lake combined with the blue skies are like something from a dream. A summery dream.

While you're exploring Lake Michigan, you should definitely pay a visit to Michigan City and Michigan City Beach. Here, you'll see one of the most amazing lighthouses on all of Lake Michigan as well as some of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous beaches in the Hoosier State (yes... we have beaches!). Oh, and did I mention the countless unique shops and eateries located in town? Because oh, yes... it's all worthy of a day trip. Come experience all the wonder and joy of an oceanic beach day right here at home. I promise your soul will thank you.

Did you know that as of the time of this writing there are 24 state parks in Indiana? It's true - and with so much amazingness to explore and discover, you might have a tough time deciding where to begin. If you're at or near Lake Michigan, start with Indiana Dunes National Park. Otherwise, check out some of the most beautiful parks in the state, like Turkey Run State Park (pictured above), Shades State Park, Brown County State Park, and more.

France Park is famous for its waterfall (which IS pretty awesome), but it should be more famous for its status as one of THE best things to do in Indiana in the summer. With one of Indiana's cleanest, most beautiful swimming holes complete with all sorts of on-the-water shenanigans to get into, France Park is sure to become your new favorite summertime destination... given that it doesn't compete with the other options on this list.

Did you know you can totally go on a scenic mini cruise in Indiana? You sure can! The Madam Carroll is an amazing escape to paradise on Lake Freeman, complete with all sorts of fun like live music, drinks, dinner, and views. Charter a private event or attend an existing one - no matter what, you'll love the feeling of being out on the water despite having never left the Midwest.

When it comes to mind-blowing out-of-this-world fun, Holcomb Observatory is THE place to be. In the summer, the night skies are SO much more interesting to look at thanks to the placement of the Milky Way and our planetary neighbors within our solar system. Experience the night sky like never, ever before at this incredible observatory located at Butler University.

When it comes to the best time of year for road trips in Indiana, it doesn't get much better than summer. You never know what you'll find, from incredible beaches to jaw-dropping waterfalls, state parks, scenic routes, and more. Summertime is road trip season, and I think we should all take advantage of this. Gas up the car and let's go!

So, there you have it - eight amazing things to make sure you place on your summer bucket list in Indiana. While you're meandering, you'll probably need a place to hang your hat - so check out all the awesomely unique places to stay in Indiana from our friends at VRBO.

What are some of your favorite summertime activities in Indiana? What would you have added to this list? Tell me about it all in the comments.