Take a tropical escape this summer without ever having to leave the state. Here are seven ways that Indiana is actually more exotic than Hawaii.
If you love palm trees, orchids, and frozen drinks, then Indiana is the perfect place for you. Scroll on for more details.
1. Beanblossom Bottoms Nature Preserve
The first reason Indiana is the best tropical escape in the Midwest is that it is home to more native orchids than Hawaii. Believe it or not, the Hoosier State has 42 indigenous species of these beautiful flowers, and you can find them at various times of the year at various state parks and whatnot all over this incredible land. There's a 598-acre wetland in the southern part of the state that is known as a sanctuary for many. Learn more about it here.
Address: North Woodall Road, Ellettsville, IN, 47429
2. Splash Island Family Water Park
This tropical water park in central Indiana features palm trees, pools, and waterfalls to really make you feel like you are anywhere but the Midwest. Guests enjoy a lazy river, water slides, pulsating vortexes, dump buckets, and more. Get more details about it all right here.
Address: 651 Vestal Road, Plainfield, IN, 46168
3. Hidden Valley Lake Beach
Another place to go in the Hoosier State to find a tropical escape is this beach in southern Indiana. It has some of the bluest waters in the Midwest. It is a daily beach that features covered picnic shelters, grills, a volleyball net, and other play equipment. Click here to learn more.
Address: 19951 Longview Drive, Lawrenceburg, IN, 47025
4. Chuy’s Mexican Food
Though this place is all about Tex-Mex cuisine, the decor will place you anywhere tropical you wish to be. It is known for its buffet as well as its frozen drinks that will make you want to stick around all day. Click here for more details about this place.
Address: 14150 Town Center Boulevard, Noblesville, IN, 46060
5. Matey's Restaurant
This nautical-themed bar and grill is all about tropical drinks and seafood. The decor will definitely make you think you've left the state. Get more details about this tropical escape here.
Address: 110 Franklin Street, Michigan City, IN, 46360
6. RiverWatch
Floating atop the Ohio River is a tiki bar that you'd never expect to find in Indiana. Enjoy fabulous waterfront views with your meal at this outstanding place. Get more details about it here.
Address: 1 Walnut Street, Lawrenceburg, IN, 47025
7. The Beach Tiki Bar & Grill
This tiny tiki bar doesn't float but it does have palm trees and other decorations that will transport you to the islands. Between the authentic food and drinks, you'll be floating on something. Click here for more information about this popular spot in southern Indiana.
Address: 107-109 North Broadway Street, Greensburg, IN, 47240
There are many more Hawaiian-themed places to enjoy in Indiana, and you can hit them all up on one road trip. This epic journey may make you want to move to Hawaii. <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/trip-ideas/indiana/hawaiian-themed-road-trip-in/" target="_blank">Click here</a> for an interactive map and individual details about each spot on the trip.
Where else in Indiana can you take a tropical escape? Share your favorite places with us below in the comments.
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