Indianapolis is home to the world’s largest single-day sporting event, Indianapolis 500. Every year over Memorial Day weekend, racing enthusiasts flock to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to watch their favourite racers burn asphalt and emerge victorious. In Indy, you are sure to discover new music everywhere you go; be it in clubs or concert halls. As you explore Indy, have a taste of the Midwest’s freshest ingredients as you dine in a host of critically acclaimed restaurants. Indianapolis is also home to the world’s largest children’s museum, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. If you’ve ticked these places off your to-do-list, check out these top weekend trips from Indianapolis, Indiana, below.
1. Indiana Dunes
Take a trip down to Indiana Dunes via Interstate 94 for a weekend of sand and solitude. You’ll have access to 15 miles (24.1 kilometres) of beach along the southern shore of Lake Michigan where you can spend a few hours relaxing. Keep a lookout for rare birds or learn how to fly a kite. If you’re feeling adventurous, take on “The 3 Dune Challenge” where you have to climb the three highest sand dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park. Scale Mt. Jackson, Mt. Holden, and Mt. Tom for a total of 552 feet (168 metres). After a whole day of climbing, head over to 49'er Drive-In Theatre for an evening of movies and popcorn under the stars. Your weekend trip to Indiana Dunes will be the escape you never knew you needed.
2. Bloomington
Southwest of Indianapolis is the beautiful city of Bloomington, which is the seventh-largest city in Indiana. Bloomington is home to the oldest and largest state university in America, Indiana University. Your possibilities are endless when you visit Bloomington over the weekend. If you’re craving a few hours in the outdoors, rent a double-decker pontoon boat on Monroe Lake. If you’re not a fan of being on the water, go for a hike at the Deam Wilderness trails. Head over to the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music Opera and Ballet Theater for a showing of a 20th-century opera or swing by The Bluebird or The Bishop Bar for funky cocktails and a night of great live music. Bloomington is definitely a great weekend trip.
3. French Lick
Situated south of Indianapolis is the resort town of French Lick. Surrounded by Hoosier National Forest, this destination is perfect for a romantic weekend getaway. For those looking to pamper themselves, be sure to splurge on a luxurious balcony view accommodation at West Baden Springs Hotel. Start your weekend trip off with an incredible massage at Bliss Spa & Boutique before heading off on a sunset wine cruise on Patoka Lake. End the night with your beverage of choice as you bask in live jazz music in this quaint town.
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4. Nashville
Home of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Nashville is certainly a worthy destination to explore over the weekend. The capital city of Tennessee is home to the legendary country music venue, Grand Ole Opry. Better known as Music City, Nashville is the epicentre of the country music industry. After a visit to Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, head over to Hillsboro Village or 12South for a taste of the local side of the city. Take an afternoon stroll and visit some of the local cafes and shopping districts. Dream up your perfect weekend trip to Nashville today.
5. Syracuse
Syracuse is a charming city within the New York state. This destination offers an escape away from the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle. With activities for locals and visitors all year round, you’ll be spoilt for choice when you come to visit Syracuse. Head over to downtown’s Armory Square for great shopping, dining, and nightlife options. For college sports enthusiasts, Syracuse is home to Carrier Dome, a 50,000-seat facility that hosts football, basketball, and lacrosse games. Carrier Dome is also the largest domed stadium in the Northeast and the largest on-campus basketball arena. For those planning to have a relaxed evening, pop by Destiny USA for retail therapy and fine-dining. A weekend trip to Syracuse will hardly disappoint.
6. Chicago
Another city worth exploring on a weekend trip from Indianapolis is Chicago. This is the third-largest city in the United States with a population of over three million. The people of Chicago live and breathe baseball. As much as they love to play the game, they also enjoy watching the professionals do their thing. Home of the 2016 World Series Champions, the Chicago Cubs, locals and baseball fans worldwide flock to Wrigley Field to watch their favourite team in action. It’s no secret that Chicago is also the theatre capital of the United States. This vibrant city is also the birthplace of the gospel and electric blues. If you want the perfect trip, be sure to experience Chicago’s finest music festivals such as the Chicago Blues Festival and Lollapalooza. Don’t miss out on an exciting weekend trip from Indianapolis.
7. Louisville
Louisville is the largest city in the state of Kentucky. This charming city sits on the banks of Ohio River along the Indiana border. Known as the City of Parks, Louisville offers Cherokee Park, a destination that shouldn’t be missed. With its long, winding roads and wide spaces in the valley of Beargrass Creek, this park is breathtaking. For those with an adventurous spirit, give the world’s only underground zip line a shot. Get your adrenaline pumping as you zip line across 17 miles (27.4 kilometres) of underground passageways beneath Louisville. For the faint-hearted, perhaps a trip to Bourbon country would be right up your alley. Immerse yourself in the Bourbon lifestyle with bourbon-themed trails, shopping, and dwellings. There’s something for everyone as you plan your weekend trip to Louisville.
8. Valparaiso
The prosperous city of Valparaiso would be a great destination for a weekend trip from Indianapolis. Known as the vale of paradise, Valparaiso, or Valpo as affectionately known by its residents, has plenty to offer. Endless adventures await you and your family. Pay Gabis Arboretum a visit and explore beautiful grounds and themed gardens. For those who enjoy movies, head over to 49'er Drive-In Theatre for a double feature under the stars. Take a tour of the charming grounds of Valparaiso University and while you’re there, swing by Brauer Museum of Art and check out their latest exhibitions.
9. South Bend
Round up the family and head over to South Bend, Indiana, for a weekend of family fun under the sun. For those craving some adventure, try your hand at whitewater rafting in downtown South Bend on Niles Avenue. This is North America’s first artificial whitewater course. Those with children in tow, head over to The History Museum’s Kidsfirst Children’s Museum. Let your imagination run wild as your family rediscovers history through the use of schoolhouses, cabins, and wagons. Another attraction worth visiting is Potawatomi Zoo that has over 400 animals across 23 acres (9.3 hectares) of land. It is also the oldest zoo in Indiana. Wrap up your weekend trip with a meal at Rocco’s Restaurant. This joint is South Bend’s first original pizza joint since 1951. Don’t miss out on this family fun adventure in South Bend today.
10. Oldenburg
Oldenburg is one of Indiana’s oldest towns and, quite possibly, its most interesting town. In the 1830s, southern Germans flocked to Indiana and made Oldenburg their home. The strong German influence can be seen through its religious structures with steeples. Oldenburg is also known as the “Village of Spires” because of the spires and towers that are peppered across their churches. Every year, the villagers of Oldenburg host a German festival in July called Oldenburg Freudenfest. Those who want a taste of authentic German cuisine, beer, and entertainment should definitely plan their stay around July.
Your weekend trip from Indianapolis awaits
Endless adventures await you and your travelling party as you embark on a weekend trip from Indianapolis. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a chance to soak up the sun in the great outdoors with the family, these destinations have something to offer. Be sure to plan your trip properly in order to not miss out on the fun.
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