Things To Do
in Indiana
Indiana is a Midwestern state known for its blend of urban energy and rural charm. It offers world-class sports, museums, and outdoor landscapes from the Indiana Dunes on Lake Michigan to the rolling hills of southern forests. Indianapolis, the state capital, anchors a diverse scene of culture, cuisine, and events like the Indy 500.
Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table dining, historic neighborhoods, and expansive trails across the state.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Soldiers and Sailors Monument in downtown Indianapolis, where you can climb to the observation deck for a stunning view of the city. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local specialties like biscuits and gravy. After breakfast, take a stroll down Massachusetts Avenue, exploring the unique shops and galleries that line the street.
For lunch, head to the historic St. Elmo Steak House, famous for its shrimp cocktail and prime cuts of meat. Post-lunch, delve into the rich history of Indianapolis at the Indiana State Museum, which features interactive exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the state. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Canal Walk, a scenic three-mile path where you can rent a paddleboat or simply enjoy a peaceful walk along the water.
As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant in the Mass Ave cultural district, where you can sample farm-to-table dishes. Attend a live performance at the Indiana Repertory Theatre or catch a concert at the Old National Centre, immersing yourself in the local arts scene. Conclude your night with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, soaking in the sparkling city skyline.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast in Nashville, Indiana, before heading to the sprawling Brown County State Park. Spend the morning hiking one of the many scenic trails, where you'll encounter breathtaking views of the rolling hills and vibrant foliage, especially in the fall. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including deer and a variety of bird species as you navigate the park's natural beauty.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst nature, relishing the tranquility of your surroundings. Spend the afternoon visiting the Brown County Art Gallery, showcasing local artists and their works inspired by the area's stunning landscapes. If time permits, you can also try your hand at horseback riding or mountain biking in the park's designated areas.
As the sun sets, return to Nashville to enjoy dinner at a cozy local restaurant, sampling regional cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the charming town, exploring its quaint shops and galleries. End your evening by attending a live music event at one of the local venues, where you can enjoy the sounds of bluegrass and folk music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in city center | $1,100-$1,700 |
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-$15 |
| 🧺Monthly groceries | $300-$500 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3.50-$4.50 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $150-$250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Diverse urban and outdoor experiences
- Strong sports and cultural scenes
- Friendly Midwestern hospitality
- Wide range of outdoor recreation year-round
- Traffic congestion in urban centers during peak times
- Winters can be cold and snowy
- Rural areas require planning for certain outdoor activities
Places to Visit in Indiana
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic monument offering panoramic city views and dramatic skyline photography from the Circle.
Coastal dunes along Lake Michigan with sunrise/sunset views, lake reflections, and beach photography.
Gothic architecture and the Golden Dome provide striking campus photography.
Rolling hills and vibrant fall colors provide classic landscape shots.
Historic lighthouse with expansive lakefront views and maritime scenery.
Food in Indiana
Indiana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Hoosier dessert with a creamy custard filling and a hint of vanilla, commonly found in local diners and bakeries.
Must-Try!
A Midwest staple: a large, thinly pounded pork cutlet breaded and fried, served on a bun with toppings.
A traditional Indiana dessert made from persimmon pulp, served with cream or sauce, popular in southern Indiana.
A hearty chili often served over spaghetti or on hot dogs, reflecting regional comfort-food roots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in downtown Indianapolis offering local produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and rotating vendors.
Seasonal market with local produce, crafts, and street-food-style options in northern Indiana.
Campus-adjacent market featuring farmers, artisans, and seasonal bites near IU.
In downtowns and neighborhoods like Indianapolis' Fountain Square and Mass Ave, you’ll find diverse street food and rotating food-truck offerings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Midwestern hospitality is common; greet with a friendly 'hello' or nod, and be punctual for events.
Stand in line, avoid loud interruptions, and engage in light, friendly conversation in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Indiana
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, standard tips are 15-20% at restaurants; round up for smaller establishments; tip more for exceptional service.
Most places accept cash and major credit/debit cards; mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with showers; great for city strolling, gardens, and emerging greenery.
Warm to hot days with humidity; ideal for outdoor festivals, lakes, and dune beaches, but watch afternoon storms.
Peak fall foliage in rural and park areas; cooler days with colorful landscapes and cozy events.
Cold and often snowy; great for museums and indoor attractions, with opportunities for winter sports in northern areas.
Indiana at Night
Hiking in Indiana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Over 20 miles of hiking trails through rolling hills and hardwood forests, especially vibrant in fall.
Extensive trail system across southern Indiana for longer hikes and backcountry adventures.
Coastal dunes and lakefront trails with scenic viewpoints along Lake Michigan.
Airports
How to reach Indiana by plane.
Major hub for central Indiana; serves domestic and international flights; accessible to downtown by car or public transit.
Regional airport serving northeast Indiana with domestic flights and connections.
Airport serving northern Indiana; convenient for visiting Notre Dame and the Indiana Dunes region.
Southwestern Indiana airport with several domestic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Indiana with broad distribution across urban and rural areas.
A significant community concentrated in cities and larger towns.
A growing demographic across the state contributing to cultural and culinary diversity.
A smaller but increasing presence in cities through education and industry.
Includes multiracial and Indigenous communities across the state.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A deeply rooted part of Indiana culture with high school and college traditions; the state has a long basketball heritage.
The IndyCar and motorsport scene is synonymous with Indianapolis and surrounding areas.
American football is popular at college and high school levels; fans attend games across campuses.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Indiana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Indiana restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for veggie pastas, salads, and veggie entrees; don’t hesitate to ask for meatless versions of popular dishes.