In a state as big as Indiana, it is easy to hide some of our best attractions. These nine secret destinations tucked away around the Hoosier State will give you a reason to adventure into lesser-known parts of the territory that have so much to offer.

From restaurants and stores to castles and gardens, this list has everything you need for an Indiana journey you won't regret. Check it out:

1. Clayshire Castle

This modern castle opened as a hotel in 2013 with vintage rooms that will make you feel like you've been dropped into a fairy tale. Amenities include an over-sized chess set, a cedar hot tub, and immaculate grounds. Book a room back in time here and find this hidden wonder at 8780 E County Rd. 75 N, Bowling Green, IN 47833.

2. DeFries Gardens

Also known as a calendar garden, this unique oasis of nature and beauty is a must-see. Different sections of this circular design are in bloom during the different seasons, giving you a reason to always come back. Find this neat spot at 17477 Co Rd. 46, New Paris, IN 46553, and learn more here.

3. Storybook Express

You'd never expect to find something like this in Indiana, yet this fairy tale store has been in business since 2012. This whimsical convenience store looks like it is full of magic but it simply contains your typical, everyday household items. Find it at 316 E Sycamore St., Kokomo, IN, 46901, and learn more about this place here.

4. France Park

Created from an abandoned stone quarry, this great spot is perfect for fishing, swimming, and hiking. It is also a great place to go scuba diving, making this perhaps the most surprising of Indiana's secret destinations. Explore the underwater treasures hiding at this park at 4505 US-24, Logansport, IN 46947, and learn more here.

5. T. C. Steele State Historic Site

Spanning more than 200 acres, this secret garden is a popular place for artists to go for inspiration. In fact, it was named for a painter and is a lovely place to visit any time of year. Find it at 4220 T C Steele Rd., Nashville, IN 47448 and learn more about it here.

6. Tippecanoe Place Restaurant

Built in the 1800s, this castle-esque structure is a wonderful spot for weddings and receptions, but few know that it also houses a restaurant. Guests can enjoy entree items like chicken marsala, roasted duck, and coulotte steak as well as more general items like soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and pastas. Find it all at 620 W Washington St., South Bend, IN 46601, and learn more here.

7. Dagom Gaden Tensung Ling Buddhist Monastery

Located within the Lower Cascades Park at 102 W Club House Dr., Bloomington, IN 47404, this unique, yellow building is surrounded by natural wonders like forestry, creeks, and a waterfall. It is meant to be a serene place to meditate and practice Buddhist prayer. Learn more about this colorful spot here.

8. The Wilstem Ranch

This may be the most unknown location of our secret destinations. It is an elephant farm that sits on 1,000 acres of land for these animals to roam. Guests can stop by to meet them and learn everything there is to know about elephants. Find the farm at 4237 West Us Highway 150, Paoli, IN 47454, and learn more here.

9. Krider World's Fair Garden Park

This amazing garden is full of unique sights and amazing history. It was once a nursery but today is primarily a home for sculptures and permanent plants. Find it at 302 Bristol Ave., Middlebury, IN 46540, and learn more about how it came to be right here.

For more like this, check out these eight Indiana secrets you never knew existed.

What other secret destinations do we need to know about? Share your favorite places with us below in the comments.