9 Things That Should Be On Everyone's Indiana Road Trip Scavenger Hunt
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Tori Jane
Author
Indiana is a state that gets so much less credit than it deserves. Where some folks see nothing but flat farmland, I see endless opportunities for adventure. If you’ve been a reader for any length of time, you’ll definitely know that I have a penchant for road trips of all kinds, such as some truly jaw-dropping waterfall road trips, spooky abandoned places road trips, and so on. So, I’ve decided to do something a little different today: here’s a shortlist of ten iconic sights to seek out on your next road trip – a road trip scavenger hunt, if you will. Here are ten things you ought to look out for on your next adventure!
1. Jug Rock
Jug Rock Nature Preserve, 722 Albright Ln, Shoals, IN 47581, USA
Jug Rock is a strange and fascinating natural wonder hiding in the woods near Shoals, Indiana. It's a bit of a local icon, with the high school mascot being, well, the rock. Formed from millions of years of fascinating geological processes, this weird little natural landmark is a must-do on any road trip that brings you anywhere close to it.
2. THE Giant Ball of Paint
Worlds Largest Ball of Paint, 10696 N 200 W, Alexandria, IN 46001, USA
Of all the oddball places in Indiana to enjoy, the giant ball of paint is perhaps one of the most interactive items on this list. It is, after all, an enormous ball of paint originally started in 1997 as a layer of paint applied to a baseball that is now covered in tens of thousands (if not more) of coatings of paint. Add your own for the ultimate fun.
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3. The Sculpture Eos
Sculpture "Eos" by artist Dessa Kirk, Columbus, IN 47201, USA
Hidden in Columbus is one of the most beautiful public art installations in Indiana that makes for an awesome sight on any scavenger hunt. Artist Dessa Kirk originally created it for the 2006 Sculpture Invitational and was so beloved by the town that it was ensured it would stay forever. Lucky them!
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4. The Grave of Johnny Appleseed
Johnny Appleseed Park, 1500 N Harry Baals Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46805, USA
Fun fact for history geeks: Johnny Appleseed's grave is right here in Indiana. Yes, he was a real person - and he died here in the Hoosier State in 1845. You can find him in Fort Wayne at the Johnny Appleseed Park, where his grave is marked with elegant surroundings worthy of an American icon.
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5. Grouseland
Harrison Mansion Grouseland, 3 W Scott St, Vincennes, IN 47591, USA
The incredible mansion known as Grouseland was once the home of President William Henry Harrison during his time as a governor and remained in his family until 1850. Should you take a tour (which I definitely recommend), you'll see that the whole place is gorgeously furnished and contains art, furniture and other trinkets worthy of learning about. This historical landmark makes for a fun spot to cross off the list.
6. The Biggest Candle in the World
Warm Glow Candle Outlet, 2131 N Centerville Rd, Centerville, IN 47330, USA
Fun fact: the Warm Glow Candle Company is home to the world's largest candle... or, rather, a candle replica. It's fun to stop and pose in front of it for a selfie, but it's even more fun to head inside and check it out. With delicious, long-lasting scents that stick around for a while, you'll find it tough not to leave with an armful of new candles. And even if you do... I'm not here to judge.
7. The Moon Tree
Indiana Statehouse, 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
The awesome Indiana moon tree is quite literally just as spectacular as it sounds: it's a Sycamore tree grown from a handful of seeds taken to the moon and back - very literally - by astronaut Stuart Roosa in 1971. It was planted at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis on April 9th, 1976, and today it's one of four moon trees that still live in the Hoosier State.
8. The Michigan City Lighthouse
Michigan City Lighthouse, Michigan City, IN 46360, USA
Who says you need the ocean to spot a lighthouse? The amazing Michigan City Lighthouse is nothing short of breathtaking and makes for an iconic view over Lake Michigan, especially during sunset, when the sky comes ablaze with color and the waves lapping the shoreline are reminiscent of the sea. It makes for an amazing addition to any northern Indiana road trip... and for a day trip in and of itself.
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9. The Dinosaurs at Indianapolis Children's Museum
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA
Our final item is the dinosaurs living outside the Indianapolis Children's Museum that manage to attract their own crowds day in and day out. Every so often, the statues are modified to fit a theme or event going on inside, so if you show up the and the dinos are dressed up, you know some fun's going on. This incredible museum is the largest in the world of its kind, and it, too, makes for a spectacular day trip - but if you're on a time pinch, just be sure to seek out the giant reptiles.
So, there you have ’em: nine delightful items to add to just about any road trip. This road trip scavenger hunt is a fun thing to do solo or with friends and/or family, and it’s a blast! Need somewhere to stay while you’re out and about? Check out all the deals from our buddies at Hotels.com.
Craving more adventures? Check out all the best waterfalls in Indiana next.
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