The Spontaneous Road Trip Through Indiana That Is The Perfect Weekend Of Adventure
By Tori Jane|Published June 19, 2024
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Tori Jane
Author
Tori Jane is a storm chaser, writer, photographer, and the village idiot - in that order. When she's not out and about dancing with the meanest storms on planet Earth for funsies she can be found wandering, shooting landscapes, writing, editing photos, and otherwise up to no good. Legend has it that she can also be occasionally spotted typing up short bios in the third person, but those rumors are unsubstantiated.
If you’ve been a reader for any length of time (thank you, by the way!), you’ll know that my opinion about the state of Indiana is very positive. It’s a wonderful place for locals and visitors alike to explore, and you just wouldn’t believe the amazing amount of wonders you’ll experience here if you knew where to look. Today, I’ve decided to put together a delightful road trip where you can explore some of our “Greatest Hits”, so to speak. It makes for a fun, last-minute road trip in Indiana you’re sure to love, so don’t think about it – just pack a bag and go. There are lots of fun things to do in Indiana – this is just a start. If you want to follow along, check out this handy map.
Let's start things with a bang, shall we? I think the tallest waterfall in Indiana makes for an amazing kick-off point. At 90 feet tall, this gorgeous cascade is nothing short of a natural wonder. The best time(s) to visit include during early spring snowmelt and following a good, solid rainfall. My favorite thing about the falls is that you can definitely hear them well before you see them, which just adds to the overall anticipation.
Without a doubt, this is one of the best wineries in Indiana, and it's got amazing things going on almost all the time. This little gem is so much more than "just" a winery; it's an event space, holds regular live music acts, offers tours and tastings... you get the idea. There's a lot to do 'round here, and the fact that it's so beautiful really doesn't help matters (or does it?). Perhaps my favorite detail, though, is that they make fine wines out of more than just grapes - think strawberries, apples, and berries - and it would certainly seem that this place is more than what it looks to be at first.
Let's wrap up the first half of our adventure in the friendliest town in Indiana: beautiful Carmel. With endless shops, eateries, and more, you'll want to spend several hours exploring downtown and delighting in some of the best eateries in the state. Even city parks - like the one pictures - are absolutely gorgeous. This town is a fairy tale come true.
....and best of all, I found a really cool place to stay while you're here. There are plenty of awesome places to stay in Indiana, but this one is located right in the heart of Carmel's Arts & Design District so you don't have to wander far at all. Kick back and get cozy - Carmel is an experience to be had and remembered!
Bright and early, let's head to our next stop: Cataract General Store. This place has the legendary distinction of being the oldest still-operating general store in Indiana. You'll find a little bit of everything here, from candy and medicines to trinkets and toys. Get a bite to eat, a spot to drink and something to remember your trip by. This little store is simply SO Indiana.
Here's one you'll want to spend a few hours at (at least): the legendarily jaw-dropping Brown County State Park, our largest state park and also, arguably, the most beautiful. You'll feel like you stepped into a fairy tale at this otherworldly emerald paradise; there's almost nothing you can't do here, from camping and hiking to fishing and exploring. Heck, you could turn this park into a day trip all its own! In fact, I encourage it. Sshh... you don't need a plan. Just go.
Finally, we arrive at the epic finish: spend a while at White Rock Park, one of Indiana's best outdoor parks and recreation sites. This amazing swimming hole is crystal-clear and cool, providing the ultimate warm-weather experience. It really does make for a perfect finisher to an adventure filled with fun!
Sometimes, the best memories are made on a whim – so I hope this little trip helps inspire a whim or two in you. What would you add to this road trip in Indiana? Let me know in the comments!
