It's that time of year when Hoosiers across the state start planning for the summer. When you're looking for something cheap and easy to do, try these 10 budget-friendly road trips in Indiana.
Nature, history, and adventure await in this list. Check it out:
1. Amish Acres
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this unique destination offers dining, entertainment, and lodging. Experience Amish life by riding in a buggy, eating homemade meals, and shopping in an old general store. Find it all and more at 1600 W Market St, Nappanee, IN 46550. While there is much to do here, tours and buggy rides run between $4 and $13.
2. Black Pine Animal Sanctuary
This unique zoo is a sanctuary for exotic animals that were once in the circus or living with an owner who couldn't care for them. This 18-acre space is a refuge for displaced animals as well as an educational center. Find it at 1426 W 300 N., Albion, IN 46701. Activities are individually priced, and it's only about $8 to go on a feeding tour.
3. Indiana Cave Trail
Comprising four different caves, this trail is one of the best budget-friendly road trips in the state. Explore all the caves of southern Indiana and you'll be rewarded with experience and a comparable t-shirt. Caves admissions are priced individually. Learn more here.
4. Conner Prairie
This interactive, historical experience is fun for all ages. Guests get a chance to see what Hooiser life was like in the mid-1800s. Visit the blacksmith, witness a mock war zone, and admire an old Indiana civilization. It is located at 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers, IN 46038, and the price to enter is $18 for adults while children and seniors may enter for less.
5. Parke County Covered Bridge Trail
For a day of vintage charm you'll never forget, take a trip to the covered bridge capital of the world. Home to more than 30 bridges, this gorgeous area seems stuck in the past, and that's okay. Learn all about these old-fashioned structures here. The only cost for this trip is the gas.
6. Sugar Creek Campground Float Trip
Located at 841 W 83 N., Crawfordsville, IN 47933, this natural lazy river ride will be the best three-mile trip of your life. Rentals are just $10 and cooler tubes are also available. Learn more about this four-hour float here.
7. Swiss Heritage Village and Museum
Make summer historical with a trip to this outdoor museum that was opened in 1985. Learn all about how the Swiss settled this area as well as about how their culture influences ours. Tours cost $6 for those 12 years of age and up while seniors and young children are admitted for less. Discover this amazing place at 1200 Swissway Rd., Berne, IN 46711.
8. Indianapolis Children's Museum
Possibly one of the most popular family-friendly attractions in the state, this place is an educational paradise for kids. Learn all about dinosaurs, exotic lands, and much more. Admission runs between $19 and $25 depending on the day. It is located at 3000 N Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, and you can learn more about it here.
9. The Indiana Dunes
No Hoosier summer is complete without a trip to the Dunes. Free to explore, this is one of the best budget-friendly road trips due to these sandy paths that lead to Lake Michigan where you can then cool off and swim all day. Find it at 1215 Indiana 49, Porter, IN 46304.
10. Wilstem Ranch
This incredible farm is known for housing an array of exotic animals. Guests may encounter elephants, kangaroos, giraffes, and more. Horseback riding, ATV tours, and much more are available here. General admission is $10 while encounters cost between $25 and $20. It is located at 4237 W Us Highway 150, Paoli, IN 47454, and you can learn more about it here.
For more fun, check out 11 simple summer days trip you can only find in Indiana.
What other budget-friendly road trips do you enjoy taking in Indiana? Share your favorite spots with us below in the comments.
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