By now you know there's no limit to the number of amazing places available to explore in the Hoosier state. From incredible restaurants to beautiful parks to charming beaches, Indiana has a lot to offer. These 10 places are some of the best hidden places in our state, that generally only locals know exist.
1. Rose Island - Charlestown
This remarkably beautiful island was once a popular amusement park. Now, the park is abandoned and is being reclaimed by nature, offering stunning views. Learn more about Rose Island here.
2. Coffee Creek Watershed Conservancy Preserve - Chesterton
This charming nature preserve is relatively unknown (even to some locals!). If you're looking for a goreous waterside outdoor area to visit that isn't as crowded as the dunes, check out this amazing preserve full of trails and beautiful scenery. Find out more here.
3. Fifi's Lunch Box - Terre Haute
When it comes to legendary food, locals know that Fifi's always delivers. From their famous deep fried hashbrown casserole bites to their glazed donut burger, this fried and comfort food joint is well worth a visit. Learn more at here.
4. Clayshire Castle - Bowling Green
Have you ever wished your life was more like a fairy tale? Create your own medieval weekend at Clayshire Castle. Enjoy traditional medieval costumes, splendid feasts, themed guest rooms, jousting, and so much more at this magical, hidden castle. Discover more here.
5. Hardin Ridge Recreation Area - Bloomington
Are you looking for a less populated beach that only locals know exists? A trip to Hardin Ridge Recreation Area may be just what you need! Enjoy swimming, lounging, hiking, camping, kayaking, and much more at this hidden gem. Learn more here.
6. Shawn's Southern BBQ - New Albany
Are you looking for mouthwatering BBQ in the Hoosier state? This little BBQ joint in New Albany is the perfect hidden gem to try. This local restaurant isn't well known by many but won the award for best BBQ in Indiana last year. Learn more here.
7. Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens - Indianapolis
This hidden garden is amazing to behold in person - and most Hoosiers don't even realize it exists. View incredible plants in the conservatory and check out the breathtaking beauty of the sunken gardens here.
8. The Gardens at T.C. Steele State Historic Site - Nashville
This vivid and colorful garden is an artist's dream come true! If you love painting or some other creative outlet, or simply enjoy being surrounded by nature, you have to check out this peaceful historic site. Learn more here.
9. Mounds State Park - Anderson
You've probably been to the major state parks, like the Indiana Dunes, Brown County, or Turkey Run. However, the state park in Anderson is a beautiful hidden gem that most Hoosiers aren't aware of. Explore this park's gorgeous trails and take in sights of wildlife along the way. Find out more here.
10. The Sunken Gardens at Memorial Park - Huntington
This ethereal park in Indiana looks like a backdrop from a fairy tale. You'll want to explore every inch to get a full glimpse of this whimsical place. Learn more here.
Have you ever been to any of these hidden places before? For more incredible things to do and see this spring, check out this post.
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