Open Travel Guide
Attractions in Indiana

Indiana Attractions Guide 2026

What to actually see in Indiana: headline landmarks, quieter alternatives, and how to plan both.

Indiana is a Midwestern state known as the 'Crossroads of America,' celebrated for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Indiana Dunes National Park along Lake Michigan, a vibrant craft brewing scene, and rich Native American and Civil War history. From the urban energy of Indianapolis to the rolling hills of Brown County and the sand dunes of the Lake Michigan shoreline, Indiana offers surprising variety for travelers.

Top attractions

The most popular and significant attractions in Indiana.

Attractions by category

Explore by your interests.

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Hidden gems

Off-the-beaten-path attractions worth seeking out.

Hidden gem

Story, Indiana

A tiny 19th-century village in Brown County with a charming inn and antique shops

Hidden gem

Clifty Falls State Park

Dramatic waterfalls and canyon gorges near Madison, often overlooked

Hidden gem

Turkey Run State Park

Scenic canyon hiking along Sugar Creek with suspension bridges

Hidden gem

Metamora

A canal town where a 19th-century grist mill still operates on weekends

Hidden gem

Indiana Medical History Museum

A fascinating and forgotten 1896 pathology lab on the Old Indiana Hospital grounds in Indianapolis

Hidden gem

Cataract Falls

Indiana's largest waterfall by volume, accessible via a short hike in Owen County

Practical information

What you need to know before you go.

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Tips for visiting attractions

Make the most of your sightseeing time.

Tip

Purchase a combined ticket at the Children's Museum for best value.

Tip

Indiana Dunes is busiest on summer weekends — arrive before 9am for free parking.

Tip

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum costs $10 (USD) and is open year-round.

Tip

Newfields (IMA) offers free general admission on Thursdays 5–9pm.

Frequently asked questions

Is Indiana Dunes National Park free?

Entry to the national park itself is free. Parking is free at most trailheads. Indiana Dunes State Park (adjacent) charges $7–12 (USD) vehicle entry.

How long does it take to tour the Speedway Museum?

Allow 2–3 hours for the museum and a track bus tour. Full track experiences require separate booking.

What is the best attraction for families?

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is widely regarded as the world's largest and best children's museum, with interactive exhibits for all ages.