100 Exciting Things to Do in Indiana During Summer

Summer is a vibrant season in Indiana, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family fun. From exploring breathtaking natural landscapes to indulging in mouthwatering cuisine, Indiana has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting from out of town, we’ve compiled a list of 100 exciting things to do in Indiana during the summer. Get ready to make the most of this sunny season in the Hoosier State!

Outdoor Adventures:

1. Explore the sand dunes at Indiana Dunes National Park.
2. Hike through the picturesque trails of Brown County State Park.
3. Enjoy water sports and swimming at Indiana’s lakes, such as Lake Monroe and Lake Michigan.
4. Take a scenic drive along the Ohio River Scenic Byway.
5. Go camping and stargazing at Turkey Run State Park.
6. Discover the stunning waterfalls at Clifty Falls State Park.
7. Canoe or kayak down the Blue River.
8. Go fishing in one of Indiana’s many lakes and rivers.
9. Experience the thrill of ziplining at one of Indiana’s adventure parks.
10. Go horseback riding through Hoosier National Forest.

Cultural Experiences:

1. Visit the Indianapolis Museum of Art and explore its impressive collection.
2. Attend a live performance at the Indiana Repertory Theatre.
3. Explore the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art.
4. Attend a summer festival, such as the Indiana State Fair or the Indy Jazz Fest.
5. Discover the historic charm of New Harmony, a utopian community.
6. Take a tour of the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
7. Enjoy live music at one of the many outdoor concert venues, like the Farm Bureau Insurance Lawn at White River State Park.
8. Visit the Indianapolis Zoo and get up close with fascinating wildlife.
9. Attend a minor league baseball game and cheer on the Indianapolis Indians.
10. Explore the Indianapolis Children’s Museum, one of the largest children’s museums in the world.

Family Fun

1. Spend a day at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, a thrilling amusement and water park.
2. Take a family bike ride along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail.
3. Cool off at one of Indiana’s water parks, such as Big Splash Adventure in French Lick.
4. Have a picnic and enjoy the playgrounds at Fort Harrison State Park.
5. Visit the Indianapolis Public Library and participate in their summer reading program.
6. Take a family trip to the Indiana State Museum and learn about the state’s history.
7. Go on a safari adventure at the Wilstem Wildlife Park.
8. Enjoy mini-golf and go-karting at an Indiana family fun center.
9. Take a ride on the French Lick Scenic Railway and admire the scenic views.
10. Explore the interactive exhibits at the WonderLab Museum in Bloomington.

Food and Drink:

1. Indulge in Indiana’s famous pork tenderloin sandwich at a local diner.
2. Visit a farmers’ market and savor fresh, local produce.
3. Take a winery tour and sample Indiana’s finest wines.
4. Enjoy a craft beer tasting at one of Indiana’s breweries.
5. Attend a food festival, such as the Indiana Wine Fair or the Dig-IN: A Taste of Indiana event.
6. Try Indiana’s signature dessert, the sugar cream pie.
7. Dine al fresco at one of Indiana’s charming outdoor restaurants.
8. Have a summer barbecue with Indiana-grown sweet corn and grilled meats.
9. Sample local cheeses at an Indiana cheese shop.
10. Visit a strawberry farm and pick your own juicy strawberries.

Historical and Educational Sites:

1. Explore the historic Conner Prairie living history museum.
2. Visit the Indiana Historical Society and delve into the state’s rich history.
3. Tour the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site in Indianapolis.
4. Discover the historic sites along the Indiana State Historic Sites Passport Trail.
5. Explore the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial in Lincoln City.
6. Visit the Indiana Military Museum and learn about the state’s military history.
7. Take a tour of the West Baden Springs Hotel, a historic landmark.
8. Learn about the Amish culture in Shipshewana and visit their shops and markets.
9. Explore the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library in Indianapolis.
10. Visit the Historic Eleutherian College, a significant Underground Railroad site.

Nature and Wildlife:

1. Go birdwatching at Indiana’s wildlife refuges, such as Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area.
2. Take a scenic drive through the Indiana countryside during peak wildflower season.
3. Explore the Indiana State Arboretum and enjoy the beauty of its botanical collections.
4. Visit the Indianapolis Zoo and see the dolphins at the Dolphin Pavilion.
5. Take a wildlife photography tour in the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge.
6. Discover the mesmerizing sandstone formations at Shades State Park.
7. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride on the Monon Trail.
8. Go on a nature hike and observe native wildlife at Prophetstown State Park.
9. Take a boat tour on the Ohio River and enjoy the scenic views.
10. Visit the Indiana Bat Conservation Center and learn about efforts to protect these endangered species.

Sports and Recreation:

1. Attend an Indianapolis Indians baseball game at Victory Field.
2. Play a round of golf at one of Indiana’s beautiful golf courses.
3. Take a scenic bike ride along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail.
4. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Indiana’s lakes and rivers.
5. Join a recreational sports league and play softball, volleyball, or soccer.
6. Attend a Pacers game and cheer on the home team at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.
7. Go horse racing at Indiana Grand Racing & Casino.
8. Attend a car race at Anderson Speedway or Lucas Oil Raceway.
9. Join a hiking or biking club and explore Indiana’s trails with fellow enthusiasts.
10. Take a scenic hot air balloon ride and enjoy breathtaking views of Indiana’s landscapes.

Unique Attractions:

1. Visit the World’s Largest Ball of Paint in Alexandria and add your own layer of paint.
2. Explore the Indiana Medical History Museum and learn about the history of medicine.
3. Take a tour of the Indiana Caverns and marvel at the underground wonders.
4. Visit the Notre Dame campus and experience the vibrant college atmosphere.
5. Explore the quirky exhibits at the Indianapolis Museum of Contemporary Art.
6. Discover the world’s largest collection of mechanical musical instruments at the Seiberling Mansion in Kokomo.
7. Take a boat tour of the Indiana Dunes and experience the unique ecosystem.
8. Visit the Bison-tennial Art Project and admire the artistic representation of Indiana’s state animal.
9. Take a scenic train ride on the Whitewater Valley Railroad.
10. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Muncie Children’s Museum.

Music and Entertainment:

1. Attend a live concert at the iconic Ruoff Music Center.
2. Experience a Shakespearean play at the Indiana Shakespeare Festival.
3. Enjoy a night of live jazz at The Jazz Kitchen in Indianapolis.
4. Attend a country music concert at the Brown County Music Center.
5. Dance the night away at one of Indiana’s vibrant music festivals.
6. Catch a live theater performance at the Indiana Repertory Theatre.
7. Experience the magic of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra at Hilbert Circle Theatre.
8. Attend an outdoor movie night at a local park or venue.
9. Visit a comedy club and enjoy a night of laughter.
10. Attend a cultural festival celebrating Indiana’s diverse communities.

Day Trips and Weekend Getaways:

1. Take a day trip to the charming town of Madison and explore its historic district.
2. Visit the scenic town of Nashville and browse its unique shops and art galleries.
3. Explore the picturesque town of French Lick and enjoy its luxurious resorts and spas.
4. Take a weekend getaway to the bustling city of Indianapolis and explore its vibrant neighborhoods and attractions.
5. Visit the bustling college town of Bloomington and immerse yourself in its arts and culture scene.
6. Take a trip to South Bend and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Notre Dame campus.
7. Explore the picturesque town of Carmel and indulge in its upscale shopping and dining options.
8. Visit the city of Evansville and enjoy its riverfront attractions and museums.
9. Take a scenic drive through Indiana’s Covered Bridge Country and marvel at its historic bridges.
10. Embark on a road trip along the Indiana Wine Trail and indulge in wine tastings and vineyard visits.

Conclusion:

Indiana offers a plethora of exciting activities and destinations during the summer season. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family fun, the Hoosier State has something for everyone. From exploring the great outdoors to immersing yourself in Indiana’s rich history and diverse attractions, this list of 100 things to do will keep you busy and entertained all summer long.

So, grab your sunscreen, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Indiana this summer!