The heartland of America, Indiana, is an enticing panorama of history, art, adventure, and natural beauty that captures the imagination of families. From the stunning Lake Michigan vista to thrilling amusement parks, not to mention the myriad educational experiences on offer, Indiana is an idyllic family holiday destination.
Whether you're seeking a comfortable budget stay or a touches-of-class luxury hotel, an urban residence or a charming B&B nestled by nature's bounty, Indiana has it all. Prepare to discover the perfect spots for a family holiday in Indiana, tailored to your unique needs and desires.
Things to do
Indiana, with its bucket-list-worthy attractions, offers a cornucopia of experiences to delight every kind of family. From interactive museums that unravel the threads of time to natural splendours waiting to be explored, here are some must-visit spots for an unforgettable Indiana holiday.
Start your Indiana exploration with the Holiday World & Splashin' Safari. It's not just an amusement park; it's an emporium of adventure, offering memorable experiences and exhilarating rides to suit all ages, including America's First Family Boomerang Coaster.
For nature lovers, a visit to Indiana Dunes National Park is non-negotiable. Stretching along 15 miles of Lake Michigan's southern shore, the park boasts stunning landscapes of sandy beaches, tranquil forests, rugged dunes, and wetlands. Let your young ones' love for nature flourish here amongst over 1,100 species of native plants.
History and culture aficionados will find the Indiana State Museum a revelation. Located in downtown Indianapolis, it houses a vast collection of over 500,000 objects that chronicle the art, culture, science, and history of Indiana right from the prehistoric times to the present day.
No vacation is complete without sampling local cuisine. Indiana isn't just known for its landmarks but also its hearty midwestern cuisine. From bustling food halls of Indianapolis to the charming country cafes, Indiana will have your family praising your culinary expertise in no time!
When to visit
Family-friendly Indiana welcomes visitors all year round with its diverse offerings. While the captivating natural beauty and mild weather of the spring months (April–June) lends stunning backdrops to family adventures, other seasons have their unique charm and attractions as well.
Winter months, although cooler, bring festivities such as Indianapolis's unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration. Families can enjoy bird-watching at Indiana Dunes State Park at pretty much any time, while history buffs find joy in a unique medieval experience at the Renaissance festival. Just remember, despite being a brilliant holiday destination throughout the year, try to work around term times for a stress-free journey.
Things you'll love...
- Uncover indigenous history with a family trip to Indiana's state capital, Indianapolis, where cultural experiences abound.
- Experience exhilarating rides and water park fun at the Holiday World & Splashin' Safari - a sure hit for the whole clan.
- Explore raw nature and a plethora of flora and fauna at Indiana Dunes National Park, perfect for budding naturalists.
- Relish unique birds-eye views of Lake Michigan, Indiana's very own jewel of the Northwest.
- Engage your little ones with hands-on science, art, and culture exhibits at Indiana State Museum.
Main airport
- Indianapolis International Airport