Coast to Coast Travel

When most people think of Indiana, they often picture endless cornfields, college basketball, or maybe the iconic Indy 500. But beyond the surface, the Hoosier State hides a wealth of stunning natural beauty, charming small towns, and off-the-beaten-path destinations that surprise even seasoned travelers. Whether you’re a curious local or an adventurer passing through the Midwest, Indiana has more to offer than meets the eye.

In this post, I’m diving into five incredible places across Indiana that will change how you see the state. From breathtaking nature preserves to artistic enclaves and mysterious caves, each spot offers a unique slice of what makes Indiana special. As always, I’ve included some Amazon travel essentials to help you get the most out of your visit.

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1. Turkey Run State Park – Marshall, IN

Often called Indiana’s most scenic state park, Turkey Run is a paradise for hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful connection with nature. Towering sandstone gorges, scenic ravines, and suspension bridges create an immersive experience that rivals parks in the Appalachian Mountains. Trails like Trail 3 take you scrambling through narrow rock formations, across ladders, and past mossy waterfalls. It’s one of the most ruggedly beautiful places in the Midwest.

Beyond hiking, you can enjoy canoeing on Sugar Creek, horseback riding, and even camping in the park’s charming cabins. During fall, the color-changing leaves provide a stunning backdrop that draws thousands of visitors, yet somehow, it still feels like a hidden gem. This is the kind of place where you can unplug and truly immerse yourself in Indiana’s wilder side.

Be sure to pack these items for your trip:

• Hiking Daypack with Water Bladder: Stay hydrated and pack all your hiking essentials comfortably.
• All-Terrain Hiking Boots: Keep your feet comfortable all day during your hike.
• Binoculars for Bird Watching: Spot birds, deer, or even foxes along the trails.

2. The Labyrinth in New Harmony – New Harmony, IN

New Harmony is one of the most fascinating small towns in America, founded as a utopian society in the early 1800s. Tucked inside this historic gem is the Harmonist Labyrinth, a peaceful hedge maze designed for meditation and self-reflection. Inspired by ancient spiritual paths, walking the labyrinth offers a unique experience that blends history, philosophy, and serenity.

Outside the labyrinth, New Harmony is filled with quirky art, gardens, and historic architecture. The town also boasts cozy cafes, antique shops, and riverside strolls that give it a tranquil, otherworldly charm. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend retreat or a day trip, New Harmony invites you to slow down and soak in its peaceful atmosphere.

Be sure to pack these items for your trip:

• Eco-Friendly Tote Bag: Handy for browsing New Harmony’s farmers’ markets and artisan shops.
• Solar-Powered Portable Lantern: Perfect for peaceful evening walks or riverside relaxation.
• Leather-Bound Travel Journal: Perfect for writing reflections after visiting the Labyrinth or the gardens.

3. Clifty Falls State Park – Madison, IN

Overlooking the Ohio River, Clifty Falls State Park is an underrated destination bursting with natural beauty. With four waterfalls and a rugged canyon landscape, it’s perfect for nature lovers who want to experience Indiana’s wild side. The waterfalls are especially majestic after a rain, and the canyon walls create dramatic scenery you wouldn’t expect in this part of the country.

In addition to hiking, visitors can explore fossil beds, enjoy panoramic views from the park’s lookouts, or walk to the historic railroad tunnel. Madison itself is a charming riverside town with boutique shops and historic architecture, making it a perfect pairing for your Clifty Falls adventure.

Be sure to pack these items for your trip:

• All-Terrain Waterproof Hiking Boots: Essential for wet trails and canyon climbs.
• Action Camera with Waterproof Case: Capture those waterfall shots like a pro.
• Lightweight Rain Jacket: Because waterfall hikes can get misty fast!
• Waterproof Hiking Pants: Stay dry and comfortable on Indiana’s wet trails and near waterfalls with lightweight waterproof hiking pants.
• GoPro HERO for Capturing Waterfalls: Capture stunning, hands-free footage of Indiana’s waterfalls and rugged scenery with a waterproof GoPro HERO.
• Collapsible Water Bottle with Carabiner: Stay hydrated on the go with a lightweight collapsible water bottle that clips easily to your backpack.

4. Jug Rock – Shoals, IN

Hidden in the hills of southern Indiana is Jug Rock, the largest free-standing rock formation of its kind east of the Mississippi. Standing nearly 60 feet tall, this natural sandstone pillar looks like something from a sci-fi movie. Surrounded by lush forest and tucked within the quiet town of Shoals, Jug Rock feels like a secret that only locals know about.

The surrounding area offers scenic drives, quiet hiking trails, and peaceful rivers perfect for kayaking. While Jug Rock is the highlight, the untouched nature and lack of crowds make this one of Indiana’s best-kept secrets. Bring your camera—you won’t want to miss capturing this odd and beautiful formation.

Be sure to pack these items for your trip:

• Lightweight Tripod for Phone/Camera: Capture steady photos and videos of Indiana’s scenic spots without carrying heavy gear using a lightweight tripod.
• Trail Map Compass Keychain: Stay oriented on hikes and keep your trail map handy with a compact compass keychain.
• Outdoor Insect Repellent Spray: Protect yourself from mosquitoes and ticks while exploring Indiana’s lush parks and wooded trails with outdoor insect repellent spray.

5. Indiana Dunes National Park – Chesterton, IN

Indiana Dunes became the state’s first national park in 2019, and it’s easy to see why. Stretching along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, the park features miles of sandy beaches, dramatic dunes, wetlands, forests, and prairies. It’s a biodiversity hotspot where you can hike through towering dunes one moment and dip your toes in crystal-clear water the next.

Despite its national designation, Indiana Dunes still feels like an underappreciated destination. Hikers love the 3-Dune Challenge, while birdwatchers come for the spring and fall migrations. With proximity to Chicago, it’s a great weekend escape filled with surprising natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Be sure to pack these items for your trip:

• UV Protection Long Sleeve Shirt: Ideal for sun protection while on the sand.
• Sand Removal Bag: Keeps the sand from sticking to you in the humidity.
• Beach Blanket with Sand Anchors: Relax comfortably by Indiana’s lakes or riverbanks without worrying about your blanket blowing away, thanks to sand anchors.
• Microfiber Travel Towels: Dry off quickly after a swim, hike, or waterfall adventure with lightweight, fast-drying microfiber travel towels.

Indiana might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a scenic getaway, but as you’ve seen, it’s full of underrated natural wonders, quiet towns, and quirky attractions that make for unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you’re trekking through sandstone gorges or meditating in a labyrinth, there’s a peaceful magic to these places that invites exploration.

So, the next time you’re looking for a new adventure or a relaxing weekend escape, consider Indiana. With a few essentials from my recommendations in your backpack, you’ll be ready to uncover the side of the Hoosier State most people never see. Happy traveling—and don’t forget to take the scenic route.

Coming up next: it’s all about Iowa! Be sure to follow along as I uncover one unique state at a time.
Love finding off-the-radar adventures? Save this post to your Pinterest travel board so you never forget these Indiana finds!

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