The Best Stops from Bloomington to Indianapolis
Indiana is a state filled with rich history, beautiful landscapes, and charming towns. Traveling from Bloomington to Indianapolis, you’ll discover some of the most extraordinary places that this Midwestern gem has to offer. Whether you are a nature-lover, history buff, or a foodie, this road trip has something for everyone. Here are our top picks for the most memorable places to stop in along the way.
The Hidden Gem of Nashville, IN
Nashville is a tiny village with an abundance of surprises for visitors. Its streets are lined with fascinating shops, artists' studios, and art galleries showcasing numerous works of art by local and national artists. Be sure to stop by the Brown County Art Gallery, one of Indiana’s oldest galleries, to see its vast and varied collections. Marvel at the outdoor sculptures at T.C. Steele State Historic Site, where you can also explore a reconstructed art studio of one of Indiana’s most respected landscape painters. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the stunning views found at Brown County State Park. No matter what interests you, Nashville is the perfect place to wander around.
Indiana’s Historic Town: Martinsville
Take a detour to Martinsville, one of Indiana’s most historic towns with a rich cultural heritage. There are many must-visit sites, including the iconic Morgan County Courthouse, a stunning work of architecture that has played a significant role in the county's history. For a taste of Indiana's local fare, get some lemon bars and homemade ice cream at Dale’s Family Restaurant, a classic diner with over 60 years of history. You can also check out Martinsville Candy Kitchen's classic handcrafted candy to satiate your sweet tooth.
The Charismatically Rural Mooresville
One of the most charming small towns in Indiana, Mooresville's has a bustling downtown area packed with unique shops, family-owned restaurants, and homey antique stores. Stop at the famous Zydeco's Cajun restaurant to indulge in some authentic Creole cuisine or visit the famous Gray Brothers Cafeteria for a classic Indiana-style meal. Avid runners will appreciate the connection to the Paul Hadley Trail, situated alongside the White Lick Creek, a great place to take a stroll while enjoying nature.
Exploration at Plainfield’s Historic Sites
Driving into Plainfield, visitors immediately notice the town's historic charm. The town boasts a variety of historically significant sites, such as the famous former Indiana Girls' School, a state-operated reformatory for delinquent girls in the late 1800s. Visit the Plainfield Historic Preservation Commission Museum's picturesque building filled with unique exhibits that showcase the town's richness and history. If antiquing is your thing, visit the historic downtown area, which has plenty of amazing shops for you to browse.
A Day Trip at Indianapolis Museum of Art
No beauty road trip in Indiana can be complete without a stopover at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. This world-renowned museum houses over 54,000 pieces of art that span 5000 years of history. Featuring contemporary art, paintings, textiles, prints, and ancient art from all over the world, the museum also has a 152-acre park with vast areas of woodland, meadows, and gardens. The park also houses the 100 Acres Art and Nature open-air contemporary art museum featuring site-specific works from prominent artists around the world.
Conclusion
Traveling from Bloomington to Indy is a journey of discovery at every turn. Indiana's pride lies in its hidden gems that are scattered all across the state. So, get in your car, pack your bags, and explore some of Indiana's hidden treasures on this fantastic route. From historic towns to museums, there's always something new and exciting to explore.