Road Trip from Carmel, Indiana to Crawfordsville, Indiana
Are you ready for a road trip through the heart of Indiana? Jump on board as we embark on an adventure that takes us through museums, parks, and landmarks.
Did you know that the distance between Carmel and Crawfordsville is only about 50 miles? That means that if you start early in the morning, you can hit all the major attractions and still be home in time for dinner.
If you're driving from Carmel to Crawfordsville, you'll pass through Lebanon, IN, which is almost exactly halfway between the two destinations. Lebanon is a charming town with a busy downtown area that features unique shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks.
The drive from Carmel to Crawfordsville is about an hour and 20 minutes, but it really depends on how many stops you make along the way. If you follow this itinerary, you'll have plenty of time to check out all the best sights.
Top 5 Places to Visit
- Conner Prairie
Conner Prairie is not your ordinary museum. It's an interactive outdoor museum that takes you back in time to the 1800s. You can explore a working farm, ride in a hot air balloon, and even play with some animals. It's a great place for kids and adults alike.
Point of interest recommendation: Make sure you visit the 1859 Balloon Voyage ride, where you'll get a panoramic view of the entire grounds.
- Holliday Park
Holliday Park is located in Indianapolis, just a short drive from Carmel. This park is a nature lover's paradise, with trails that wind through woodlands, wetlands, and prairies. The park also has a nature center and a playground for kids.
Point of interest recommendation: Take a stroll through the ruins of the old Holliday mansion, which was built in the 1920s and burned down in the 1960s.
- Indianapolis Museum of Art
The Indianapolis Museum of Art is a world-class museum that features art from all over the globe. The museum's collection is diverse, with works ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.
Point of interest recommendation: Don't miss the outdoor sculpture park, which features over 50 sculptures spread out over 100 acres of land.
- Turkey Run State Park
Turkey Run State Park is located in Parke County, Indiana, which is known as the "Covered Bridge Capital of the World." The park has several trails that take you through canyons and over rocky terrain, making it a popular spot for hikers.
Point of interest recommendation: Be sure to cross the covered bridge that spans Sugar Creek, which was built in 1882.
- Wabash and Erie Canal Park
The Wabash and Erie Canal Park is located in Delphi, Indiana, and it offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience what life was like on the canal in the 1800s. You can take a boat ride, explore old canal buildings, and learn about the history of the area.
Point of interest recommendation: Watch the working gristmill in action, which is still powered by water from the canal.
If you're looking for a scenic and educational road trip, this is the perfect route to take. You'll be able to see some of the best museums, parks, and landmarks in Indiana, all while enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way.
After a long day of exploring, you'll be happy to know that the drive back to Carmel or Crawfordsville is a short one. In total, this road trip should take you no more than 6 hours, including all the stops along the way. So, pack a picnic lunch, put on some sunscreen, and hit the road!