Points of Interest between Carmel, Indiana to Evansville, Indiana

picture of Carmel, Indiana

Road Trip Through Indiana: Top 5 Popular Attractions to See

Indiana is more than just cornfields and basketball hoops. This state is filled with charming small towns, beautiful natural attractions, and historical landmarks that make any road trip an adventure. In this article, we will take a journey from Carmel to Evansville and explore the top five attractions to see along the way.

Halfway Point: Crane, IN

Our journey starts in Carmel and heads south, passing through picturesque landscapes and quaint towns. But for the halfway point, we decided to venture off the main road and visit Crane, IN. This small town is located between Bloomington and Louisville and is home to Crane Naval Base, one of the largest naval bases in the world. Crane also offers outdoor recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. This town is a great place to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and explore the outdoors.

  1. Marengo Cave National Landmark - This natural wonder is located in Marengo and is one of the most extensive and nationally renowned caves in the Midwest. The cave system encompasses over four miles of underground passageways and is filled with stunning formations of stalagmites, stalactites, and other geological wonders. Visitors can take guided tours of the cave and learn about the history and ecology of this beautiful landmark.

  2. Indiana Dunes - Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Indiana Dunes offer over 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and 15,000 acres of sandy beaches, forests, and wetlands. This National Lakeshore is a favorite spot among outdoor enthusiasts and offers various recreational activities such as hiking, swimming, bird-watching, and fishing. The Indiana Dunes are also home to several campgrounds and lodges, making it a perfect place for a mini-vacation.

  3. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis - This museum is a must-see destination for families traveling through Indiana. It is one of the largest children's museums in the world and features over five floors of interactive exhibits designed to engage children and parents alike. The museum offers exhibits on science, culture, history, and art and features a planetarium, a carousel, and a dinosaur exhibit.

  4. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum - If you are a fan of motorsports, this museum is a must-visit. Located at the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the museum offers a one-of-a-kind experience to relive the history of American racing. Visitors can view a collection of historic race cars, memorabilia, and photographs and learn about the drivers, engineers, and designers that shaped the world of racing.

  5. Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial - Located in Lincoln City, this memorial marks the site of the farm that Abraham Lincoln's family lived on from 1816 to 1830. Visitors can tour the visitor center, which has exhibits that depict Lincoln's childhood and the life of the early pioneers. The highlight of the memorial is the Lincoln Living Historical Farm, where costumed interpreters recreate life in the early 1800s.

Conclusion

Indiana is a beautiful state, and this road trip is an excellent way to explore its diverse attractions. From the stalactites and stalagmites at Marengo Cave to the sandy beaches of the Indiana Dunes, there is something for every traveler. After reaching Evansville, you can take the scenic route back to Carmel along the Ohio River. The drive along the river offers stunning views of the landscape and many historic sites to explore along the way. So pack your bags, put on your driving shoes, and embark on a road trip through Indiana.