Top Five Popular Attractions to See Between Carmel and Fort Wayne

Are you planning a road trip from Carmel to Fort Wayne and looking for some exciting places to stop along the way? Here are the top five popular attractions to see on your journey, each with their unique charm and character. From nature's scenic beauty to history and culture, this trip has it all.

The Halfway Point: Summitville, IN

Before we dive into the top five attractions, let's talk about your halfway point, Summitville. As its name suggests, Summitville sits at the highest point in Madison County, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. If you're looking for a place to stretch your legs, the Summitville Park is an ideal spot featuring a playground, basketball court, and a walking trail. But don't forget to visit the Summitville Historical Society Museum located in the center of the town, which features a collection of historical artifacts and local memorabilia.

Top Five Places to See List

1. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

   Even if you're not a motorsports fan, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is worth a visit. This museum houses an impressive collection of vehicles, from vintage to modern-day race cars, that once drove on the famous "Brickyard." Take a guided tour of the Speedway and see the iconic Pagoda and Gasoline Alley, where drivers still prepare for races today. Don't worry if you can't make it to the famous Indy 500 race, as the museum is open year-round.

2. Mounds State Park

   If you're a fan of archaeology or just love being in nature, Mounds State Park makes for an excellent stop. Located in Anderson, this park protects ten prehistoric mounds built by the Adena-Hopewell people thousands of years ago. Explore the trails through the forest, visit the nature center, and observe wildlife. Moreover, bring your fishing gear as this park is home to the White River and several small ponds.

3. The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum

   Continuing the theme of automobiles, why not make a stop to admire some vintage classics at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum? This museum hosts over 120 cars, from mundane to extravagant, produced by the Auburn Automobile Company, Cord Corporation, and Duesenberg Automobile & Motors Company. Not to mention, the museum itself is a preserved art deco masterpiece with marble floors and elegant lighting.

4. The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory

   If you want to take a break from cars and enjoy some lush greenery, don't miss the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory in downtown Fort Wayne. This indoor garden oasis features three distinct biomes: the tropical, desert, and showcase gardens. You'll find exotic plants, beautiful flowers, waterfalls, and unique sculptures. Plus, the conservatory offers a range of educational exhibits and events throughout the year.

5. The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo

   If you're traveling with kids, make sure to stop by the award-winning Fort Wayne Children's Zoo. This zoo is not your typical zoo as it focuses on connecting kids with nature in a fun and engaging way. The zoo features five different areas that host over 1000 animals, including Australian animals, African savanna, rainforest, and more. Take a ride on the sky safari to get a bird’s eye view of the zoo and its inhabitants.

The Best Route

Now that you know the top five places to visit between Carmel and Fort Wayne, we advise you to take I-69 N. This route is the most direct and takes only around two hours to reach Fort Wayne from Carmel. Along the way, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of Indiana's countryside, admire small-town charm, and visit some of the most exciting places, as listed above. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and enjoy the ride.