Open Travel Guide
Day trips from Indiana

Best Day Trips from Indiana 2026

Indiana's best escapes by distance: what's reachable before breakfast and back by dinner.

Indiana has 7+ day trips covered in this guide, led by Chicago, Illinois, Indiana Dunes National Park and Brown County / Nashville, Indiana. Each entry below includes the practical details — what it costs, when to go, and how to plan around it.

Indiana is a Midwestern state known as the 'Crossroads of America,' celebrated for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Indiana Dunes National Park along Lake Michigan, a vibrant craft brewing scene, and rich Native American and Civil War history. From the urban energy of Indianapolis to the rolling hills of Brown County and the sand dunes of the Lake Michigan shoreline, Indiana offers surprising variety for travelers.

Top day trips

Handpicked excursions within easy reach.

180 miles (290 km) from Indianapolis

Chicago, Illinois

Car via I-65N and I-94W; or Amtrak Capitol Limited from Indianapolis Union Station ($25–60 USD)
55 miles (89 km) from Indianapolis

Indiana Dunes National Park

Car via I-65N and I-80/90W; South Shore Line from Gary (from Chicago side)
55 miles (89 km) from Indianapolis

Brown County / Nashville, Indiana

Car via I-65S and SR-46E
115 miles (185 km) from Indianapolis

Louisville, Kentucky

Car via I-65S
50 miles (80 km) from Indianapolis

Bloomington, Indiana (Indiana University)

Car via SR-37S; Greyhound bus from Indianapolis ($12–20 USD one way)
140 miles (225 km) from Indianapolis

Shipshewana & Amish Country (Elkhart County)

Car via US-31N or SR-9N
45 miles (72 km) from Indianapolis

Columbus, Indiana (Architecture Capital)

Car via I-65S to SR-46E

Day trip tips

Make the most of your excursions.

Tip

Start early — most popular day-trip destinations get crowded by mid-morning.

Tip

Check return transport times before you leave — missing the last train or bus can be costly.

Tip

Carry water, snacks, and layers — weather and food options can be limited at smaller destinations.