Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
One of the largest expanses of freshwater dunes in the world, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore encompasses 15 miles of Lake Michigan's shoreline in the northwestern corner of Indiana. Visitors can relax at one of the eight beaches, explore the hiking trails, tour historic Chellberg Farm, re-energize with a picnic, or take the kids on a fishing or boating excursion. Families should make plans to visit the Dorothy Buell Memorial Visitor Center for a Junior Ranger Discovery Guide, which details how children ages five to 15 can earn a Junior Ranger badge.
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
1100 N. Mineral Springs Road
Porter, IN 46304
219-395-1772
nps.gov/indu
Indiana Beach Amusement Resort
Approximately 95 miles north of Indianapolis, Indiana Beach stretches along Lake Shafer in Monticello, Indiana. Founded in 1926, Indiana Beach has grown from a simple swimming lake with a sand beach to a wildly popular Amusement Resort. Indiana Beach offers boardwalk games, miniature golf, thrilling water shows, a water park and rides. Indiana Beach is open from May to September.
Indiana Beach Amusement Resort
5224 E. Indiana Beach Road
Monticello, IN 47960
574-583-4141
indianabeach.com
Conner Prairie
Conner Prairie is an interactive history park that encourages children of all ages to look, touch, smell, taste and hear Indiana's history. Encompassing more than 200 wooded acres near Indianapolis, Conner Prairie offers five historically themed areas to experience the past--visitors can dance to the sound of a water drum, help with chores at an 1836 prairie town, experience one of the earliest chapters of aviation history at Balloon Voyage, or help on farm at Liberty Corner. Some exhibits are seasonal, so it is recommended to check the website for current operations.
Conner Prairie
13400 Allisonville Road
Fishers, IN 46038
317-776-6000
connerprairie.org
Marengo Cave
A United States National Landmark, Marengo Cave was discovered in 1883 by two young siblings. Situated in southern Indiana, Marengo Cave offers two walking tours which are ideal for children of all ages. Marengo Cave also offers gemstone mining, the 'crawl' maze, and a gift shop. Cave exploring trips are available for ages seven and up and require advance scheduling. Rental cabins and campsites are located on the property. Marengo Cave is open seven days a week.
Marengo Cave
P.O. Box 217
Marengo, IN 47140
888-702-2837
marengocave.com
Huber's Orchard & Winery
Located in the hills of southern Indiana, Huber's Orchard and Winery is a favorite destination for local families. With 550 acres of farmland, Huber's offers a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables at their 'U- Pick' orchards and farm. Huber's also has a children's farm park where children can feed the animals, run through a corn maze or slide the mountain slides. A farm market, cheese shop, ice cream factory, winery and a restaurant, where meals are home-cooked and served family-style, complete the experience.
Huber's Orchard & Winery
19816 Huber Road
Starlight, IN 47106
812-923-9463
huberwinery.com
