Day trips from Fort Wayne, IN
From Fort Wayne, Indiana
11 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a vibrant city with a rich history and plenty of nearby attractions to explore. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, there are numerous day trip opportunities within a 175-mile radius. From the bustling streets of Indianapolis to the serene landscapes of state parks, these destinations offer a diverse range of experiences that cater to various interests. Embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that make the region a must-visit for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
1. Indianapolis
Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana, is a bustling city with a rich cultural scene and iconic landmarks. Start your day at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, where you can delve into the history of IndyCar and NASCAR. Next, head to Monument Circle to admire the Soldiers & Sailors Monument and enjoy panoramic views of the city. For a family-friendly experience, visit The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the largest children's museum in the world. Art lovers will appreciate the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian & Western Art and the Indiana State Museum, which showcases the state's history, science, and art.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
- ✓Monument Circle (Soldiers & Sailors Monument)
- ✓The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
- ✓Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian & Western Art
- ✓Indiana State Museum
2. Shawnee National Forest
Located in southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is a nature lover's paradise. Explore the scenic trails of Garden of the Gods, where you can marvel at the unique rock formations and enjoy breathtaking views. For a more adventurous experience, try your hand at rock climbing or hiking. The forest also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, including deer, turkeys, and various bird species. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, where you can sample local wines and enjoy the picturesque countryside.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Garden of the Gods
- ✓Rock climbing and hiking
- ✓Wildlife viewing
- ✓Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
3. Culver
Nestled along the shores of Lake Maxinkuckee, Culver is a charming small town with a variety of outdoor activities. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Culver Marina and explore the serene waters of the lake. For a more relaxed experience, take a starcraft or bennington pontoon rental and enjoy a leisurely cruise. History enthusiasts can visit the Culver Military Academy, which has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The town also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Lake Maxinkuckee
- ✓Kayak and paddleboard rentals
- ✓Culver Military Academy
- ✓Dining options
Available Tours (6)
← Scroll horizontally to see all 6 tours →
4. Celestine
Celestine, located in southern Indiana, is a hidden gem for water sports enthusiasts. Hoosier Hills Marina offers a variety of boat rentals, including playtoons, luxury pontoons, and waverunners. Spend the day on the water, enjoying the scenic views and engaging in thrilling water activities. For a more relaxed experience, take a water carpet rental and enjoy a leisurely float. The area also offers opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Hoosier Hills Marina
- ✓Boat rentals
- ✓Water sports
- ✓Fishing and wildlife viewing
5. South Bend
South Bend, located in northern Indiana, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene. Start your day at the University of Notre Dame, where you can explore the iconic campus and visit the Notre Dame Stadium. For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll through the beautiful Notre Dame Grotto. Art lovers will appreciate the Snite Museum of Art, which houses a diverse collection of artworks. The city also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓University of Notre Dame
- ✓Notre Dame Stadium
- ✓Notre Dame Grotto
- ✓Snite Museum of Art
6. Muncie
Muncie, located in eastern Indiana, is a charming city with a rich history and a variety of cultural attractions. Start your day at the Ball State University, where you can explore the beautiful campus and visit the Emens Auditorium. For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll through the beautiful Minnetrista Cultural Center, which houses a variety of art and history exhibits. The city also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Ball State University
- ✓Emens Auditorium
- ✓Minnetrista Cultural Center
- ✓Dining options
7. Terre Haute
Terre Haute, located in western Indiana, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a variety of cultural attractions. Start your day at the Indiana State University, where you can explore the beautiful campus and visit the Hulman Center. For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll through the beautiful Terre Haute Children's Museum, which houses a variety of interactive exhibits. The city also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Indiana State University
- ✓Hulman Center
- ✓Terre Haute Children's Museum
- ✓Dining options
8. Bloomington
Bloomington, located in southern Indiana, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene. Start your day at the Indiana University, where you can explore the beautiful campus and visit the Indiana University Art Museum. For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll through the beautiful Bloomington Farmers Market, which offers a variety of fresh produce and local crafts. The city also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Indiana University
- ✓Indiana University Art Museum
- ✓Bloomington Farmers Market
- ✓Dining options
9. Evansville
Evansville, located in southwestern Indiana, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a variety of cultural attractions. Start your day at the Evansville Museum of Arts, History and Science, where you can explore a variety of exhibits and interactive displays. For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll through the beautiful Evansville Riverfront, which offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. The city also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Evansville Museum of Arts, History and Science
- ✓Evansville Riverfront
- ✓Dining options
10. Lafayette
Lafayette, located in western Indiana, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a variety of cultural attractions. Start your day at the Purdue University, where you can explore the beautiful campus and visit the Purdue University Museum of Art. For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll through the beautiful Lafayette Farmers Market, which offers a variety of fresh produce and local crafts. The city also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Purdue University
- ✓Purdue University Museum of Art
- ✓Lafayette Farmers Market
- ✓Dining options
Available Tours (4)
← Scroll horizontally to see all 4 tours →
11. Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, located in northeastern Indiana, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a variety of cultural attractions. Start your day at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, where you can explore a variety of exhibits and interactive displays. For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll through the beautiful Fort Wayne Riverfront, which offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. The city also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Fort Wayne Museum of Art
- ✓Fort Wayne Riverfront
- ✓Dining options
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