Brookville Indiana
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Brookville, Indiana.
1. Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park
ART IN NATURE | INDIANAPOLIS IN
This 100-acre park blends art installations with natural landscapes, offering an interactive experience for visitors of all ages. Located near the Indianapolis Museum of Art, it features walking paths, wetlands, meadows, and a quarry lake. Highlights include site-specific sculptures by international artists and the Ruth Lilly Visitors Pavilion. Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural destination year-round.
2. Marengo Cave U.S. National Landmark
UNDERGROUND WONDERS | MARENGO IN
Marengo Cave is a breathtaking natural landmark featuring intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and expansive caverns formed over millions of years. Visitors can choose between two guided tours showcasing underground pools and unique rock formations while learning about the cave's geology and history. The surrounding park offers additional activities like gemstone mining, camping, and pedal karting for family-friendly fun. This must-see attraction provides an unforgettable glimpse into Indiana's subterranean beauty.
3. Lincoln Highway Scenic Byway
HISTORIC ROADWAY ADVENTURE | STATEWIDE IN
The Lincoln Highway Scenic Byway takes travelers on a journey through Indiana's rich history as part of America's first transcontinental highway. Spanning from the Ohio state line to Illinois, this route showcases charming towns, historic landmarks, and picturesque countryside views. Visitors can explore museums and roadside attractions that celebrate the highway's legacy as a vital transportation link. It's an ideal road trip for history buffs and scenic drive enthusiasts.
4. Indiana State Museum
CULTURE & SCIENCE | INDIANAPOLIS IN
Situated in White River State Park, the Indiana State Museum showcases the state's art, science, and cultural history through engaging exhibits. Visitors can journey through time, from prehistoric fossils to modern innovations, across three floors of thematic galleries. The museum also features an IMAX theater and hosts rotating exhibits that highlight Indiana's contributions to various fields. This destination provides an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.
5. Conner Prairie
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM | FISHERS IN
Conner Prairie combines history and innovation across its expansive 800-acre campus to create an immersive experience for all ages. Visitors can step back in time at 1836 Prairietown or explore the William Conner House while engaging in hands-on activities like fur trading at the Lenape Indian Camp. Unique attractions include soaring on a tethered hot air balloon or climbing the Treetop Outpost for panoramic views. With interactive exhibits blending history and science, Conner Prairie is both educational and entertaining.
6. Brown County State Park
SCENIC HILLTOPS | NASHVILLE IN
Brown County State Park is Indiana's largest state park, renowned for its breathtaking views of rolling hills and vibrant autumn foliage. Visitors can hike or bike along its trails, fish in its lakes, or stay overnight at campgrounds or cabins nestled within its rustic charm. Known as 'the Little Smokies,' this park attracts artists and photographers worldwide with its dramatic vistas and seasonal beauty. Horseback riding and nature programs add to its diverse offerings.
7. Lieber State Recreation Area
WATERFALLS & LAKE | CLOVERDALE IN
Lieber State Recreation Area is home to Cagles Mill Lake and the impressive Cataract Falls, Indiana's largest waterfall by volume. The park offers a range of activities, including hiking trails, boat access, camping facilities, and an aquatic center with a zero-entry pool and water slide. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, volleyball courts, and playgrounds in this scenic natural setting. With its rich history tied to Native American heritage and glacial formations, Lieber SRA is both educational and recreational.
8. Circle Centre Mall
SHOPPING HUB | INDIANAPOLIS IN
Circle Centre Mall is a vibrant shopping destination in downtown Indianapolis, offering four levels of retail, dining, and entertainment. Visitors can browse over 60 stores, enjoy diverse culinary options, or experience live comedy at Helium Comedy Club. Its central location near Monument Circle makes it a convenient spot for tourists and locals alike to immerse themselves in the city's energy. With its mix of high-end brands and unique boutiques, the mall is a lively hub for shopping and cultural exploration.
9. Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
AUTOMOTIVE HERITAGE | SPEEDWAY IN
Located within the Indianapolis Motor Speedway grounds, this museum celebrates automotive history with exhibits on IndyCar racing and passenger vehicles. Highlights include over 30 winning cars from the Indianapolis 500 alongside memorabilia like driver suits and trophies. The museum frequently rotates its collection to showcase rare artifacts and innovative designs. Following renovations set to complete in 2025, visitors will enjoy enhanced interactive displays and modernized facilities.
10. Uranus Fudge Factory
QUIRKY SWEET SPOT | ANDERSON IN
Uranus Fudge Factory combines humor with indulgence, offering freshly made fudge in unique flavors like blueberry cheesecake and rocky road. Visitors are greeted with playful puns and a variety of novelties, from old-fashioned candies to gag gifts. The shop plans to expand with attractions like mini-golf and an escape room, making it a fun family destination. Outdoor seating areas allow guests to enjoy their treats while soaking in the lighthearted atmosphere.
11. Versailles State Park
OUTDOOR HAVEN | VERSAILLES IN
Versailles State Park invites visitors to enjoy its 230-acre lake with options for fishing, kayaking, or paddleboating. The park features hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through rolling hills and scenic landscapes. Seasonal events like the Versailles Pumpkin Show add a festive touch to this serene retreat. With picnic areas and camping facilities, it's perfect for family outings or solo escapes into nature.
12. Columbian Park Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ZOO | LAFAYETTE IN
The Columbian Park Zoo is Indiana's second oldest zoo, featuring nearly 200 animals across immersive exhibits that delight visitors of all ages. Highlights include a butterfly garden, petting zoo, Wild Tykes Play Zone, and interactive education programs that foster wildlife appreciation. Seasonal events like animal encounters provide unique opportunities to meet species like wallabies and tamanduas up close. Located within Columbian Park, it's a perfect destination for families seeking outdoor fun.
13. Heritage Trail
HISTORIC WALKING TOUR | FORT WAYNE IN
Fort Wayne's Heritage Trail offers visitors an immersive journey through the city's rich history via its Central Downtown route with 19 stops. Historic landmarks such as the Allen County Courthouse and Old City Hall are highlights along this self-guided tour. Each stop features markers with QR codes for detailed historical insights or audio guides. This trail is perfect for history buffs looking to explore Fort Wayne's architectural and cultural heritage.
14. Whitewater Canal Scenic Byway
HISTORIC DRIVE | SOUTHEASTERN IN
The Whitewater Canal Scenic Byway takes travelers on a picturesque journey through Indiana's historic countryside. Highlights include the Whitewater Canal State Historic Site in Metamora, where visitors can ride a horse-drawn canal boat and explore a working grist mill. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate stops like Brookville Lake for fishing and hiking or the Whitewater Gorge Park for scenic views. This 76-mile route is dotted with charming towns, antique shops, and cultural festivals that celebrate Indiana's rich heritage.
15. Ohio River Scenic Byway
HISTORIC DRIVE | SOUTHERN INDIANA IN
The Ohio River Scenic Byway stretches 302 miles along southern Indiana's winding roads offering views of cypress swamps, limestone bluffs, vineyards, orchards, and stately mansions like Culbertson Mansion in New Albany or Levi Coffin House in Fountain City-a key stop on the Underground Railroad. Adventurers can visit Angel Mounds Historic Site near Evansville or Little Pigeon Creek at Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial to delve into rich archaeological history along this National Scenic Byway designated since 1996.