Chandler Indiana
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Chandler, Indiana.
1. Washington Park Beach
LAKEFRONT PARADISE | MICHIGAN CITY IN
Washington Park Beach boasts two miles of pristine Lake Michigan shoreline perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles. Visitors can explore nearby attractions like the Old Lighthouse Museum or take part in seasonal events such as boat races and volleyball tournaments. The park also features picnic areas, fitness trails, and stunning sunset views over the lake. It's an ideal spot for relaxation or adventure by the water.
2. Historic Michigan Road Byway
SCENIC BYWAY | STATEWIDE IN
The Historic Michigan Road Byway stretches diagonally across Indiana, connecting communities from Madison to Michigan City. This historic route showcases small towns, farms, museums, festivals, and markets that highlight Hoosier culture and history. Originally built to link the Ohio River to Lake Michigan in the 19th century, it also played roles in Native American displacement and the Underground Railroad. Today, travelers can explore its rich heritage while enjoying scenic drives through diverse landscapes.
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. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
INTERACTIVE WONDERLAND | INDIANAPOLIS IN
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is the world's largest children's museum, boasting five floors of interactive exhibits and seven acres of outdoor activities. Highlights include the Dinosphere exhibit with life-sized dinosaur replicas and fossil labs, ScienceWorks focusing on Indiana's natural environment, and cultural displays like Take Me There: Greece. With attractions ranging from glass art to space exploration exhibits, this museum offers endless learning opportunities for visitors of all ages.
5. Clifty Falls State Park
STUNNING WATERFALLS | MADISON IN
Clifty Falls State Park captivates visitors with its stunning waterfalls, rugged hiking trails, and historic tunnel. Spanning nearly 15 miles, trails vary in difficulty and lead to breathtaking views of Clifty Creek and four named cascades, one accessible via ADA-compliant overlooks. Summer visitors can enjoy an Olympic-sized pool with slides, while year-round activities include educational exhibits and live animal displays. The nearby town of Madison adds to the experience with its charming historic attractions.
6. 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.
7. Fox Island County Park
NATURE PRESERVE | FORT WAYNE IN
Fox Island County Park spans 605 acres in southwest Allen County, offering habitats like marshes, sand dunes, and restored prairies. With seven miles of trails suitable for hiking or cross-country skiing in winter, visitors can immerse themselves in the area's natural beauty. Amenities include picnic shelters, swimming at Bowman Lake's beach area, and a wildlife observation building. This park is ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking diverse landscapes and outdoor activities.
8. Wellfield Botanic Gardens
SERENE OASIS | ELKHART IN
Spanning 36 acres, Wellfield Botanic Gardens features themed gardens, tranquil water features, and vibrant seasonal displays. Visitors can stroll through pathways lined with diverse plant species or attend community events like live music performances and workshops. Its picturesque pond area serves as a centerpiece for relaxation or photography opportunities. The gardens also double as a popular wedding venue thanks to their enchanting ambiance.
9. Ouabache State Park
BISON & TRAILS | BLUFFTON IN
Ouabache State Park offers visitors a blend of recreation and wildlife experiences along the Wabash River. Its centerpiece is the 20-acre Bison Exhibit, where American bison roam freely in a natural setting. The park features five hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, and a restored fire tower that provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Kunkel Lake invites anglers and boaters, while tennis courts, picnic shelters, and a swimming beach ensure fun for the whole family.
10. Turkey Run State Park
NATURAL ESCAPE | MARSHALL IN
Turkey Run State Park offers visitors a rugged outdoor experience with its sandstone gorges, suspension bridge, and scenic trails. The park's Rocky Hollow Falls Canyon Nature Preserve showcases unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems. History buffs can explore the Lusk Home and Mill Site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With camping facilities and canoeing opportunities on Sugar Creek, it's a haven for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
11. Lincoln State Park
LINCOLN LEGACY | LINCOLN CITY IN
Lincoln State Park offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and historical significance tied to Abraham Lincoln's childhood in Indiana. The park features 10 miles of hiking trails, two lakes for fishing and boating, campgrounds, and cabins for overnight stays. Historical sites within the park include the Little Pigeon Creek Baptist Church Cemetery and memorials honoring Lincoln's family members. It's a peaceful destination for outdoor recreation and learning about Lincoln's early life.
12. The Fashion Mall at Keystone
LUXURY SHOPPING | INDIANAPOLIS IN
The Fashion Mall at Keystone is Indianapolis' premier destination for high-end shopping and dining. Featuring luxury retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue and Louis Vuitton alongside popular brands like Apple and Crate & Barrel, this mall caters to diverse tastes. Visitors can enjoy gourmet dining options such as The Cheesecake Factory or Seasons 52 while exploring stylish boutiques and specialty stores. Its modern design and convenient amenities make it a top choice for shoppers.
13. Indiana Premium Outlets
SHOPPING DESTINATION | EDINBURGH IN
Indiana Premium Outlets offers a premier shopping experience with over 70 stores featuring brands like Nike, Michael Kors, and Kate Spade. Located just south of Indianapolis, this outlet mall is known for its substantial discounts ranging from 25% to 65%. Shoppers can find everything from designer clothing to home goods while enjoying a well-maintained and accessible environment. The outlets are a popular stop for travelers seeking quality merchandise at reduced prices.
14. 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.
15. Starve Hollow State Recreation Area
LAKESIDE ESCAPE | VALLONIA IN
Starve Hollow State Recreation Area is a serene retreat offering fishing, swimming, and hiking amidst its 280 acres of lush landscapes. Starve Hollow Lake is a favorite for anglers, with its abundant bass and sunfish population. The area boasts waterfront campsites and trails that wind through hardwood forests teeming with wildlife like deer and bald eagles. Its tranquil ambiance makes it perfect for a weekend getaway or a day immersed in nature.