Dugger Indiana
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Dugger, Indiana.
1. Cataract Falls State Recreation Area
SCENIC WATERFALL | OWEN COUNTY IN
Cataract Falls is Indiana's largest waterfall system featuring both Upper and Lower Falls along Mill Creek. Visitors can explore the historic covered bridge that spans the creek or hike trails offering stunning views of cascading water formations. Picnic areas provide space for relaxation after admiring the limestone ledges and rushing waters below. This peaceful natural retreat is ideal for photographers and families seeking outdoor bonding moments.
2. Black Pine Animal Sanctuary
EXOTIC ANIMAL REFUGE | ALBION IN
Black Pine Animal Sanctuary provides a permanent home for displaced exotic animals in an 18-acre wooded setting. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to learn about the sanctuary's mission while observing species like tigers, bears, primates, and reptiles in natural habitats. The sanctuary focuses on education and conservation, ensuring these animals live out their lives in dignity without being bred or traded. It's a must-visit destination for animal lovers seeking a meaningful experience.
3. 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.
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. 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. Shades State Park
RAVINE ADVENTURE | WAVELAND IN
Shades State Park is a tranquil haven known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs overlooking Sugar Creek and shaded ravines perfect for exploration. Popular among hikers and canoeists, it offers challenging trails like the 6 Ravine Hiking Challenge and access to Pine Hills Nature Preserve's unique topography. Stargazers can enjoy some of Indiana's darkest skies during astronomy events held in the park. With picnic shelters and non-electric camping sites available, Shades State Park provides a peaceful escape into nature.
7. Historic National Road
AMERICAN HERITAGE ROUTE | STATEWIDE IN
The Historic National Road runs through Indiana as part of America's first federally funded highway system dating back to 1811. Spanning U.S. Route 40 across the state, it features historic inns, tollhouses, diners, and motels that tell stories of early westward expansion. Interpretive panels along the route provide insights into its cultural significance. Key attractions include pre-Civil War buildings in Richmond and unique stops like Clabber Girl Bake Shop in Terre Haute.
8. Hoosier National Forest
OLD-GROWTH FOREST | SOUTHERN INDIANA
Hoosier National Forest spans over 200,000 acres of lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic trails in southern Indiana. Visitors can hike through old-growth forests at Pioneer Mothers Memorial Forest or explore Hemlock Cliffs' seasonal waterfalls and sandstone formations. The forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities for horseback riding, mountain biking, camping, fishing, and boating at its tranquil lakes. Wildlife viewing sites like Buzzard Roost offer glimpses of diverse flora and fauna amidst breathtaking views of the Ohio River Valley.
9. Harrison-Crawford State Forest
OUTDOOR HAVEN | CORYDON IN
Harrison-Crawford State Forest spans thousands of acres in southern Indiana, providing a lush environment for hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife observation. Visitors can explore its extensive trail system that winds through diverse ecosystems teeming with flora and fauna. The serene rivers offer excellent fishing opportunities, while designated camping areas provide an immersive outdoor experience. Seasonal activities like leaf-peeping in autumn add to its year-round appeal as a tranquil getaway.
10. Potawatomi Zoo
ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS | SOUTH BEND IN
Potawatomi Zoo is Indiana's oldest zoo and home to over 400 animals across diverse exhibits like giraffes, lions, red pandas, and rhinos. Visitors can participate in interactive animal encounters with bison or rhinos for an up-close experience with these majestic creatures. Families love feeding goats at the farm area or riding the handcrafted Endangered Species Carousel before hopping on the Zoo Train for scenic views of the grounds.
11. Matter Park
GARDEN SHOWCASE | MARION IN
Matter Park is a beautifully landscaped 101-acre park featuring vibrant gardens with over 7,000 plants, bronze statues, and seating areas perfect for relaxation or events like weddings and reunions. Its award-winning Butterfly Garden supports Monarch butterfly conservation while offering visitors an enchanting experience. The park also hosts seasonal attractions like the Walkway of Lights holiday display with over two million lights. Families can enjoy the Children's Vegetable Garden or explore picnic areas equipped with modern amenities.
12. 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.
13. Falls of the Ohio State Park
GEOLOGICAL MARVELS | CLARKSVILLE IN
Falls of the Ohio State Park invites visitors to explore one of the world's largest exposed fossil beds along the Ohio River shoreline. The interpretive center provides insights into prehistoric life through interactive exhibits and guided tours. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike scenic trails or fish along the riverbanks while marveling at the park's unique geological formations. Its blend of natural history and recreational opportunities makes it a fascinating destination for all ages.
14. Indiana War Memorial & Museum
HONORING VETERANS | INDIANAPOLIS IN
The Indiana War Memorial & Museum is a tribute to Hoosier veterans, featuring exhibits that span conflicts from the Revolutionary War to modern times. Located within the expansive Indiana World War Memorial Plaza, it includes military artifacts such as flags and equipment alongside striking architectural features inspired by classical designs. The museum's centerpiece is the Pershing Auditorium, complemented by interactive displays honoring Indiana's military history. This site is both a solemn memorial and an educational resource.
15. Studebaker National Museum
AUTOMOTIVE HERITAGE | SOUTH BEND IN
The Studebaker National Museum showcases over 120 vehicles that trace the evolution of transportation history. Highlights include the world's largest collection of U.S. presidential carriages, such as Abraham Lincoln's barouche used on the night of his assassination. Visitors can explore Studebaker's military contributions and iconic automobiles while engaging in interactive exhibits like the Super Service Center for kids. This museum is a treasure trove for history buffs and car enthusiasts alike.