Gentryville Indiana
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Gentryville, Indiana.
1. Fort Wayne Zoo
ANIMAL ADVENTURE | FORT WAYNE IN
The Fort Wayne Zoo is a nationally ranked attraction offering 40 acres of animal exhibits, rides, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Visitors can explore distinct sections such as the African Journey with giraffe feedings and the Australian Adventure featuring kangaroos and stingrays. Interactive experiences like ropes courses and safari rides make it engaging for all ages. Seasonal events such as lantern festivals add extra charm to this beloved family destination.
2. Mounds State Park
ANCIENT EARTHWORKS | ANDERSON IN
Mounds State Park showcases ten ceremonial mounds built by prehistoric Adena and Hopewell cultures, offering visitors a glimpse into Native American heritage. The Great Mound stands out among the earthworks at this park, which also features paved hiking trails that connect visitors to nature and history. A Nature Center provides interactive displays about local wildlife alongside live animal exhibits. Additional activities include fishing in the White River and exploring historic sites like Bronnenberg Home within the park's scenic landscape.
3. O'Bannon Woods State Park
PIONEER HISTORY | CORYDON IN
Nestled within Harrison Crawford State Forest near Corydon, O'Bannon Woods State Park features unique attractions like a restored haypress barn powered by oxen and a pioneer farmstead showcasing early American life. Blue River flows through the park offering canoeing opportunities alongside scenic hiking trails through dense forests. Visitors can also explore Wyandotte Caves located nearby to experience Indiana's underground wonders firsthand in this historically rich park setting.
4. Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area
HISTORIC LAKE RETREAT | ROCKVILLE IN
Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area combines natural beauty with historical charm, offering activities like hiking, fishing, and boating on the serene Cecil M. Harden Lake. Visitors can explore the nearby Historic Mansfield Roller Mill, a preserved 1880s flour mill showcasing Indiana's industrial heritage. The area features rugged trails with stunning sandstone cliffs and scenic lake views for hikers seeking adventure. With its blend of recreational opportunities and historical significance, this destination is perfect for families and history buffs alike.
5. Summit Lake State Park
SCENIC RETREAT | NEW CASTLE IN
Summit Lake State Park spans 2,680 acres and features an 800-acre lake ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including over 100 bird species that attract avid birdwatchers. Six hiking trails offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding woodlands, while modern campsites cater to both tent campers and RV travelers. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Summit Lake provides an idyllic setting year-round.
6. Glenbrook Square
SHOPPING DESTINATION | FORT WAYNE IN
Glenbrook Square in Fort Wayne is one of Indiana's largest malls with over 1 million square feet of retail space housing 130 stores including anchors like Macy's and Barnes & Noble. Visitors can enjoy casual dining options such as P.F. Chang's or Red Robin alongside shopping opportunities ranging from fashion to electronics. Renovated multiple times since its opening in 1966, Glenbrook Square remains a bustling hub for shopping enthusiasts in northeast Indiana.
7. 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.
8. Historic Potter's Covered Bridge
ICONIC LANDMARK | NOBLESVILLE IN
Potter's Covered Bridge is a beautifully preserved Howe truss bridge built in 1871 that spans the White River in Noblesville's Potter's Bridge Park. This historic structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a centerpiece for local events like the annual Potter's Bridge Fall Festival. Visitors can enjoy walking trails surrounding the bridge while appreciating its architectural charm and historical significance within Hamilton County's heritage landscape.
9. U.S. Route 50
SCENIC HIGHWAY | SOUTHWEST IN
Stretching across Indiana, U.S. Route 50 takes travelers through picturesque farmland, woodlands, and charming small towns. Highlights include the Hoosier National Forest and historic districts in places like Versailles and Lawrenceburg. The route offers a mix of rural tranquility and urban convenience, with stops for local cuisine and cultural landmarks. It's an ideal drive for those seeking both natural beauty and historical exploration.
10. Indiana Caverns
UNDERGROUND WONDER | CORYDON IN
Indiana Caverns invites visitors to explore stunning underground formations within the Binkley Cave system, the longest in Indiana. Guided tours take guests 110 feet below ground to marvel at stalactites, stalagmites, and an underground river while learning about Ice Age fossils found in the caverns. Adventure seekers can enjoy activities like zip-lining or cave tubing alongside educational exhibits about the cave's geological history. This unique destination blends natural beauty with thrilling experiences.
11. Breakout Games
ESCAPE ROOM | INDIANAPOLIS IN
Breakout Games in Indianapolis delivers an adrenaline-pumping escape room experience with various themed adventures. Teams have 60 minutes to solve puzzles, crack codes, and uncover clues to 'break out' successfully. With high-quality production design and engaging game masters, it's an ideal activity for families, friends, or corporate team-building events. Each room offers unique challenges that keep participants on their toes until the final moments.
12. Newfields
ART & NATURE | INDIANAPOLIS IN
Newfields is a sprawling cultural campus featuring art galleries, gardens, performance spaces, a historic home, and one of the largest art-and-nature parks in the country-the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres. Guests can explore inspiring exhibitions at the Indianapolis Museum of Art or enjoy concerts at The Toby theater while strolling through lush gardens with refreshments in hand. With its blend of art history and natural beauty, Newfields provides dynamic experiences for visitors of all ages year-round.
13. Hoosier Hills State Scenic Byway
SCENIC ROADWAY | SOUTH-CENTRAL INDIANA
The Hoosier Hills State Scenic Byway offers an 83-mile journey through the picturesque landscapes of southern Indiana. This route connects charming small towns, historic sites, and natural attractions while showcasing tranquil creeks, rivers, and covered bridges. Travelers can explore cultural landmarks like Bean Blossom Covered Bridge and Gnaw Bone Creek or enjoy recreational activities at nearby state parks. The byway provides a serene escape into Indiana's rich history and natural beauty.
14. 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.
15. 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.