Indian Village IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Indian Village, Indiana.
1. Mishawaka Riverwalk
SCENIC WATERFRONT TRAIL
The Mishawaka Riverwalk is a beautiful hiking highlight that winds along the St. Joseph River offering stunning views and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, or biking along this well-maintained pathway that connects various parks and green spaces. The riverwalk is especially picturesque during sunset when the water reflects the colorful sky.
2. Basilica of the Sacred Heart
HISTORIC GOTHIC CHURCH
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart is an awe-inspiring neo-Gothic church located on the University of Notre Dame campus. Its magnificent stained glass windows, including 44 large windows depicting biblical scenes, create a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors when sunlight streams through. Visitors can attend Mass or simply admire the remarkable architecture and peaceful atmosphere of this spiritual landmark.
3. University of Notre Dame
PRESTIGIOUS EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
The University of Notre Dame is a world-renowned educational institution known for its distinctive golden dome and rich history dating back to 1842. Visitors can explore the picturesque 1,250-acre campus featuring collegiate Gothic architecture, beautiful gardens, and landmarks like the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. Campus tours provide insight into the university's academic excellence, athletic traditions, and cultural significance.
4. Indiana Dunes National Park
NATURAL LAKESIDE WONDER
Indiana Dunes National Park spans over 15,000 acres of diverse ecosystems including massive sand dunes, oak savannas, swamps, and forests along Lake Michigan's southern shore. Visitors can hike more than 50 miles of trails, swim at beautiful beaches, or observe the remarkable biodiversity that makes this park unique. The park's ecological significance and stunning landscapes make it one of Indiana's most treasured natural attractions.
5. Central Canal
HISTORIC WATERWAY PATH
The Central Canal is a historic waterway in Indianapolis that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city with its tree-lined paths and serene waters. Visitors can enjoy gondola rides, pedal boats, or walking along the canal while taking in views of the city skyline and public art installations. The canal is especially vibrant during summer evenings when the area comes alive with local musicians and outdoor dining.
6. White River State Park
URBAN OUTDOOR OASIS
White River State Park is an extraordinary 250-acre urban park in downtown Indianapolis featuring vibrant green spaces, waterways, trails, and world-class attractions. Visitors can explore the park's various museums, including the Indiana State Museum and Eiteljorg Museum, or attend outdoor concerts at the amphitheater during summer months. The park serves as a cultural hub where nature and city life blend harmoniously, offering something for everyone regardless of age or interests.
7. Michael Jackson Family Home
MUSICAL LEGEND'S BIRTHPLACE
The Michael Jackson Family Home is the modest house where the King of Pop spent his early years before rising to international stardom. Visitors can see the exterior of this small home at 2300 Jackson Street, which has become a pilgrimage site for fans from around the world. The property represents the humble beginnings of one of music's most influential figures and offers a glimpse into the early life of the Jackson family.
8. Horseshoe Hammond
PREMIER GAMING DESTINATION
Horseshoe Hammond is a premier casino and entertainment complex situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering spectacular views of the Chicago skyline. Visitors can try their luck at over 2,000 slot machines and numerous table games, or enjoy fine dining at one of several restaurants within the facility. The venue regularly hosts live entertainment, making it a complete entertainment destination for adults seeking excitement and luxury.
9. Urban Vines
CRAFT WINERY AND BREWERY
Urban Vines is a charming winery and brewery in Westfield featuring a beautiful tasting room where visitors can sample handcrafted wines and beers. Guests can enjoy artisan pizzas and charcuterie boards while relaxing on the back patio that overlooks picturesque vineyards. The venue hosts regular live music events, creating a perfect atmosphere for unwinding with friends or romantic outings.
10. Shipshewana Flea Market
MIDWEST'S LARGEST MARKET
The Shipshewana Flea Market is the Midwest's largest open-air market, featuring nearly 700 booths spread across 40 acres of shopping paradise. Visitors can browse countless stalls selling everything from handcrafted furniture and Amish goods to clothing, jewelry, tools, and unique collectibles. This bustling marketplace offers a glimpse into the region's craftsmanship and culture while providing bargain-hunters with endless treasures to discover.
11. Shrine of Christ's Passion
INTERACTIVE PRAYER TRAIL
The Shrine of Christ's Passion is a moving half-mile prayer trail featuring 40 life-size bronze sculptures that depict the final days of Jesus Christ. Visitors walk along the beautifully landscaped path while an audio narration guides them through each station, creating a powerful spiritual experience regardless of religious background. The meticulous attention to detail in both the sculptures and surrounding environment makes this a contemplative destination that attracts visitors from across the country.
12. Fair Oaks Farms
INTERACTIVE AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Fair Oaks Farms is an immersive agritourism destination where visitors can learn about modern farming through interactive experiences featuring cows, pigs, and crops. Families can enjoy educational adventures, seasonal activities like apple picking in fall or the Forest of Lights in winter, and farm-to-fork dining at the Farmhouse Restaurant. The facility also offers visitors the chance to sample award-winning cheeses made on-site, providing a delicious conclusion to a day of agricultural discovery.
13. Kankakee Sands Bison
PRAIRIE WILDLIFE RESTORATION
The Kankakee Sands Bison viewing area offers visitors the rare opportunity to see American bison roaming freely in their natural prairie habitat after nearly 200 years of absence from Indiana. The Nature Conservancy has successfully reintroduced these magnificent animals as part of their extensive prairie restoration project spanning thousands of acres. Visitors can observe the bison from a designated viewing area while learning about conservation efforts and the ecological importance of these gentle giants to the prairie ecosystem.
14. Albanese Candy
WORLD-FAMOUS GUMMI FACTORY
Albanese Candy is a beloved factory and retail store known worldwide for producing some of the best gummi bears and chocolates in the market. Visitors can watch parts of the manufacturing process through viewing windows, shop for freshly made confections in the massive retail store, and create custom candy mixes from hundreds of options. The factory store's sweet aromas and colorful displays make it an irresistible destination for candy lovers of all ages.
15. RenArtWlk
CREATIVE CULTURAL DISTRICT
RenArtWlk is an innovative cultural district in Rensselaer showcasing local art, performance spaces, and creative businesses in the heart of the community. Visitors can explore galleries, participate in workshops, or attend events that celebrate the region's artistic talent and heritage. This vibrant cultural initiative has transformed the downtown area into a destination for art enthusiasts while fostering community engagement and economic revitalization through creative expression.