Oaktown Indiana
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Oaktown, Indiana.
1. White River State Park
URBAN OASIS | INDIANAPOLIS IN
White River State Park offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and recreation in the heart of Indianapolis. Spanning 250 acres, visitors can explore world-class attractions like the Indianapolis Zoo, NCAA Hall of Champions, and the Indiana State Museum. The park also features lush greenspaces, walking trails, and waterways perfect for kayaking or pedal boating. Frequent community events, public art installations, and its proximity to downtown make it a vibrant destination for all ages.
2. Hawthorn Park
SCENIC RETREAT | TERRE HAUTE IN
Hawthorn Park in Terre Haute is a peaceful escape managed by Vigo County Parks, featuring picturesque walking trails and diverse wildlife habitats. Families can enjoy picnics in designated areas or let children play in the open spaces and playgrounds. The park's serene lake is perfect for fishing or simply relaxing by the water. With its natural beauty and community-focused events, Hawthorn Park offers something for everyone seeking outdoor recreation.
3. Mesker Park Zoo
BOTANIC GARDEN & ZOO | EVANSVILLE IN
Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden spans 50 acres and features over 700 animals from 200 species across diverse exhibits such as Amazonia, African Rift, and Lemur Forest. Visitors can explore habitats designed to mimic native environments, including free-flight aviaries and lush botanical gardens. The zoo offers engaging attractions like the Discovery Center for conservation education and the vibrant Children's Enchanted Forest for family fun. Seasonal events like Orchid Escape and conservation programs make this destination a dynamic experience year-round.
4. Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory
URBAN GARDEN OASIS | FORT WAYNE IN
Located in downtown Fort Wayne, the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory offers visitors a lush retreat featuring tropical, desert, and seasonal gardens. Guests can explore over 24,500 square feet of indoor garden space, complete with cascading waterfalls and vibrant plant displays. Outdoor gardens provide shaded pathways and scenic vistas for leisurely strolls. This conservatory also hosts educational programs and events, making it a cultural hub that blends inspiration with natural beauty.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Flowing Well Park
ARTESIAN WELL | CARMEL IN
Flowing Well Park in Carmel is a unique destination known for its natural artesian well that provides fresh, drinkable spring water. Families flock to this park for creek stomping, hiking along wooded trails, and enjoying the serene atmosphere of Cool Creek. The well itself is housed under a charming gazebo, surrounded by blooming gardens and interpretive signage detailing its history. With picnic shelters and fishing spots available, this park is an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration.
8. Tippecanoe River State Park
RIVER RECREATION | WINAMAC IN
Tippecanoe River State Park is a nature lover's paradise offering canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking along its namesake river. With over 23 miles of trails winding through scenic woods and marshes, visitors can spot wildlife like deer and eagles or climb the historic fire tower for panoramic views. Camping options range from primitive sites to cabins, making it ideal for extended stays amidst Indiana's natural beauty.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. Yellowwood State Forest
NATURE ESCAPE | NASHVILLE IN
Yellowwood State Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its expansive trails, serene lakes, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can hike loops around Yellowwood Lake or explore interpretive trails highlighting forest management practices. Camping under the stars or fishing in the 133-acre lake adds to the forest's appeal as a peaceful retreat. The area's history is evident in structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression.
12. The Escape Room Fishers
PUZZLE ADVENTURE | FISHERS IN
The Escape Room Fishers provides an exhilarating experience where visitors solve puzzles in intricately themed rooms to escape within a set time limit. Perfect for friends, families, or team-building events, this venue combines mystery-solving with teamwork in an engaging atmosphere. Themes range from thrilling quests to adventurous challenges, ensuring something for everyone to enjoy. Located near other attractions in Fishers, it makes for a fun-filled outing.
13. Castleton Square
SHOPPING DESTINATION | INDIANAPOLIS IN
Castleton Square is Indiana's largest mall with over 130 stores ranging from fashion retailers to specialty shops. Anchored by popular brands like Macy's and AMC Theatres, it also features a food court and entertainment options for all ages. Since opening in 1972, this enclosed shopping center has been a hub for suburban growth on Indianapolis' northeast side. Whether shopping or enjoying a movie night out, Castleton Square caters to every visitor's needs.
14. 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.
15. Highland Park
COMMUNITY SPACE | KOKOMO IN
Highland Park in Kokomo serves as a vibrant community hub with amenities like picnic shelters, playgrounds, and sports facilities. The park is home to the iconic Sycamore Stump, one of Indiana's largest tree remnants with historical significance. Visitors can enjoy walking trails that weave through scenic areas or participate in seasonal events hosted within the park. Its family-friendly atmosphere makes it a cherished local attraction.