Petersburg Indiana
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Petersburg, Indiana.
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Porter Beach
SCENIC SHORELINE | PORTER IN
Porter Beach is a tranquil retreat within Indiana Dunes National Park, offering pristine sands and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Visitors can swim at their own risk or relax while enjoying scenic photo spots along the shore. Seasonal restrooms and parking facilities make it accessible during warmer months, though crowds often fill parking lots early on summer weekends. Leashed pets are welcome to join the fun.
7. 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.
8. Indiana Beach Boardwalk Resort
LAKESIDE THRILLS | MONTICELLO IN
Indiana Beach Boardwalk Resort combines amusement park excitement with lakeside relaxation along Lake Shafer. Guests can enjoy roller coasters, water slides, a lazy river, and charming boardwalk shops and eateries. The resort also offers accommodations like log cabins and campgrounds for an extended stay filled with adventure. With its blend of thrilling rides and serene beach areas, Indiana Beach creates memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
9. 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.
10. Marengo Cave U.S. National Landmark
UNDERGROUND WONDERS | MARENGO IN
Marengo Cave is a breathtaking natural landmark featuring intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and expansive caverns formed over millions of years. Visitors can choose between two guided tours showcasing underground pools and unique rock formations while learning about the cave's geology and history. The surrounding park offers additional activities like gemstone mining, camping, and pedal karting for family-friendly fun. This must-see attraction provides an unforgettable glimpse into Indiana's subterranean beauty.
11. Southlake Mall
SHOPPING HUB | HOBART IN
Southlake Mall is Northwest Indiana's premier shopping destination with over 148 stores including major anchors like Macy's and JCPenney. Spanning 1.3 million square feet across two levels, it offers a mix of retail options ranging from fashion to electronics alongside dining establishments for every taste. Conveniently located near Chicago's metropolitan area, this enclosed mall serves as a bustling hub for shopping enthusiasts seeking variety under one roof.
12. Wolf Park
WILDLIFE SANCTUARY | BATTLE GROUND IN
Wolf Park offers an immersive experience into the world of wolves alongside other animals like foxes and bison. This 70-acre nonprofit facility focuses on conservation education through guided tours, interactive programs, and specialty events like 'Howl Nights.' Visitors can observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat while learning about their ecological importance. The serene setting also provides opportunities for photography and peaceful walks amidst nature.
13. Indianapolis Canal Walk
URBAN ESCAPE | INDIANAPOLIS IN
The Indianapolis Canal Walk offers a scenic three-mile trail connecting downtown Indianapolis with White River State Park. Lined with lush greenery and historic landmarks like the USS Indianapolis Memorial, this revitalized waterway invites visitors to bike, walk, or enjoy paddle boating. Bridges provide picturesque views of the canal while nearby attractions such as Military Park enhance the experience. The walk blends outdoor recreation with cultural exploration in a serene urban setting.
14. 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.
15. 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.