Saratoga Indiana

ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO

Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Saratoga, Indiana.

1. Washington Park Zoo

ANIMAL ADVENTURE | MICHIGAN CITY IN

Nestled within Washington Park, this 15-acre zoo houses over 220 animals from around the globe in naturalistic settings. Highlights include grizzly bears, Bengal tigers, and a walk-through aviary filled with colorful birds. Educational exhibits like the “Castle” showcase smaller species such as fennec foxes and corn snakes. The zoo's historic charm and focus on conservation make it a must-visit for families.

2. Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park

ART IN NATURE | INDIANAPOLIS IN

This 100-acre park blends art installations with natural landscapes, offering an interactive experience for visitors of all ages. Located near the Indianapolis Museum of Art, it features walking paths, wetlands, meadows, and a quarry lake. Highlights include site-specific sculptures by international artists and the Ruth Lilly Visitors Pavilion. Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural destination year-round.

3. Garfield Park Conservatory

BOTANICAL BEAUTY | INDIANAPOLIS IN

Nestled within Garfield Park in Indianapolis, the Conservatory offers an immersive botanical experience with diverse plant collections across themed rooms such as tropical rainforests and arid deserts. Seasonal exhibits enhance its appeal year-round while educational programs cater to all ages. The tranquil setting makes it a perfect retreat from city life where visitors can relax or explore surrounding gardens for a complete nature experience.

4. Lieber State Recreation Area

WATERFALLS & LAKE | CLOVERDALE IN

Lieber State Recreation Area is home to Cagles Mill Lake and the impressive Cataract Falls, Indiana's largest waterfall by volume. The park offers a range of activities, including hiking trails, boat access, camping facilities, and an aquatic center with a zero-entry pool and water slide. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, volleyball courts, and playgrounds in this scenic natural setting. With its rich history tied to Native American heritage and glacial formations, Lieber SRA is both educational and recreational.

5. Potato Creek State Park

LAKE WORSTER ESCAPE | NORTH LIBERTY IN

Potato Creek State Park is centered around Worster Lake, offering boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Six hiking trails wind through wetlands, prairies, and woodlands, providing diverse habitats for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Cyclists can explore paved paths or tackle challenging mountain bike trails, while campers enjoy modern sites with electric hookups or rustic cabins year-round. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and ice fishing.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. Holliday Park

NATURE RETREAT | INDIANAPOLIS IN

Holliday Park is an urban oasis in Indianapolis that offers visitors a peaceful escape from the city hustle. The park features over 94 acres of scenic trails, picnic areas, and a nature center that educates guests about local wildlife and ecosystems. A highlight is the beautiful ruins of a historic mansion that provide a picturesque backdrop for photos. With its diverse habitats and recreational opportunities, Holliday Park is perfect for nature lovers and families alike.

10. Indiana Dunes State Park

NATURE PRESERVE | CHESTERTON IN

Indiana Dunes State Park features over 2,000 acres of towering sand dunes and pristine beaches along Lake Michigan's southern shore. Hiking trails lead visitors through wetlands, forests, and dune landscapes while offering challenges like the “3 Dune Challenge” for adventurous trekkers. The park's Nature Center provides educational programs year-round alongside birdwatching opportunities from observation towers overlooking marshes. With its blend of recreation and biodiversity, this park is ideal for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat.

11. Quakertown State Recreation Area

LAKEFRONT ESCAPE | LIBERTY IN

Nestled within the Brookville Lake area, Quakertown State Recreation Area offers visitors a serene environment surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. With over 25 miles of hiking trails, a 3D archery range, and extensive camping facilities, it caters to outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. The lake is ideal for boating and fishing, while its two sandy beaches provide a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation. This scenic destination also features prehistoric Native American mounds and Ordovician fossils, adding a historical touch to its natural beauty.

12. 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.

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. Historic Michigan Road Byway

SCENIC BYWAY | STATEWIDE IN

The Historic Michigan Road Byway stretches diagonally across Indiana, connecting communities from Madison to Michigan City. This historic route showcases small towns, farms, museums, festivals, and markets that highlight Hoosier culture and history. Originally built to link the Ohio River to Lake Michigan in the 19th century, it also played roles in Native American displacement and the Underground Railroad. Today, travelers can explore its rich heritage while enjoying scenic drives through diverse landscapes.

15. 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.