Spring Lake IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Spring Lake, Indiana.
1. Indiana Dunes
SCENIC BEACHES AND TRAILS
Indiana Dunes State and National Parks welcome nearly 4 million guests each year to explore more than 15,000 acres of natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy three miles of beaches along Lake Michigan's southern shore, perfect for swimming and relaxation during warmer months. The park offers 16.5 miles of trails, including paths that traverse Mount Tom, allowing hikers to experience diverse ecosystems of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, and forests.
2. Kankakee Sands Bison
PRAIRIE WILDLIFE RESTORATION
Kankakee Sands offers visitors the rare opportunity to see bison roaming free in Indiana for the first time in almost 200 years. The Nature Conservancy reintroduced these magnificent creatures to the restored prairie so that the ecosystem can once again benefit from these natural grazers. The restoration project represents two decades of hard work to recreate the native Indiana prairie landscape.
3. Fair Oaks Farms
MODERN AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Fair Oaks Farms provides an amazing, interactive experience taking visitors through modern-day farming techniques with adventures focused on cows, pigs, and crops. Seasonal activities include apple picking in their orchard during fall and the enchanting Forest of Lights in winter. Visitors can taste their blue-ribbon cheeses in the café or enjoy a farm-to-fork meal at the Farmhouse Restaurant.
4. Children's Museum of Indianapolis
FAMILY-FRIENDLY INTERACTIVE LEARNING
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis offers an interactive experience with a variety of engaging exhibits including impressive dinosaur displays and an exciting sports complex. Young visitors can enjoy hands-on activities while learning about history through authentic historic artifacts. The museum also features a wonderful outdoor play area where children can burn energy while continuing their educational adventure.
5. Holiday World & Splashin' Safari
THRILLING RIDES AND WATERPARK
Holiday World & Splashin' Safari caters to thrill-seekers and families alike with legendary roller coasters and a clean, enjoyable water park. The park adds exceptional value with complimentary amenities like soft drinks and parking included with admission. Visitors appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere and well-maintained facilities that make for a memorable day of fun.
6. Indianapolis Motor Speedway
LEGENDARY RACING HERITAGE
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway stands as a historic racing landmark featuring a diverse display of race cars and interactive exhibits that chronicle racing history. Visitors can experience the unique 'Kiss the Bricks' tour on the famed circuit, following a tradition started by NASCAR drivers. The facility offers racing enthusiasts an up-close look at the world's most famous racetrack and its storied legacy.
7. Indianapolis Zoo
ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS AND CONSERVATION
The Indianapolis Zoo offers interactive experiences with close-up animal encounters and varied exhibits showcasing creatures from around the world. Visitors can enjoy popular attractions like the dolphin show and conservation-focused gardens that highlight the importance of wildlife protection. The zoo also features family-friendly rides including a gentle gondola and train that provide unique perspectives of the animal habitats.
8. Indianapolis Museum of Art
DIVERSE ARTISTIC COLLECTIONS
The Indianapolis Museum of Art houses a diverse collection spanning from classical portraits to non-Western pieces, offering something for every art enthusiast. Visitors can immerse themselves in interactive exhibits like The Lume's Van Gogh experience that brings famous artworks to life through technology. The museum is surrounded by lush gardens and includes a historic mansion, creating a perfect blend of art, history, and natural beauty.
9. Shrine of Christ's Passion
RELIGIOUS ART INSTALLATION
The Shrine of Christ's Passion offers visitors a moving spiritual journey through biblical scenes depicted in lifelike sculptures along a prayer trail. Each station along the half-mile path features detailed bronze figures set against carefully landscaped grounds that transport visitors to ancient Jerusalem. The shrine provides a peaceful place for reflection regardless of religious background, with free admission and guided tours available.
10. Albanese Candy
SWEET FACTORY EXPERIENCE
Albanese Candy Factory offers visitors a delightful experience where they can watch the creation process of world-famous gummy bears and chocolates. The factory store features an impressive selection of candies, including their signature 12-flavor ultimate gummies and chocolate-covered treats that can be purchased fresh. Visitors appreciate the generous free samples, factory viewing areas, and the opportunity to build custom candy mixes.
11. Turkey Run State Park
STUNNING NATURAL CANYONS
Turkey Run State Park enchants visitors with its serene environment featuring dramatic sandstone canyons and lush forests carved by glacial meltwaters. Hikers can explore scenic trails that traverse suspension bridges and historic covered bridges while experiencing the park's unique geological formations. The park offers additional recreational opportunities including kayaking on Sugar Creek and wildlife spotting throughout its diverse ecosystems.
12. Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site
HISTORIC PRESIDENTIAL HOME
The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site welcomes visitors to explore the historic home of America's 23rd president through educational tours featuring original artifacts and furnishings. Guests can experience the authentic Victorian-era residence while learning about the personal stories of the Harrison family and their place in American history. The museum preserves the legacy of President Harrison through thoughtfully curated exhibits that bring the past to life for modern audiences.
13. Old Oakland Golf Club
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Old Oakland Golf Club offers golf enthusiasts a premier playing experience on meticulously maintained fairways and greens just minutes from Spring Lake. The club features challenging holes designed to test players of all skill levels while providing a scenic backdrop for a day on the links. Golfers appreciate the professional atmosphere, quality course conditions, and amenities that make for a memorable round.
14. The Fort Golf Course
HISTORICAL MILITARY-THEMED GOLF
The Fort Golf Course provides players with a unique golfing experience on grounds that were once part of a historic military installation near Spring Lake. The course's layout incorporates natural terrain features and strategic design elements that challenge golfers while offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. After a round, visitors can enjoy the clubhouse amenities and learn about the property's military history that gives the course its distinctive character.
15. RenArtWlk
CREATIVE CULTURAL DISTRICT
RenArtWlk invites visitors to explore a vibrant cultural district filled with local art galleries, studios, and creative businesses in Northwest Indiana. Guests can experience regular art walks, live performances, and interactive demonstrations that showcase the talents of regional artists. The district fosters community engagement through its year-round calendar of special events and workshops designed to connect people with the arts.