Looking for a fun, affordable family adventure within a day’s drive of Indianapolis? Casey, Illinois, might be just the place. Less than two hours west of Indy, this little town is packed with quirky, kid-friendly attractions that make it a standout choice for families wanting something different. If you’re ready to shake up your routine and explore somewhere new, Casey is definitely worth the trip. Don’t forget to check out the sample itinerary at the end of this article to help plan your visit.
Why Choose Casey? A Town Where Big Fun is Free
Casey is not your average small town. With more than 30 “Big Things” scattered throughout its walkable downtown—including a dozen Guinness World Record holders—Casey is where everyday objects get blown up to storybook size. Even better, all of these attractions are completely free to visit, making Casey one of the most affordable day trips you’ll find.
This all started with local businessman Jim Bolin, whose love for his hometown sparked a creative movement that put Casey on the map for its colossal sights. Getting there is easy, too—just about 110 miles straight west on I-70, plus you get the bonus of gaining an extra hour when you cross into Central Time. Leave Indy at 9:00 AM and you’ll step out of your car at 10:00 AM, ready for a full day of adventure.
A giant scavenger hunt (literally) for all the big things
Casey is all about exploring at your own pace, with the town’s biggest wonders clustered within a few blocks. Pick up a free map (or print one at home) and let the kids take charge, checking off each find like it’s a treasure hunt.
Downtown Highlights
- World’s Largest Mailbox: Start here for wow-factor. Kids can actually climb inside, drop a postcard, and trigger the giant flag to rise—don’t forget to bring a pre-stamped postcard for a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
- World’s Largest Wind Chime & Rocking Chair: Right across Main Street from each other, these are must-sees. Pull the rope to make the chimes sing, and snap photos with the gigantic rocking chair (just don’t plan to sit in it—it’s for show only).
- The Big Birdcage: Kids (and grownups) can step inside and swing, making for one of the most playful photo ops in town.
- World’s Largest Teeter-Totter: If you visit on a Saturday, volunteers will set it in motion for kids to ride. On other days, it’s locked in place, but you can still climb aboard.
- Other Quirky Finds: From the Big Pencil to the towering Barber Pole, there’s something big and photo-worthy around every corner.
Quick Car Trips for More Giants
A few of Casey’s record-breakers are just outside downtown and worth a quick drive:
- World’s Largest Golf Tee at the Casey Country Club—peek inside the pro shop for the best view.
- World’s Largest Pitchfork beside Richards Farm Restaurant—perfect for a quick photo before lunch.
- World’s Largest Wooden Shoes inside Whisk + Lollies Bakery (check shop hours, especially if visiting Sunday or Monday).
- Want to go all in? The World’s Largest Gavel is in nearby Marshall, about 20 minutes south—a fun “bonus round” for completists.
Playtime and Parent Tips
When kids need to burn off steam, head to Fairview Park on the southeast side of town. There’s a big playground, skate park, sports courts, fishing pond, and plenty of shaded picnic spots—plus real bathrooms, which every parent knows is a game changer.
A few extra tips:
- Best Time to Visit: You can visit Casey any time of year, but late spring, summer, or early fall are especially nice when the town is full of flowers and everything feels extra lively. Just a heads-up: many local shops and some restaurants close on Sundays and Mondays. For the full Casey experience—including seeing the indoor attractions like the World’s Largest Wooden Shoes—it’s best to plan your trip for Tuesday through Saturday. And if riding the teeter-totter is on your bucket list, Saturday is the day to visit, since that’s when volunteers are there to help run it.
- Getting Around: The majority of the attractions in the downtown area are concentrated and easily walkable. There are several public parking lots downtown that offer free parking.
- Restroom Logistics: Knowing where to find a restroom is a top priority for any parent. In Casey, it’s pretty easy. Public restrooms are available at Fairview Park, and there are also public facilities around the downtown area. Most local restaurants and gas stations will also let customers use their restrooms. So you’ve got options when someone suddenly announces they need to go.
- What to Bring: A little planning goes a long way in Casey. Pack a pre-stamped postcard so you can mail it from the World’s Largest Mailbox—it’s a fun, one-of-a-kind keepsake. Don’t forget your camera for all the great photo ops, and make sure everyone wears comfortable shoes. There’s a lot of walking (and exploring) to do!
Conclusion: Your Blueprint for a BIG Day Out
With its unique blend of whimsical art, small-town charm, and surprising interactivity, Casey, Illinois, offers a day trip that is truly unlike any other. It is a place that sparks curiosity in adults and pure wonder in children. To help you visualize your adventure, here is a sample itinerary that combines the top attractions, dining, and play into a seamless and unforgettable day.
Sample Itinerary: Indianapolis to Casey & Back
- 9:00 AM (EST): Depart from your home in the Indianapolis area.
- 10:00 AM (CST): Arrive in Casey, IL, gaining an hour from the time zone change. Park in one of the free public lots near Main Street.
- 10:15 AM: Begin your scavenger hunt at the World’s Largest Mailbox. Let the family climb inside for photos and mail your special postcard.
- 10:45 AM: Walk next door to The Big Dipper for an early-day ice cream treat while enjoying the view.
- 11:15 AM: Start your stroll down Main Street. Your first stops are the Big Pencil and the World’s Largest Barber Pole. Right next to the pencil, pop into Model Tees to see the Big Pokeball.
- 11:45 AM: Continue down Main Street and let the kids take a turn swinging in the Big Birdcage. Then, take a short walk down South Central Avenue to see the colorful Big Spinning Top and the shiny World’s Largest Swizzle Spoon.
- 12:15 PM: Walk east to the World’s Largest Teeter-Totter. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, you can take a ride on this gentle giant! Afterwards, continue east to see the whimsical Big Bookworm in front of the library.
- 12:45 PM: Head back west slightly to enjoy lunch at Crazy 8’s BBQ, which is conveniently located right beside the World’s Largest Wind Chime.
- 1:45 PM: After lunch, explore the attractions right outside the restaurant. Let the kids take a turn pulling the rope to make the World’s Largest Wind Chime sing , and pose with the adjacent World’s Largest Rocking Chair, the Big Piggy Bank, and the Big Yardstick.
- 2:15 PM: Before leaving downtown, stop at Whisk + Lollies Bakery and Candy Shoppe. See the World’s Largest Wooden Shoes inside and grab some treats for the road.
- 2:45 PM: Hop in the car for the driving portion of your tour. First, stop at the Casey Country Club to marvel at the World’s Largest Golf Tee.
- 3:15 PM: Just down the road, you’ll find the World’s Largest Pitchfork next to Richards Farm Restaurant.
- 3:45 PM: Make your final stop at Fairview Park. While there, see if you can spot the Big Softball Bat. Give the kids at least an hour to run, play on the playground, and burn off their remaining energy before the car ride home.
- 4:45 PM (CST): Begin the drive back to Indianapolis.
- 7:35 PM (EST): Arrive back home in Indianapolis with tired but happy children, their minds full of big memories from a remarkable small town.
This journey to Casey is more than just a day of sightseeing; it is an investment in family memories. It offers a rare opportunity to step away from the everyday and into a world built on imagination. The combination of quirky fun, genuine small-town hospitality, and remarkable affordability makes it one of the most unique and rewarding day trips your family can take.
