With the arrival of spring, Indiana is bursting with adventure! If you’re looking for the perfect Indiana day trip, we’ve got 19 destinations that guarantee family fun—no overnight bag required!
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Whether you’re exploring hands-on museums, hiking through scenic parks, or getting up close with wildlife, there’s something for every age and interest. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best family-friendly springtime day trips in Indiana.
1. Terre Haute Children’s Museum
Address: 727 Wabash Ave., Terre Haute
Perfect For: Children 12 months old to 12 years old
With three floors of interactive exhibits, the Terre Haute Children’s Museum is a haven for young explorers. Kids can engage with hands-on activities that spark curiosity in science, technology, and creativity. Located near the Indiana-Illinois border, this museum is a must-visit for families looking for an educational and entertaining day out.
2. Natural Valley Ranch in Brownsburg
Address: 6310 County Rd 350, Brownsburg
Perfect For: Horse lovers; Children 5 years of age and older can participate in a trail ride, but there are pony rides for $5 per person for younger kids.
Tucked along White Lick Creek, this 78-acre ranch is perfect for families who love the outdoors. You can hop on a guided trail ride, meet the farm animals, or check out seasonal events like Bountiful Babies—a springtime celebration of the ranch’s newest furry arrivals.
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3. Exotic Feline Rescue Center
Address: 2221 E Ashboro Rd, Center Point
Perfect For: Anyone who loves big cats!
This isn’t your typical zoo. The Exotic Feline Rescue Center is home to over 100 rescued big cats, from tigers and lions to leopards and bobcats. Since these animals were previously abused or neglected, this sanctuary provides them with a second chance—and visitors get an up-close look at these majestic creatures.
4. Uranus Indiana Fudge Factory
Address: 1423 W. 53rd Street in Anderson
Perfect For: Those looking for some potty humor
Yes, the name is ridiculous. Yes, it’s on purpose. And yes, the fudge is incredible. This quirky roadside attraction serves up delicious homemade fudge along with cheeky humor that keeps visitors laughing. Kids will love the silly gift shop, while parents can stock up on sweet treats.
5. Wilstem Wildlife Park
Address: 4229 US-150 W, Paoli
Perfect For: Wild animal admirers
Experience the self-guided Drive-Thru Safari in your vehicle and see over 40 different species! Along the way, you will have opportunities to get out of your car and get a closer look at certain animals. The safari lasts about 30 minutes, but you can extend your visit with additional encounters and attractions for a full-day adventure.
6. Heritage Farm
Address: 4175 North 1200 West, Flora
Perfect For: Farm animal fans
Ever wanted to hang out with an alpaca? At Heritage Farm, you can do just that! This family-run farm has more than 50 friendly alpacas that visitors can feed, pet, and even take on walks. They offer cozy farm lodging if you’re up for a longer stay.
7. Malibu Jack’s Indoor Theme
Address: 455 Market St, Connersville
Perfect For: the whole family
Malibu Jack’s Lafayette Indoor Theme Park is a massive, all-indoor space with fun attractions for people of all ages and interests. Visitors to the park can take part in Go karts, bowling, and arcade games. They can also enjoy theme park attractions like the Twist Coaster, swinging ships, and bumper cars. There’s a Kid’s Zone indoor playground for younger children to play.
8. Wolf Park
Address: 4004 E. 800 N., Battle Ground, Indiana
Perfect For: wildlife advocate
Just outside of West Lafayette is Wolf Park, a 70-acre nonprofit park dedicated to providing habitat to wolves, foxes, bison, and other animals for educational purposes.
9. Kidscommons
Address: 309 Washington Street, Columbus
Perfect For: Hands-on learners who like to have fun
This interactive children’s museum is packed with exhibits designed to spark creativity and imagination. There’s even a giant toilet slide (yes, really) that’s become a visitor favorite. If your kids love tinkering, exploring, and experimenting, they’ll have a blast here.
10. Railbikes at the Nickel Plate Express
Address: 825Â Forest Park Drive, Noblesville
Perfect For: Seeking a one-of-a-kind adventure
The Nickel Plate Express introduced its one-of-a-kind railbikes in 2024, offering one of Indiana’s most unique day trips. Families can book a railbike for groups of four and embark on a round-trip journey from Hobbs Station. The railbikes are easy to maneuver—even with two kids just along for the ride—making it a fun and memorable family adventure.
11. Koteewi Aerial Adventure
Address: 11800 Koteewi Dr., Noblesville
Perfect For: Adventure aficionados
This thrilling treetop adventure park features 60 zip lines and obstacle courses of varying difficulty levels. For an extra dose of adrenaline, check out Edge Adventure’s Rum Village in South Bend or Deep River in northwest Indiana.
12. Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden
Address: 1545 Mesker Park Dr., Evansville
Perfect For: Animal fans
As Indiana’s oldest zoo, Mesker Park is home to hundreds of animals, from jaguars to red pandas. The attached botanic garden is a beautiful bonus, especially in the spring.
13. Science Central
Address: 1950 Clinton St., Fort Wayne
Perfect For: Kids who love science and experiments
This interactive science center features permanent and rotating exhibits that make learning fun. The swap shop lets kids exchange treasures from their travels with other young explorers.
14. Indiana Caverns
Address: 1267 Green Acres Drive SW, Corydon, IN
Perfect For: Explorers of all ages
Explore Indiana’s longest cave system with guided tours, underground boat rides, and even a roller coaster called the Bat Chaser. If you’ve never been inside a real cave, this is an unforgettable experience.
RELATED ARTICLE: 4 Best Caves in Indiana to Explore
15. Mounds State Park
Address: 4306 Mounds Rd., Anderson
Perfect For: Families who love rugged hikes and camping
Mounds State Park is a peaceful place for hiking, picnicking, and exploring ancient Native American earthworks. The visitor center also has exhibits on the area’s history and wildlife.
16. Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial
Address: 3027 E S St, Lincoln City
Perfect For: History buffs
Did you know Abraham Lincoln spent much of his childhood in Indiana? This national memorial includes a replica of his family’s homestead, along with walking trails and a museum.
17. Turkey Run State Park
Address: 8121 Park Rd, Marshall
Perfect For: Outdoor adventurers
One of Indiana’s most scenic parks, Turkey Run is famous for its rugged sandstone gorges, suspension bridges, and amazing hiking trails. Bring some good shoes and be ready to explore!
18. Beanblossom Bottoms Nature Preserve
Address: N. Woodall Road, Ellettsville
Perfect For: Birdwatchers & nature lovers
If you love peaceful hikes and wildlife spotting, this boardwalk trail through a lush wetland is a hidden gem. Keep your eyes open for rare birds along the way.
19. Possibility Playground
Address: 755 Highway 135 NW, Corydon
Perfect For: Kids of all abilities ready to run and play for days
Possibility Playground is Indiana’s largest fully accessible playground, designed for children of all abilities. With 18 slides, climbing structures, and sensory-friendly features, it’s a must-visit for families with little ones. This playground is definitely one that is worth the drive.
Which of these trips are you adding to your bucket list? Drop a comment and let us know your favorite hidden gems in Indiana!
