5 amazing Outdoor Adventures near Indianapolis this Summer

Now that school is out and the sunshine is plentiful, it’s time to find some fun and unique ways to spend time outdoors. Luckily, the Indianapolis area has plenty of outdoor adventures that you can enjoy with just a short drive out of town. From Bloomington, Indiana, to the south to Lafayette to the north and all around, there are countless options.

Here are five of the most amazing outdoor adventures that aren’t too far from Indianapolis:

Marengo Cave

Ok, so exploring a cave might not exactly be a trip out in the sun, but it’s definitely an event saved for nicer weather. This cave system was discovered in 1883 and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists passing through. The guided tour lasts an hour and covers an entire mile. If you love seeing stalagmites, stalactites, and other rock formations, this cave system just south of Bloomington, Indiana, is a perfect spot, only about an hour from Indianapolis.

Patoka Lake

Just because Indianapolis is in a landlocked state doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some time on the water. Patoka lake is the second-largest reservoir in the area and is a great place to get some fresh air. You can spend the day floating and swimming in the lake or take some time to enjoy a boat, kayak, or canoe. If you want to spend more than a day, there are plenty of floating cabins for rent. Patoka is only about two hours south of Indianapolis.

Shipshewana

The little town of Shipshewana may be a three-hour drive from Indianapolis, but this heart of Amish Country is worth the journey. A day trip here is like going back in time to a much simpler life. While you’re here, check out some Amish goods and foods. Don’t forget to catch dinner and a show at the Blue Gate Restaurant and visit the largest flea market in the Midwest.

Whitewater Valley Railroad

Whether you love learning about trains or just enjoy counting them as they pass, the Whitewater Valley Railroad is a great place to see history come alive. While this area is mostly a museum for the majority of the year, there are special event train rides at different times. If you can wait until the fall, seeing all of the foliage is a sight to see. You can sneak over to this railroad by heading east from Indianapolis for about an hour.

B-Line Trail

What list of outdoor activities doesn’t include a great hike? The B-Line Trail is a 3.1-mile paved trail that runs right through downtown Bloomington, Indiana. This trail is a popular place for runners, skaters, dog walkers, and more. What makes this trail especially fun is that it passes by a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This trail makes for a fun and memory-filled exploration of Bloomington, Indiana, filled with exercise and sunshine.