Indiana vacation rentals

Outdoor fun near Indiana vacation home rentals

While the annual Indy 500 race sees some seriously fast-paced action, the state ticks along at a much slower speed the rest of the year. It may not be the biggest state, but it's still worth picking your Indiana vacation rental wisely. Staying to the north gives you easy access to the wildlife-rich dunes and waters of Lake Michigan. If you pick somewhere further south, you'll have a maze of underground caverns and waterways to kayak. Either way, you can listen to the sounds of bluegrass and receive a warm Indiana welcome when you arrive.

Heritage sites near Indiana vacation homes

Indiana has an array of historic sites to delight the history buff. Vacation rentals are available near places like Conner Prairie, a recreated 19th-century village that showcases Indiana’s past with interactive exhibits, and the Indiana State Museum, a museum with a rich mix of exhibits on natural and human history. You'll also like the Eiteljorg Museum, a museum with exhibits on the art and culture of the American West.

Places to visit near Indiana vacation homes

It's impossible to mention Indiana without talking about the Indy 500. The state's biggest date in the calendar sees racers drive 500 miles in what is the world's biggest, single-day, sporting event. If you plan to visit at this time, you're going to need to book up your Indiana vacation rental as early as possible. Outside the race, the state isn't short on attractions. Expect world-class museums, fascinating art galleries and summer concerts to boot, not to mention a ton of plazas and memorials like Monument Circle, which remember the country's veterans.

Activities near your Indiana summer rental

You'll need to pack a few essentials if you plan to head to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Be sure not to forget your hiking shoes for the trails, swimming gear to splash around in Lake Michigan and binoculars to look out for the diverse wildlife in the marshes. When you stay in an Indiana vacation rental, these aren't the only place for outdoor fun, though. For equestrian trails, some of the best fishing in the state and kayaking routes along the rivers, try the Turkey Run State Park. You may also want to consider bringing your mountain bike, there are plenty of spots to ride wherever you stay.

Climate for your stay in Indiana vacation homes

Like much of the US, the summer is the most popular time to book up an Indiana vacation rental. It's true that the state sees the hottest weather between June and August, but the influx of crowds isn't for everyone. For lower prices on rentals and a more comfortable climate, try fall when the leaves turn a kaleidoscope of colors and the hiking trails aren't half as busy. Pack warm clothes if you're planning to visit in winter – it can often drop below freezing. That said, you can pick up some serious bargains on rentals and the landscape is arguably at its most scenic.

There's more than your average backyard critter in Indiana

While the best you'll find in Indianapolis is the odd backyard critter, stay in one of the rural Indiana vacation rentals and you won't be disappointed by the state's fauna offering. It would be impossible to list every beast in Indiana here, but look out for white-tailed bears and solitary black bears. If you're lucky, you may see a meandering American badger or one of the beautiful river otters. They're not all big though. You'll need to keep your eyes peeled if you're going to see little eastern cottontails or ground squirrels rustling around on the forest floor.

Transportation to and around Indiana

Fly into Indianapolis Intl. Airport (IND), the closest airport, located 39.2 mi (63 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could book a flight to Muncie, IN (MIE-Delaware County), which is 39.5 mi (63.5 km) away.

If you're traveling by train, Indianapolis Station, Lafayette Station and Crawfordsville Station are the main stations in the city. You can get around Indiana by jumping on the metro at Methodist Station, Canal Station or Indiana University-Riley Station.

Sample Midwestern cuisine in Indiana

Indiana shares many of the Midwestern food traditions of the region, such as the cuisines of Europe and Native North America. Midwestern food focuses on simple and hearty dishes with locally grown foods, though Indiana is known for its sugar cream pie, persimmon pudding, beef and noodles, and frog legs. If you want to experience the unique culinary culture of Indiana, visit a restaurant near your vacation accommodation.