Souvenirs from Indiana
In Indiana, every touring trail, sandy beach and historic site leads to an exciting discovery of its old charm and natural beauty. An Indiana trip offers the best excuse to marvel at the fascinating colonial architecture: the Beverly Museum depot housed a fully functional 20th century train station which is currently a museum whereas the Century of Progress Homes nearby were proudly presented within the 1933 Chicago's World Fair. Spread with marshy bits and oak patches, the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore offers splendid trails for bird watching and Mt. Tom in Indiana's Dunes State Park, situated between two of the state's beautiful trails, is Indiana's highest sand dune; overlooking Lake Michigan, it is a charming place for summer camping and winter skiing. There is a whole Louisiana world to explore and a unique chance to remember it with fridge magnets, keychains, souvenir plates and T-shirts available online.
A Colonial Past Brought to Life
In Indiana, the history is brought to life with the amazing Conner Prairie Interactive History Park: this modern display of Indiana's ancient and colonial past tells stories of the fascinating Native American culture, the legends of the first colonists and even reproduces a real 19th century balloon journey. Throughout the year, unique events bring the heritage of Indiana closer to the public: the Indianapolis Orchestra gives a special performance in the Conner Prairie and even events from the Civil War are colourfully staged: tourists can experience the life of a slave in old Indiana or the daily realities of Wild West town Dupont. When bringing the past closer to the present, Indiana's museums are unbeatable: Indiana Transportation Museum not only celebrates the state's tribute to railroads and trains (with over one hundred exhibits) but also offers a unique chance to take a real train ride.
Lake Michigan, Louisiana's Water Paradise
For that indescribable feeling of fine sand, wavy waters and a bit extra, don't miss Lake Michigan with the famous 'singing sands', a unique symphony just under the feet, typical for Indiana Dunes. The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes State Park both proudly present a record number of plants, the highest of all USA's National parks and visiting them is a true holiday bless for every hiker and walker out there. The Heron Rookery Trail is ideal for bird watching and for all sea adventurers out there boats are available in Michigan City for an unforgettable sailing or salmon fishing experience. For a combination of beaches and woods, the West Beach is a favourite destination whereas the Bailly-Chellberg Homestead & Farm warmly welcome visitors to discover the unique Mnoke praire. The farm house has also been renovated and is available for touring during some of the local festivals such as the Maple Sugar Time Festival in March and Duneland Heritage Days.
Indianapolis, the City of Diversity
In Indianapolis treat every minute as a great adventure: at walking distance from its historical centre, the White River State Park houses the city's Zoo but the Indiana State Museum and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art may be just as exciting. Don't forget to stop for a hot cup of coffee after walking along the city's charming canal or a mouth-watering snack: the famous Creation Cafe, just near the waterfront, serves some of the 'super sandwiches' which enter a food competition every year in Indiana. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum, on the other hand, has an exhibition of over 70 cars and rare footage and films.