Indiana – Unusual Attractions & Day Trips

Indiana Off The Beaten Path

Indiana is known for the many attraction sites that attract tourists from different parts of the world. However, there are off the beaten path sites that make for great gems in Indiana.

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Exotic Feline Rescue Center

This rescue center exists to help eliminate the belief that it is a good idea to keep wild cats as pets. The center has a total of over 200 wild cats that have been rescued from abuse. Although the animals may look sad when in cages, they are safe from any form of abuse. You will be able to see bobcats, leopards, tigers and lions at close range.

The Bailly Homestead

The Bailly Homestead is currently listed as a National Historic Landmark. Built in 1834 by a French-Canadian trader, the house has great historical significance. It is here that the original owner established his business, trading in cloth, blankets and metal hatchets. This led to the rise of a stopping place for travelers and a thriving business community.

The Monroe County Courthouse

Although it only contains offices of some county government agencies, the iconic building remains a notable landmark in the City of Bloomington. It was the third building to be designed and constructed to house the county government offices. The building, which is located in the downtown area, is among the recognized features in the National Register of Historic Places.

Hoosier National Forest

This forest covers a total area of around 202,000 acres and presents numerous recreational opportunities. If you love horseback riding, picnicking, camping, hiking, backpacking or hunting, you should consider visiting the forest. The forest has eight picnic areas, 12 campgrounds and 26 hiking trails.

The Chellberg Farm

Although the original farmhouse was built between 1869 and 1872, it was later destroyed by a fire. The current house was built in 1885 to preserve the Victorian architectural style for future generations. This farm was home to three generations of an immigrant family from Sweden, the Kjellbergs. The spelling was later changed to Chellberg and the house preserved to enable visitors to experience the Indiana farm life.

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

These dunes are protected from encroachment and development, with the lakeshore serving as a habitat for endangered species of mammals, birds and plants. The recreational opportunities on the beaches include hiking, sunbathing and wildlife watching.

Bridgeton Covered Bridge

This is perhaps the most picturesque of the covered bridges in Parke County.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Indiana & Unusual Attractions & Day Trips
• Things To Do in Michigan City, Indiana
• Trip back in time to Metamora, Indiana

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Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Indiana off the beaten path.