10 Fun Indiana Landmarks to Check Out on Your Next Road Trip through the Hoosier State

Standing proudly in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument is one of the most recognizable symbols of the state. Completed in 1902, and coming in only 21 feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty in New York City, it honors Indiana’s veterans from the Revolutionary War through the Spanish-American War. Visitors can climb 330 steps to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city skyline and Monument Circle at 231 feet above the street.

The Indiana Statehouse, completed in 1888, is a masterpiece of Renaissance Revival architecture. It houses the offices of the governor, the Indiana General Assembly, and the state’s Supreme Court. Guided tours reveal the building’s intricate design, historical artifacts, and the political history that shaped Indiana.

Stretching along 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, Indiana Dunes National Park is a natural landmark that attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round. The park features towering sand dunes, diverse ecosystems, and over 70 miles of hiking trails. It’s a haven for birdwatchers, swimmers, and anyone seeking a scenic escape.

Often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the West Baden Springs Hotel is a stunning example of early 20th-century luxury. Its massive domed atrium, once the largest free-span dome in the world, continues to impress visitors. The hotel’s history as a resort destination and architectural marvel makes it a must-see landmark. On a personal note, it’s one of my favorite places in Indiana!

This historic site preserves the farm where Abraham Lincoln spent his formative years (ages 7-21) from 1816 to 1830. The memorial includes a visitor center, a living historical farm, and trails through the surrounding forest. It offers a glimpse into the early life of one of America’s most influential presidents. My personal favorite spots to visit are the cemetery where Lincoln’s mother is buried and the family Cabin Site Memorial.

The Tippecanoe Battlefield marks the site of the 1811 battle between U.S. forces led by William Henry Harrison and Native American warriors associated with Tecumseh’s confederation. The park features an interpretive center, a monument, and walking trails that provide an in-depth interpretation of the events leading up to the War of 1812.

Known as the “Little Smokies” for its rolling hills and dense forests, Brown County State Park is Indiana’s largest state park and a beloved landmark for nature lovers. The park’s scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and gorgeous fall foliage make it one of the most photographed places in the Midwest—all 16,000 acres of it!

The University of Notre Dame’s Main Building, topped with its iconic Golden Dome, is one of Indiana’s most photographed landmarks. The dome, gilded in real gold leaf, symbolizes the university’s heritage and academic excellence. While you’re on campus, don’t forget to explore the nearby Basilica of the Sacred Heart and the famous “Touchdown Jesus” mural.

Designated a National Natural Landmark, Marengo Cave offers guided tours through stunning underground formations that were first discovered in 1883 by two children. Indiana’s most visited natural attraction features stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations that showcase the geological beauty hidden beneath southern Indiana.

This park commemorates the 1779 capture of Fort Sackville by George Rogers Clark and his men, a pivotal event in the American Revolution. The centerpiece is a grand memorial rotunda overlooking the Wabash River, symbolizing Indiana’s role in the nation’s early history.