Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Bloomington to Elkhart, Indiana

Are you planning a road trip from Bloomington to Elkhart, Indiana? This scenic route offers visitors many opportunities to explore the beauty of the state. From outdoor adventures to historical landmarks, this drive will provide an unforgettable experience.

To help you plan your travels, we have put together a list of top places to see when driving from Bloomington to Elkhart. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure through Indiana.

Outdoor Adventures

1. Brown County State Park: Start your trip with a stop at Brown County State Park in Nashville. This park offers over 15,000 acres of outdoor adventures, including hiking, horseback riding, and camping. Be sure to hike the trails to see some incredible views of the surrounding forests.

2. Indiana Dunes National Park: About halfway through your journey, visit the Indiana Dunes National Park, located on the shores of Lake Michigan. With 15 miles of beaches, this park is a great place to swim, kayak, and hike.

3. Potato Creek State Park: Just a short drive from Elkhart, Potato Creek State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. This park offers over 3,500 acres of land to explore and includes a beautiful lake perfect for fishing and kayaking. Stop by for a picnic and enjoy the beautiful, peaceful scenery.

Historical Landmarks

1. T.C. Steele State Historic Site: Located in Nashville, Indiana, this historic site was the home and studio of Indiana impressionist painter T.C. Steele. Take a guided tour of his home, browse through his artwork, and explore the beautiful gardens on the property.

2. Notre Dame University: Just outside of Elkhart, Notre Dame University is a must-see for sports fans and history buffs alike. With a rich history dating back to the early 1800s, this campus is home to the iconic Golden Dome, the basilica of the Sacred Heart, and the legendary Fighting Irish football team.

3. Amish Country: Elkhart County is home to the third largest population of Amish people in the United States. Explore the rural countryside, visit the many Amish-owned businesses, and learn about their traditions and way of life.

Local Eats

1. Oliver Winery: Stop by the Oliver Winery in Bloomington for a wine tasting and meal at the Creekbend Vineyard. Savor locally made wines while enjoying a picnic with friends and family.

2. Zaharakos: Located in downtown Columbus, Zaharakos is a classic ice cream parlor and family friendly restaurant. Come in for a classic sundae or milkshake and try the vintage nickelodeon on display.

3. Das Dutchman Essenhaus: In Middlebury, make sure to stop by Das Dutchman Essenhaus for authentic Amish cuisine. Choose from an array of comfort foods such as mashed potatoes, fried chicken, and homemade pie.

Art and Culture

1. Indiana University Art Museum: Indiana University Art Museum in Bloomington is a must-visit for art lovers. Their collection includes works by many internationally renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and Claude Monet.

2. Indiana Ballet Theater: Visit Elkhart’s Indiana Ballet Theater and catch their latest performance. Get swept away by the grace and beauty of ballet in their intimate performing space.

3. The South Bend Museum of Art: The South Bend Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum located in South Bend. Their exhibitions showcase new and innovative artists and explore local history and culture.

Conclusion

This road trip from Bloomington to Elkhart offers a diverse array of adventures, from outdoor recreation to cultural exploration. With so much to see and do, you can truly customize your itinerary to suit your interests. Follow our guide and you are sure to have an unforgettable trip exploring the beautiful state of Indiana.