Points of Interest between Bristol, Indiana to Merrillville, Indiana

picture of Bristol, Indiana

Top Five Popular Attractions on a Trip between Bristol and Merrillville, Indiana

Are you planning a road trip between Bristol and Merrillville, Indiana? Want to make sure you don't miss any must-see attractions en route? Look no further than this guide to the top five popular attractions on this Indiana road trip.

Halfway Point: New Carlisle, IN

Before we dive into our top five attractions, let's highlight the halfway point of this road trip - New Carlisle, IN. Located about halfway between Bristol and Merrillville, New Carlisle is a small town with a charming Main Street and a variety of local shops and eateries. Stop for a coffee break at The Coffee Grounds, or enjoy a meal at The Wooden Peel or Evan's Pub and Grille. Or, if you're looking to stretch your legs, take a stroll along the Prairie Duneland Trail, a 10-mile trail that passes through New Carlisle.

Top Five Places to See

  1. The Studebaker National Museum - If you're a fan of classic cars, you won't want to miss the Studebaker National Museum in South Bend. The museum boasts over 120 vehicles on display, as well as a variety of exhibits that tell the story of the Studebaker Corporation and its impact on the American automotive industry.

  2. Indiana Dunes National Park - One of Indiana's most popular attractions, the Indiana Dunes National Park offers miles of sandy beaches, sand dunes, and hiking trails. Whether you're looking to sunbathe, swim, or go for a hike, the Indiana Dunes has something for everyone.

  3. Notre Dame Stadium - Even if you're not a fan of college football, you'll want to stop by Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend. One of the most iconic college football stadiums in the country, Notre Dame Stadium has been home to the Fighting Irish since 1930.

  4. Albanese Candy Factory - If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to swing by the Albanese Candy Factory in Merrillville. This family-owned candy factory produces some of the best gummy bears, chocolate-covered nuts, and other goodies in the Midwest.

  5. Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets - If shopping is more your speed, be sure to check out the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets in Michigan City. With over 120 stores, you're sure to find some great deals on everything from clothing to housewares.

Best Route for this Trip

To make the most of this road trip, we recommend taking the Indiana Toll Road (I-80/90) between Bristol and South Bend, and then taking U.S. 20 the rest of the way to Merrillville. This route will take you past the Studebaker National Museum, the Indiana Dunes National Park, Notre Dame Stadium, and the Albanese Candy Factory, before finally bringing you to the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets. With plenty of scenic views and exciting attractions along the way, this is one road trip you won't soon forget.