Best Weekend Getaways Near Indianapolis

Looking to get away this weekend? Indianapolis residents are not only fortunate enough to live in a beautiful city with many small-town perks, but they're also less than three hours away from dozens of quaint small towns and several bustling metropolises.

Brown County, Indiana - Commonly referred to as "The Little Smokies," Brown County is particular famous for its fall. People come from all over the country to witness Brown County State Park's changing of the season. Acres of woodlands transform into vibrant shades of yellow and red. Brown County also offers unique shops, restaurants, and live entertainment to all travelers. Visitors can either camp out at the State Park or stay in one of the county's dozens of hotels or bed and breakfasts. The Official Brown County website enables potential guests to plan their weekend getaway to Brown County, offering deals on lodging and updating current goings-on.

Northwest / Chesterton, Indiana - A small town located on Lake Michigan, Chesterton is draw for several festivals. Most famous, The Wizard of Oz Festival is held every September and brings in more than 100,000 from all over - including the surviving munchkins and family members. Indiana Dunes State Park is also located just north of the town. With nearly 3,000 protected acres, the Dunes offers camping, trails, beach, and more. Chesterton also features a thriving downtown of unique gift shops. To add to your weekend getaway, Chesterton is located just minutes from Michigan City, which offers a zoo, casino, and outlet shopping.

Shipshewana, Indiana - The Heart of Northern Indiana's Amish community is Shipshewana. The small town feature extended roadways for horse-drawn carriages to ride through the streets freely. Quality, Amish-made goods are also available for purchase at more than 100 shops in Shipshewana. The town is also home to a huge flea market that runs throughout the spring and summer on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Arrive early - there's lots to see and buy and parking is horrendous! The town's official website gives a list of current events.

Louisville, Kentucky - A music and horse haven, Louisville is Indianapolis' southern compliment. Home to the Louisville Slugger Factory and settled on the Ohio River, Louisville also offers museums, festivals, skate parks, and much more. The city also supports a thriving downtown called Forth Street, which features bars, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can also take a cruise along the Ohio on the Belle of Louisville, go wild at the zoo, and check out Six Flags rollercoaster theme park. Louisville's official website shows off the city's specialities.

French Lick, Indiana - Bask in relation and wilderness in French Lick. French Lick Springs Resort & Casino masters gaming, spa treatments, golf, and more. French Lick is also home to one of Indiana's premiere wineries. The French Lick Winery & Coffee Company offers free tasting and Italian dining. The town also houses a number of locally-run bed and breakfasts and the Indiana Railway Museum.

South Bend, Indiana - Home to Notre Dame (not to mention, Notre Dame football), South Bend is a busy city. Sport-loving visitors can see the College Football Hall of Fame, get in a game of golf at one of the several area courses, and cheer on the Irish. For those less-interested in sports, spend your weekend getaway at the South Bend Chocolate Company, a variety of art galleries and shops, local gift shops, dozens of bed and breakfasts, and The Funny Bone Comedy Club. Be sure to checkout the nightlife at Cheers and Fiddler's Hearth Public House. Check out South Bend's website for complete listings of entertainment, restaurants, lodgings, and more.

If you're feeling a little stir crazy in Indianapolis, fresh country air and big city lights are just a weekend away.