southeast finds NORTH CHRISTIAN CHURCH, COLUMBUS: The last of renowned architect Eero Saarinen’s designs is one of the country’s most unique. The sanctuary sits in the center of this hexagon-shaped structure, and sitting at its center is the altar and a 192foot metal spire. The design is so unusual; this National Historic Landmark is worth your visit. INDIANA CAVERNS, CORYDON AREA: America’s 11th largest cave is right in our backyard. With over 38 miles of passages, the Binkley Cave System has bones from the Ice Age, 21 species of troglobites (eyeless fish), underground waterfalls and more. Binkley Cave was recently added to a short list of places that boast 20-plus species of subterranean animals occur. Tours include a 25-minute boat ride. MILAN ‘54 HOOSIERS MUSEUM, MILAN: You can’t call yourself a Hoosier without having seen the movie Hoosiers. Relive the entire story in this fabulous museum dedicated to the “Milan Miracle of 1954” (when the Indians of Milan High School beat the Bearcats of Muncie Central to win the state basketball championship). The museum opened its doors in 2013 and is home to a huge collection of memorabilia as well as props and uniforms from the movie set. You’ll feel as inspired as you did when you first saw the film.
FRENCH LICK SCENIC RAILWAY MUSEUM, FRENCH LICK: Take the scenic route on a train ride from French Lick to Jasper and back. On the way, you’ll see the Hoosier National Forest, the 2,200-foot Burton Tunnel and Larry Bird’s boyhood home. The antique cars have been nicely restored, and there are a number of special event rides available year round.
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INDIANA WINE TRAIL, RIPLEY, MADISON AND SWITZERLAND COUNTIES: California has nothing on us. America’s first successful winery was established in southeast Indiana in 1807. The wine trail features six of Indiana’s finest wineries. You can check out the art gallery at Lanthier, dine at Ertel Cellars, and stay the night at the B&B at Madison Vineyards. Many of the wineries offer patio seating and live music as well. ROCKIN’ THUNDER JET BOAT RIDES, MADISON: Get the thrill of a lifetime on a jet boat ride on the Ohio River. Complete with 360-degree spins, sideway slides and fishtails, Rockin’ Thunder’s jet boats will quench your need for speed. For the less adventurous, you can take a scenic ride offering great views of local wildlife and sites.
Kit Picks “My husband and I love the Miller House, people from all over the world love to see it. It’s a great example of mid-century modern design.” — Kelly McVey, Publisher “Clifty Falls State Park is a must-see. I love to hike the waterfalls, and the campground is spacious and clean.” — Tracy Line, Writer “Butt Drugs in Corydon for the photo op alone.” — Amy Lynch, Writer “If you’re in Northwest Indiana, you have to go to the Original Root Beer Stand in Culver. It’s worth the calories of fried goodness, I promise you that!” — Ashlie Hartgraves, Creative Director “My family loves the 49-er Drive-In Theater in Valparaiso. It’s good old-fashioned family fun at its finest.” — Tracy Line, Writer “Cascades Trail in Bloomington is a pretty, pleasant, easy hike with lovely waterfalls.” — Erica Sagon, Fashion Stylist “At Fragrant Farms in New Harmony, the peonies, when in season, are lovely.” — Kelly McVey