If you live in Indiana or are in the state on vacation, don’t let the opportunity pass you by to plan a romantic weekend for you and your spouse. While Indiana is far from being considered the most romantic state, it has plenty to offer loved-up couples looking to reignite their spark. If you’re stuck for ideas, here are a few to add to your list:
Romantic Couples Accommodation
No trip away is complete without quality accommodations. Since you’re planning an extra-special trip, find a form of accommodation that directly accommodates couples. For example, you might find a provider offering weekend cabin getaways with tubs, fireplaces, scenic views, and idyllic settings.
Some accommodation providers go one step further by offering packages that include breakfast, snacks, robes, and even champagne. Once you’ve chosen the best couples’ hotel, motel, or cabin to stay in, you can plan other romantic activities and events around it.
Escape into Nature
Nature has a way of bringing people closer together. There’s nothing but you, the person you love, and the breathtaking beauty of your natural surroundings. It doesn’t get much better than that.
Fortunately, Indiana has no shortage of spectacular natural attractions and settings to capture your attention. Many of them are perfect for picnics and short walks! Walk hand-in-hand on the shores of Indiana Dunes National Park or chase waterfalls at Clifty Falls State Park. If you plan on adding a hike to your nature adventure list, don’t forget to plan for all weather conditions.
Attend a Show or Live Music Event
If you and your spouse share a love of entertainment or music, browse local Indiana event guides to see if there are any shows or live music events in your area. The Indiana Repertory Theatre regularly hosts performances, while downtown Indianapolis is a hive of live jazz and acoustic sets. Depending on when you visit, there might also be plenty of outdoor concerts to choose from.
Stroll through Charming Downtowns
While small towns may not seem like the best choice for a romantic getaway, they have more to offer than you think. Their easygoing, intimate vibe is perfect for couples! You can easily spend hours going for slow walks, engaging in spontaneous conversations, and discovering charming little cafes.
Venture into the arts and design district of Carmel, a small suburban city of nearly 100,000 people. With plenty of galleries and wine bars, it’s an art lover’s dream. If you find yourself in Madison, stroll along the Ohio River to watch the sun set. The artisan shops in Nashville, Brown County, are also sure to pique your interest.
Indulge in Wine and Local Cuisine
Grapes and wine are big business in Indiana. According to the Indiana Wine Grape Council, the Indiana wine industry contributes more than $2.4 billion to the state’s economy. Therefore, it’s a no-brainer that exploring Indiana with your spouse can involve sipping wine in a scenic setting!
There are over 100 wineries throughout the state worthy of visiting. Oliver Winery in Bloomington is the oldest and largest in the state, while Huber’s Orchard & Winery is a significant producer. If you’re interested in experiencing the best of the state, there are many prominent wine trails, including the Indiana Uplands Wine Trail and the Indiana Wine Trail in the southeast.
Don’t be afraid to pair the state’s best bottles with fresh, local cuisine. Midwestern comfort food is at the fore, including the famous breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, Hoosier sugar cream pie, and fried biscuits with apple butter.
Take Scenic Drives
It’s not always about the destination; it’s also about the journey. While you can certainly have plenty of activities on your itinerary, there can be value in simply driving routes that offer spectacular beauty and opportunities for connection.
For example, the vibrant fall foliage makes cruising through Brown County a must. If you desire peaceful river views while engaging in meaningful conversations, don’t look past travels along the Ohio River Scenic Byway. For a more peaceful, secluded journey, the quiet, wooded beauty of Hoosier National Forest will certainly appeal. Located in the hills of south central Indiana, the back-country trails, rural crossroad communities, and rolling hills make it a worthwhile journey and destination.
Go Stargazing
If you’re looking for low-cost activities to enjoy with your spouse, stargazing can be at the top of the list once night falls. After all, there are few things as quietly powerful as lying under the stars together.
Lakeside stargazing after sunset at the Indiana Dunes National Park is nothing short of romantic, and the National Park Service provides helpful tips for the best ways to maximize your experience, particularly at Kemil Beach. However, you can also find a secluded clearing in Hoosier National Forest, as it’s a recognized dark sky location in the state.
If you’re looking for something truly special to do in Indiana with your spouse, you’re certainly not short of options. Explore small towns, get out in nature, stay in unique accommodations, and take scenic drives. You’re bound to enjoy a fulfilling getaway that’s memorable for all the right reasons.
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Cover image Photo by Benjamin Wedemeyer on Unsplash
