While the annual Indy 500 race sees some seriously fast-paced action, the state ticks along at a much slower speed the rest of the year. It may not be the biggest state, but it's still worth picking your Indiana vacation rental wisely. Staying to the north gives you easy access to the wildlife-rich dunes and waters of Lake Michigan. If you pick somewhere further south, you'll have a maze of underground caverns and waterways to kayak. Either way, you can listen to the sounds of bluegrass and receive a warm Indiana welcome when you arrive.
Indiana has an array of historic sites to delight the history buff. Vacation rentals are available near places like Conner Prairie, a recreated 19th-century village that showcases Indiana’s past with interactive exhibits, and the Indiana State Museum, a museum with a rich mix of exhibits on natural and human history. You'll also like the Eiteljorg Museum, a museum with exhibits on the art and culture of the American West.
It's impossible to mention Indiana without talking about the Indy 500. The state's biggest date in the calendar sees racers drive 500 miles in what is the world's biggest, single-day, sporting event. If you plan to visit at this time, you're going to need to book up your Indiana vacation rental as early as possible. Outside the race, the state isn't short on attractions. Expect world-class museums, fascinating art galleries and summer concerts to boot, not to mention a ton of plazas and memorials like Monument Circle, which remember the country's veterans.
You'll need to pack a few essentials if you plan to head to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Be sure not to forget your hiking shoes for the trails, swimming gear to splash around in Lake Michigan and binoculars to look out for the diverse wildlife in the marshes. When you stay in an Indiana vacation rental, these aren't the only place for outdoor fun, though. For equestrian trails, some of the best fishing in the state and kayaking routes along the rivers, try the Turkey Run State Park. You may also want to consider bringing your mountain bike, there are plenty of spots to ride wherever you stay.
Like much of the US, the summer is the most popular time to book up an Indiana vacation rental. It's true that the state sees the hottest weather between June and August, but the influx of crowds isn't for everyone. For lower prices on rentals and a more comfortable climate, try fall when the leaves turn a kaleidoscope of colors and the hiking trails aren't half as busy. Pack warm clothes if you're planning to visit in winter – it can often drop below freezing. That said, you can pick up some serious bargains on rentals and the landscape is arguably at its most scenic.
While the best you'll find in Indianapolis is the odd backyard critter, stay in one of the rural Indiana vacation rentals and you won't be disappointed by the state's fauna offering. It would be impossible to list every beast in Indiana here, but look out for white-tailed bears and solitary black bears. If you're lucky, you may see a meandering American badger or one of the beautiful river otters. They're not all big though. You'll need to keep your eyes peeled if you're going to see little eastern cottontails or ground squirrels rustling around on the forest floor.
Fly into Indianapolis Intl. Airport (IND), the closest airport, located 39.2 mi (63 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could book a flight to Muncie, IN (MIE-Delaware County), which is 39.5 mi (63.5 km) away.
If you're traveling by train, Indianapolis Station, Lafayette Station and Crawfordsville Station are the main stations in the city.
Indiana shares many of the Midwestern food traditions of the region, such as the cuisines of Europe and Native North America. Midwestern food focuses on simple and hearty dishes with locally grown foods, though Indiana is known for its sugar cream pie, persimmon pudding, beef and noodles, and frog legs. If you want to experience the unique culinary culture of Indiana, visit a restaurant near your vacation accommodation.
You need only take a peek inside Vrbo's tiny house vacation rentals in Indiana to realize that great things really do come in tiny packages. Efficiently designed to make use of every square inch of space, these mini wonders promise a big vacation experience:
Often set in secluded natural locations, log cabins offer a cozy retreat from the hustle and bustle of life. If you're ready to switch off and relax for a while, have a look at these log cabins to rent in Indiana:
Give these vacation rentals a gold medal! The following weekend getaways in Indiana have all received high praise from our very happy guests:
Easy to keep clean and tidy and with everything you need at arm's reach, studio apartments are a fantastic choice if you're traveling by yourself or with a partner. If you're searching for somewhere small and comfortable to call home for a few days, take a look at these studio apartments for rent in Indiana:
Yes, so you can forget about bunking down in a dull hotel or sleeping in someone's spare room. Go for one of our short-term rentals in Indiana and enjoy the perks of having your own private space. Here are two options to inspire you:
A romantic weekend getaway in Indiana is sure to fan the flames of passion. Light some pretty candles, take your sweetie by the hand and get set to send sparks flying at one of these retreats:
With space, character and plenty of style, mansions offer a taste of something very special. If you think your entire crew deserves a taste of the high life, invite them to stay at one of these mansions for rent in Indiana:
Planning a vacation in Indiana with a huge group doesn't have to mean squishing everyone into a confined space. If you're after someplace comfy where you and your guests can spread out, one of these large vacation rentals might suit you perfectly:
In Indiana, there are plenty of house rentals where every day can be a pool day. Having a splashing great time will be your only priority at one of these sought-after getaways:
Maybe you're organizing a getaway to celebrate a special event, or reuniting with the folks you haven't seen for months. Whatever the reason, you'll likely need lots of space. One of these large family vacation rentals in Indiana might be exactly what you're after: