The state of Indiana sits in the Great Lakes
region of America and it’s another one that’s often overlooked
by tourists, which is a big mistake as it has a variety of
things to offer. Indiana is home to about 6.5 million people,
which makes it the 16th largest state when it comes to
population. As far as size goes, it’s the 38th largest.
Indianapolis doubles as both the state capital and largest city
and other popular centers include Gary, Fort Wayne, Terre Haute,
Evansville, South Bend, Bloomington, Vincennes, and Marion.
Indiana became the 19th state admitted to the Union back in
1816.
It’s believed the area was first inhabited as
far back as 8000 BC and was later settled by Native Americans.
The Europeans came across the region in 1679. You can find some
interesting historical facts and exhibitions at Angel Mounds
State Historic Site near Evansville, as it’s one of the better
preserved ancient sites in country.
The landscape consists of plains, low hills,
farmland, valleys, streams, sand hills and dunes, lakes,
prairies, marshes, forests, and rivers. In fact, there are more
than 1,000 lakes in the state to enjoy for fishing, water
sports, and boating, etc. Being outdoors is quite pleasant as
Indiana is home to a humid continental climate. This produces
cool winters and warm summers.
When it comes to state parks and basking in the
great outdoors, there are quite a few to choose from. These
include Chain O' Lakes, Clifty Falls, Fort Harrison, Indiana
Dunes, Lincoln, O'Bannon Woods, Redbird State Riding Area,
Spring Mill, Summit Lake, Turkey Run, and Whitewater Memorial.
You’ll also enjoy the various nature preserves, state forests,
and fish and wildlife areas that Indiana has to offer.
There are quite a few festivals, concerts, and
events held during the summers and the Indiana State Fair is one
of the best. Other popular ones include the Amish Acres Arts &
Crafts Festival in Nappanee, the Indiana Steam & Gas Engine Show
in LaGrange, and the IndyFringe Theatre Festival in
Indianapolis.
There’s a pretty good highway system in place in
Indiana which makes driving pleasurable. The major international
airport is in Indianapolis and other main regional ones can be
found in Evansville, Fort Wayne, South Bend, and Gary. Depending
on the area you’re going to, Chicago and Louisville, Kentucky
can be used as your flying destinations too as they’re close to
parts of Indiana. There are also a lot of smaller community
airports around the state. You can also get to Indiana and buzz
around the state by train as there’s a pretty good rail network
in place. Half of the state borders on water, but the ports are
generally used for industrial shipping.
You’ll find all types of lodging available
throughout the state that suits every budget and the same goes
for restaurants. For sports lover’s, you’ll find the
Indianapolis Colts of the NFL and the Indiana Pacers of the NBA
entertaining the fans. And of course, the world-famous
Indianapolis 500 motorsports race is held there every year. In
fact, with 250,000 fans, it’s generally considered to be the
largest single-day sports event on the planet. College sports
are also pretty popular with the locals and there are numerous
minor league teams in action throughout the state.
Indiana is a state that shouldn’t be missed as
it offers a lot to visitors of all ages with its fantastic
combination of outdoor activities and events along with city
life and scenery.
About Indiana