Have you been scouring Mother’s Day gift guides and coming up empty-handed? Show your Mom how much you care by giving her a gift she’ll talk about for years: Quality time. Planning a little getaway is the perfect way to bond, make memories, and do something new together. And the best part is you don’t have to go far or do a lot of planning (*cough, cough, keep reading) to make it happen! Whether you and mom need some spa time, a reconnect with nature, or to hit the shops, we have the Mother’s Day trip for you:
1. Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
2.5 hours
Who doesn’t love a little Christmas cheer all year-round? This is a great family-friendly day trip with rides for all ages and an on-site waterpark with a wave pool and water rides. Special just for summer visits (June 2–Aug. 3), Holidays in the Sky is a drone and fireworks show that’ll add an extra spark to your trip. You can also get special deals (like early waterpark entry) if you book an overnight stay at Santa’s Cottages.
2. French Lick
2 hours
If you’re wanting to feel far away without all of the travel hassle and expenses,
then this is your spot. Treat yourself by staying at French Lick Resort, where you can
enjoy the spa, live music, outdoor pools, and the casino. It’s pet-friendly and there’s lots
to do for the kiddos too!
One of the best-kept secrets is Wilstem Wildlife Park. Skip the zoo and get up close and
personal with sloths, kangaroos, giraffes, and more. Your kids will go crazy for the
Wildlife and Dino Safari, where they can feed the animals straight from your car (from
personal experience here, the animals will follow your car and stick their heads straight
in–especially the emus, so beware!)
Looking to stay lakeside on a hot day? Patoka Lake checks all of the summer boxes off
With kayaking, swimming spots, and pontoon boat rentals.
3. Hidden Paradise
1 hour
Located in a quarry, this 80 acre campground is a true hidden gem. Nothing gives Summer camp vibes quite like giant lake inflatables, paddleboating, kayaking and cliff jumping. Surrounded by scenic woods and natural beauty, it’s the perfect Indiana escape for adventure seekers and summer travelers.
4. Westfield
30 minutes
If you’ve been by Westfield lately, you’ve probably noticed that it continues to boom with new development and businesses. For the dog pawrents out there, Crate Escapes is the perfect place to unwind and let your pup run free. There’s a massive outdoor area for your dog to get all the zoomies out while you unwind with a drink in hand (they have coffee and mocktails for those who don’t drink).
Westfield Collective just opened on 4 acres next to Grand Park and offers 6 restaurants, multiple bar options, indoor golf simulators and beach volleyball. This is sure to be THE destination for food and fun in Westfield.
5. Vincennes
2 hours
Nestled along the bank of the Wabash River, Vincennes blends small-town charm with deep historical roots as Indiana’s oldest city. From historical landmarks to cozy local cafés and riverfront views, it’s an easy weekend trip packed with culture, history, and laid-back charm. Check out VisitVincennes to see all of their upcoming events.
6. Shades State Park
1 hour
Just an hour outside of Indy and a short drive from Pine Hills Nature Reserve and Turkey Run, you’ll find Shades State Park. Whether you like to hike, camp or canoe down Sugar Creek, this spot offers no shortage of beautiful scenery and fun adventures.
7. Marengo Cave
2.25 hours
When’s the best time to stay cool and underground? Summertime! This U.S. National Landmark is a unique attraction for the adventurers in your family. Take a cave tour through Crystal Palace or the Dripstone Trail, then enjoy some of the attractions on the property like the Mega Maze, Mini Glow Putt Putt, and camping.
8. Holliday Park
Local
Looking for something unique to do without leaving town? Holliday Park is 94 acres of outdoor fun this summer! They have 3.5 miles of trails, playgrounds, a nature center, access to the White River and Ruins to explore. Check out their Rock the Ruins concert series, which brings bands to play at Holliday Park throughout the Summer.
9. Brown County
1 hour
A charming downtown with local shops, hiking, and yummy cocktails – what more could you want? Couples and girl groups will have a blast at Hard Truth Distillery Co. Take a mixology class, learn about the distillery on an ATV tour, and watch bands battle it out during Rumble on the Rocks.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, but need more of a glamping experience, we loved staying in the Postcard Cabins.
10. Geist Waterfront Park
35 minutes
Who needs a beach day?! This public waterfront park is free to Fishers residents ($25 vehicle fee during peak hours) and has a large playground and kayak and paddleboard rentals.
About Sippin’ SangriaÂ
Caroline and Lexa are a traveling duo who have visited several local, U.S., and international destinations together. Through these adventures, they’ve learned the ins and outs of traveling with friends and love connecting with other female travelers. When they’re not booking their next flight, Lexa and Caroline plan trips – honeymoons, girlfriend getaways, weekend trips, etc. Find them at www.sippinsangria.com.
Support Local Journalism
Get the good stuff. Stay in the loop. to our weekly newsletter and join 5,500+ savvy locals getting event recs, insider tips, and exclusive content—like our must-have guide to Indy’s summer hidden gems. Sign up here.
