Indiana – Eloray

Indianapolis 500 Speedway (Zach Catanzareti Photo, Wikimedia CCA 2.0)

Let’s Visit Indiana

Join our virtual tour highlighting the top tourist attactions adventures in Indiana
For an overview of the state, see: National Geographic Kids. Indiana

Highlights

Let’s learn more about some fascinating places worth seeing in Indiana.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway (Indianapolis) is famous for hosting the Indianapolis 500, one of the most prestigious car races in the world, and the largest single-day sporting event.
Indiana Dunes National Park (Chesterton) is known for its stunning sand dunes along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, offering hiking trails, beaches, and diverse wildlife.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (Indianapolis) is the largest children’s museum in the world, featuring interactive exhibits on science, culture, and history that appeal to visitors of all ages.
Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari (Santa Claus) is famous for being the first theme park in the world and offering award-winning roller coasters and one of the best water parks in the country.
Indianapolis Zoo (Indianapolis) is known for its conservation efforts and unique exhibits, including a dolphin pavilion and one of the largest orangutan centers in the world.
West Baden Springs Hotel (West Baden Springs) is renowned for its grand architecture and historic dome, once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World. The luxurious hotel is a National Historic Landmark.
Notre Dame University (South Bend) is famous for its prestigious academic programs and iconic landmarks like the Golden Dome and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, drawing visitors from around the world.
Connor Prairie Interactive History Park (Fishers) is known for offering immersive, hands-on experiences that bring Indiana’s history to life, including reenactments of 19th-century pioneer life and Civil War events.
White River State Park (Indianapolis) is a cultural and recreational hub featuring museums, a zoo, and scenic walking trails along the White River, making it a top destination for outdoor activities and entertainment.
French Lick Resort (French Lick) is famous for its historic luxury hotels, golf courses, and spas. It’s also known for being the hometown of basketball legend Larry Bird and for its scenic railway tours.

Intriguing mysteries and weird facts

Discover these little-known facts about Indiana.

Indiana Is the Birthplace of the First Professional Baseball Game
In 1871, Fort Wayne, Indiana, hosted the very first professional baseball game, making the state a key part of baseball history.
Santa Claus, Indiana, Receives Thousands of Letters Every Year
The town of Santa Claus, Indiana, gets over 500,000 letters from kids worldwide during Christmas, and volunteers respond to many of them. The town has embraced its festive name with attractions like Holiday World.
The World’s Largest Ball of Paint Is in Indiana
Located in Alexandria, Indiana, this odd attraction started as a baseball covered in layers of paint. It now weighs over 4,000 pounds and has thousands of coats of paint, making it a quirky roadside stop.
The Indianapolis 500 Is the Largest Single-Day Sporting Event
Held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Indy 500 attracts over 300,000 spectators each year, making it the largest single-day sporting event in the world.
Indiana Is Home to the World’s First Theme Park
Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana, was the first-ever theme park when it opened in 1946. It was originally called Santa Claus Land and is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere.
There’s a Town Called Popcorn
Yes, there’s a small town in Indiana named Popcorn. While it’s not famous for growing popcorn, the quirky name makes it stand out and gives it a fun charm.
Orville Redenbacher, the Famous Popcorn King, Is from Indiana
Orville Redenbacher, the man behind the popular brand of popcorn, was born and raised in Brazil, Indiana. His name is synonymous with popcorn, and his brand is still a favorite snack across the U.S.
James Dean Was Born in Indiana
The iconic actor James Dean, known for his rebellious roles in the 1950s, was born in Marion, Indiana. His legacy continues to inspire generations of teens.
Indiana’s State Insect Is the Firefly
The firefly, known for its glowing light, is the official state insect of Indiana. It was chosen because of its magical summer presence, especially in rural areas.
Culver’s Military Academy Inspired Star Wars
George Lucas, creator of Star Wars, reportedly used Culver Military Academy, located in Culver, Indiana, as inspiration for the Jedi Academy. Its military uniforms and training programs influenced the design of the Jedi’s costumes.

Notable People

Here are 10 famous men and women from Indiana.

Famous Men

James Dean (1931–1955) was born in Marion, Indiana, and became an iconic actor known for his roles in Rebel Without a Cause and East of Eden. His tragic death at a young age cemented his status as a cultural icon of youthful rebellion.
Larry Bird (1956– ) was born in West Baden Springs, Indiana, and is regarded as one of the greatest basketball players in history. He led the Boston Celtics to three NBA championships and is known for his fierce rivalry with Magic Johnson.
Michael Jackson (1958–2009) was born in Gary, Indiana, and became the King of Pop. He is famous for his groundbreaking music, including hits like Thriller, Billie Jean, and Beat It, and for revolutionizing the music industry.
David Letterman (1947– ) was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, and is a famous comedian and television host. He is best known for hosting Late Night with David Letterman, which became one of the most influential talk shows in late-night TV.
Orville Redenbacher (1907–1995) was born in Brazil, Indiana, and became famous as a popcorn entrepreneur. His brand, Orville Redenbacher’s, became one of the most recognizable names in popcorn, known for its superior quality.

Famous Women

Janet Jackson (1966– ) was born in Gary, Indiana, and is a famous singer, songwriter, and actress. She became a pop icon with hits like Rhythm Nation and Control, and her influence spans several decades in the music industry.
Vivica A. Fox (1964– ) was born in South Bend, Indiana, and is a well-known actress and producer. She is famous for her roles in films like Independence Day and Kill Bill, as well as her work on television.
Shelley Long (1949– ) was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and is an actress best known for her role as Diane Chambers on the hit TV show Cheers, which earned her multiple awards and nominations.
Carole Lombard (1908–1942) was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and became a leading actress in Hollywood during the 1930s. She was famous for her roles in screwball comedies like My Man Godfrey and for her marriage to Clark Gable.
Florence Henderson (1934–2016) was born in Dale, Indiana, and became famous for playing Carol Brady on The Brady Bunch. She was one of the most beloved TV moms in American television history.