French Lick Resort Casino
French Lick

Millions of dollars spent on renovations, mineral springs known for their healing powers, and "nostalgic accommodations with world-class amenities" make this resort "the spot of many memory-making visits." The two-hour drive from Indianapolis shows off the natural beauty of each season, and once guests arrive they can "stroll shaded walkways amid lush gardens of colorful flowers." Originally opened in 1845, a visit here is a little like "going back in time," yet with all the modern-day amenities, plus a European spa where you can svisit the famous gazebo housing the Pluto mineral springs. Read more.

DC's Country Junction and Zoo
Lowell

You don't have to be a twinkle-toes to enjoy a twirl around the dance floor at this country music haven, where you'll find a live country band and a dance floor for line dancing. This is where a "younger crowd" (20s to 30s) comes to hang out among the haystacks, cheerily singing tears into their beers and warbling along with the broken hearts of the musicians on stage. There is also a bar and grill where you can cook your own burgers exactly how you like it. And if you don't know how to do the "achy, breaky heart," then come Saturday evening at 7:30 when you get a free dance lesson with your paid admission price. Read more.

Historic New Harmony
New Harmony

You can end your search for utopia right here. Set on the banks of the Wabash River, this small town was initially set up to be a fully functioning communal-living society, and today's traveler will find "several points of interest" mixed among the early 19th-century buildings and single traffic light. Located just 30 minutes from Evansville, the idea behind the town was to create a perfect society. While you're here, check out the quaint downtown with a fun saloon called the Yellow Tavern. Then, explore the "roofless church, labyrinth, wonderful theatre, gardens, and sculptures". Read more.

Mom and Pop's Cone Corner
New Albany

"You've never seen anything like the menu" at this little ice cream stand where you can enjoy your sundae or milkshake "on the lawn under the trees" or in one of the wooden picnic gazebos. Be sure to budget your time wisely, as patrons say it "takes a good 10 minutes just to read the menu, and another 10 to make up your mind." The ice cream concoctions usually bear creative names. For example, "Don't Throw the Baby Out With the Bathwater" is a "five-scoop behemoth with every imaginable topping." This is always a "favorite summer eatery" filled with treats for everyone.

Restaurant Tallent
Bloomington

Midwest and old-world flavors mingle at this restaurant owned and operated by two Bloomingtonians who trained at the Culinary Institute of America. The "haute cuisine" is "worthy of a spot in New York City," but it's all made with "quality local ingredients." The restaurant staff works closely with local farmers and artisan food producers, resulting in an "inventive menu" that changes by the season. A recent fall menu, for example, featured Indiana duck breast with butternut squash risotto and Great Lakes walleye with carrot gnocchi. Be sure to leave room for the desserts. Read more.