The Best Resorts to Book in Indiana

While it may take its name from a certain elegant, long-necked creature, the focus is firmly on birdies and eagles at the Swan Lake Resort. The 36 holes of golf here are in country-club condition – but you won’t have to pay the hefty membership fee that usually comes with pristine fairways. The golf theme runs through the resort, with fairway villas and houses, plus 90 hotel rooms that often come with views of the course.

Belterra had a rocky start – its opening was delayed when the riverboat that houses the casino collided with a barge on the way to Indiana and sank. Since then, however, things have gone swimmingly. The hotel that accompanies the casino boasts great dining options – including 19 Steak & Seafood and the Stadium Sports Bar & Grill. TVs are everywhere there, so you won’t miss a second of the action.

Just down the road from the University of Notre Dame – home of the famed Fighting Irish football team – Varsity Clubs Of America is a sports lover’s dream stay. In addition to the fun, sports-themed decor, you can show off your skills at the minigolf course, sports courts or billiard room. There’s also an outdoor grill area for raucous game-day barbecues.

The name of this resort in Indiana hints at the place where you’ll spend a lot of time after you arrive. New Harmony is about 3mi (5km) from Harmonie State Park, with its gorgeous swimming pool, picnic areas, ravines and pristine landscape. With a huge number of trails crisscrossing the park, it’s perfect for biking and nature hikes.

There are 27 acres (11ha) at Oakwood Resort for you to turn into your playground – including paved paths for jogging, a 1mi (1.6km) bike route and hiking trails. And thanks to the proximity of Lake Wawasee, you can also try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding, and hop on a pontoon boat. For the kids, there’s an arcade and a playground, plus a sandy beach with a pier.