Indiana Speedy to serene surroundings

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Between Evansville, Indiana, and Louisville, Kentucky, is a Cattail Valley farm with a Zen garden and walking trails (no longer selling herbs). Two roomy yurts share a deck and are flanked by fields and forest. Each is furnished with two double beds, a little refrigerator, a microwave, a hot/cold water dispenser, heat and AC, a CD player, and reading materials. Outside are an outhouse, a shower, and a campfire ring. Pay extra for time in the steamy, Japanese-style soaking tub. Rates include breakfast. maryroseherbfarm.com

Nearby
Splash through the theme park Holiday World, whose third water coaster—Cheetah Chase—opens this year. The park, which opened in 1946, is 15 miles southwest, in Santa Claus, where it’s Christmas all year.


Inside an unusual, earth-friendly monolithic dome (whose energy usage is far less than traditional architecture) are three homey accommodations with modern amenities. Decor for each is distinct: an edgy-rustic Pheasant Room, the wrought-iron-and-lace Victoria Room, and a spacious king-bed suite with a whirlpool tub. Rates include breakfast: Souffles, blintzes, popovers, and eggs Benedict are among the tasty possibilities. tymeforbed.com

Nearby
Celebrate Eastern European heritage during Pierogi Fest, July 24–26 in Whiting, 30 miles north. Add hiking at Indiana Dunes National Park, along Lake Michigan, or go 30 miles south for hearty comfort food at the Farmhouse Restaurant of Fair Oaks Farm—apps include cheese curds and a bacon sampler.


The racetrack’s infield turns into a cozy village—call it Glamptown—during Indy 500 week. Sleep on an air mattress (pillows, blanket provided) in a canvas tent that also contains a couple of chairs and tables. Flush toilets and private showers are nearby. Or book a sensibly appointed tiny house with its own shower/toilet, electricity, refrigerator, stovetop, sinks, and dining table. Plan early: All overnight packages, which include event tickets, for 2020 are sold. indianapolismotorspeedway.com

Nearby
Ride zip lines of Edge Adventures’ Koteewi Park. Swim with dolphins at Indianapolis Zoo. Challenges are numerous at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis; no museum for kids is bigger.

Photo courtesy Indianapolis, Flickr/Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari