Because fun doesn’t stop when school starts!

Just because the school bell has started ringing again doesn’t mean the fun of summer has to end! In fact, weekend adventures close to home can be the perfect way to keep young minds active, families connected, and the spirit of summer alive — all without the stress (or cost) of a big vacation.

That’s the beauty of exploring Southern Indiana.

Why Plan Weekend Trips After School Starts?

1. Keep Kids Curious
Let’s be honest — after a full week of lessons and homework, most kids are ready to swap their textbooks for something a little more exciting. Weekend day trips and short getaways are a fantastic way to keep their curiosity alive. Whether it’s walking through a cave, learning local history, or exploring the outdoors, these moments spark imagination and connect classroom learning to the real world.

2. Reconnect as a Family
The back-to-school schedule can be a whirlwind of bus rides, practices, and packed lunches. Weekend road trips give families the chance to slow down, unplug, and spend quality time together. No screens. No alarms. Just memories waiting to be made.

3. It’s Close, It’s Easy, and It’s Budget-Friendly
With gas prices and time constraints, planning a weekend getaway might sound like a tall order — but Southern Indiana is full of hidden gems just a short drive away. You don’t need a week off work or a plane ticket to enjoy something new. Most destinations in the region are within one to two hours of home, meaning more time exploring and less time traveling.

Weekend Ideas to Keep Kids Engaged

Here are just a few of the amazing, family-friendly destinations to check out in Southern Indiana this fall. Click the 

Have some water fun while doing good  – Paddle Perry, Inc. made a splash in 2019 as a new nonprofit in Perry County, IN with the mission to paddle the waterways of Southern Indiana for fitness and fun, while educating about water safety and conservation. You’ll need to contact them for more information.

Visit a Cave – There are six caves, all different but just as amazing. Put all 6 names on slips of paper and select one out to choose your day trip. Learn more about the caves here.

Get out and move! – Hemlock Falls is a super cool hidden gem! It’s centrally located in southern Indiana so its a quick trip from anywhere. Hike, picnic and explore!

 

Make the Most of It

To make weekend trips easy and stress-free:

  • Pack light – Just the essentials (snacks, jackets, and curiosity).

  • Keep a “local adventure list” – Let each family member add a nearby place they’d like to visit.

  • Plan ahead – Check for seasonal events, tour times, or reservation requirements.

  • Don’t overschedule – The goal is fun, not another checklist.

Your Backyard Is Full of Adventures

You don’t have to go far to make big memories. Southern Indiana is packed with fun, affordable, and educational experiences that help keep the joy of summer alive — even with homework in the mix. So pack up the car this weekend and head out. The road’s calling, and it’s not far at all.

Explore close. Learn more. Laugh often. That’s the magic of Southern Indiana.