Life can be full of so many uncertainties and unknowns. This year in particular we are probably grappling with the desire to get away. Hit that reset button. Take that big, full breath we’ve all been craving since March.
Whether southern Indiana is your getaway travel destination or your staycation to unplug from your daily hustle, you can find views in SoIN that can give you just what you need. From rolling hills to the Ohio River, and extensive parks and nearby forests, it doesn’t take long to find a beautiful view!
To find each of these spots, we’ve created a map. Click on the map above and look for the number in parentheses to find the spot.
1. Sunrise, Sunset
There’s nothing like the sound of water that takes you to your inner zen for some deep, cleansing yogi breaths. The Ohio River boasts some of the best views of the region. From Duffy’s Landing (1), you can catch a beautiful sunrise while watching locals ease into the river to fish. The landing has access to the shore, so you can hop on a mat or a towel and sit for a meditation if you truly have time to reset.
On the other end of SoIN-sphere, you can take in a gorgeous sunset from the New Albany Amphitheater (2), watching the light fade behind the Sherman Minton bridge. If you wanted to add dinner to your peaceful evening, several restaurants with incredible patios are within walking distance, such as Floyd County Brewing Company, Pints&union, The Exchange, and more.
The afternoon sun looking west on the Big 4 Bridge (3), photo by Jamie Ogles Slye.
2. Skyline Views
Jeffersonville offers some of the best views of the Louisville skyline. There’s nothing like admiring the beauty of a city skyline but feeling removed from the fast pace. Look no further than the Falls of the Ohio (4), whose Devonian fossil beds are some of the oldest in the world. You can hear the rush of the waters by the dam, get a glimpse of wildlife through the family-friendly trails, and see a sunset from the deck of the park’s Interpretive Center. The Jeffersonville Overlook (5) proves to be a glorious view in any season, with downtown restaurants right off the water such as Harry's Tap House and Kitchen, Upland Jeffersonville and Cluckers. You can also get your steps in by walking the Big Four Bridge, which offers a 360-degree view of the waterfront on both the Indiana and Kentucky sides of the river.
Taken from the observation deck at the Falls of the Ohio State Park.
3. Country Roads
Floyds Knobs boasts incredible views overlooking both Southern Indiana and Louisville. You get that quiet feeling when you admire something almost too big to comprehend. Take State Street (6) to drive up to Floyds Knobs for a breathtaking view. The neighborhoods at the top of Spickert Knob Road (7) and on Skyline Drive (8) also have incredible views of the region.
Taken from Fairfield Inn parking lot off of State Street in New Albany.
4. Farm Life
For more of those country life views with incredible amenities fun for one or a whole family, check out Joe Huber’s Family Farm & Restaurant (9), where you can have lunch and then the little ones can go out by the ponds and feed the ducks. (Bring snacks – they count on it – or you can purchase some in the small vending machines by the patio.)
Just down the road from Joe Huber’s is Huber’s Orchard, Winery and Vineyards (10), where there are beautiful views of rolling hills and vineyards. While you’re there, you can check out the farmer’s market, a dairy shop with homemade cheese and ice cream, tour the winery or distillery and enjoy seasonal features like a Christmas tree farm or a pumpkin patch that comes with the sound of giggling kids. Some of the best views include the vineyards and the gorgeous pond.
Vineyards at Huber's Orchard and Winery.
5. Parks & Forests
Finally, don’t miss out on the range of beauty in SoIN parks. Charlestown State Park (11) has miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to rugged and access to the unique historical site Rose Island. Clark State Forest (12) features a fire tower/overlook with stunning views of the surrounding forest and lakes. This is one of the best views in the area. The forest also provides a trailhead to the Knobstone Trail, the longest trail in Indiana that many use as a training ground for the Appalachian Trail! There is also a trailhead at Deam Lake State Recreation Area (13).
For more spectacular views of the Ohio River and Indiana’s natural beauty, check out Clarksville’s Origin Park (14). The first amenities of this soon-to-be 450-acre public park are now open, including a canoe launch and a temporary trail winding through the woods.
Rose Island at Charlestown State Park.
