We’re talking about a vacation this summer so we can plan ahead. My mother (who will pay for it) said she’d love to go to Yellowstone, but it looks like it’s about a 24-hour drive for us. Still, I like the idea of going to a national park. We’re in Indiana, so this image shows about the limits of where we’re willing to drive. Maybe 14-15 hours at most, which puts most of the ones in the image in range.

However-

• We’ve already been to Indiana Dunes and Gateway Arch.

• My daughter is scared of caves, so Mammoth Cave is out.

Out of the rest, which would you most recommend so I can suggest it to my mother?

Is there anything not in Indiana that is within this area that you think is more worth visiting than a national park that also would take a decent amount of time to visit and see different things? (Not a city, obviously.)

Any advice appreciated. Thanks!

  • Flying Squid@lemmy.worldOP
    4·
    11 months ago

    It’s looking the most promising right now just due to all the things to do in Gatlinburg as well. We can’t help it, we enjoy a good tourist trap.

    • A_Union_of_Kobolds@lemmy.world
      3·
      11 months ago

      Here’s another for the Smokies. I’m about an hour and change east of Gatlinburg, it’s a great area to spend a few days for sure. Dollywood is surprisingly awesome, the Aquarium is great, mountains like Clingman’s Dome are beautiful.

    • Nokinori@pawb.social
      3·
      11 months ago

      Adding to the smoky mountain suggestion, the Gatlinburg area has a lot of fun touristy places to go. I haven’t seen the Apple Barn mentioned yet, but they and Cruze Farms Ice cream are both top notch dessert places. And I’ll 2nd The Local Goat for some good food.

    • ℛ𝒶𝓋ℯ𝓃@pawb.social
      2·
      11 months ago

      +1 for the apple barn, definitely eat there while you’re in town! Like what cracker barrel should be if it was real food and actually good.