Offbeat destinations: discover more at enjoyindiana.com.

• Author: Cole, Stacy
• Position: Tourism - Brief Article

Indiana is home to some tourist destinations recognized across the country, or even further. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, for example, regularly wins national honors, and people travel from around the world to visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. But Indiana tourism lures also include one-of-a-kind museums, unusual state parks and other quirky venues.

"We have a lot of surprises and a lot of diversity," says Cheri Wagner, public-relations manager for the Indiana Tourism Division.

Our survey of just a few of Indiana's "surprises" provides some lesser-known options for your next getaway.

MUSEUMS

The John Dillinger Museum in Hammond offers guests not only an opportunity to learn about the famous bank robber, but also to experience hands-on exhibits on Prohibition, Babe Ruth and the creation of the FBI. The museum, open year-round, offers discounted admission for seniors and children 12 and under.

Movie buffs and rebels alike will enjoy the James Dean Memorial Gallery in his hometown of Fairmount. The seven-room exhibit offers visitors a look into the life of the movie icon, showing his clothing, film clips, school papers and even the lease to his last place of residence. Dean's artwork is also exhibited, along with memorabilia dedicated to the actor, in the restored Victorian home.

Both children and adults get hands-on fun and learning at Science Central in Fort Wayne. The interactive exhibits are housed within the former City Power and Light plant, which has been transformed into a bustling science center. Interactive exhibits range from creating electricity to moon walking, and the whole family can participate.

Visitors can learn about the history of the circus, meet some wild animals and even catch a performance at the International Circus Hall of Fame in Peru. Originally founded in 1857, the hall of fame moved to Indiana from Florida in 1981. From the end of June through the beginning of August, guests can attend a show at the 500-seat Big Top Circus, then go on to see the elephants, horses and other exotic animals. The hall of fame also displays a huge collection of circus relics.

HISTORICAL

Grouseland in Vincennes, the first brick building in the city, was home to President William Henry Harrison during his time as governor of the Indiana territory. The house, named in honor of Harrison's favorite hunting bird, has been restored to look true to its time period--the early 1800s. A bullet hole through the dining-room window...