Go as a Family
Family-Friendly Getaway in Montgomery County, Indiana
Family trips are about the moments kids remember long after the weekend ends. The first hike through a forest trail. Skipping rocks across a creek. Sharing pizza after a full day outdoors.
In Montgomery County, families will find the kind of adventures that bring everyone together. Scenic parks, historic landmarks, and welcoming local restaurants create the perfect setting for a weekend that balances exploration with relaxation. From sandstone canyons to covered bridges, every stop offers a chance to slow down, step outside, and experience Indiana’s natural beauty.
Whether you’re traveling with curious explorers or energetic outdoor adventurers, this family-friendly getaway is designed for memorable moments at every turn.
Where to Stay
Relax in Nature at Sugar Creek Retreat
Settle into a peaceful home base at Sugar Creek Retreat, a nature-filled getaway that gives families space to relax while staying close to Montgomery County’s best outdoor attractions.
Surrounded by trees and open skies, the retreat offers the quiet comfort of a countryside escape. Kids can explore the yard, parents can unwind on the porch, and everyone can enjoy the slower pace that comes with being tucked into nature.
After a day of adventure, it’s the perfect place to recharge before tomorrow’s discoveries.
Friday Evening: Casual Dining & Scenic Views
Friday Evening
After arriving in Montgomery County, ease into the weekend with a relaxed evening that blends great food with the beauty of the outdoors.
Dinner at Wildfire Pizza
Kick off the weekend with handcrafted pizza and family-friendly favorites at Wildfire Pizza. The relaxed atmosphere makes it an easy first stop after a day of travel.
Order a few pies for the table and let everyone share slices while talking about the adventures ahead. It’s casual, comforting, and exactly the kind of meal that sets the tone for a laid-back family getaway.
Night Walk at Pine Hills Nature Preserve
As the evening settles in, head to Pine Hills Nature Preserve for a peaceful walk through one of Montgomery County’s most beautiful landscapes.
Wooded trails wind along dramatic sandstone ridges and overlook quiet forest valleys. The preserve is known for its striking formation called the “Devil’s Backbone,” where narrow ridgelines create incredible views of the surrounding terrain.
An evening walk here feels adventurous yet calming. As daylight fades and the forest grows quieter, families can experience the magic of nature at dusk.
Saturday: Outdoor Adventure & Local Flavor
Saturday is all about getting outside and exploring some of Montgomery County’s most scenic places.
Saturday Morning
Breakfast at The Cozy Corner
Start the day with a hearty breakfast at The Cozy Corner in nearby Waveland. This beloved local diner is known for classic comfort dishes and friendly service that makes visitors feel right at home.
From fluffy pancakes to savory breakfast plates, the menu offers plenty of options to fuel up before hitting the trails.
Hiking at Shades State Park
After breakfast, head to Shades State Park for one of Indiana’s most scenic outdoor adventures.
Often called the quieter sister park to nearby Turkey Run, Shades offers rugged ravines, winding trails, and breathtaking overlooks of Sugar Creek. Families can choose from a variety of hikes, from easier forest paths to more adventurous routes that include ladders, rock steps, and canyon passages.
The park’s natural beauty makes every step feel like discovery. Kids can spot wildlife along the trails while parents enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
Saturday Midday
Picnic Lunch in the Park
After a morning of hiking, take a well-earned break with a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.
Find a shady spot along Sugar Creek or settle into one of the park’s scenic picnic areas. With birds overhead and the sound of flowing water nearby, lunch outdoors becomes part of the adventure.
It’s the kind of simple moment that often becomes a favorite family memory.
Saturday Afternoon
Explore Deer’s Mill Covered Bridge
Continue the afternoon with a visit to the charming Deer’s Mill Covered Bridge, one of the region’s most picturesque historic landmarks.
Built in the 1800s, the bridge spans a quiet creek and offers a glimpse into Indiana’s past. Families can wander the area, skip rocks in the water, and enjoy the peaceful countryside setting.
It’s a perfect stop for photos and for giving kids a little time to explore before heading back into town.
Saturday Evening
Dinner at Blue Cactus Tacos & Tequila Bar
After a full day outdoors, wrap up the evening with dinner at Blue Cactus Tacos & Tequila Bar. This lively restaurant serves flavorful street tacos, fresh ingredients, and vibrant dishes that the whole family can enjoy. The upbeat atmosphere makes it a fun way to celebrate the day’s adventures together.
Adventure, Discovery, and Family Time
In Montgomery County, family travel is about shared experiences.
A trail climbed together. A creek explored stone by stone. A meal that tastes even better after a day outdoors.
From scenic parks to welcoming local restaurants, the region offers families the chance to reconnect with nature and each other. It’s the kind of destination where adventure feels accessible, the pace feels relaxed, and the memories come naturally.
For families looking to unplug, explore, and spend meaningful time together, Montgomery County offers the perfect weekend escape.
You Might Also Like
If your family still has energy for a little more exploring, these local attractions offer fun and educational experiences for all ages:
Rotary Jail Museum
One of the last remaining rotary jails in the United States, this fascinating historic site lets visitors see the unique rotating cell block system that made the jail famous.
Carnegie Museum of Montgomery County
Housed in a beautiful historic Carnegie library building, this museum features engaging exhibits on local history, archaeology, and the people who helped shape the region.
Pike Place
A welcoming downtown gathering space where families can relax, enjoy public art, and occasionally catch seasonal events or live entertainment.
Whether your family prefers exploring museums, discovering local history, or simply enjoying time together outdoors, Montgomery County offers plenty of ways to keep the adventure going.
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