3 Weekend Getaways Near Indianapolis

Columbus, Indiana: 44 miles south of Indianapolis Two-hour bus and walking tours highlight Columbus' striking architecture, including buildings by Eliel Saarinen, his son Eero Saarinen, I.M. Pei and other noted architects. (At left, visitors view Eliel Saarinen's First Christian Church and Henry Moore's Large Arch sculpture.) The hip Hotel Indigo downtown perfectly complements the city's modernist spirit, and local restaurants hold progressive dinners and other special events. (800) 468-6564; columbus.in.us

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Winona Lake, Indiana: 120 miles north of Indianapolis This seen-better-days resort town is, well, seeing better days. Rehabbed houses along a European-style canal hold a handful of shops and galleries. Two pretty, art-filled parks beg for strolls or picnics, and on the lake, the luxe Blue Heron Guest House offers stunning lake views. (574) 268-9888; villageatwinona.com