Indiana Travel Advisory: What You Need to Know Before You Go

I. Introduction

Indiana, known as Hoosier State, is a popular travel destination for tourists seeking a mix of history, outdoor activities, and urban adventures. From Indianapolis, the state’s capital and largest city, to the dunes along Lake Michigan and the rolling hills of Southern Indiana, there’s no shortage of attractions to explore.

However, before planning your trip to Indiana, it’s important to understand the state’s travel advisory system and any current restrictions or guidelines that may affect your travel plans.

II. Understanding the Indiana Travel Advisory System

The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) issues travel advisories to help residents and visitors stay informed about potential health and safety risks. The advisory system is colour-coded and based on the level of COVID-19 spread in each county:

• Blue: Minimal to no community spread
• Yellow: Moderate community spread
• Orange: High community spread
• Red: Very high community spread

The advisory level for each county is updated every Wednesday and based on two key metrics: weekly cases per 100,000 residents and percent positivity rate.

III. Current Indiana Travel Advisory

As of March 24, 2023, the following counties in Indiana have a travel advisory level:

• Blue: None
• Yellow: Adams, Allen, Blackford, Cass, DeKalb, Delaware, Grant, Huntington, Jay, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Madison, Marion, Miami, Noble, Randolph, Steuben, Wabash, Wells, Whitley
• Orange: Elkhart, Floyd, Lake, LaPorte, Porter, St. Joseph, Tippecanoe, Vanderburgh
• Red: Marion

It’s important to note that while a travel advisory may indicate the level of COVID-19 spread in a particular county, it does not necessarily mean travel is restricted or prohibited. However, travelers should take extra precautions and follow recommended guidelines to protect themselves and others.

IV. Travel Tips for Indiana

If you’re planning a trip to Indiana, there are several things you can do to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

1. Check the travel advisory: Before departing, check the travel advisory for the counties you plan to visit. If you’re traveling from out of state, also check your home state’s travel restrictions and quarantine requirements.
2. Get vaccinated: If you’re eligible, consider getting vaccinated against COVID-19 before your trip. This can help protect you and others and may also ease any travel restrictions or requirements.
3. Wear a mask: In accordance with CDC guidelines, Indiana requires masks to be worn in all indoor public spaces and on public transportation, regardless of vaccination status. Masks are also recommended in outdoor crowded settings.
4. Practice social distancing: Whenever possible, maintain a distance of at least six feet from others who are not in your travel group.
5. Wash your hands: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in a public place or touching surfaces that others may have touched.
6. Be flexible: With the ongoing pandemic, travel plans may need to be adjusted or canceled at the last minute. Be prepared to be flexible and patient.

V. Conclusion

As with travel anywhere during the pandemic, it’s important to stay informed and take extra precautions to protect yourself and others. By checking the Indiana travel advisory, following recommended guidelines, and being flexible, you can still enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Indiana.

Additionally, beyond the pandemic-related guidelines, there are plenty of other tips to keep in mind while traveling in Indiana. Here are a few more:

1. Check the weather: Indiana experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
2. Plan your route: Indiana has a well-developed highway system, but some roads may be closed due to construction or weather. Check for any closures or delays before hitting the road.
3. Explore Indiana’s outdoor attractions: From hiking and biking trails to state parks and lakes, Indiana offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.
4. Visit Indiana’s historic sites: Indiana has a rich history, including the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, the home of the first successful airplane flight, and several sites related to the Underground Railroad.
5. Enjoy Indiana’s food and drink: Indiana is known for its pork tenderloin sandwiches, breaded fried chicken, and craft beer scene. Be sure to indulge in some of the state’s culinary delights during your visit.

In conclusion, Indiana is a state with plenty to offer travelers, from its urban centers to its natural beauty and historic sites. However, as with travel anywhere during the pandemic, it’s important to stay informed about the latest travel advisory and follow recommended guidelines to protect yourself and others. By taking precautions and being flexible, you can still have a safe and enjoyable trip to Indiana.