Indiana Travel Guide 2026 - Fall/Winter by Indianapolis Monthly

Indiana Travel Guide

Gov. Mike Braun

Welcome

TO THE CROSSROADS OF AMERICA IN INDIANA!

The mission of the Indiana Destination Development Corporation (IDDC) is to promote, brand, and tell Indiana’s authentic story to attract visitors.

GET READY TO HIT THE ROAD with the 2026 edition of the Indiana Travel Guide. is is your oﬃcial guide to all things IN Indiana. From the picturesque hills of Southern Indiana and the breathtaking views from Dunes National Park, and everything in between, the sky is the limit.

Experience Hoosier Hospitality at every stop. Stroll through one of our main streets. Indulge at historic restaurants serving legendary Hoosier staples such as sugar cream pie and pork tenderloin sandwiches, along with other tasty treats. Immerse yourself in arts and culture at one of our museums. Plan your trip to one of the hundreds of festivals around the state. If you love the outdoors, we’ve got you covered. You can enjoy caving, mountain biking, ziplining, and much more. Our 41 state parks and recreation areas oﬀer more than 700 miles of trails and thousands of campsites.

Whether you are visiting Indiana for the ﬁrst time or are a lifelong resident, we hope to see you soon IN Indiana. No matter the season, there’s something for everyone to explore.

Best wishes and safe travels,

Monument Circle, Indianapolis

Look for these colors throughout!

RED: NORTH BLUE: CENTRAL YELLOW: SOUTH

this issue

See more of Wabash’s repurposed metal sculptures on page 18!

Insider

1 Welcome!

No matter where you go in Indiana, you’ll be greeted with Hoosier hospitality.

6 Clifty Notes

This is your cheat sheet for Indiana sights, symbols, and fun trivia.

16 Essential Vinyl

Audiophiles and lovers of all things analog: Make tracks to these cool record stores.

18 Geeking Out

Make it a vacation like no other at these nerdy, quirky, endearingly offbeat attractions.

20 Bask in Nature

Forest bathing lets you relax and recharge in a whole new way.

Regions

34 South Region

Whether you’re after ziplining, caving, wine tasting, strolling through historic towns, boating—or all of the above— the South region has it.

56 Central Region

The ideal blend of city excitement and small-town charm, the Central part of the state thrills with world-class arts and culture attractions, exquisite dining, and incredible outdoor recreation.

82 North

Region

Find the vibrant cities, the lures of Lake Michigan, and the delights of Amish communities in the North region.

Feature Stories

INDIANA’S 26 IN 2026

No matter what else you do, these spots, sights, and eats are the absolute musts.

Resources

2 State Map

Get the lay of the land with our color-coded map of Indiana’s regions, highways, and counties.

4 Connect With Us

Stay up to the minute on all things Indiana.

104 Index

Your easy reference to everything in this guide, broken down by category: Attractions, Lodging, Festivals & Events, Recreation, Restaurants, Shopping, Wineries/Breweries/ Distilleries, Communities/ Arts Districts/Main Streets, and Made IN Indiana.

109 Dive Deeper

HAPPY CAMPERS

Whether your idea of camping is pitching a tent, pulling up in an RV, or getting cozy in a cabin, you have endless options in Indiana.

22 28

ADVENTURE SEEKERS

Here’s how active travelers make the most of Indiana’s great outdoors.

Here’s how to get field guides to your favorite Indiana destinations, travel tips, and vacation resources. Then start packing!

On the Cover

Spring/Summer

Indiana Dunes National Park

Photo by Steve Woltman

Fall/Winter

Pokagon State Park

by Andrew P. Rohrer

Indiana Caverns

Photo

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Stay in the loop with our emails, packed with trip ideas for outdoor adventures, group getaways, family road trips, romantic retreats and more. Enjoy discounts for hotels, attractions and must-visit destinations, along with insider information on Indiana’s festivals and events. Sign up at VisitIndiana.in.gov/ email-sign-up

road!

From family fun to tasty eats to places to stay, this is a treasure trove of ideas for a memorable visit IN Indiana. Hit the

Discover fun-ﬁlled itineraries catered to every traveler’s taste in each region of the Hoosier State.

INDIANA SALUTES AMERICA 250

e United States Declaration of Independence was signed August 2, 1776. From coast to coast, the country observes the 250th anniversary of the signing, the semiquincentennial, with a yearlong array of celebrations such as festivals and parades, historic reenactments and performances, podcasts and speeches, military salutes, ice cream socials, and more. Find out more details about America 250 events throughout the state of Indiana at visitindiana.in.gov/america-250

DOWNLOAD OUR VIRTUAL GUIDE

Travel light by reading the Indiana Travel Guide on your phone, laptop or tablet on the web or download the PDF. Explore this guide and more Indiana county and city travel guides at VisitIndiana.in.gov/ brochures Your next adventure IN Indiana awaits!

Northern Lights visible in Greensburg create a stunning night scene. Photo by @goshelby

Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve in Fishers glows golden in the fall. Photo by @andrew_natureman

Sunlight streams through the trees at Turkey Run State Park in Marshall. Photo by @aram_grg

The Have a Nice Day mural by Addeline Griswold elicits cheer in Fort Wayne. Photo by @kimberly_button

Picture Yourself

In Focus

Looking for inspiration and adventure? You’ve come to the right place. Because no matter where you travel in Indiana, you’ll encounter one-of-akind experiences sure to surprise and delight. Let these pages guide the way, introducing you to waterways and outdoor attractions, museums and cultural destinations, family-friendly activities and inspired dining. Time to discover something new—IN Indiana.

Visitors find excitement at Indiana Beach Amusement & Water park in White County.

Cli y Notes

HERE’S YOUR CHEAT SHEET FOR INDIANA SIGHTS, SYMBOLS, AND FUN TRIVIA. BRUSH UP: THERE MIGHT BE

A QUIZ LATER.

Water World

Indiana is home to more than 200 waterfalls, each with its own unique beauty. Williamsport Falls (C), part of the Wabash River, is a stunner. With a 90-foot drop, it’s the tallest in the state. The biggest in Indiana by volume of water, though? That honor goes to Cataract Falls (C), actually two separate falls about a mile apart on Mill Creek in the Lieber State Recreation Area. Near Huntington, Salamonie River State Forest (N) boasts three falls, and from there it’s only a 5-minute drive to Kokiwanee Nature Preserve (N) and its romantic Kissing Falls. Lovebirds are known to stand behind the falls as the water gently flows over rocky ledges and boulders. Clifty Falls State Park (S) in Madison is home to four major falls that change with the seasons and the weather, from roaring plunges to delicate veil mists to gleaming frozen showstoppers. Tip: You’ll enjoy the most dramatic sights if you visit between December and June.

INDIANA RAISED ABE

e beloved 16th president grew up in Spencer County.

Abraham Lincoln spent his formative years in Little Pigeon Creek, Indiana. It wasn’t until age 21 that he moved to Illinois, going on to become one of the world’s most respected political leaders. Did you know that our 23rd president, Benjamin Harrison, came from Indiana? (His grandfather, William Henry Harrison, had been the ﬁ rst governor of the Indiana Territory.) Plus, Indiana has produced six vice-presidents.

The Indiana state flag features a golden torch with 19 gold stars emblazoned on a dark blue background. The stars represent the original 13 colonies, the five states that joined the union immediately afterward, and a large star in the middle for Indiana itself.

Visit The Lincoln Boyhood National Memoria l in Lincoln City (S), nps.gov/libo, where you can experience the Lincoln Living Historical Farm, hike scenic trails, see the site of the family’s original cabin, and visit the Pioneer Cemetery, where Abraham’s mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, is buried. Admission is free. (Fun fact: Tom Hanks is a third cousin, four times removed, to Abraham Lincoln.)

Indiana’s two time zones, explained

Most of the state, including Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and South Bend, runs on Eastern Time. But 12 of its 92 counties follow Central Time. Those are clustered in the northwest and southwest, as shown. Indiana observes Daylight Saving Time statewide, regardless of county.

The state is poppin’. Indiana produces nearly a quarter of the popcorn eaten in the United States. Native son Orville Redenbacher tested thousands of popcorn hybrids in fields around Valparaiso (N)

There’s a county that is one big scenic drive. Parke County is the Covered Bridge Capital of the World (C) with 31 historic bridges, despite being less than 450 square miles.

Visit The Milan ’54 Hoosiers Museum (S), milan54.org

What Is A Hoosier?

While its origins are debatable, the word Hoosier has been used since the 1800s as a nickname for an Indiana resident. You may know Hoosiers as the title of a 1986 ﬁ lm about a small-town basketball team that wins big in the state championships.

Out in nature, the northern cardinal was named state bird in 1933. It also lends its image to Ball State University in Muncie as the school’s mascot. It is joined in the air by the Say’s firefly (named after entomologist Thomas Say of Posey County), which was designated as the state insect in 2018.

Visitors to Indiana in the spring and summer months can enjoy viewing the state tree (tulip poplar, otherwise known as yellow poplar) and state flower (peony) in full bloom. The latter is celebrated each May during the annual Indiana Peony Festival in Noblesville.

Indiana is warm … and fuzzy. Ever see a 20-foot tall stone fruit? Find the Big Peach (S) just north of Vincennes, in front of a produce market near Bruceville. Hint: It’s next to the Washington Monument replica.

Indiana beat the big leagues to bat. The nation’s first professional baseball game was played in Fort Wayne (N) in 1871 (sorry, New York.)

The trees have a mind of their own. The Greensburg Courthouse (S) has a mulberry tree growing out of its roof, some 110 feet above the ground. It’s been there for more than a century.

Clifty Falls

26 places every visitor must do, see, taste, and experience in 2026.

By Andrea Ratcliff

1 WAVE THE CHECKERED FLAG

Known as the Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (C) over Memorial Day weekend is the largest singleday sporting event in the world. The month of May is also brimming with parades, concerts, a half-marathon, and IndyCar practices at the track. Don’t miss the reimagined IMS Museum, where “it’s May every day.” A large-scale renovation last year transformed it into an immersive, interactive draw for race fans of all ages. indianapolismotor speedway.com

2 PUT ON A NEW COAT

Starting as a baseball dipped in house paint nearly 30 years ago, the World’s Largest Ball of Paint (C) in Alexandria has grown to a gargantuan, 11,000-pound orb consisting of 30,000-plus layers of paint. Visitors can choose a color, sign the wall, and add yet another coat of paint to the growing spectacle. Admission is free (donations accepted), but call 765-724-4088 to schedule an appointment. visitandersonmadison county.com

3 GO UNDERGROUND

Travel down into the hidden worlds of Indiana caves like Indiana Caverns (S) in Corydon (part of one of the largest cave systems in the U.S.), Marengo Cave (S) in Marengo, Squire Boone Caverns (S) in Mauckport, and Bluesprings Caverns (S) in Bedford. These attractions offer walking and boat tours that allow visitors to admire the unique rock formations, fossils, waterfalls, streams, and cave-dwelling wildlife like bats, salamanders, and crayfish. discoversouthern indiana.com

4 UNWIND IN A LABYRINTH

Two different groups attempted to establish New Harmony (S) as their own interpretation of utopian society, albeit unsuccessfully. Today, the existing period buildings, innovative modern architecture, guided tours, and two walking labyrinths reveal a fascinating and informative peek at the lore and legends that remain. visitnewharmony.com

5 PLAY FARMER IN THE DELL

A premier agritourism destination, Fair Oaks Farms (N) in Newton County offers plenty of fun, educational, and interactive experiences, from a dairy museum, to a pig farm tour, to a pollinator garden, to an indoor ropes course. The farm offers plenty of on-site dining options along with award-winning cheese (which truly could stand alone as a delicious snack) at its Dairycatessen. fofarms.com

6 EXPERIENCE AMISH CULTURE

The communities of Elkhart (N) and Shipshewana (N) are home to one of the largest Amish populations in the U.S. The culture harks back to a peaceful, simpler time when the most popular mode of transportation was a horse and buggy. Visit quaint shops and a massive flea market, enjoy homemade comfort food like noodles and baked goods, and tour the Quilt Garden s (N) along the Heritage Trail—a distinctive blend of crafting and gardening. visitshipshewana.org, visitelkhartcounty.com

IMS Museum

SUN + SAND = FUN

The Indiana Dunes offer a beachfront atmosphere for swimmers, surfers, and hikers alike.

7 HIT THE SAND

Framed by 15 picturesque miles of Lake Michigan coastline, the Indiana Dunes (N) features more than 50 miles of hiking trails winding through wooded terrain that includes wetlands and a variety of bird habitats. Out on the water, glide above the surface of the lake on a self-propelled eFoil that evokes a feeling of surfing and flying at the same time. Back on shore, go on a geocaching expedition, ride horseback on the Glenwood Dunes Trail, or gaze at the stars on a clear night. nps.gov/indu

9 TAKE A DEEP DIVE

Logansport’s France Park (N) showcases scenic trails, a waterfall, and a clear swimming lake with a beach that looks out into the Quarry Cliffs. It’s also a perfect site for scuba diving sessions through Indy Dive Center, which offers programs for entrylevel through advanced divers. diveindy.com

8 MAKE A SPLASH

11 BRAVE WHITEWATER RAPIDS

South Bend’s East Race Waterway (N) caught a wave on the growing urban whitewater rafting trend when it opened the first engineered rafting run in North America in 2018. The course features around 2,000 feet of Class II rapids, as well as 5 miles of paved walking/running paths along the banks. eastracewaterway.com

12 EMBRACE LAKE LIVING

Indiana amusement parks thrill and chill visitors with spectacular water rides. Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari (S) in Santa Claus boasts the Guinness World Records–certified Mammoth Water Coaster. The 1/3-mile ride goes both uphill and downhill, soaring to a height of seven stories, twisting and turning all the way. At Indiana Beach (N) in Monticello, the Slide Tower is a snaking combination of five tube, speed, and body slides reaching a height of four stories tall, and the Big Flush is a winding water coaster that showers riders as they travel down its spiraling chutes. holidayworld.com, indianabeach.com

10 SQUEAL YOUR TIRES

Enjoy the calming effects of a waterfront resort stay on Patoka Lake (S) in Birdseye. Dubbed “Southern Indiana’s #1 recreation area,” the 8,800-acre lake is surrounded by a wide variety of lodging options, such as cabins

and villas, but houseboats and floating cabins are available for visitors who prefer to stay directly on the water. The marina also offers pontoon boats, party barges, and other watercraft for rent. At the end of the day, unwind at the winery or take a sunset wine cruise. patokalakeindiana.com

If your brand of fun involves making mudpies with your vehicle at adrenalinepumping speeds, Badlands Off Road Park (N) in Attica features more than 1,400 acres of diverse terrain where ATVs, dirt bikes, Jeeps, trucks, side-bysides, and more are all welcome to take a spin. The site also includes a full-size motocross track. badlandsoffroad.com

Holiday World

Splashin’ Safari

Badlands Off Road Park

Patoka Lake

East Race Waterway

13 PEEP SOME LEAVES

15VISIT THE EIGHTH WONDER OF THE WORLD

Fall foliage in Indiana is a spectacular sight. Brown County State Park (S) in Nashville provides an idyllic autumn scene with rolling hills and hollers covered in leaves of vibrant colors like mustard yellow, ruby red, and burnt orange. Go hiking, biking, or horseback riding on the trails to enjoy the park’s peak vantage points. browncounty.com

14TROT INTO SLEEPY HOLLOW

Fans of author Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow can immerse themselves in a thrilling take on the gothic folk tale at the Headless Horseman Festival at Conner Prairie (C) in Fishers. The monthlong event includes rides and games, seasonal treats, live entertainment, and an element of mystery. connerprairie.org

16 CHANNEL YOUR INNER ARCHITECT

Built in 1902, the 200-footwide and 100-foot-tall domed atrium at West Baden Springs Hotel is a sight for architecture aficionados and luxury travelers alike. Tours of the impressive hotel, as well as the adjacent French Lick Springs Hotel at the French Lick Resort (S), detail the history of the site once famous for its healing mineral springs. The full campus offers an array of family activities such as golf, bowling and billiards, swimming, hiking, pickleball, bike and surrey rides, and more. frenchlick.com

Indiana has a rich architectural heritage that spans the state’s borders. Columbus (S), in particular, is a hot spot for notable homes, buildings, and public art featuring cuttingedge design. As striking red beacons on the road, the Gateway Arch Bridge and Robert N. Stewart Bridge welcome guests to the city in style. Significant sites also include the Eero Saarinen–designed Miller House and Garden, Bartholomew County Public Library by I.M. Pei, Large Arch bronze sculpture by Henry Moore, First Christian Church and North Christian Church by Eliel Saarinen, Eos steel and fiberglass sculpture by Dessa Kirk, and The Republic Newspaper Office by Myron Goldsmith, among many others. Columbus offers architecture tours to showcase the crown jewels of the city. comeseecolumbus.com

17 FALL IN LOVE WITH THE COVERED BRIDGE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

If you were smitten by the novel and movie The Bridges of Madison County, look no further for romantic inspiration. The Parke County Covered Bridge Festival (C) is a huge 10-day celebration in October with several participating communities. Festivities like makers markets and tours of the bridges will sweep you off your feet. coveredbridges.com

Conner Prairie

Brown County State Park

West Baden Springs Hotel

LAST Columbus, Indiana,

BUILT TO

boasts iconic public art and architecture such as the Large Arch sculpture (top), the Bartholomew County Memorial for Veterans (middle), and the Miller House and Garden (bottom).

18 RACE DOWN A TOBOGGAN RUN

Making a pilgrimage north to zip down the toboggan run at Pokagon State Park (N) and whishing along the quarter-mile refrigerated track at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour has become an annual wintertime tradition for Indiana families, as well as visitors from other states. pokagonstatepark.net

19 HIT THE SLOPES

Indiana provides impressive outdoor snow activities. For skiing and sledding, opt for Paoli Peaks (S) in Paoli and Perfect North Slopes (S) in Lawrenceburg. Both offer ski and snowboard rentals, along with inner tubing and sledding. Looking for huge tubing hills? Koteewi Run (C) in Noblesville’s Strawtown Koteewi Park has guests sliding down 700 feet of groomed lanes in their custom tubes; a towline transports weary travelers back to the top for another run. paolipeaks.com, perfectnorth.com, koteewiadventures.com

20 ACT LIKE A KID AGAIN

Coming off

its yearlong 100th birthday celebration in 2025, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (C) continues to provide enchanting exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages. The largest children’s museum in the world and recipient of the prestigious National Medal for Museum and Library Service still has plenty of surprises in store with exhibits that take guests to farreaching corners of the world, into space, through a dinosaur habitat, and on a carousel ride. childrensmuseum.org

21 EMBRACE HOOSIER HYSTERIA

Basketball will always hold a special place in Indiana’s heart, and the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame (C) in New Castle is a testament to our hoops obsession. The Hoosier Gym (C) in Knightstown, a historic gymnasium featured prominently in the movie Hoosiers, has been preserved as a living museum. The gym continues to hold basketball

games and community gatherings. In September, it will host an annual screening and banquet to commemorate the film’s 40th anniversary. If you still can’t get enough basketball, head west to the Larry Bird Museum (C) in Terre Haute. The museum details his illustrious career with exhibits that include game-worn jerseys, awards, and personal items from Bird’s time in college and the NBA. hoopshall.com, thehoosiergym.com, larrybirdmuseum.com

Paoli Peaks

Pokagon State Park

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

22 VIEW MINTS IN THE MAKING

Established in 1919, Martinsville Candy Kitchen (C) in Morgan County is touted as “the sweetest place around.” Famous for its candy canes, the red-and-white-striped confectionary allows visitors to watch demos of their peppermint treats being made, from the initial gooey pouring to stretching, shaping, and cutting. Take home signature sweets from the shop, as well as handmade Christmas ornaments. martinsvillecandykitchen.com

23 LET RUDOLPH GUIDE YOUR SLEIGH

Deer devotees and anyone for whom Rudolph is the reason for the season can expect to see a litany of deer at Whitetail Acres Nursery & Landscaping’s Reindeer Encounter (S) in Brookville. Guests can pet, feed, and interact with live reindeer in personalized, small group settings. Enjoy a bonfire chat, snacks, and outdoor activities. whitetailacrestreefarm.com

24 MAIL A LETTER TO SANTA CLAUS

For the complete Father Christmas experience, take in all the festivities of Santa Claus, Indiana (S), where guests can visit with Santa and mail cards to the North Pole. The Santa Claus Post Office helps visitors make their lists and check them twice to ensure that Kris Kringle sorts his letters into the correct naughty and nice piles. santaclausind.org

25 GET STUCK TO A LIGHT POLE

Remember the scene in the movie

A Christmas Story when Ralphie’s schoolmate Flick is triple dog dared to affix his tongue to a frozen light pole? The Indiana Welcome Center (N) in Hammond commissioned a bronze sculpture to immortalize the unfortunate incident. Visitors can recreate the scene for photo ops. southshorecva.com

26 DO PAUL BUNYAN PROUD

If you have room to tie a Christmas tree to the roof of your car—or you just really love the scent of pine—explore Dull’s Tree Farm (C) in Thorntown to cut down a towering evergreen (or a cute Charlie Brown–size version) to take home. You won’t find Babe the Blue Ox roaming the grounds, but the nursery employs woolly, lovable Newfoundlands on select days to haul trees out to buyers’ vehicles. dullstreefarm.com

ICONIC EATS

NO TRIP TO INDIANA WOULD BE COMPLETE WITHOUT SAMPLING SOME OF THE STATE’S TRADEMARK DISHES AND DRINKS.

Breaded tenderloin sandwich

Perhaps the most lauded Indiana-centric dish is the tenderloin— pork that is pounded into a meat pancake, dredged in batter, and deep fried like schnitzel. Downtown Huntington’s Nick’s Kitchen (N), which opened in 1908, was the birthplace of the tenderloin, as conceived by original owner Nick Freienstein. Although the restaurant has since changed hands, the current cooks still follow the same time-honored recipe. nicksdowntown.com

Root beer

Though the Triple XXX national chain of restaurants originated in Texas in the early 1900s, only one of its eateries remains today. Triple XXX Family Restaurant (N) in West Lafayette, touted as Indiana’s first and oldest drive-in, is best known for its root beer, which can be sipped from its signature mugs on-site or purchased in bottles or cans for the road. triplexxxfamilyrestaurant.com

Gummy bears

Based in Merrillville, Albanese Confectionery (N) produces “The World’s Best Gummies.” Made in an array of fruity flavors like cherry, pink grapefruit, watermelon, blue raspberry, mango, and green apple, the soft, gluten-free gummy bears are sold in stores across the U.S. Travelers can sample them directly from the source by visiting the Albanese Candy Factory. albanesecandy.com

Persimmon pudding

Southerners may claim it as their own, but this fall staple reminiscent of gingerbread or pumpkin pie can be enjoyed in the Midwest. To taste a perfect example of this sticky dessert done right, visit the Millstone Dining Room (S) at Spring Mill Inn in Mitchell for a sweet-and-tart bite. in.gov/dnr/state-parks/inns

Shrimp cocktail

While shrimp cocktail certainly was not invented in Indiana, St. Elmo Steak House (C) in downtown Indianapolis puts a unique spin on the appetizer by serving it with a sauce so laden with horseradish, it’ll clear your sinuses instantly. Fans of the “very spicy” condiment can purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs. stelmos.com

Sugar cream pie

This custard-like Quaker confection (think creme brulee with a flaky pastry crust) is said to have originated in Indiana in the early 1800s. Have a slice at Winchester’s Wick’s Pies (C), which has produced the sweet treat for more than 80 years—or have a case shipped directly to your door. wickspies.com

Shopping

ANTIQUE VAULT & RECORDS (N)

Nestled inside Crown Point’s historic Lake County Courthouse, this brick-lined shop reminiscent of a wine cellar is all about classic rock and rarities, from 45s and cassettes to reel-to-reel tapes. Sift through milk crates and moving boxes filled with LPs, stacks of CDs, and displays of wall art to score a new or well-loved treasure. 14 Courthouse Square, antiquevaultandrecords.com

BLACK WAX CAFE (C)

Once a furniture showroom near downtown Kokomo, this combination coffeehouse and record store makes you feel right at home with its welcoming atmosphere, menu of drinks, and array of music offerings. Sip a cold brew while exploring artists from Harry Styles to Dolly Parton, then grab a pound of coffee beans to take home. 910 N. Washington St., blackwaxcafe.com

SPACE MONKEY RECORDS (S)

A vinyl-filled labyrinth in Evansville, Space Monkey is packed and stacked with rock, pop, and classic hits that entice you to spend an hour or two flipping through the catalog. The vibe is fun, quirky, and celebratory with special events like listening parties, concert ticket giveaways, and live performances. 1201 E. Riverside Dr., spacemonkeyrecords 424240203.wordpress.com

Essential Vinyl

AUDIOPHILES CAN MAKE TRACKS TO THESE INDEPENDENT RECORD STORES THROUGHOUT INDIANA TO PERUSE EXTENSIVE SELECTIONS OF VINYL, CDS, CASSETTES, AND 8-TRACKS FOR VINTAGE-STYLE LISTENING SESSIONS. By

Andrea Ratcliff

IGNITION MUSIC GARAGE (N)

As both a record store and live music hangout, this converted auto service station in Goshen meshes crate digging with concerts. Browse its selection of vinyl and vintage gear during the day, then stick around for intimate performances at night. Keep an eye out for the shop’s new releases, albums of the week, and preorder titles. 120 E. Washington St., ignitionmusic.net

LUNA MUSIC (C)

Touted as “a music shop for music lovers since 1994,” Luna Music near Broad Ripple in Indianapolis carries a decades-deep stock of new and used LPs, CDs, and tapes sold alongside turntables, speakers, accessories, and branded merch. Through the shop’s LP subscription service, handpicked spins are shipped right to your door. 5202 N. College Ave., lunamusic.net

LANDLOCKED MUSIC (S)

Located in Bloomington’s historic Baker Building just off Kirkwood Avenue, Landlocked offers a thoughtfully arranged and local-favorite mix of records and CDs, as well as DVDs. Casual listeners and devoted collectors alike will appreciate its low-key vibe and helpful staff ready to talk music and trades. The shop hosts occasional listening parties and recommends upcoming concerts at nearby venues. 115 S. Walnut St., landlockedmusic.com

Antique Vault & Records

Black Wax Cafe

Luna Music

Space Monkey Records

Geeking out

VENTURE OUT TO INDIANA’S NERDIEST, QUIRKIEST, AND MOST ENDEARINGLY OFFBEAT ATTRACTIONS. BY

ANDREA RATCLIFF

Elkhart’s Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum (N) houses the world’s only comic book and superhero museum. Want to stand inches away from a lifesize Iron Man suit? Curious how comic art evolved from golden to modern ages? Here, every Saturday morning cartoon merges into one glorious shrine to caped crusaders. 1915 Cassopolis St.,hallo eroesmuseum.com

Make Indiana your new favorite hangout. With game shops, toy troves, superhero sanctuaries, VR arenas, roadside icons, and arcades, a trek around the state will give your inner geek a power-up. Just press Play.

Batman Museum (N). is twostory tribute to Batman includes screen-accurate sets, props, and enough memorabilia to make Adam West proud. ey also build licensed replicas of the 1966 Batmobile. 525 E. Market St., ﬁberglassfreaksmuseum.com

To the northwest, Heroes Gallery (N) at Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets in Michigan City celebrates iconic American superheroes from the 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s with a collection of character art, statues, vintage arcade games, memorabilia, and more. 1101 Lighthouse Pl., grafdairyherofoundation.com

Relive the Biﬀ ! Pow! Zap! of oldschool superhero TV series at Logansport’s Fiberglass Freaks’

conﬁdently from a new spot on your desk. As Indy’s largest and longestrunning toy store, it’s a nostalgia overload with enough action ﬁgures to start your own multiverse. 3827 N. College Ave., yourtoypit.com

If your fandom of choice involves time travel, sonic screwdrivers, and a blue police box, Camby’s Who North America (C) is delightfully niche, thoroughly charming, and one of the most uniquely speciﬁc sites for Dr. Who enthusiasts. 8901 S. State Rd. 67, whona.com

From superheroes to super shelves, e Toy Pit (C) in Indianapolis is the kind of place you walk into promising you won’t buy anything and leave clutching a vintage Star Wars ﬁgure, a Godzilla you just had to have, and a Dragon Ball Z statue glaring

Speaking of collections that demand a quest log, Kokomo’s Geek Street (C) is a downtown block full of delights. Comics, games, ﬁgurines, books, antiques, records, and novelties await at Kokomo Toys & Collectibles, Comics Cubed, Kingdom Cards & Games, Outhouse Records, Chapter 2 Books, and the Kokomo Antique Mall. 100 block of E. Sycamore St., visitkokomo.org

Comic Quest (S) in Evansville is a comic and game lover’s paradise, with aisle a er aisle of graphic novels, tabletop games, and collectibles just begging to come home with you. 8401 N. Kentucky Ave., comicquest.com

Heroes GalleryGeek Street

Attractions

GAME ON

Where to go for next-level arcades featuring pinball machines, virtual reality arenas, vintage video consoles, and more.

If you’re ready to mash buttons and bask in glowing neon, Wizard’s World (N) in Fort Wayne delivers rows of gleaming pinball machines (more than 177). It is the largest pinball arcade in Indiana. fortwaynepinball.com

LaPorte’s Full Tilt Arcade & Pinball (N) keeps the ball rolling with a blend of vintage and modern machines. fulltiltlp.com

In Indianapolis, Tappers Arcade Ba r (C) offers free-to-play classics plus pinball and craft beer—an unbeatable combo. tappersarcadebar.com

Public Figures The Hulk

Standing tall in their communities, these roadside sculptures pay tribute to pop culture and sci-ﬁ icons. Indiana visitors can stop to salute the likenesses of a few modern and vintage superheroes.

In Bloomington, the future birthplace of Star Trek: Voyager character Kathryn Janeway, you’ll find the CAPTAIN JANEWAY

STATUE (S) . The bronze bust honoring actress Kate Mulgrew’s role rests atop an Indiana limestone base. 308 W. 4th St., janewaystatue.com

Swing down to Oolitic for the JOE PALOOKA STATUE (S), a towering tribute to the 1930s–1980s comicstrip heavyweight champ who once punched his way into America’s heart. The 20,000-pound stone sculpture was created by the Indiana Limestone Company. 109 Main St., limestonecountry. com

Who North America

And throughout the state, prepare to meet scrap-metal Transformers and titans made by Wabash–based company Metal Source: BRAWL (904 Summit Ln., Bedford), BUMBLEBEE (1750 Mill St., Wabash), OPTIMUS PRIME (7870 N. U.S. Hwy. 27, Decatur), MEGATRON (116 E. 9th St., Peru), THE HOUND (1605 Riverfork Dr., Huntington), and THE HULK (1945 S. Wabash St., Wabash) stand guard like sci-fi sentinels. Also in Wabash, a pair of STAR WARS WALKERS (1733 S. Wabash St.) signal to passersby that the force is with them. These towering sculptures are the sort of thing that make road trips memorable … and make your friends ask, “Wait, where was that again?” metalsource llc.com/locations

Not far away, 1 6-Bit Bar + Arcade (C) mixes cocktails with cabinets, serving up a menu of ’80s and ’90s games paired with themed drinks. 16-bitbar.com/indy

Brownsburg’s Press Play Gaming Lounge (C) flips the script with virtual reality arenas, Nerf battles, arcade games, and the Omni Arena, an immersive VR experience that feels like you’ve entered another dimension. pressplaylounge.com

Prefer a college-town feel?

Lafayette’s Main Street Amusements (N) near the Purdue University campus delivers more than 40 game choices, from classic pinball to arcade games like Frogger, Zoltar, and Ms. Pac-Man. mainstreetamusements .wordpress.com

On opposite sides of the state, Richmond’s Retro Rush Arcade (C) entertains with more than 100 arcade games including BurgerTime, Gauntlet, WrestleMania (retrorusharcade .com), while Terre Haute’s Bar_Botics Arcade (C) offers up Skee-Ball, shuffleboard, and air hockey alongside its selection of video games (barboticsarcade.com).

If southeastern Indiana is on your itinerary, stop into Recbar 812 (S) in New Albany, an expansive 25,000-square-foot space with more than 200 games and a menu full of burgers, tacos, and tots to fuel the fun (recbar812.com). Evansville’s Arcademie (S), which labels itself a “Bar & Museum of Antiquated Technology” queues up a geek-chic arcade bar that mixes modern style with retro fun (arcademiebar.com).

Megatron

Outdoors

BASK IN NATURE

Forest bathing programs like guided walks and woodland yoga allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in Indiana’s great outdoors.

BY AMY LYNCH

Turkey Run

Indiana celebrates the traditional Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku (aka forest bathing) with plenty of destinations where visitors can dip into peace, quiet, and natural beauty. Parks and nature preserves around the state oﬀer myriad opportunities to reap the rewards of communing with Mother Nature.

Experience the sights, sounds, textures and scents of the great outdoors in a more mindful way through new guided Forest Therapy outings at Conner Prairie (C) in Fishers on the first certified trail of its kind in Indiana (family-friendly and adults-only sessions are available). Or, get your “Om” on with Department of Natural Resources volunteerled Woodland Yoga sessions at McCormick’s Creek State Park (S) in Spencer.

Learn something new. LaGrange County Parks (N) hosts a free Fall Forest School at Delt Church Park in Wolcottville for students ages 6 through 12; all told, the five-day series guides attendees

to explore and appreciate the connections between people and the environment. Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve’s (C) Discover the Art of Forest Bathing summer sessions led by certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guides in Fishers are open to anyone 18+.

Looking for something a little more freeform? Simply strike out at your own pace for a leisurely walk on any of Indiana’s picturesque trails, taking time to slow down and breathe in the fresh air and gorgeous scenery. Some of most soul-soothing options include the lush tree canopy and honeycombed sandstone caves of Hemlock Cliffs in the Hoosier National

FOLLOW YOUR BLISS

Sites like Conner Prairie (left) and Turkey Run State Park (above) offer guided programs and self-led hikes.

Forest (S) in English, Indiana; the rustic wetlands habitat and wildlife viewing at Beanblossom Bottoms Nature Preserve (S) near Bloomington; and the waterfalls and dense vegetation of Rocky Hollow Falls Canyon Nature Preserve at Turkey Run State Park (C) in Marshall.

For a more structured excursion, Sandy Pause Yoga launched immersive Wonder Walks (N) in Porter last year, ushering guests along accessible Indiana Dunes National Park (N) terrain to spark a sense of relaxation and renewal. Delight IN Nature leads forest bathing and slow birdwatching outings in Hamilton County (C), in addition to managing customized experiences and conducting informative educational sessions. And watch the Rooted WithIN website for announcements about upcoming public and private nature walks in serene Indianapolis (C) spots like Fort Harrison State Park and the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art and Nature Park.

Hemlock Cliffs

Abe Martin Lodge Cabins at Brown County State Park

Rose Island at Charlestown State Park

H PPY C A MPE S H PPY C A MPE S

By Robert Annis

Ready to take your love of nature on the road? Indiana has campgrounds galore to accommodate all manner of outdoor enthusiasts.

From the Lake Michigan beaches up north to the banks of the Ohio River along the southern border of the state, Indiana is home to dozens of picturesque places to pitch a tent, rent a cabin, or pull up in an RV. ese hand-picked spots oﬀer not only some of the state’s best hiking, bicycling, paddling, and horseback riding opportunities, but also campgrounds that will make you want to stay a while.

Lieber State Recreation Area

SHORE THING

INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL AND STATE PARKS

If you had one word to describe the Indiana Dunes (N), it may be “unexpected.” This 15,000-acre park on the shore of Lake Michigan contains multiple distinct biospheres, with more than 1,000 wildly different plant species you wouldn’t expect to see in Indiana all living together within close proximity. Not only can you find prickly pear cactus naturally growing inside the park, but also rare flora like the bioluminescent bitter oyster mushroom, several species of carnivorous plants, and more types of orchids than the whole state of Hawaii. Indiana Dunes ranks as the fourth-most biodiverse park of the National Park Service’s 423 sites, yet you can see Chicago’s skyline from its shores. While the park service prohibits hiking on Indiana Dune National Park’s most famous natural feature, Mt. Baldy, the neighboring Indiana Dunes State Park

encourages visitors to tackle its Three Dune Challenge, a short,1.5-mile route taking visitors up and over three of its tallest dunes, a combined 552 vertical feet. Most visitors forgo hiking to relax on the more than 15 miles of beaches and swim in the mammoth lake.

Most outdoor lovers will find a weekend plenty of time to explore the two parks’ trails and enjoy some beach time. Dunewood Campground in the national park offers 66 primitive campsites, most of which are RV-friendly. You can find five walk-in primitive sites off Central Avenue, but no potable water available. (A porta-potty is located in the parking lot a short distance away.) The state park has a large campground with more than 120 sites, many of which offer electric hookups. Make reservations early before the summer high season.

BROWN COUNTY STATE PARK

The largest and most popular state park in Indiana, Brown County State Park (S) offers a little something for the entire family. Nearly 20 miles of hiking trails can be found throughout the park, as well as dozens more miles of nationally renowned mountainbike singletrack. There are also equestrian-only trails open from March to October. After you get your fill of the outdoors, the Abe Martin Lodge offers an indoor water park where the kids can splash away while mom and dad get a needed break. (Stick around for the tasty breakfast and lunch buffets when they’re offered.)

The best time to visit Brown County is autumn, when the hickory, oak, and walnut trees explode into a fiery mix of colors. As the fall colors reach their peak, so does attendance.

The main park campground has hundreds of both primitive and electric sites; a separate equestrian site offers nearly 200 more. Sites fill up in the fall, so it’s wise to make a reservation months in advance. If you aren’t able to book a site inside the park, there’s a host of RV campgrounds within a few miles of the park.

The Indiana Dunes showcase breathtaking views of the Lake Michigan coast.

HOOSIER NATIONAL FOREST

If you prefer your wilderness adventures to be a little more rugged, Hoosier National Forest (S) should be your next destination. Like many of the parks in South Central Indiana, Hoosier National Forest has incredible autumn color, but fewer crowds.

You’ll find 260 miles of hiking and biking trails throughout the park. Nebo Ridge is the granddaddy of Hoosier mountain bike trails, twisting, turning, and undulating for 8 pulse-racing miles. If you’re a rock climber or spelunker, you’ll find a multitude of spots to enjoy or test your skills. Free dispersed camping is available throughout the park wherever there’s a pull off. Blackwell Horse Camp is great for beginner campers and large groups (up to 10 people). It’s geared toward equestrians, but you don’t need to own a horse to camp here. There’s no running water, but several pit toilets are on-site. The Maines Pond pull-in has room for two or three vehicles, but no amenities beyond the small pond that’s within a 50-yard hike. Located on the banks of Lake Monroe, the privately owned Hardin Ridge Campground offers nearly 200 hookup sites for a fee, along with bathrooms with flush toilets.

TURKEY RUN AND SHADES STATE PARKS

If your family loves to hike, Turkey Run and Shades State Parks (C) feature some of the best trails in Indiana. Paths wind through oak and hemlock forests, past mossy sandstone cliffs, and across a picture-worthy suspension bridge. Shades’ signature Six Ravine Challenge traverses more than 4.5 miles through natural features like Devil’s Punchbowl and Red Fox Ravine. Bring waterproof hiking boots, as some of the trail is actually creek bed. The two parks are located less than a dozen miles from each other, allowing you to experience both over a long weekend. If you prefer water adventures, try paddling Sugar Creek from Shades to Turkey

Run. Several local outfitters offer rentals and shuttle service.

The best time to visit is in autumn, when the fall colors arrive and the annual Parke County Covered Bridge Festival takes place. Turkey Run’s more than 200 campsites with electric hookups go fast, particularly in the fall, so be sure to reserve months ahead of time. Bathroom facilities have running water and hot showers, a big plus after a day of hiking. Camping at Shades is entirely primitive with no hookups. Campsites in each park come with the ubiquitous fire ring and picnic table. For an alternative, Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area has 300-plus campsites, some with a lake view.

Shades

Shades State Park

POKAGON STATE PARK/TRINE STATE RECREATION AREA

Located just west of Seymour, Starve Hollow State Recreation Area (S) and the surrounding JacksonWashington State Forest remain popular spots for families wanting to do it all during their weekend getaway.

Budding mountain bikers will love the 9 miles of singletrack that offer some challenging terrain and beautiful scenery. Because its less well-known than other fat-tire options nearby, these trails aren’t used as much, making

Located just outside of Angola, Pokagon State Park and neighboring Trine State Recreation Area (N) are quiet spots for hiking, boating, and fishing. More than 10 miles of hiking trails wind around Pokagon and through its two nature preserves. Visitors can either bring their own boat or rent one at the Potawatomi Inn front desk. (Both motorized and nonmotorized are allowed.)

Although Pokagon is a great place to recreate throughout the year, it truly shines in the winter. The park’s biggest attraction is the quarter-mile toboggan run that allows sledders to reach speeds up to 40 miles an hour. Crosscountry skiing is another popular activity; skiers can take a break from the trails in one of the shelters built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and ’40s.

The Pokagon campground has just shy of 100 sites, nearly all of them offering electric hookups. During winter, campground 3 remains open with one heated comfort station and a water-fill station available.

them perfect for beginners. Hikers will also find miles of trails to explore the oak and sycamore forests. The 145acre Stone Hollow Lake is an idyllic spot for mellow days on the water, especially with a spin rod in your hand. Don’t have a boat? You can rent one at the lake.

The campground has nearly 140 electric or full hookup sites, perfect for RVers. Spring for one of the lakefront sites to enjoy a gorgeous sunrise.

STARVE HOLLOW STATE RECREATION AREA

If your family loves the water, you need to point your canoe toward Chain O’ Lakes State Park (N), a paddler’s paradise in Noble County. (Don’t have a canoe? You can rent one at the park.)

The Nine Lake Challenge winds more than 5 miles through the heart of the park, from Sucker Lake to Miller Lake. Take photos of nine designated areas in the park to receive a free sticker. Expect to see plenty of folks fishing for largemouth bass, gar, and bluegill in various lakes or connectors. Most boats are humanpowered, but watercraft with electric trolling motors are permitted as well.

MOUNDS STATE AND QUAKERTOWN RECREATION AREAS

Some docks have handicap-accessible areas to make getting in and out of your kayak easier.

Landlubbers have more than 10 miles of trails to hike, but they can also enjoy a day relaxing on the beach. In the winter, the park is open for cross-country skiing.

You can find more than 300 electric sites in the large, RV-friendly campground, but if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can reserve one of the four paddle-in sites located within the park. The paddlein sites can only be accessed by boat and do not have running water, although a pit toilet is available.

Named after the 10 earthworks built by the Adena-Hopewell people around 160 B.C. found nearby, Mounds State Recreation Area (C) is a go-to spot for Hoosier anglers, along with its Quakertown sister property. The 5,260acre Brookville Lake can be busy on a pleasant summer weekend, so it’s a good idea to go midweek when you have the walleye, bass, and panfish almost all to yourself.

Kids can swim and have fun on one of the two beaches on the property. You can also enjoy miles of hiking trails through the deep ravines surrounded by beech and ash trees, as well as an archery course open Thursday through Sunday during the spring and summer. Because the area is so popular, there are lots of campsites. More than 400, in fact—most with either electric or full hookups. (You will want to reserve early during the summer.) If you miss out on one of these sites, there are several other campground options within a 20-minute drive.

CHAIN O’ LAKES STATE PARK (PADDLE-IN CAMPSITES)

FIELD GUIDE

Looking for a campsite in one of Indiana’s state parks? e key below details the amenities available at each location.

BROOKVILLE LAKE (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMPSTORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

BROWNCOUNTY

STATE PARK (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING P

CAGLES MILL LAKE

(LIEBER STATE RECREATION AREA) (C)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B/P

CECIL M. HARDEN LAKE (RACCOON STATE RECREATION AREA) (C)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

CHAIN O’ LAKES

STATE PARK (N)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

LINCOLN SP (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

MCCORMICK'S CREEK

STATE PARK (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

CHARLESTOWN

STATE PARK (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC NON-ELECTRIC PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING

CLIFTY FALLS

STATE PARK (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING P

DEAM LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC NON-ELECTRIC PRIMITIVE SITES SWIMMING B

HARDY LAKE (S)

FAMILY CABINS CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC NON-ELECTRIC PRIMITIVE SITES SWIMMING B

HARMONIE SP (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING

INDIANA DUNES

STATE PARK (N)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

PATOKA LAKE (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

POKAGON STATE

PARK / TRINE STATE RECREATION AREA (N)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING P

MISSISSINEWA LAKE (N)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

MONROE LAKE (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

MOUNDS SP (C)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING

O'BANNON WOODS

STATE PARK / WYANDOTTE STATE RECREATION AREA (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING P

OUABACHE

STATE PARK (N)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

SPRING MILL STATE PARK / CAVE

RIVER VALLEY

NATURE AREA (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING P/SP

STARVE HOLLOW STATE RECREATION AREA (S)

FAMILY CABINS

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

POTATO CREEK

STATE PARK (N)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

PROPHETSTOWN STATE PARK (N)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING P

SALAMONIE LAKE (N)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

SHADES SP (C)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING

SHAKAMAK

STATE PARK (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING P

CAMP STORE

FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

SUMMIT LAKE (C)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

TIPPECANOE RIVER (N)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING

TURKEY RUN STATE PARK (C)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC PRIMITIVE SITES SWIMMING P

VERSAILLES STATE PARK / BRADT

NATURE AREA (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING P

WHITEWATER MEMORIAL SP (S)

FAMILY CABINS

CAMP STORE FULL HOOKUP

ELECTRIC

NON-ELECTRIC

PRIMITIVE SITES

SWIMMING B

Intrepid out-of-state visitors level up to high gear in Jeeps and kayaks and astride bikes as they navigate the trails and waterways of Indiana.

Adventure Seekers

Across Indiana state parks and recreation areas, adventures await for the curious and the brave at heart. Whether you’re a skilled sporting expert or an active traveler simply looking to try out a new fresh-air activity, the state oﬀers plenty of territory to explore. Here’s how a few avid enthusiasts enjoy making the most of their time in Indiana’s outdoor spaces.

By Amy Lynch

VISITOR DUNCAN ROWDA

ACTIVITY Jeep/ATV Off-Roading

For Duncan Rowda, life is one wild ride.

A resident of Kentucky for the past few years, Duncan originally hails from North Vernon, Indiana. From his earliest days, he harbors fond childhood memories of tackling trails with his family in a 1981 Jeep CJ-7 at Redbird Off-Road State Recreation Area (C) near Linton and at Interlake Off-Road State Recreation Area (S) off I-64 northeast of Evansville.

“It’s always been our thing,” he recalls. “I started riding when I was around 18 months old. The doctor told my parents as long as I could hold my head up, I was good to go! I’m 24 now, and it’s all I’ve ever known.”

After attending college in Kentucky, Duncan landed a job that kept him in the state, putting him in close proximity to a whole new collection of off-road trails to explore. He still returns to Indiana several times a year to ride at Interlake and Redbird, where a 2003 Jeep Wrangler he purchased several years ago is racking up its own tally of off-road adventures.

“Interlake has a lot of open ground and some really nice trails,” Duncan mentions. “There’s a multitude of different ways to drive around—rocks, mud, easy

trails, hard trails … Whatever kind of experience you’re looking for, it’s there.”

Duncan also commends the Redbird site for putting time and energy toward ongoing reclamation efforts to improve the property and upgrade its riding options.

“It’s a little more technical over there with a lot of red dirt, and there’s still a decent amount of remnants left over from its old coal mining era that make it interesting,” he says.

These days, Duncan tries to get out and ride the trails somewhere about once every four to six weeks and relies on off-roading opportunities to continue spending quality time with his parents.

“That’s usually what we do when we’re able to meet up and see each other,” he explains. “I’m also part of an off-road club based in Jeffersonville, and I’ve met a lot of friends through that [group].”

When he’s back in Indiana for off-roading, Duncan often camps at Lynnville Park near Interlake SRA. He’s also having a great time introducing his favorite hobby to a new co-pilot in the passenger seat—his 60-pound Doberman named Traya.

“She goes everywhere with me!” he laughs.

VISITOR ROY CARMEN

ACTIVITY Fishing and Off-Roading

There’s nothing Roy Carmen loves more than spending time in the great outdoors. The Kentucky resident and UPS employee grew up fishing frequently with his family.

“My dad was the youngest of 10 kids; many of his brothers and sisters were farmers, and we were down there helping them out almost every weekend,” Roy reminisces. “Through that connection, I got the chance to fish at a lot of different farm ponds.”

Roy credits a close older cousin with introducing him to bass fishing by gifting him some baits for Christmas and birthday presents, and the hobby has stuck with him ever since. He’s expanded his fishing interests through the years to include bluegill and catfish, but bass remain his favorite target to pursue. Now at age 56, Roy’s proud to pass on his passion for fishing to his son, Hunter.

“He’s almost 21 and has his own Jon boat, just like I did at his age,” Roy says. “I used to go fishing all the time with my buddies ... and now he’s doing the same thing.”

Several years ago, Roy made his first trip to the Interlake Off-Road State Recreation Area (S) off I-64

Duncan Rowda’s canine companion Traya accompanies him on offroading trips to Indiana.

in Southwestern Indiana to go four-wheeling with his wife and son, returning a few times since.

“We loved it,” he says. “I just love the natural beauty there, love the cleanliness of it, love the people. Every time we go, we have so much fun. It’s a big property, and we’re always finding new trails to ride.”

Elsewhere in Indiana, Roy has spent time at the Indian Creek Shooting Center (S) (and the nearby drivein theater) in Georgetown, explored the city of Columbus, and fished at Patoka Lake (S)

“Me and my wife used to go there for our anniversary every year and stay in an A-frame with a hot tub at the Patoka 4 Seasons Resort (S),” he recalls. “I highly recommend that place. And West Baden Springs (S) is my favorite hotel ever. Some friends and I have been talking about wanting to go up to the Indiana Dunes (N), but we haven’t made it there yet.”

For Roy, he sees his outdoor adventures as something of a character-building exercise.

“Sometimes when you’re off-roading, you’ll be on a big hill and think, ‘There’s no way I’m going to be able to get up there,’” he explains. “And then you do. It really gives you a boost and a sense of confidence.”

VISITORS JON AND KATE STROM

ACTIVITY Mountain Biking

After they got married, Jon and Kate Strom spent a long time trying to agree on an outdoor hobby or activity they could pursue together. It was during a hiking trip that the Kentucky-based couple finally hit pay dirt.

“While we were sitting in a bike shop that was attached to a brewery, Kate looked at me and said ‘I think I want to try mountain biking,’” Jon remembers. “To which I replied, ‘That’s a dumb idea. I have no interest in mountain biking.’”

Jon would take back those words, as it turned out. Later that year at Kate’s continued urging, the Stroms purchased their very first mountain bikes, and the pair quickly fell in love with both the sport and the fellow riders they met along the way.

“We love the fact that it’s a lifelong activity anyone can enjoy with some of the best people around,” Jon says.

Now, the Stroms aim to get out on their Kona mountain bikes at Brown County State Park (S) in Nashville several times each year. The park is a riding destination of choice thanks to its nearly 30 miles of trails to explore and view natural beauty.

“The trails are easily accessible in a single day, and we enjoy the quality of

Adventure Seekers

events there,” Jon explains. “It’s also a good centrally located spot where we can meet up with friends for bike weekends.”

Jon and Kate like to round out their Brown County sojourns by checking out what else the region has to offer; they also list outdoor activities like fly fishing, cooking, and camping among other favorite pastimes.

“We have good friends in and around the park that we visit, particularly at Brown County Bikes,” Jon adds. “Nashville has a great variety of places to eat and drink, and we love staying in the Brown County State Park campground.”

Although they’re working on expanding their riding repertoire to include other Indiana trails, Brown County remains a special spot for the Stroms, certainly suitable territory for a welcome break from Jon’s demanding career as a lawyer and Kate’s busy role as a small business owner.

“Being adventurous means trying things that expand your comfort zone,” Jon says. “A real adventure is something that occurs without a firm plan, pushes your boundaries, and often leaves you with a good story.”

The hills of Brown County provide scenic surroundings (especially in the fall) for traveling mountain bikers like Jon and Kate Strom.

Adventure Seekers

Tom Trowbridge has been hooked on fishing for almost his entire life.

“I started fishing with my dad in the early 1970s, and began throwing a fly rod around 1980,” he explains. “I’ve been through lots of favorite fish over the years, and now I’m drawn to chasing warm-water fish with a fly rod.”

After running a fly shop in Colorado for two decades, Tom

now owns and operates a small handyman business. He enjoys sharing his favorite hobby with his wife, his stepchildren, and his brother.

“Fishing does play a fairly large part in my life,” he says. “The fly fishing industry was my chosen vocation for more than 20 years.”

While recently traveling through Indiana, Tom and his wife found themselves with a

free day in their schedule. A quick internet search for fly fishing guides turned up Jeff Conrad, a seasoned angler who arranged an excursion for Tom on the Tippecanoe River. Although the visit was short, it made a lasting impression.

“I really enjoyed the rural feel of the river and, of course, the smallmouth bass,” Tom says. “If I am ever back in the Tippecanoe River area in late fall, I’d like to fish the upper Tippecanoe with a fly rod for northern pike and muskie. The Tippecanoe was a fun river to fish, and there are some very knowledgeable guides who can help you have a great day.”

Big fans of state parks, Tom and his wife had a great stay in Prophetstown State Park (N) in West Lafayette during their Indiana adventure. In addition to fishing, Tom is also a Colorado Master Gardener who enjoys hiking, bicycling, hunting and taking road trips around the United States.

“I can’t really say I’d call myself adventurous, but I do enjoy getting off the beaten path, seeing new areas of the United States, and maybe getting just a bit out of my comfort zone,” he says.

VISITOR JENNIFER GILL

Motocross/ Dirt Bike Riding

A pre-kindergarten aide, Jennifer Gill became familiar with motocross and dirt bikes through her own family.

“I’m a ‘noob’ at riding, but my husband has been riding since he was a youngster,” she says. “Together, we have two boys—ages 12 and 8—who love to ride.”

From their home in Illinois, Jennifer, her husband, and their kids enjoy making regular 70mile road trips to the Interlake Off-Road State Recreation Area (S) in Indiana just northeast of Evansville along I-64, occasionally bringing Jennifer’s brother-in-law along

for the ride, so to speak.

With 3,550 acres and more than 100 miles of multiuse riding trails, the former coal mining site straddling Warrick and Pike counties is the largest off-road destination in Indiana, offering great natural scenery and enough variety to make each trip feel new and unique. In addition to dirt bikes, the property also welcomes Jeeps, trucks, ATVs, and UTVs.

Jennifer tends to prefer the Interlake trails over other destinations because the terrain is smooth with fewer mud holes and rocks to navigate.

“We just like spending time together as a family, and riding is something we all like to do,” Jennifer mentions. “This hobby is very important to us, as it gives us time together to make memories that will last a lifetime.”

The Gills usually keep the focus strictly on riding during their jaunts over to Indiana. In addition to biking, Jennifer enjoys four-wheeling and hiking with her crew, and says her husband and boys also like to golf.

“They’re actually way more adventurous than I am!” she says with a laugh.

ACTIVITY Fishing

VISITOR TOM TROWBRIDGE

VISITOR

ROB BAUMGARTNER

ACTIVITY Kayaking

As a busy nursing technician and student, Rob Baumgartner finds kayaking on the Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area (N) near South Bend a soothing way to escape the stresses of everyday life.

“This hobby is very important for me, as it’s an opportunity to be out on the river, usually with nothing but myself and the peace and quiet,” he says.

Originally from Middlebury, Indiana, Rob moved to Michigan in 2019. He has repeatedly returned to Pigeon River ever

since his first canoeing trip with a high school friend back in 2009, always renting kayaks from Trading Post Outfitters in Mongo.

“I decided kayaking was more for me and have been kayaking there many times over the years,” he explains. “I had canoed/kayaked on lakes before going to Trading Post, but Pigeon River was the first downstream trip that I ever went on. I ended up loving the experience and the nature of this particular river.”

In fact, Rob refers to the process of traveling down the Pigeon River the “Disney experience” of kayaking.

“Everything is just perfect and works so seamlessly,” he says. “[The Trading Post] takes care of their customers and their employees; Andy and Jess remember your name if you’re a return customer and make you feel like you’re not just another kayaker. You can park and be on the river in less than 5 minutes.”

Rob has also kayaked on Lake Monroe and Griffy Lake in Bloomington while he attended Indiana University and has spent time exploring Turkey Run State Park in Marshall, but Pigeon River remains his favorite destination.

“Not only is the river pristine and untouched where you can

go an entire trip without seeing another person, but the variety of wildlife you get to see makes every trip special,” he says. “It’s a great escape for families or a solo adventure.”

To fuel up for kayaking when he’s not visiting his parents, Rob stops at Das Dutchman Essenhaus in Middlebury or Rise’n Roll for doughnuts in Shipshewana. He’s also proud to have introduced his favorite pastime to lots of friends and family along the way.

“I’ve persuaded many people to kayak with me,” Rob laughs. “Everyone afterwards tells me that they want to go again and can’t stop talking about what a great experience it is.”

Indiana waterways like Pigeon River are perfect for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, as well as fishing poles.

region South

Wander historic towns along the Ohio River or float on a lake surrounded by acres of dense forests. Sample varietals at a winery tucked away off a winding country road or soar across a zipline before heading underground to discover Ice Age–era landscapes. Whether you seek heart-pounding adventures or more leisurely pursuits, activities for couples or the entire family, head to the Southern region IN Indiana.

Rockin’ Thunder River Tours on the Ohio River in Madison

Regional Highlights

THE SOUTH REGION OFFERS ROLLING LANDSCAPES WITH WATERWAYS AND UNDERGROUND CAVERNS, CREATIVE COMMUNITIES WITH STANDOUT STYLE, AND HISTORIC SITES THAT EXPLORE THE EARLIEST DAYS OF INDIANA’S STATEHOOD.

Weaving along the southern edge of Indiana, the Ohio River Scenic Byway passes through many charming cities and towns on the state’s border. Spanning approximately 450 miles through three states, it’s one of the best scenic drives in the region.

Jeﬀersonville’s Big Four Bridge connects Indiana to neighboring Kentucky across the Ohio River. e adjacent Big Four Station Park includes a green space with fountains, a weekend farmers market, a bike-sharing station, a pavilion, a

playground, and easy access to downtown shops and restaurants in Jeﬀersonville’s historic downtown area.

In the southwest corner of the state, Evansville’s Angel Mounds State Historic Site provides a glimpse into the lives of the Mississippian people who lived here between 1000 and 1450 A.D. e 600-acre archaeological site features preserved earthen mounds built by the original inhabitants of the land.

Whitewater Canal State Historic Site in Metamora details 1800s canal transportation

with interactive exhibits and model boats.

Visitors can view the only known wooden aqueduct in the U.S. and take home fresh cornmeal ground at the Metamora Grist Mill. Similarly, the reconstructed 19th-century Jasper City Mill on the Patoka River comes complete with a waterwheel. Abraham Lincoln and his father ground their family’s grain here. Perfect for families, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus is ﬁlled with exciting rides and water attractions.

rill-seekers can zoom

through the park on the Cheetah Chase water coaster, e Voyage wooden coaster, and the underbird steel coaster. Younger visitors will love Watubee and Otorongo water slides for splashy fun.

Patoka Lake is a hub for outdoor recreation, with nearby amenities that include the Old Homestead Distillery,

Good to Know

Calli Nature Preserve features limestone cliffs, a forested hillside, a hiking trail, and a 10-foot waterfall.

Hotel & Saloon between Patoka Lake Winery (which also oﬀers accommodations in converted silos) and Patoka Lake Brewing.

A geological wonder, Jug Rock is the largest tea table rock formation east of the Mississippi. Composed of sandstone, the jug-shaped formation is 42 feet tall with a “stopper” appearing to balance precariously on top. e site is so revered, Shoals High School made Jug Rock its mascot and team name (Jug Rox).

A hidden scenic gem, Rock Rest Falls at Calli Nature Preserve just

Patoka Lake

USS LST-325 Ship Memorial

outside North Vernon provides an under-theradar waterfall viewing experience.

More than a clever name, Self.e Alley has a lot to offer visitors. Send a digital postcard of yourself posing in front of the Greetings From Evansville mural, or celebrate your Midwestern roots with the sunburst-filled state outline paired with a cornfield background in Opes & Dreams. ere’s a backdrop to fit almost any personality and to fit the theme that Evansville is for everyone.

An ode to Jasper’s glory days as the hub of

wines in the rustic tasting room. Seasonal classes, live music, hayrides, and special events make this a special stop in the southeastern part of the state.

About an hour away in Borden, Huber’s Orchard & Winery oﬀers a Family Farm Park with a farm market, wine and spirits tours and tastings, u-pick orchards, and an ice cream shop. e site hosts regular live music performances on its patio.

piano manufacturing, Piano Alley features a two-story abstract mural in a rainbow of hues capped oﬀ with the adage, “Where words fail, music speaks.” Colorful stripes alternating with black keys extend across the walkway, and more public art treasures await.

A charming agritourism destination, Stream Cliﬀ Farm in Commiskey features an herb farm, tea room, and winery. Visitors can browse gi shops and greenhouses, savor farm-to-table meals at its on-site restaurant, and sip handcra ed

New Albany’s Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site, once owned by the wealthiest man in Indiana, showcases opulent ﬁnishes.

Known for its utopian heritage, New Harmony is ﬁlled with lush gardens, spiritual sites, and distinctive structures, such as the Roofless Church by Philip Johnson and the Atheneum Visitors Center by Richard Meier, which serves as a starting point for guided walking tours of the community.

Spiritual landmarks like the Monastery Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand and St. Meinrad Archabbey showcase stunning religious structures and serene settings.

e quaint town of Nashville oﬀers its own version of paradise for

art and nature lovers. Stroll through galleries and studios showcasing local artists. e T.C. Steele State Historic Site was the home and studio of a recognized landscape painter.

As Indiana’s oldest city following the arrival of European settlers, Vincennes features historic landmarks like William Henry Harrison’s Grouseland mansion and museum and the Saint Francis Xavier Old Cathedral Catholic Church. e Vincennes State Historic Sites provide an in-depth look at the original territorial capitol, Indiana’s ﬁrst school of higher learning, and the Fort Knox II site.

e Indiana Military Museum houses a collection of artifacts from the Revolutionary War to modern conﬂicts, and George Rogers Clark National Historical Park honors the war hero and his contributions to securing the Northwest Territory.

And, military history buﬀ s can explore nautical artifacts and exhibits at the USS LST-325 Ship Memorial, the last fully operational World War II landing ship docked in Evansville.

Jasper Art Alley

Huber’s Orchard & Winery

South festivals

Festival Highlights

FUN AND FANFARE AWAIT AT THESE ANNUAL GATHERINGS CELEBRATING EVERYTHING FROM DOGWOOD TREES TO HANDMADE ARTS AND CRAFTS.

MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL

FEBRUARY/MARCH • Salem’s LM Sugarbush farm serves up pancakes, barbecue, and cotton candy accented with rich maple flavor. Attendees can tour the grounds, learn about sap collecting and syrup making, and brand a log slice. lmsugarbush.com

METAMORA STRAWBERRY DAYS

JUNE • Usher in summer at Metamora’s ode to the quintessential June berry. Visit shops, restaurants, and attractions in the historic canal town while listening to musical performances and sampling fresh strawberry shortcake. metamoraindiana.com

MADISON CHAUTAUQUA FESTIVAL OF ART

SEPTEMBER • This arts and crafts showcase in Madison’s historic district includes a juried art competition, a chalk walk, and more. Explore original paintings, woodwork, and pottery. madisonchautauqua.com

ORLEANS DOGWOOD FESTIVAL

APRIL • Visit the town of Orleans, dubbed “Indiana’s Dogwood Capital,” to celebrate the flowering ornamental trees with a townwide yard sale, car show, carnival, euchre tournament, art show, and photo contest. orleansdogwoodfestival.com

SHOALS CATFISH FESTIVAL

JULY • Fourth of July means more than fireworks in Shoals. In addition to munching catfish sandwiches, attendees can watch sports tournaments, cooking and fishing contests, a catfish weigh-in, and a battle of the bands. visitmartincounty.org/catfish

WEST SIDE NUT CLUB FALL FESTIVAL

OCTOBER • Evansville’s weeklong West Side Nut Club Fall Festival draws more than 200,000 attendees with a carnival, tug of war competition, talent show, prize raffle, and parades. nutclubfallfestival.com

FRÜHLINGSFEST

MAY • Welcoming spring in German fashion, this jamboree at the Knights of Columbus in Seymour features live music, handmade crafts, a biergarten, a dunk tank, and treats like currywurst, German potatoes, and sticky buns. facebook.com/thekofcdude

SWISS WINE FESTIVAL

AUGUST • Vevay honors its Swiss origins with a four-day celebration of Indiana–based wineries. Guests can participate in grape stomp or Steintossen (stone throwing) competitions and enjoy polka dancing performances. swisswinefestival.org

FERDINAND CHRISTKINDLMARKT

NOVEMBER • Kick off winter at Ferdinand’s Bavarian marketplace showcasing handmade gifts, arts and crafts, and more. Enjoy ice skating, wine tasting, and monastery tours. ferdinandchristkindlmarkt.com

West Side Nut Club Fall Festival

SOUTH wanderlust

Road Trip

THIS MINI ITINERARY CAN HELP YOU PLAN A LOOPING ROUTE THROUGH SOUTHERN INDIANA, COMPLETE WITH FUN STOPS AND COMFORTABLE STAYS ALONG THE WAY.

1 MADISON

Historic river town

SIGHTSEE

Within one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the U.S., the Madison Arts and Cultural District hums with creative energy. Live music and festivals like the Madison Chautauqua Festival of Art , Roostertail Music Festival, and Rockin’ on the River draw enthusiastic crowds. In 2024, Madison was established as a port along American Cruise Lines’ Ohio River tours winding

through areas such as Newport, Cincinnati, and Louisville on American Heritage paddlewheel boats. The Lanier Mansion State Historic Site is a Madison landmark featuring Greek revival design and river views.

STAY

Downtown Madison’s Chandler Hotel has a unique history, previously serving as a livery stable, bottling factory, and newsprint warehouse. Today, the restored boutique hotel offers eight uniquely appointed suites, fitness facilities, and a rooftop terrace.

2 NEW ALBANY

Stop on the way

Stretch your legs at Charlestown State Park with a walking tour of the former Rose Island Amusement Park, which was all but wiped out when the Ohio River flooded in 1937. Stone pillars, metal archways, a fountain, and the swimming pool remain as reminders of a bygone time.

Walkable artistic community

SIGHTSEE

New Albany’s historic charm is complemented by arts and activations. Catch concerts and festivals at the New Albany Riverfront Amphitheater, explore murals and pop-up art downtown, and walk or bike the Ohio River Greenway to the Flow Park skate plaza. Browse contemporary exhibits at the Carnegie Center for Art & History, then linger for live music, markets,

and riverfront events that fill up the city’s cultural calendar.

STAY

Built in 1851, The Pepin Mansion Historic Bed & Breakfast offers carefully preserved, elegant surroundings near the waterfront. Its four luxury suites and a gourmet breakfast make guests feel right at home.

3 EVANSVILLE

A bigger city with small-town vibes

SIGHTSEE

Continuing along the Ohio River, Evansville delivers a lively

Wilstem Wildliife Park

Charlestown State Park Rose Island

culture scene near the southwestern tip of the state. Outdoor enthusiasts can check out Wesselman Woods, the largest urban old-growth forest in the U.S. Haynie’s Corner Arts District offers a neighborhood mix of galleries, shops, and restaurants. If live entertainment is on the agenda, catch big-name acts at the Ford Center or take in a stage production at Victory Theatre

STAY

A renovated Italianate mansion near the riverfront greenway, the Casa Finale bed and breakfast features private guest suites

with fireplaces in each room. Amenities include a gym, library, and home theater, as well as well-manicured gardens and a courtyard with a firepit.

4 FRENCH LICK

Scenic resort locale

SIGHTSEE

While the famous resort is a full-stocked vacation in itself with a wide array of activities and services offered on-site, visitors can also tour the area on the French Lick Scenic Railway, hike and bike the Hoosier National Forest , and go wild with animal encounters and drivethru safaris at Wilstem Wildlife Park

STAY

Stop on the way

Tulip Trestle near Solsberry is a great place to stop for a picnic from nearby Yoho General Store One of the longest bridges of its kind in the world still in operation, the steel girded trestle can be admired from the observation deck below.

The Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum in the vicinity is a wooded park featuring 180 metal sculptures installed on the property. Guided tours are available.

The French Lick Resort is a worldclass destination that includes two luxury hotels on its campus. For a back-to-nature experience, Lost River Hostel is a woodsy combination of camping and a hotel stay.

5 BLOOMINGTON

Scenic college town

SIGHTSEE

Ensconced in local limestone, the Indiana University campus opens up to the city’s designated cultural zone, the Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District , which spans 60 blocks and features performance spaces, restaurants, shops, nightlife venues, and a yearlong farmers market. The area also showcases outdoor gems like Griffy Lake Nature Preserve, Monroe Lake, and Karst Farm Park, as

Stop on the way

While Nashville’s Hard Truth Distilling Co. is known for its grain-to-glass spirits, including sweet mash bourbon and rye, its campus offers tours, classes, live entertainment, and active experiences. The Get Lost ATV Tour takes visitors on a 60-minute ride all over the property with pit stops and tastings along the ride.

well as the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center

STAY

Grant Street Inn is Bloomington’s signature boutique hotel, providing a restful and retreat-style backdrop.

6 BATESVILLE

Outdoorsy small town

SIGHTSEE

Batesville offers plenty of options to enjoy nature at sites like Liberty Park, Brum Woods, and Inspiration Park If you bring your board along, take a roll at Batesville Skatepark & Outdoor

Adventure. Film lovers can venture out to the historic Gibson Theatre to catch a current flick or special screening event.

STAY

The Sherman has been a unique dining and lodging destination since 1852. Don’t miss the Black Forest Bar and Sherman Biergarten.

Nashville’s Hard Truth Distilling Co. takes visitors on an Inside the Barrel Tour.

Tulip Trestle

Hard Truth Distilling Co.

Main Street Indiana

OF THE STATE’S 19 NATIONALLY ACCREDITED MAIN STREET COMMUNITIES, EIGHT ARE IN THE SOUTH REGION. EXPLORE THESE WELCOMING DOWNTOWNS.

LAWRENCEBURG

is one of Indiana’s oldest settlements. Blocks of historic buildings house some of the area’s most popular shops, including Lawrenceburg Home Boutique featuring furniture and decor and Back Alley Mercantile, which carries gi s, gourmet goodies, and candies. Recharge at Funny Farm Coffee Company, a cafe with an array of rotating flavors. Now caffeinated, turn your attention to Hamerlynck and e Hummingbird Boutique. Both shops carry handcra ed jewelry, antiques and vintage curiosities. A er working up an appetite, order a pie from Strong’s Brick Oven Pizzeria or shrimp tacos from Proof 124 Table & Tavern

AURORA is a tightknit community with a compact downtown. Start your day touring the Hillforest Victorian House Museum, then head to Second Time Around and Krypto’s Comix for antiques, collectibles, action figures, and movie memorabilia. Nearby, the House of Peacock proffers boho, Western, and vintage wearables and e 1819 Boutique outfits women in fashionable jeans, sweaters, dresses, and accessories. For dinner, order a mouthwatering strip steak at J. Miller Steak Company or the truffle ravioli at ird & Main, which has a companion butchery.

Seymour is the small town native son John Mellencamp sang about

in 1985. Aptly, a mural of the rocker dresses up the exterior wall of is Old Guitar Music Store. Shop clothing and accessories, gi s, and more at Dragonﬂy Boutique, Audie Jayne, and Hearts Desire Gi Shop. Bibliophiles will ﬂip over e Magic of Books for pre-loved titles, while puzzles, collectible cards, and board games, take the spotlight at e Castle Games

Sample German fare at Schwätzer’s or feast on all-day breakfast at Mae’s Townhouse

Jasper has a little something for everyone. Taste a sampling of German dishes like goulash, spätzle,

sauerbraten, weiner schnitzel, pretzels, apple strudel, and a variety of wursts at Schnitzelbank Restaurant Saturday mornings starting May 23, peruse the homegrown produce

and baked goods at the Jasper Farmers Market in the parking lot behind the yen-Clark Cultural Center. Get your shopping ﬁx at is Olde House, stocked with accessories, gi s, locally

Strong’s Brick Oven Pizzeria

Jasper

Mellencamp Mural, Seymour

made cra s, and trending home goods. Loosen your belt before ending the day at Oink Inc. Smokehouse Favorites include St. Louisstyle ribs and Bourbon Pecan Chicken. Pro tip: Don’t skip the Triple Pig Totchos.

Corydon has a rich history as Indiana’s ﬁrst state capitol from 1816 to 1825. Among attractions like the Corydon Capitol State Historic Site, it boasts a rare gem: the Hayswood eatre, where you can take in live performances of popular musicals. Rev up for the day with a cappuccino or smoothie at the Kent Java Bar, then browse at Bookworm, a rare book shop with more than 30,000 volumes, from hard-to-ﬁnd hard-

cover classics to out-of-print paperbacks. Karv is a lunch spot that never disappoints. Finally, make a stop at the Chestnut Street Market, a gourmet shop bursting with specialty foods, beer and wine, and gi baskets.

Brookville is strollworthy, full of friendly business owners and cozy nooks. Antique lovers should make a beeline for Looking Glass Antiques and its vintage treasures and curiosities. e Whiskey Wrangler Mercantile Shop, meanwhile, entices with its unique brand of rustic chic fashion, from jeans and dresses to purses and fun jewelry. Belly up to the (burger) bar at Nixie’s Burgers, serving fresh hamburgers in a charming coﬀee-shop setting since 1939. Just be sure to save a little room for dessert at e Daily Scoop, where the ice creams, and even the waﬄe cones, are homemade.

Greensburg is the place you picture when you imagine an adorable small town. Stories Restaurant is a classic diner and downtown staple, serving pot roast, tenderloins, fried chicken, and chocolate pie. Wander in to Art on the Square, a charming gallery with rotating exhibits showing oﬀ the works of local and regional artists in mediums ranging from photography and ﬁber to found objects and bonsai. Denim & Honey Boutique will tempt you with women’s and men’s styles. At Dog-Eared Pages, pick up your next reads and a cute canvas tote for the haul. Wind down at Tree City Brew Co. with one of the dozen housemade beers.

Madison, which also boasts a recognized Indiana Cultural District, is the ﬁrst stop on our Region Road Trip. See page 40 for more details about this river city.

ARTS & CULTURE DISTRICTS

The Indiana Arts Commission recognizes 12 Indiana Cultural Districts throughout the state, a few of which are located in the South region. They include:

• The centerpiece of Jeffersonville’s NoCo Arts and Cultural District (short for North of Court Avenue) is an artistically refurbished water tank. Beyond that, the 22-acre creative zone includes a Makers’ Space, the Vintage Fire Museum showcasing historic fire engines and firefighting gear, and Picasso Pointe—a brilliant pocket park. Everything is colorful and whimsical and, thus, inspiring.

• The Columbus Arts and Entertainment District features myriad public art installations, including the 6th Street Arts Alley, which serves as a backdrop to community events and cultural programming. Every other year, the Exhibit Columbus initiative produced by the Landmark Columbus Foundation

includes a free, walkable exhibition with art installations, tours, and community events. The next one is in 2027.

• A creativity incubator set along the winding roads in the hills of Southern Indiana, Arts Village Brown County features an enclave of small shops, artists’ studios, and folksy art galleries situated alongside wineries, homey restaurants, and live entertainment venues that dot the main drag. For fans of handcrafted goods and art, Nashville is a must-see.

• The Bloomington Entertainment & Arts District showcases performing arts venues, art galleries, boutique hotels, shops, and public parks. Bloomington is a stop on the Region Road Trip on pages 40-41.

NoCo Arts and Cultural District

Made IN Indiana

FROM POWERFUL ENGINES TO DELICATE HARPS, THE SOUTH REGION’S MAKERS PROVE THAT CREATIVITY THRIVES IN EVERY CORNER OF INDIANA, INVITING YOU TO EXPLORE, TASTE, AND DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW.

SOUTHERN INDIANA

blends rolling hills, river towns, and limestone cliffs, but it’s also home to some of the state’s most innovative and surprising manufacturers. From world-famous engines to handcrafted harps and crunchy pretzels, the region offers travelers plenty of reasons to slow down and savor statewide craftsmanship. Columbus-based Cummins has designed and built cutting-edge diesel and alternativefuel engines since 1919. Known for powering everything from heavy-duty trucks to global infrastructure, Cummins helped shape its hometown into a hub of modern design and innovation. Visitors can explore its architectural footprint across the city and stop by to see the corporate office exhibits, which highlight engineering

milestones. cummins.com

Despite the geographic reference in its name, Tell City Pretzels is headquartered in Jasper. Originally launched by a Swiss master baker in Tell City in 1858, the company produced hand-twisted pretzels following the same recipe for more than a century. After a brief closure, Tell City Pretzels was relaunched by adoring fans who continue the legacy of their favorite snack. tellcitypretzel.com

In Seymour, Guardian Bikes is reinventing childhood on two wheels. The company makes awardwinning kids’ bicycles featuring its innovative SureStop braking system, designed to prevent front-wheel lockups and make riding safer. While the factory isn’t publicly toured, families can visit the showroom

by appointment—and kids may get a peek at the magic behind their new favorite bike. guardianbikes.com

Along the Ohio River in Rising Sun, Harpsicle Harps (Rees Harps Inc.) bring a touch of fairy-tale whimsy to southern Indiana. Known for lightweight, beginnerfriendly harps used by musicians worldwide, this small manufacturer handcrafts instruments that make music feel accessible. Visitors can stop by the workshop showroom to browse harps, ask questions, and watch artisans at work when available. harpsicleharps.com

Bloomington is home to the Indiana Limestone Company, which supplied the iconic stone used in buildings like the Empire State Building and the Pentagon. Though the quarries aren’t open for public touring due

Schimpff’s cinnamon red hots are “nicely spicy.”

to safety regulations, enthusiasts can explore local architecture that showcases the stone’s legacy. indianalimestone company.com

A historic candy shop and museum, Schimpff’s Confectionery in Jeffersonville is famous for its handmade red hots and candies. The shop dates back to 1891, making it one of the oldest familyowned candy stores in

the U.S. schimpffs.com Seasoned travelers stop in Brownstown, where Marion-Kay Spices has blended high-quality seasonings since 1922. A favorite among chefs and home cooks alike, the company offers a retail shop where visitors can stock up on fragrant blends— perfect souvenirs for the culinary traveler. marionkay.com

Guardian Bikes

Harpsicle Harps Caption

Schimpff’s Confectionery

South family fun

kidscommons

Play Dates

THESE SITES IN THE SOUTH REGION PROVIDE ENRICHING ENTERTAINMENT FOR YOUNG TRAVELERS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

An interactive children’s museum, kidscommons in Columbus is packed with engaging exhibits. Highlights include Kids-At-Art, Bubbleology, Early Childhood Garden, and ExploraHouse with its giant toilet slide. The camp kidscommons area brings outdoor adventures inside and offers extended programming during school breaks.

Bloomington’s WonderLab Museum of Science, Health, and Technology is a hands-on science museum

that encourages curiosity and exploration. Exhibits include the SandScapes, Wonder Under the Waves Saltwater Aquarium, Science Sprouts Place & Sprouts Lab for infants and toddlers, and outdoor WonderGarden.

The Koch Family Children’s Museum of Evansville is just ducky with its Quack Factory opening this spring. Check out the ArtMaker Studio, Fantastic Plastic, Kids World, Live Well, Work Smart, and Speak Loud galleries.

Take a journey into the cosmos by heading to the Koch Immersive Theater & Planetarium in Evansville. Located within the Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science, this state-of-the-art domed cinema offers awe-inspiring shows about space and astronomy.

Evansville’s Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden appeals to animal and nature lovers. With over 200 species of animals and beautifully landscaped gardens, families can explore lively exhibits like the Amazonia rainforest, African Panorama, Children’s Enchanted Forest, and Penguins of Patagonia. Enjoy interactive experiences such as giraffe feedings and tram tours.

Tucked away in Scottsburg,

Scale a brick building at kidscommons!

Goat Milk Stuff is a familyrun farm offering tours where kids can interact with goats and learn about sustainable farming from members of the Jonas clan. Start and end your visit in the gift shop, where you can grab fudge, lotion, soap, lip balm, insect repellent, and more—all made with goat milk. Every day is Christmas in Santa Claus. Take a ride on wooden roller coasters at Holiday World, explore the Santa Claus Museum and Village, pose by the 22-foot Santa statue, shop for nostalgic treats at Santa’s Candy Castle, and enjoy seasonal light shows,

Holiday World

parades, and events celebrating the holiday spirit. Rain or shine, Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park in French Lick guarantees a day of aquatic fun. The year-round indoor water park features 40,000 square feet of slides, a lazy river, and a play area for younger children. Families can also stay overnight at the attached hotel.

Lark Ranch in Loogootee offers “the ultimate fall experience” to families seeking seasonal fun and games. Among its many activities, including bungee trampolines, chair swings, pedal carts, barrel train rides, and a giant slide, it offers hayride tours of the pumpkin patch and cornfields. Stop by The Candy Mill afterward for truffles or novelty sweets.

JUST DESSERTS

After a long day of play, refresh and refuel with a variety of sweet treats.

Known for its creamy, hand-crafted ice cream, Lazy Cow Creamery in Corydon offers goodies with clever, bovinerelated serving names. Borden’s Norma Jean’s Ice Cream Shop creates tantalizing tastes like blueberry cheesecake or peach cobbler tornadoes. French Licks is a charming artisanal ice cream and pizza parlor in downtown French Lick. Stop in for coffee, dinner, or frozen treats like cones, milkshakes, floats, and frappes. Scoops Ice Cream in Rockport serves up twists of chocolate and vanilla with some seasonal specials (Lucky Charms chiller, anyone?). Washington’s Mason’s Root Beer Drive In is known for its frosty mugs and floats served curbside. Hark back to the old days at Zaharakos in Columbus. With gorgeous woodwork, stained glass, and a self-playing organ, the ice cream parlor and soda fountain is a treat for the eyes and ears. Chocolate fans will love Hoover’s Candy Shop in Bedford, with its offerings of caramels, fudge, dipped pretzels, and pecan bombs. And, finally, for fresh bakery goodies, Adrienne and Co. in Floyds Knobs fills its case with cookies, cupcakes, and more.

Mason’s Root Beer Drive In

Happy Tails

A FAMILY TRIP OR WEEKEND GETAWAY DOESN’T FEEL COMPLETE WITHOUT YOUR BEST BUDDY. THE SOUTH REGION BOASTS AN ARRAY OF ATTRACTIONS, RESTAURANTS, AND LODGING OPTIONS THAT ALLOW PETS TO TAG ALONG. SO, PACK UP YOUR VEHICLE AND TAKE FIDO WITH YOU FOR A FUN-FILLED C-A-R R-I-D-E.

play Places to explore, exercise, and get a good sniff of the grounds • e French Lick Scenic Railway operates passenger trains over 25 miles of track from French Lick to Jasper. Your pet can climb aboard and ride with you on this historic railway—just make sure to bring a leash.

In Brown County, Nashville Express Tour Trains give visitors a 20-25 minute overview of the artsy community of Nashville. Small dogs are welcome

to ride along. Stop in the aptly named Naughty Dog Books on Main Street.

e 390-million-yearold fossil beds at Falls of the Ohio State Park in Clarksville are among the largest exposed Devonian fossil beds in the world. Leashed pets are permitted throughout the park.

Cli y Falls State Park in Madison showcases waterfalls that change moods with the weather and the seasons. Leashed dogs can join their owners

for hikes through the rugged splendor of Cli y Canyon. Great for rock climbing, hiking, trail running, and mountain biking, Muscatatuck Park in North Vernon allows leashed pets to join you on hikes through the park’s 10 miles of trails.

Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell includes a pioneer village with grist and sawmills, an on-site inn, hiking and mountain bike trails, and caves. You can bring your pet

on a leash to explore the historic grounds.

In Marengo, go underground into Marengo Cave, a U.S. National Landmark that welcomes small dogs inside the actual caves; other animals are allowed on the grounds.

Other nature walks include Mill Race Park in Columbus, recognized as one of the top 100 parks in the nation by Landscape Management. In addition to paved trails, the site features an observation tower, covered bridge and amphitheater. And Buﬀ alo Trace Trails in French Lick include a scenic 5.5-mile beginner loop and a 3.5-mile intermediate waterfall loop.

If you’d like to let your dog run free oﬀ-leash and meet some new pals, the

Falls of the Ohio State Park

South region is home to plenty of dog parks, including Pippero Pup Park in Newburgh, Madison Riverfront Dog Park in Madison, New Albany Dog Park in New Albany, Karst Farm Park and Ferguson Dog Park in Bloomington, and the brand-new Black River Welcome Center in Posey County, among others.

Sit Where to grab a bite and a drink with your four-legged friend • Numerous restaurants and pubs throughout the South region allow dogs to accompany their owners on patios and in outdoor dining areas. These include: Union Pub and Social (which also includes an on-site dog park), Parlour, and The Red Yeti in Jeffersonville; Barker Brewhouse,

Roca Bar East, Sportsman’s Grille & Billiards, Rafferty’s, and Stockwell Inn in Evansville; Route 65 Tavern in Cynthiana; The Garage and Papa’s Grill in Columbus; Nick’s English Hut, Runcible Spoon, and Upland Brewing in Bloomington; Farm House Cafe, The Nashville House, and Bird’s Nest Cafe in Nashville; The Red Pepperoni in Madison; Lil’ Charlie’s Restaurant and Brewery in Batesville; The Exchange Pub + Kitchen and Seeds and Greens Natural Market & Deli in New Albany; Sara’s Wine & Bier Bar in New Harmony; and Crossroads Family Restaurant in Versailles. More options can be found on the Bring Fido site at bringfido.com.

STAY Inns that accommodate overnight visits with pets • When you’re ready to retire for the night, rest easy knowing that all members of your pack will have a comfy place to relax and sleep.

All Indiana state park inns have designated pet-friendly rooms. In the South region, you’ll find the Canyon Inn at McCormick’s Creek State Park in Spencer, which offers easy access to hiking trails, tennis courts, a recreation center, and golf. Brown County State Park’s Abe Martin Lodge in Nashville makes a great base camp to explore the area’s outdoor amenities, and it has a restaurant and indoor water park. Clifty Inn at Clifty Falls State Park in Madison connects guests to the park’s hiking trails and waterfalls. And the remodeled Spring Mill

Inn at Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell features thoughtful updates in its rooms and common areas, including the Millstone Dining Room.

Other hospitable hotels and inns in the region include the French Lick Resort, which offers pet-friendly rooms at all three of its hotels—the French Lick Springs Hotel, West Baden Springs Hotel, and Valley Tower Hotel. The resort offers miles of trails and even an in-room doggy dining menu.

And, finally, the Hotel Indigo Columbus Architectural Center in Columbus is a great landing pad between tours of the architecturally significant city with your furry friends.

Marengo Cave

Sweet Treats Word search

HOOVER’S CANDY SHOP, BEDFORD

SCHIMPFF’S

Explore the scenic Ohio River, family-friendly Patoka Lake, as well as the many mysterious caves and scenic rolling hills. Visit our website at SouthernIndiana.org to plan your visit

Find yourself at the home of Evansville’s iconic West Side Nut Club Fall Festival — the Best Fall Festival in the U.S., as voted by USA Today. The festival delivers fried favorites, classic rides, and the authentic charm of a historic community in full autumn swing. Find yourself in the middle of it next fall.

Big Four Pedestrian Bridge, Jeffersonville, IN

VISITOR RESOURCES

Welcome! Your information on regional convention and visitor bureaus, chambers of commerce and local welcome centers. Find even more at VisitIndiana.IN.gov.

Regionwide

Discover Southern Indiana 813 16th St. Bedford, IN 47421 812-277-9778 812-277-9788 radiusindiana.com

Regionwide

Southern Indiana Regional Marketing Co-Op southernindiana.org

Bloomfield Greene County Economic Development Corporation

4513 W. S.R. 54, Ste. 105 812.659.2109 insidegreenecounty.com

Bloomington Visit Bloomington

2855 N. Walnut St. 812.334.8900 800.800.0037 visitbloomington.com

Boonville

Warrick County Visitors Bureau 224 W. Main St. 812.802.9235 visitwarrick.com

Clarksville/ Jeffersonville/ New Albany SoIN Tourism –Clark-Floyd Counties

228 Spring St., Ste. 106 812.280.5566 gosoin.com

Columbus

Columbus Area Visitors Center

506 Fifth St. 812.378.2622 columbus.in.us

Corydon

Harrison County Convention & Visitors Bureau

310 N. Elm St. 888.738.2138 thisisindiana.org

Evansville

Explore Evansville

20 N.W. Third St. 800.433.3025 exploreevansville.com

Greensburg

Visit Greensburg Decatur County 211 N. Broadway 812.222.8733 visitgreensburg.com

Jasper Dubois County Visitors Center & Tourism Commission

248 E. Third St., Ste. C 812.482.9115 visitduboiscounty.com

Lawrenceburg

Dearborn County Convention & Visitors Bureau

320 Walnut St. 800.322.8198, 812.537.0814 visitsoutheast indiana.com

Leavenworth

Crawford County Tourism & Welcome Center

5935 S. S.R. 66 812.739.2246 cometocrawford.com

Madison Visit Madison

601 W. First St. 800.559.2956 visitmadison.org

Mitchell Limestone Country –Lawrence County Visitors Center 533 W. Main St. 812.849.1090 limestonecountry.com

Mount Vernon Visit Posey County Inc. 520 Main St. 812.499.4622 visitposeycounty.com

Nashville Brown County Convention & Visitors Bureau 211 S. Van Buren St. 812.988.7303 browncounty.com

North Vernon Jennings County Visitors & Recreation Commission 1865 W. Walnut St. 812.346.2388 joinusinjennings.com

Petersburg Pike County Chamber of Commerce

801 E. Main St. 812.354.8155 pikecountyinchamber.com

Princeton Gibson County Visitors & Tourism Bureau 702 W. Broadway St. 812.385.0999 gogibson.org

Rising Sun Rising Sun/Ohio County Tourism 217 N. High St. 812.438.4933 enjoyrisingsun.com

Salem

Washington County Indiana Tourism 99 Public Square, Ste. 201 812.883.4303 washingtoncounty tourism.com

Santa Claus Spencer County Visitors Bureau 25 W. Christmas Blvd. 812.937.4199 santaclausind.org

Scottsburg Scott County Visitors Commission 90 N. Main St. 812.752.9211 visitscottcounty.org

Seymour Jackson County Visitor Center 100 N. Broadway St. 812.524.1914 jacksoncountyin.com

Shoals

Martin County Tourism Council 404 JFK Ave. visitmartincounty indiana.com

Sullivan Sullivan County Tourism Commission

25 S. Main St. 812.905.0131 discoversullivan.com

Tell City

Perry County Convention & Visitors Bureau

333 7th St. 812.547.7933 pickperry.com

Versailles

Ripley County Tourism Bureau

220 E. U.S. 50 812.689.7431 ripleycountytourism.com

Vevay

Switzerland

County Tourism

128 W. Main St. 812.427.3237 switzcotourism.com

Vincennes Vincennes/Knox County Visitors & Tourism Bureau 702 Main St. 800.886.6443 visitvincennes.org

Washington

Daviess County Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau

1 Train Depot St. 812.254.5262

discoverdaviess.com

West Baden

Timeless French Lick

8102 W. S.R. 56 812.936.3418 visitfrenchlick westbaden.com

region

No matter what’s on your wish list for a getaway, you’ll find it in the Central region IN Indiana. You’ll discover fascinating museums and historical sites; top-notch outdoor recreation; world-class shopping; award-winning wineries, distilleries and breweries; and unique lodging that you may never want to leave. Central offers big-city excitement coupled with small-town charm, and often the two are just a short drive from each other. Let’s hit the road!

Kuji Alley in Franklin

Regional Highlights

CHECK OUT ROAD TRIP–WORTHY ATTRACTIONS, STATE PARKS, AND CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS THROUGHOUT THE CENTRAL REGION THAT APPEAL TO ART AFICIONADOS, HISTORY BUFFS, AND NATURE LOVERS.

In the heart of downtown Indianapolis, White River State Park showcases popular attractions including the Indianapolis Zoo, Victory Field, Everwise Amphitheater, the NCAA Hall of Champions, and the Eiteljorg Museum, which is dedicated to Native American and Western art. Right next door, the Indiana State Museum explores the state’s history. With collections showing everything from prehistoric fossils to modern innovations, it’s an educational experience for all ages.

Home to the Indianapolis Museum of Art and Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park, Newfields showcases an inspiring blend of art, nature, and recreation. Its attractions include expansive gardens, rotating

exhibits, film series, and seasonal light shows such as Harvest Nights and Winterlights

A family favorite since 1946, Beasley’s Orchard in Danville grows ripe-for-thepicking strawberries, green beans, apples,

pumpkins, and more. Come autumn, it hosts hayrides, corn mazes, and festivals, with cider and baked goods on offer in its farm market.

Muncie gem Minnetrista Museum & Gardens is a cultural hub that combines

green spaces, museums, and family-friendly programming. e outdoor zones, including the Nature Area and themed gardens, oﬀer walking paths to explore the grounds. Indoors, exhibits o en focus on local history and art. Seasonal events like the Farmers Market and Enchanted Luminaria Walk, as well as art workshops and storytelling circles, add to Minnetrista’s charm. Don’t miss the Bob Ross Experience, which honors the upbeat artist famous for his inspiring TV series, e Joy of Painting. Visi-

Bob Ross Experience

Beasley’s Orchard

Newfields

Explore the life, philosophy, and art of the iconic American painter inside the historic home where The Joy of Painting was filmed. See original paintings and artifacts or book a painting workshop with a certified bob ross instructor!

Exhibitions | Workshops | Programs | Events

Freedom Bus

Open through June 28, 2026

Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley: Let the World See January 24–April 12, 2026

36th Annual Juried Art Show

February 28–May 3, 2026

America at 250: Reflections on Community April 4–October 25, 2026

Wallace & Gromit™: Get Cracking!

Bob Ross Waves of Wonder October 24, 2026–October 10, 2027

Open Space: Art About the Land November 7, 2026–January 3, 2027

Imagine in Glass November 21, 2026–February 28, 2027

Garden Fair

May 8–9, 2026

Fourth of July Celebration

July 4, 2026

tors can enjoy works of art by Ross, step inside the restored studio where he once ﬁ lmed his show, participate in painting workshops, and see memorabilia the painter collected.

In addition to the annual Indiana State Fair, which features big-name concerts, livestock shows, carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, and all manner of fair food, the fairgrounds site in Indianapolis hosts a wide variety of events like World of Wheels, The Great Junk Hunt, Christmas Nights of Lights, Brickworld, The Great Train Show, and the World Oddities Expo.

A more literal alley along Fortville’s quaint Main Street was revamped into a “pocket park.” Resurfaced with epoxy, The Alley now sports benches, tables, potted flowers and plants and cheery string lighting overhead. Pop into quaint shops and restaurants in the neighborhood and snap a selfie against the rich red brick background.

May 16–September 20, 2026

America at 250: Celebrating Hoosier Spirit

June 6, 2026–January 31, 2027

Welcome to Minnetrista: Our Story Begins Here Opens on September 19, 2026

Faeries, Sprites, & Lights

July 30–August 1, 2026

Boo-levard Bash October 2–3, 2026

Enchanted Luminaria Walk

December 4–5, 2026

Follow the James Dean Landmarks Trail in Grant County to explore the Rebel Without a Cause icon’s roots in Fairmount and Marion. Highlights include The James Dean Museum and James Dean Gallery packed with memorabilia, his boyhood sites and memorials, murals, and the actor’s burial place—plus stops that celebrate 1950s nostalgia and this enduring Hollywood legend.

Terre Haute’s Candles Holocaust Museum and Education Center tells the powerful story of Holocaust survivor Eva Kor and her mission of forgiveness. Through exhibits and survivor testimonies, it educates guests about the Holocaust and the importance of tolerance.

Founded by a Civil War veteran and local jeweler, the Swope Art Museum in Terre Haute showcases American art and hosts worthwhile rotating exhibits. Its biggest draw is its collection of American scene paintings from the 1930s and 1940s.

The Levi and Catharine Coffin State Historic Site in Fountain City was once a key stop on the Underground Railroad. The Coffins’ home, often called the Grand Central Station, sheltered hundreds of escaped slaves seeking freedom.

Opened in 1882, the Rotary Jail Museum in Crawfordsville was the first of 18 rotary jails built in the U.S. and is the only one left standing with a still-operable

turning mechanism. The jail site is rumored to be haunted and capitalizes on its spook factor by hosting night tours and ghost hunts.

North of downtown Indianapolis, the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site preserves the home of the 23rd U.S. president. Guided tours offer a glimpse into Harrison’s personal and political life, original furnishings, and artifacts.

Hagerstown’s Wilbur Wright Birthplace Museum is the restored birthplace of the elder Wright brother and is dedicated to the famed duo’s groundbreaking achievements as aviation pioneers.

Two Central region sites pay homage to Hoosier poet James

Whitcomb Riley. The James Whitcomb Riley Boyhood Home and Museum in Greenfield honors his early life and literary contributions. The James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home in Indy’s historic Lockerbie Square neighborhood showcases Riley’s later life and works.

Kokomo’s stunning Victorian-style Seiberling Mansion offers a glimpse into the opulent lives of the wealthy in the late 19th century. Now a museum, it highlights the City of Firsts’ industrial history and the Seiberling family’s local legacy.

Beloved WWII correspondent Ernie Pyle was killed on Okinawa and immortalized in the film The Story of G. I. Joe. The Ernie Pyle

WWII Museum in Dana includes the farmhouse where he was born and fascinating military memorabilia.

A living history museum and Smithsonian Affiliate organization that takes families back in time, Conner Prairie in Fishers includes interactive exhibits like 1836 Prairie-town and the Lenape Indian Camp, where visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in Indiana’s rich history. Seasonal events such as Symphony on the Prairie and the Headless Horseman Festival add to the excitement with music and literatureinspired performances. Don’t miss Treetop Outpost, an engaging adventure course where kids can explore and connect with nature.

Conner Prairie

Fun fact:

Nature lovers flock to Cagles Mill Lake and Lieber Reservoir in Cloverdale, which pair boating and fishing with forested campsites. Cagles Mill Lake was constructed as Indiana’s first flood control reservoir in 1952. A highlight on this waterway is Cataract Falls, which showcases twin cascades formed from pre-glacial bedrock ridges. They are as gorgeous in the winter as they are in the summer. After hiking, browse the quirky Cataract General Store and explore Historic Mansfield Roller Mill, a working 19th-century gristmill.

For those seeking a faster pace and competitive, high-speed excitement, K1 Circuit in Whiteland is a prime destination for go-kart racing. The track offers thrilling races for all ages and skill levels, providing the needed equipment and safety briefing to participate on the track. The raceway also hosts racing classes and events.

Whether you’re driving in for the day or staying for the weekend, Indianapolis Zoo is your essential Indy experience.

The James Dean Museum

Actor James Dean was born in Marion on February 8, 1931.

Falls Park, Pendleton

Road Trip

THIS MINI ITINERARY CAN HELP YOU PLAN A LOOPING ROUTE THROUGH CENTRAL INDIANA, COMPLETE WITH FUN STOPS AND COMFORTABLE STAYS ALONG THE WAY.

1 PENDLETON

Historic charm near a big city

SIGHTSEE

A little northeast of Indianapolis, Pendleton has a quaint downtown with shops, restaurants, and events like its Final Friday Summer Series with games and entertainment. Stroll the scenic Falls Park, which features a lovely waterfall, a pool, a disc golf course, a bark park, and hiking trails. If you’re ripe for a treat, visit The Crabby Apple Family Orchard & Market for produce, homemade goodies, and fresh cider. The site

offers a u-pick orchard, petting zoo, and bounce houses for family fun.

STAY

About 30 minutes north of Pendleton, The Plum House bed and breakfast in Elwood is a homey retreat that offers customizable extras like charcuterie boards and breakfast on the front porch.

2 PORTLAND Craft-focused

community

SIGHTSEE

Known for the Jay County Fiber Arts Festival celebrating crafts, yarn arts,

textiles, woodworking, and more, Portland nurtures creativity at Arts Place with live performances, art shows, and workshops. Nearby, The Glass Museum in Dunkirk showcases sparkling glass creations from around the world, including leaded windows, hanging lamps, and hand-blown art pieces.

STAY

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Portland is a comfortable and convenient spot to rest up for the night. It features amenities like a pool and fitness center.

3 CAMBRIDGE CITY

Pickers’ paradise

4 CONNERSVILLE

Railway town with manufacturing roots

SIGHTSEE

S I G HTS E E

Historic Cambrid g e welcomes visitors

Historic Cambridge City welcomes visitors to explore its Antique Alley vintage shops and malls. The small-town charm is accented by colorful murals, the Museum of Overbeck Art Pottery, and Canal Days festival fun. In nearby Richmond, check out the Gennett Records Walk of Fame and Richmond Art Museum

STAY

After a day of antiquing and exploring, retreat to The Inn at High Hats, located on the second floor of the filled-tothe-brim High Hats Antique Mall.

SIGHTSEE

Take a ride on the Whitewater Valley Railroad with special excursions or charters. Out in nature, Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary offers more than 700 acres of woodlands and paths. And, crafting enthusiasts can find events and workshops through the Whitewater Valley Arts Association

STAY

The Woodridge Inn offers a variety of comfortable room options just minutes from the heart of Connersville.

5 TERRE HAUTE

River city meets college community

Stop on the way

If you’re traveling through in September, go hog wild at the Tipton County Pork Festival— a local tribute to fine swineing. Visit the Famous Pork Chop Tent, take a spin on carnival rides, and grab breakfast at the Elks Tent.

SIGHTSEE

Terre Haute’s recognized 41/40 Arts and Cultural District is mentioned on page 67. The community also celebrates its sports heritage with the Larry Bird Museum and Indiana Track & Field and Cross Country Hall of Fame Museum Visitors can enjoy shopping and dining options in downtown Terre Haute or take in nature at Deming Park, which offers trails, playgrounds, disc golf, and an arboretum.

STAY

Downtown Terre Haute’s Casa Urbana in the historic Ohio Building offers event space, along with 13,000 square feet of overnight guest suites.

6 ROCKVILLE

Charming small-town atmosphere

SIGHTSEE

While it comes to peak during fall festival season, visitors can admire the octagonal Rockville Chautauqua Pavilion, enjoy fishing and trails at Rockville Lake Park, stroll past memorials, or browse local art and shops on the town square.

STAY

Spending the night in jail might not seem like a deliberate choice, but the Old Jail Inn offers surprisingly comfy cell-block suites in the former Parke County Sheriff’s office and jail.

7 PLAINFIELD

Suburban performing arts oasis

SIGHTSEE

With a historic downtown theater reimagined as The Prewitt Restaurant + Lounge and the addition of performance venue Hendricks Live! in recent years,

Plainfield is the place to go for dinner and a show. During the daytime hours, cool off at Splash Island water park, which features six water slides and a gentle winding river, or picnic and play at Hummel Park

STAY

Marmalade Sky Bed and Breakfast in Danville offers a personal, homey vibe.

Grab a bite at Plainfield’s retro eatery.

Stop on the way

Clifty Creek Alpacas is a small, family-run farm in rural Milroy. Founded in 2012, the farm raises a friendly herd of alpacas and produces handmade fiber goods such as homespun yarn and alpaca-fiber apparel using natural processes.

Oasis Diner

Main Street Indiana

EXPLORE WELCOMING DOWNTOWNS IN A FEW OF THE STATE’S 19 NATIONALLY ACCREDITED MAIN STREET COMMUNITIES.

FRANKLIN is a mecca for any preservationist or renovator, with antique and salvage stores aplenty. Vintage Whimsy and Blackbird Design both carry antique furniture and architecture pieces. Shabby meets Etsy at Salvage Sisters Antique Market, and Eclectic Jade carries a colorful selection of home decor and other gifts. Women can find fashion-forward clothes, accessories, and home items at Brick Street Boutique and Farm Girl Mercantile. For kids, there’s Toodleydoo Toys, with books, games, and playthings for newborns and teenagers alike. Voracious readers of any age should check out Wild Geese Bookshop, a snug

store that also sells gifts. For a cup of joe and a light lunch, there’s Main & Madison Market Cafe, the go-to. And for dinner, The Willard is “where friends meet.”

Noblesville has a vibrant city center teeming with shops and eateries in the shadow of its Second Empire–style courthouse. After starting your day with an omelet or eggs Benedict at Rosie’s Place, search for treasures from days gone by at Noblesville Antiques on the Square. Even more antiques—along with new and repurposed decor, clothing, accessories and kids’ items—are found at Logan Village Mall and The Mix Marketplace. Take a break and

refuel with a latte or chai at Noble Coffee or a cone or sundae at Alexander’s on the Square. Then get back at it at Karisma, Bash Boutique, and The Wild Bohemian, all of which offer casual women’s clothing and accessories. Turn your attention back to your home at Linden Tree Gifts, packed with decorative pieces and seasonal accents. Refresh your stash of puzzles and board games at Moonshot Games, and end the day with an intimate dinner at 9th Street Bistro

Shelbyville invites travelers to take some time to visit the city’s centrally located businesses. Begin with breakfast or lunch at Just Peachy Cafe, whose

inviting patio beckons on a sunny day. A trio of siblings founded Three Sisters Books & Gifts, where you can shop new titles; take yours next door to The Bookmark and start reading with a beverage and croissant in hand. Discover works by local artists at The Gallery, hosted by the Shelby Art Guild Association; update your wardrobe at The Poppy Boutique

and Now Wear This; and absorb local history at the Grover Center Museum & Historical Society. Pick up sweet treats at Linne’s Bakery & Cafe or an ice cream cone at Grandma’s Cow Palace, aptly located in a barn-like building.

New Castle has a lively energy that makes it easy to lose track of time exploring the wide variety of businesses.

Alexander’s in Noblesville

Brick Street Boutique, Franklin

Shelbyville’s Grover Center

Central

main streets

Fuel up for the fun at the aptly named Stacks Restaurant for a stack of their legendary fluffy pancakes. (Happily, they sell the mix to take home.) More an egg person? Consider the four-cheese Hobo Omelette. Beehive Body Co. is the place for wonderful-smelling, hand-crafted soaps, lotions, and bath products. Part general store, part chic boutique, The Good Co. is stocked with home goods, gifts, stationery, and clothing, including a small-but-sweet baby section. Don’t miss Modest Midwest candles, handmade of concrete and Midwest soy wax, in amazing scents like Smores and Midnight Blackberry. The midcentury modern Press Coffee Co. makes the

ideal afternoon pick-meup spot before you head over to CJ’s Candies for bonbons hand-dipped in small batches.

Lebanon is called “the friendly city.” First stop: Alley Oop, the pedestrian alley celebrating Lebanon’s storied basketball history. With a bold arch, court-style graphics, cool lighting, and historic photos, it leads visitors to Memory Hall, the 1931 gymnasium featured in the iconic film Hoosiers. For a real-deal souvenir shop, step into Indiana Gifts, which sells only items made in the state. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Boone County Cake Co., a small-batch bakery that also sells handmade mugs and earrings.

Noblesville

ARTS & CULTURE DISTRICTS

The Indiana Arts Commission recognizes 12 Indiana Cultural Districts throughout the state, four of which are located in the Central region. They include:

• The Carmel Arts and Design District welcomes visitors to bike or walk the Monon Greenway, hop from store to store, sip a glass of wine on a patio, and browse various art and design showrooms. See how many of the ultrarealistic statues scattered about you can find (no, that’s not a real policeman).

• The Nickel Plate District in Fishers pays homage to the train line that once ran through it. This area has seen major transformations in recent years to include a state-of-the-art amphitheater and a multiuse rail-trail, as well as plentiful shops and restaurants.

• Noblesville is known for both its accredited Main Street and the Noblesville Cultural Arts District. See more details about its independent boutiques and quaint restaurants on page 64.

• Terre Haute’s 41/40 Arts and Cultural District blends the city’s downtown area with the Indiana State University campus through public art installations, cultural venues, and more near the intersection of U.S. Highways 40 and 41. Find out more about Terre Haute on page 63.

EXPLORE MORE to

Inspiring stories, must-see exhibits and road-worthy getaways await at the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites’ 12 locations! Plan your visit today.

Carmel Arts District

Play Dates

THESE TOURIST-FRIENDLY SITES IN THE CENTRAL REGION PROVIDE ENRICHING ENTERTAINMENT FOR YOUNG TRAVELERS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

The Terre Haute Children’s Museum is designed to inspire curiosity and learning through play. From science experiments to a climbing wall, the museum offers numerous exhibits that encourage exploration. The interactive Water Works space and the farming-themed Ag-Citing play area are perennial favorites for younger visitors.

At 100 years young (it celebrated a milestone birthday in 2025), The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a Circle City landmark with interactive exhibits highlighting science, history, and culture. Visitors of all ages will enjoy exhibits like the Dinosphere, Treasures of the Earth, and All Aboard! , featuring an 1890s steam engine.

For animal lovers, the Indianapolis Zoo, nestled in downtown Indianapolis’ White River State Park, is a must-visit. With diverse exhibits in the Oceans, Deserts,

Plains, Forests, and Flights of Fancy biomes, families can explore the natural world and learn about conservation. The zoo’s International Orangutan Center and Chimpanzee Complex are two of the largest habitats at the zoo. Look for the new Amazonian Rainforest at Hilbert Conservatory opening in 2026.

For a more rural experience, Heritage Farm Alpacas & Events near Judson is a delightful destination. Families can meet friendly alpacas, learn about fiber production, and shop for unique, handmade items. The farm also offers seasonal events, hands-on activities, alpaca treks to walk side-by-side with the lovable camelids, and farm stay experiences.

Cat lovers can scamper to the Exotic Feline Rescue Center in Center Point. Home to more than 100 big cats, including leopards,

SKYLAKETM Adventures is a one-of-a-kind water destination where outdoor fun meets

Designed for all ages, this adventure playground invites families, friends, and memories together.

Located in Sheridan, Indiana, just 15

Highway 31, SKYLAKE Adventures is making waves as a must-visit Midwest destination.

Opening Summer 2026.

Caption

tigers, bobcats, caracals, and cougars, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for abused and neglected felines. Guided tours allow visitors to learn about the center’s mission and observe the majestic creatures close-up. While out exploring in nature, travelers of all ages will enjoy a walk on the paved Whitewater Gorge Trail in Richmond that

Thistlethwaite Falls

leads to the landmark Thistlethwaite Falls, a manmade natural attraction named for a sawmill owner who redirected the water to power his operations. Kids can keep an eye out for marine fossils along the bank; the whole area sits on bedrock that was beneath an ocean in ancient times. The surrounding park includes a playground and picnic areas

On a more humorous note, the iconic orange comic strip cat created by Indiana native Jim Davis is immortalized in the selfguided Garfield Trail through Grant and Delaware counties. Visit statutes showing this funny feline dressed as a fisherman, fireman, golfer, basketball player, and bookworm. There’s even a version honoring fellow Indiana celebrity James Dean in the late actor’s hometown of Fairmount.

Un b e ata bl e t rai l s . Unbeatable trails. Un b eli e va bly cl os e . Unbelievably close.

Ser iou sly. Seriously. We ch e cke d . We checked.

JUST

Garfield Trail

NORTH OF INDY

JUST DESSERTS

After a long day of play, refresh and refuel with a variety of sweet treats.

A little snack could provide a pickme-up and boost of energy to keep your crew going. A few options in the Central region include Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store’s locations in Anderson and Richmond, which combine road-trip whimsy with sugary indulgence. For a

sweetheart selection of handmade chocolates and macarons, drop in to Ghyslain Chocolatier in Union City. J. Edwards Gourmet in Kokomo offers full-size and mini cupcakes, covered caramels, and spicy pretzels. Hoosier Cupboard combines candy, snacks, and frozen treats in the Historic Franklin Depot. Richmond’s Ullery’s Homemade Ice Cream serves creamy, handcrafted flavors to satisfy every palate, including vegan options. Jimmie’s Dairy Bar in Pendleton is a local favorite for its rich, old-fashioned ice cream and hearty diner fare. Nostalgic diner Cammack Station in Muncie serves specialties like banana splits and seasonal strawberry shortcake. Upland’s Ivanhoes is famous for its dizzying assortment of 100 sundaes and 100 shakes on the menu. And Hilligoss Bakery in Brownsburg offers a dazzling array of delicious doughnuts and danish.

STEP INTO THE STORY ALL YEAR ROUND!

History on Tap

Where history meets hops June 6

Jupiter Flights Balloon Festival Indiana’s largest balloon festival September 11–13

Headless Horseman Festival

Where historic chills and carnival thrills collide October 1–25, Thursdays–Sundays

A Merry Prairie Holiday

Not a twinkle out of place

November 27–December 23, Select Dates

13400 Allisonville Road | Fishers, IN 46038 Connect with us!

History on Tap

Jupiter Flights Balloon Festival

Headless Horseman Festival

A Merry Prairie Holiday

GAZEBO

Central festivals

Festival Highlights

FUN AND FANFARE AWAIT AT THESE ANNUAL GATHERINGS CELEBRATING EVERYTHING FROM THE INDIANAPOLIS 500 TO HISTORIC COVERED BRIDGES IN INDIANA’S CENTRAL REGION.

CARMEL FESTIVAL OF ICE

JANUARY • The Carmel Arts & Design District and the Ice at Carter Green set the stage for a showcase of ice carving demonstrations. Don’t miss the fire department’s chili cook-off, the carver award ceremony, and all-day ice skating. theiceatcartergreen.com

GREENWOOD FREEDOM FESTIVAL

JUNE • Craig Park in Greenwood is the place to be the last Saturday in June. Join fellow patriots for a parade, a Kid Zone with rides and inflatables, live music, a drone show, and a fireworks display. greenwood.in.gov

ANDERSON POWWOW AND INDIAN MARKET

SEPTEMBER • Delve into Native American history at this two-day event in Alexandria showcasing intertribal dance, arts, storytelling, and music. andersontownpowwow.org

EARTH DAY FESTIVAL

APRIL • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in Terre Haute gives glory to nature with a day of eco-friendly fun. Activities include a guided nature walk, alpaca yoga, wood carving and fiber arts demonstrations, a bake sale, and more. spsmw.org

HAYNES-APPERSON FESTIVAL

JULY • Kokomo’s annual Fourth of July celebration pays homage to the city’s automotive history with a car show and cruise-in, as well as carnival rides on the courthouse square, a parade and fireworks, a sports festival, and concerts. haynesappersonfestival.org

PARKE COUNTY COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL

OCTOBER • The largest festival in Indiana, this 10-day event highlights the beauty of 31 covered bridges throughout 10 communities in Parke County. coveredbridges.com

500 FESTIVAL

MAY • The month of May in Indianapolis gets off to a running start with the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, Kids’ Day and the Rookie Run, Breakfast at the Brickyard, and the 500 Festival Parade, all leading up to the Indianapolis 500. 500festival.com

QUILTERS HALL OF FAME CELEBRATION

AUGUST • Fans of Lone Star, Irish Chain, and Wedding Ring patterns flock to the Quilters Hall of Fame in Marion for a symposium with exhibits and workshops, auctions, guest lectures, and more. quiltershalloffame.net

ENCHANTED LUMINARIA WALK

DECEMBER • Muncie’s Minnetrista Museum & Gardens lights up with a 3-mile light show, live theater and music performances, an artisan market, barrel train rides, artist demos, and more. minnetrista.net

500 Festival Parade

Central local products

Made IN Indiana

FROM TIMELESS CANDIES TO GLOWING CANDLES, THE CENTRAL

REGION’S MAKERS EMBODY INDIANA’S TRADEMARK WARMTH AND HOSPITALITY—INVITING TRAVELERS TO SAVOR EVERY STOP ALONG THE WAY.

CENTRAL INDIANA may sit at the Crossroads of America, but it’s also at the crossroads of craftsmanship, creativity, and comfort food. From popcorn and tomatoes to candles, candies, and art glass, the region’s manufacturers offer worthy stops full of flavor, nostalgia, and ingenuity.

In Hagerstown, Abbott’s Candies has made hand-stirred rich caramels and chocolates since 1890. Family recipes and small-batch candymaking keep the charm deliciously intact. Visitors can stop by the retail shop to stock up on caramels so buttery they melt in your mouth. abbottscandy.com

The now-global Ball Corporation launched its signature glass canning jars in East Buffalo, New York, in the 1880s before moving operations to Muncie

in 1887. Although the company has since shifted to aluminum packaging, its early influence lives on through local exhibits and the well-loved jar collections sold nationwide. ball.com

Also a kitchen staple, Indianapolis–based Bar Keepers Friend has produced cleaning and polishing products for cookware and surfaces since 1882. Made with the same basic oxalic acid–based formula as the original, the cleanser

can be found under sinks across the country. barkeepersfriend.com

Clabber Girl Baking Powder, a favorite in kitchen pantries, was introduced in 1923 by Terre Haute’s Hulman & Company but now operates as part of B&G Foods. Bakers worldwide continue to use the rising agent with the nostalgic illustration on its label. clabbergirl.com

Sock lovers flock to For Bare Feet, headquartered in Martinsville, for its lines

of everyday, novelty, hiking and outdoor, and licensed sports socks (including NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB teams). forbarefeet.com

The country’s oldest art glass manufacturer, Kokomo Opalescent Glass was founded in 1888 and continues its time-honored tradition of producing colorful, textured sheet glass by hand. The site offers a comprehensive (and fascinating) factory tour six days a week. kog.com

Also originating in Kokomo, Holder Mattress began its operations in 1947. Today, the manufacturer still produces quality mattresses and box springs, as well as accessories and bedding. In addition to the Kokomo factory, Holder Mattress has a showroom in Carmel’s Indiana Design Center. holdermattress.com

In Elwood, Red Gold Tomatoes continues a

Depression-era family legacy of processing juicy Midwest tomatoes. Just 5 minutes away from the corporate headquarters, Red Gold operates a factory outlet so fans can stock up on its salsas, pasta sauces, ketchup, juices, canned tomatoes, and more. redgoldtomatoes.com

Visitors to Centerville can’t miss the glowing log cabin storefront of Warm Glow Candle Company just off I-70. With its hand-dipped, textured pillar candles and an expansive gift shop, it’s a must-stop roadside delight for the senses. warmglow.com

Finally, popcorn lovers can point their GPS toward Van Buren, home of Weaver Popcorn, one of the world’s largest popcorn producers. Fans can sample its kernels in theaters, microwave bags, and concession stands everywhere. weaverpopcorn.com

Clabber Girl

Abbott’s Candies

Kokomo Opalescent Glass

Warm Glow Candle Company

Happy Tails

A FAMILY TRIP OR WEEKEND GETAWAY DOESN’T FEEL COMPLETE WITHOUT YOUR BEST BUDDY. THE CENTRAL REGION BOASTS AN ARRAY OF ATTRACTIONS, RESTAURANTS, AND LODGING OPTIONS THAT ALLOW PETS TO TAG ALONG. SO, PACK UP YOUR VEHICLE AND TAKE FIDO WITH YOU FOR A FUN-FILLED C-A-R R-I-D-E.

play Places to explore, exercise, and get a good sniff of the grounds • Take your best pal along for a shopping spree at Plainﬁeld’s outdoor lifestyle mall, e Shops at Perry Crossing. Dogs are allowed in the communal areas of the shopping center, as well as in stores that display stickers indicating that they are dog-friendly.

e Wilbur Wright Birthplace Museum in Hagerstown honors the life and work of the aviation pioneer who teamed up with his brother Orville to build and ﬂy the ﬁrst operable airplane. Pets are welcome on the grounds, but they must be small enough to carry when entering the building.

Leashed pups will love going for walks and hikes on trails throughout the region. In Indianapolis, the Monon Trail oﬀers more than 20 miles of smooth surface for walkers and runners with leashed furry friends in tow. e path extends northward into Hamilton County, connecting to Carmel, Westﬁeld, and Sheridan. Richmond’s

Whitewater Gorge Trail is a paved path that traverses through a historic gorge lined with fossils from animals that lived there 450 million years ago. Noblesville’s 150-acre Forest Park oﬀers an aquatic center, golf course, skate park, and playgrounds in addition to both paved and natural paths that connect to the White River Greenway. And the 232-acre McCloud Nature Park in North Salem boasts 7 miles of well-marked trails for short or long jaunts.

If you’d like to let your dog run free oﬀ-leash and meet some new pals, the Central region is home to plenty of dog parks, including Craig Park in Brazil, Ultimutt Dog Park in Marion, Mehlig Dog Park in Kokomo, Smock Bark Park in Indianapolis, Crate Escapes in Westﬁeld, Rusty’s Ranch in Noblesville, Canine Companion Corral in Anderson, Goodrich Park in Winchester, Emerson Dog Park in Muncie, Hill’s Bark Park in Richmond, Deming Park in Terre Haute, and the new Clear Creek Welcome Center & Rest Area in Terre Haute.

Sit Where to grab a bite and a drink with your four-legged friend • Numerous restaurants and pubs throughout the Central region allow dogs to accompany their owners on patios and in outdoor dining areas. These include: Metazoa Brewing Co. and Natural State Provisions (which also include an on-site dog parks), Petite Chou Bistro & Champagne Bar, Fire by the Monon, and Big Lug Canteen in Indianapolis; BRU Burger Bar, Divvy, and Muldoon’s in Carmel; Cobblestone Grill in Zionsville; Rosie’s Place in Noblesville; Foxgardin in Fortville; The Mug in Greenfield; Klooz Brewz in Lebanon; Cedar Creek Winery in Martinsville; Ann’s Restaurant in Franklin; Revery, Vino Villa, and Main Street Grille in Greenwood; Oasis Diner and Two Chicks Whisky Business

in Plainfield; Rusted Silo in Lizton; The Bee Hive and Court House Grounds in Danville; Mallow Run Winery in Bargersville; Urban Vines Winery & Brewery in Westfield; Sonka Irish Pub and Saratoga Bar & Cafe in Terre Haute; and Payne’s in Upland. More options can be found on the Bring Fido site at bringfido.com.

STAY Inns that accommodate overnight visits with pets • All Indiana state park inns have designated petfriendly rooms. In the Central region, you’ll find the historic Fort Harrison Inn at Fort Harrison State Park in Indianapolis, which puts guests at the doorstep of the park’s natural beauty and features a Pete Dye–designed golf course. In Marshall, Turkey Run Inn & Cabins allow guests access to outdoor amenities at Turkey Run State Park. The main lodge or detached cabins

provide peaceful resting spots after a long hike.

Other hospitable hotels and inns in the region include the Bottleworks Hotel along bustling Massachusetts Avenue in Indianapolis. This reimagined former Coca-Cola bottling plant is dripping with art deco detail. Pets are welcomed with bowls, a custom treat, and a placemat.

The Home2 Suites by Hilton in Richmond offers a fitness center, indoor pool, concierge service, and pet-friendly suites in its convenient location off I-70 and Indiana Highway 40.

You’ll stay among feathered friends— namely chickens and turkeys—at The Queen and I Homestead, an 1873 Italianate bedand-breakfast nestled in the country near Crawfordsville. Pets are welcome in select guest rooms in the main inn and in the separate yurtinspired cabin on the grounds.

Monon Trail,Indianapolis

Sweet Treats

Word search

CAN YOU SPOT THE NAMES OF THESE ICE CREAM, CANDY, AND BAKED GOODS SHOPS IN THE CENTRAL REGION?

LPHZROWFXYLHRHXNBAYW WCNIAWPVLVFZFQMAOFBF NABBOTTSKGHBFBPNZJTM

DCVDLHJQHDQWVKPPERTA WDLXWKGIILEEVQFTNEMR FHILLIGOSSZDJJKHVYFT

NHLZYHVYIOTZNDNLLMAI BBPTCJHSJHJIMMIESNON UHOOSIERCUPBOARDCSHS VHCAMMACKSTATIONQMZV YPVQWYGKZBASAGFAPGMI ZWONNKOKQOTYNHRSISZL MUICPCFSWNRHNYUOVLNL ZBNCWSZARVQMWSTQAJOE VAFVKIUKVXIQLLPZNQJR ENBRLSRDPRVRGAEEHFWS CNUNDLPPVFKOFISAOWPR UJYHMOKIWFBMKNCCECCJ XGGAUTUUESLPCOWYSHMU RCIJQFLMISJEDWARDSIO

look for THE BOLDED WORDS

ABBOTT’S CANDIES, HAGERSTOWN CAMMACKSTATION, MUNCIE

GHYSLAIN CHOCOLATIER, UNION CITY

IVANHOES, UPLAND

J.EDWARDS GOURMET, KOKOMO

JIMMIE’S DAIRY BAR, PENDLETON

HILLIGOSS BAKERY, BROWNSBURG

HOOSIERCUPBOARD, FRANKLIN

MARTINSVILLE CANDY KITCHEN, MARTINSVILLE

WICK’SPIES, WINCHESTER

Answers on page 112

Ivanhoes

at instagram.com/visitindiana

TAKE YOUR BEST SHOT

1. Blooming sunflowers elicit smiles at The Barn at Helm in Williamsburg. Photo by @visit richmondin // 2. Get an intergalactic caffeine fix at Greenwood’s Strange Brew Coffee Photo by @strangebrewcoffee // 3. Baked goods from Dottie’s Cinnamon & Pecan Rolls are a special treat during the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival. Photo by @parke countyin // 4. Garfield Park Conservatory in Indianapolis provides a tropical getaway any time of year. Photo by @alwaysonthegosp

ADVERTORIAL

PARKE COUNTY

TRAVEL TO THE PICTURESQUE COUNTRYSIDE OF PARKE COUNTY, INDIANA — “THE COVERED BRIDGE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD.”

Parke County is home to 31 historic covered bridges, Turkey Run and Shades state parks, shopping, restaurants, and more. Parke County offers five color-coded touring routes that range from 24 to 33 miles. Highlights include the Bridgeton Covered Bridge, which is adjacent to the still-operational Bridgeton Mill. You can travel by car, bike or motorcycle. Parke County loves to celebrate the changing seasons. Taking the title “Indiana’s Largest Festival,” the 10-day Parke County Covered Bridge Festival, running October 9–18 in 2026, highlights the historic covered bridges and features craft artisans from around the country. Indiana is home to a diverse array of state parks and recreation areas.

In Parke County, outdoor adventures are neverending. Hike through Turkey Run State Park, a landscape of mossy canyons, waterfalls, and winding streams. The Ladders Trail, also known as Trail 3 at Turkey Run State Park, is a rugged, 1.7-mile trail that offers some unusual hiking opportunities. It follows the cliffs along Sugar Creek and returns to the ridgetop by a series of ladders. Shades State Park also provides numerous shady ravines full of spectacular topography that will amaze even the most seasoned traveler. Visitors can also check out Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area, which comprises 2,005 acres of land and a 2,060-acre lake. Enjoy the outdoors by renting a boat, hiking, horseshoes, archery, camping, fishing, canoeing, and much more.

Turkey Run State Park

Bridgeton Mill, Covered Bridge, and Dam

VISITOR RESOURCES

Welcome! Your information on regional convention and visitor bureaus, chambers of commerce and local welcome centers. Find even more at VisitIndiana.IN.gov.

Regional East Region Tourism visiteasternindiana.org

Anderson Anderson/ Madison County Visitors Bureau

6335 S. Scatterfield Rd. 765.643.5633 visitanderson madisoncounty.com

Brazil Clay County Chamber of Commerce

535 E. National Ave. 812.448.8457 makingprogress today.com

Brookville Franklin County Convention, Recreation & Visitors Commission

547 Main St., Ste. 1 765.647.6522 franklincountyin.com

Carmel Hamilton County Tourism

37 E. Main St. 317.848.3181 visithamilton county.com

Clinton

Vermillion County Chamber of Commerce

407 S. Main St. 765.832.3844 vermillion-chamber.org

Connersville

Tour Connersville

401 N. Central Ave.

765.338.2297 tourconnersville.org

Covington

Fountain County 301 4th St. 765.793.5000 fountaincounty.net

Crawfordsville

Montgomery County Visitors & Convention Bureau

101 W. Main St. 765.362.5200 visitmoco.com

Danville Visit Hendricks County 8 W. Main St. 317.718.8750 visithendrickscounty.com

Frankfort Clinton County Chamber of Commerce 62 N. Main St. 765.654.5507 discoverclinton county.com

Franklin Festival Country Indiana – Just South of Indy 66 S. Water St. 317.739.8600 festivalcountry indiana.com

Greencastle

Putnam County Convention & Visitors Bureau

12 W. Washington St. 765.653.8743 goputnam.com

Greenfield

Hancock County Tourism and Visitor Center

119 W. North St. 317.477.8687 visitinhancock.org

Indianapolis Visit Indy

200 S. Capitol Ave., Ste. 300 317.262.3000 visitindy.com

Kokomo

Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau

700 E. Firmin St. 765.457.6802 visitkokomo.org

Lafayette

Visit Lafayette–West Lafayette

301 Frontage Rd. 765.447.9999 homeofpurdue.com

Lebanon Boone County Convention & Visitors Bureau P.O. Box 644 Lebanon, IN 46052

765.484.8572 discoverboone county.com

Liberty Union County Indiana

5 W. High St. 765.458.5976 uc-connect.org

Martinsville

Visit Morgan County Indiana

466 S. Main St. 765.346.5611 visitmorgancounty in.com

Muncie Muncie/Delaware County Visitors Bureau

421 S. Walnut St. 765.284.2700 destinationmuncie.org

New Castle Henry County Destination Development

100 S. Main St. 765.521.7402 hoopsinhenry.com

Richmond

Richmond/Wayne County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau 5701 National Rd. E. 765.935.8687 visitrichmond.org

Rockville Parke County Convention & Visitors Commission

401 E. Ohio St. 765.569.5226 coveredbridges.com

Rushville

Rush County Chamber of Commerce

315 N. Main St. 765.932.2880 rushcounty.com

Shelbyville

Shelby County Tourism & Visitors Bureau 501 N. Harrison St. 317.398.9623 visitshelbycounty.com

Spencer Sweet Owen Convention & Visitors Bureau 54 E. Market St. 812.714.8110 sweetowencvb.org

Terre Haute

Terre Haute Convention & Visitors Bureau 5353 E. Margaret Dr. 800.366.3043 812.234.5555 terrehaute.com

Tipton

Tipton County Chamber of Commerce 119 W. Madison St. 765.675.7533 tiptonchamber.org

Williamsport

Warren County Economic Development Organization

31 N. Monroe St. 765.762.6055 warrenadvantage.com

Winchester Randolph County, Indiana Convention & Visitors Bureau

123 W. Franklin St., Ste. 201 765.584.3266 randolphcounty united.com

region

Explore vibrant downtowns in cities such as Fort Wayne, South Bend and Lafayette, each just a short drive away from the quiet simplicity of Amish and farming communities. Head out on Lake Michigan or the region’s other popular lakes. Enjoy the grandeur of a historical home, or view a museum’s contemporary art collection. Urban, rural. Water, land. Past, present. And numerous trip options no matter your preference. They all await in the Northern regions IN Indiana.

Winona Lake

Regional Highlights

EXPLORE EVERYTHING FROM WATERFRONT LANDSCAPES TO HOWLING WOLVES IN THE NORTH REGION. VISITORS CAN DELVE INTO INDIANA’S AUTOMOTIVE, MILITARY, AND CIRCUS HERITAGE.

Taking full advantage of a thriving riverfront, Fort Wayne Promenade Park is a pleasant oasis in the city’s urban core, with a tidy network of landscaped walking paths, swinging gliders for relaxing, paddleboats for renting, and several water features for children. Visitors can enjoy a snack or cocktail in a one of the many seating areas overlooking the water.

A historic landmark in the Indiana Dunes National Park, the Century of Progress Homes were originally built for the 1933–34 Chicago World’s Fair.

Designed to showcase innovative building materials and architectural styles, these homes serve as a unique window into mid-20th century design trends. History and nature meet at Wabash & Erie Canal Park in Delphi. This preserved stretch of waterway features a working replica of a canal boat and offers walking tours that tell the story of the 19thcentury canal system. Visitors can learn about the crucial role the canal played in Indiana’s development during the 1800s while exploring the grounds.

Tucked away in the wetlands of the northeast corner of the state, the Gene StrattonPorter and Limberlost state historic sites honor the life and legacy of the Indiana naturalist and author. Visitors can explore the beautiful surroundings that inspired Stratton-Porter’s work, while the museum provides insight into her life and contributions to literature and conservation efforts.

Rising 160 feet above Berne’s Swiss-themed downtown, the Muensterberg Plaza and Clock Tower is a charming centerpiece inspired

by Switzerland’s medieval Zytglogge. Visitors gather in the community space for concerts, glockenspiel shows, quilt gardens, and splash-pad fun.

Monticello’s Whyte Horse Winery serves its Indiana-grown wines in a relaxed farmhouse setting. Set amid vineyards and gardens, it

Good to Know

offers an idyllic setting for events like wine tastings, live music performances, a vintage car show, and special multi-course dinners. Take a prehistoric turn to the Indiana Dinosaur Museum in South Bend, home to an impressive collection of fossil exhibits, including dinosaur bones, footprints, and replicas of ancient creatures. It’s an exciting stop for aspiring paleontologists. Founded in 1972 with a mission to study wolf pack dynamics and social behavior, Wolf Park in Battle Ground includes more than 100

Blue Gate Restaurant

Wabash & Erie Canal Park

The Indiana Dinosaur Museum site includes the Continental Divide Park.

acres of rewilded farmland for wolves, bison, foxes, and other native species. Guided tours take place year-round, along with popular themed, family-friendly Howl Nights that include an educational introduction about wolves and interactive howling session with the resident canids.

A herd of majestic American bison is right at home at White Oaks Bison Farm in Rochester on farmland that has been in the same family for five generations.

The massive herbivores are raised on rich native grasses, following

agriculture rotational grazing methods. In addition to selling the top-quality meat, skulls, and hides, White Oaks offers wagon tours and workshops.

The International Circus Hall of Fame in Peru celebrates the community of circus acts and performers with exhibits featuring memorabilia, costumes, and artifacts. The site reopens in May, just in time for Circus Days in early June.

Nearby, Grissom Air Museum is dedicated to military aviation history and the legacy of Indiana astronaut

Virgil “Gus” Grissom, one of the original seven astronauts in NASA’s Project Mercury. The museum houses more than 30 military aircraft and space exploration artifacts.

The charming, 1,500seat Blue Gate Performing Arts Center in Shipshewana is known for great sightlines, pristine sound, and an intimate concert-going feel. It’s a great place to take in national country artists, tribute bands, spoken-word performers, and kid-friendly acts. Its companion Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery, serving home-style

Amish food, is required pre-show dining.

The Studebaker National Museum celebrates the legacy of the Studebaker family and their automobile company with a variety of classic, presidential, and military vehicles.

Elkhart is famous as the RV Capital of the World, and the RV/MH Hall of Fame celebrates this distinction. The museum showcases the history of recreational vehicles and mobile homes, with a collection of vintage RVs and historical displays.

From candied sweet dill strips to hot jalapeño

in 1852, the community of Berne is rich with Swiss traditions.

slices, pickled products that originate at Sechler’s Pickle Factory in St. Joe are the stuff of sandwich legend. Visitors can tour the site where, in 1921, Ralph Sechler did business with cucumber farmers who delivered their product by horse-drawn wagons. They can watch as pickles are washed, cut, cooked, sweetened, packed, and labelled— and then sample some of the goods at the posttour tasting bar.

Founded

Wolf Park

Muensterberg Plaza

Find Your Adventure

THE ARTS SCENE: Explore art museums, galleries and 125+ public art installations. Tour the Degas Collection at Purdue, where 74 bronze sculptures by French impressionist Edgar Degas are on display.

COLUMBIAN PARK & ZOO: Home to: Loeb Stadium (where the Lafayette Aviators Baseball team plays), Tropicanoe Cove Aquatic Center, Columbian Park Zoo, paddle boats, ride-on train, walking trails, amphitheater and a wonderful new ADA accessible playground.

DOWNTOWN: The heart of our community where history meets modern: boutiques, gift shops, galleries, public art, museums, coffee houses, local flavor restaurants and pubs, entertainment and a riverfront park, featuring an outdoor seasonal skating rink and scenic trails.

FESTIVALS & EVENTS: Year-round fun including: Feast of the Hunters’ Moon, ‘Round the Fountain Art Fair, TASTE of Tippecanoe and many more!

GOLF: World-class courses with designs by both Pete Dye and Hale Irwin!

MICROBREWERIES & A WINERY:

Take in a tour or tasting at our local winery and at our local microbreweries.

WELCOME TO THE HOME OF PURDUE!

Located just one hour north of Indianapolis, two hours south of Chicago, along l-65.

PROPHETSTOWN STATE PARK & THE FARM AT PROPHETSTOWN:

Hike and bike trails through open prairie land. Visit the nature center, the re-created Native American village, the Circle of Stones and The Farm at Prophetstown. Seasonal aquatic center, fishing lake, campground and more.

PURDUE UNIVERSITY: Visit Purdue’s beautiful campus with spectator sports, arts, entertainment, diversity, science, industry and all the hoopla that entails.

TIPPECANOE BATTLEFIELD & MUSEUM:

Visit a National Historic battlefield, where in 1811, William Henry Harrison’s troops fought Tecumseh’s warriors.

WOLF PARK: “Howl with the Wolves” at this one of a kind wolf research park where wolves, foxes and bison live in semi-natural enclosures.

PROPHETSTOWN STATE PARK

PURDUE UNIVERSITY

Road Trip

THIS MINI ITINERARY CAN HELP YOU PLAN A LOOPING ROUTE THROUGH NORTHERN INDIANA, COMPLETE WITH FUN STOPS AND COMFORTABLE STAYS ALONG THE WAY.

1 MICHIGAN CITY

Coastal views and beaches

SIGHTSEE

While the Indiana Dunes is an obvious choice for beach activities, Michigan City offers lakefront charm with shopping and cultural venues. Enjoy boating and fishing on Lake Michigan, take a shopping spree at Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, tour the Old Lighthouse Museum or visit the Michigan City East Pierhead Lighthouse, go on a

nature walk through Washington Park or Friendship Botanic Gardens, and catch stage performances at the Civic Auditorium

STAY

The 22-story Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa offers a sportsbook, table games and slots; relaxing massages and facials; and multiple dining options. As an alternative, Riley’s Railhouse offers lodging in a restored 1914 New York Central Freight Station. Boxcar and caboose options are available.

2 SOUTH BEND

Stop on the way

Devotees of apple varieties such as Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, and Jonagold will take a shine to County Line Orchard in Hobart, which offers a corn maze, kids farm, bee yurts, and u-pick patches, as well as treats like apple cinnamon doughnuts.

College-town energy with riverfront culture

SIGHTSEE

Notre Dame Fighting Irish fans can get a taste of the university campus. The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes is a peaceful, sacred space that shines brightly from the light of 100 candles. In the evening, take in South Bend River Lights, a captivating, interactive display that’s the only one of its kind in the world. Colorful LED lights synchronized to music illuminate the riverfront. Motion

detectors allow visitors to send a flow of lights across the St. Joseph River.

STAY

Sleep like a champion in what’s known as the “living room” of the University of Notre Dame, the comfy yet upscale, AAA Four Diamond–designated Morris Inn

3 ANGOLA

Quiet charm and outdoor recreation

SIGHTSEE

As a nationally accredited Main Street locale (see pages

Michigan City Lighthouse

County Line Orchard

90-93 for more),

Angola’s charming downtown area boasts artful attractions like Bird Song Park and Imagine Alley, along with plentiful antique shops and the Steuben County Soldiers Monument

STAY

The Wingate by Wyndham Hotel in Angola offers convenience to downtown, Trine University, and nature sites such as Marion’s Woods Nature Preserve and Loon Lake.

4 FORT WAYNE

Indiana’s secondlargest city

SIGHTSEE

One of 12 designated Indiana Cultural Districts, Arts Campus Fort Wayne builds community through public art installations, performance collectives, festivals, and an outdoor market. Walk or bike ride on the 24mile Rivergreenway Trail, which follows along three rivers. Genealogy buffs will love the Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center. Spend a day diving into the lives of your ancestors with the center’s exceptional resources.

STAY

Open since fall 2025, The Amaya combines stylish, Asian-inspired modern design with amenities such as a wellness studio and a fresh, selfservice market.

5 LAFAYETTE

Innovative college town

SIGHTSEE

While Lafayette and West Lafayette may

Stop on the way

Joseph Decuis in Roanoke is known as “Indiana’s Farm to Fork Destination” with an award-winning restaurant worth the road trip. Visit the Joseph Decuis Wagyu Farm and shop at downtown’s Joseph Decuis Emporium, then turn in for the night at either the Joseph Decuis Farmstead Inn for an immersive farm experience or The Inn at Joseph Decuis in town.

be best known for engineering and aerospace advancements at Purdue University, the area also has a thriving creative scene. Another Indiana Cultural District, Tippecanoe Arts and Cultural District ties together Chauncey Village, the Wabash Riverfront, and the Arts & Market Downtown District with a host of visual and performance organizations as well as shopping and dining venues and markets.

STAY

The Union Club Hotel in the heart of Purdue’s campus is the only student-run Marriott Autograph Collection property in the world. The site offers a relaxing spa to revitalize travelers.

Joseph Decuis Wagyu

Tippecanoe Arts and Cultural District

Main Street Indiana

OF THE STATE’S 19 NATIONALLY ACCREDITED MAIN STREET COMMUNITIES, SIX ARE IN THE NORTH REGION. SHOPPING, DINING, AND EXPLORING INDIANA’S CHARM HAVE NEVER BEEN MORE FUN IN THESE WELCOMING DOWNTOWNS.

WABASH is friendly to pedestrians, couples, families, and singles alike. Not only is it an accredited Indiana Main Street, the Wabash Cultural District also enjoys recognition as an oﬃcial Indiana Cultural District. Start with a coffee combo from Modoc’s Market. Spruce up the wardrobe with a trip to the elegant Bluebird Boutique, and shop at Wooden Ivy Boutique for all manner of gi s and garb. Drop oﬀ your

bags in the car and grab a bite at Habanero Grill & Cantina. Next, browse vintage treasures at Brimso’s Antiques, and deﬁnitely step into Reading Room Books, which is one of the largest used bookstores in Indiana. Dine at Twenty Restaurant or pick up a snack at Wine & Cheese Bar inside the Charley Creek Inn before venturing out for entertainment at Riverfront Plaza or the Honeywell Center

FRANKFORT boasts a charming, historic downtown area that encircles the Clinton County courthouse. Start your morning with coﬀee and pastries at Little Miss Cupcake, then stroll East and West Washington streets to browse downtown shops such as Delilah’s Boutique, 27 Leaves, and Hope Collective Resale Boutique for fashion and gi s. Pop into Ellis Jewelers or e Design Hub for distinctive

accessories and home decor, then cool oﬀ with a scoop from Fresita’s Artisan Ice Cream. For lunch, grab a slice at local favorite Arni’s Frankfort or enjoy Mexican fare at Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant. In the a ernoon, wander Clinton Street and Main Street to discover specialty shops and

Frankfort goes to the dogs every July when it hosts the annual Hot Dog Festival.

Downtown Wabash

Frankfort Hot Dog Festival

main streets

community spaces. Cap your day with dinner downtown and a sunset stroll through the courthouse square.

LOGAN’S LANDING

is dedicated to revitalization efforts in downtown Logansport, which is bordered by the Eel and Wabash rivers. is between-the-waterways area offers a host of restaurants and retailers, including Brooch Boutique with feminine prints and forgiving silhouettes. You can also find women’s clothing, shoes and accessories at Yelle’s Boutique. Pause your shopping spree and head to Dhing’s aiPhilippine Bistro for flavorful pad thai, spring rolls, and curry puff s.

Once you’ve had your ﬁll, stop by e Record Farm for new and used

vinyl, and Pear Tree Gallery, where you can browse art and purchase art supplies. For an afternoon pick-me-up, try Black Dog Coﬀee. In the evening, visit the State eatre for live comedy shows, cover bands, theater productions, and more.

Kendallville has a walkable downtown that oﬀers a mix of arts, history, and small-town charm. Explore antique shops such as e Bargain Shoppe, Once Upon a Time, Alley Cat Antiques, and Love Me Two Times on Main to ﬁnd time-honored treasures. Browse local galleries and check out a movie at e Strand eatre. When you’re ready to stop for lunch or dinner, standbys like Jen’s Bistro for soup and

paninis, Jeny’s Tacos for burritos and tortas, and Whatchamacakes for cupcakes and cookies are ready to serve. Evening visitors will enjoy the immersive Blacklight Murals, a unique public-art experience that transforms downtown a er dark, while painted crosswalks add

colorful visual interest inspired by local themes.

Auburn is best known as the “Home of the Classics,” and its downtown celebrates automotive heritage alongside contemporary small-town culture. e Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile

Museum is a must-see for auto enthusiasts with an incredible collection of classic cars, focusing on the Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg luxury lines. e Early Ford V-8 Foundation Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Ford Motor Company’s V-8 engine, which

Black Dog Coffee, Logansport

Wooden Ivy Boutique, Wabash

revolutionized the industry. And the National Auto & Truck Museum displays an extensive collection of cars and trucks. Shoppers will enjoy Auburn’s Main Street with shops such as Little Sprouts for the most stylish kids in your life and Lyn-Maree’s Boutique proferring women’s clothing, accessories, shoes, and more. e James Cultural Plaza is a great open-air spot for a picnic. Grab provisions at e Deli at Sixth & Main or dine in at 7th Street Bar & Grill or Pizza Forum. At the end of the day, visit the tasting room at Cupkas Bee Good Meadery for a glass or ﬂight of mead, non-alcoholic honey soda, or a slushie with free popcorn on the side.

ANGOLA is also a nationally accredited Indiana Main Street in this part of the state. See pages 88-89 in the North Region Road Trip for details about the community.

Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum, Auburn

Play Dates

THESE SITES IN THE NORTH REGION PROVIDE ENRICHING ENTERTAINMENT FOR YOUNG TRAVELERS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

Rated one of the best children’s zoos in the nation, the Fort Wayne Zoo features themed exhibits such as African Journey, Australian Adventure, and Asian Trek. Families can enjoy rides like Sky Safari and the Endangered Species Carousel, and then feed goats, chickens, giraffes, and stingrays.

Science Central in Fort Wayne sparks imagination with interactive experiences that bring science to life. With more than 200 permanent exhibits, hands-on educational programs, and a high-energy atmosphere, it offers spaces like Kids Central, the Nature Nook, and Demonstration Theater where families can learn and have fun together.

Indiana’s oldest zoo, South Bend’s Potawatomi Zoo, is home to over 400 animals. Families can enjoy encounters with sloths, flamingos, otters, okapis, and rhinos or take part in seasonal events to celebrate special events with furry, feathered, and reptilian friends.

Columbian Park Zoo in Lafayette offers a charming, intimate experience ideal for younger children. Exhibits like Penguin Cove, Otter Creek, Prairie Dog Town, and Wallaby

Walkout provide plenty of opportunities to connect with animals and nature. Admission is free, making it a budgetfriendly outing.

Albion’s Black Pine Animal Sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued exotic animals. Families can take guided tours to learn about wildlife conservation and meet lions, tigers, bears, and more.

Linton’s Enchanted Gardens in Elkhart is an unexpected wonderland—technically a retail landscaping center—that has charmed families for years. Kids will love the treehouse play area and the petting zoo and aviary with resident macaws. The lush gardens have

inventive themes, including fairies, Japan, and seashores.

Swimmers of all ages will enjoy Northern Indiana amusement parks like WhoaZone at Whihala Beach in Whiting with its inflatable on-water Wibit obstacle courses, Deep River Waterpark in Crown Point featuring speed slides and tube rides, and Indiana Beach

on Lake Shafer in Monticello with its classic boardwalk and both watery and dry rides. Boasting the largest corn maze in Indiana, Exploration Acres in Lafayette includes 10 miles of twisting and turning trails across its 22-acre field. Each year features a new and unique design with themes such as Indiana racing, space

Hesston Train Museum

Deep River Waterpark

Science Central

exploration and aviation, zombies, and medieval times. If you feel a rush for vehicles that crush it (literally), rev up to the International Monster Truck Museum & Hall of Fame in Butler to pick up the history and culture of monster truck rallying, with its high-flying stunts and massive vehicles. See vintage monster trucks, learn about pioneers of the sport, and view exhibits on the engineering and innovation

behind these mechanical giants. Locomotive lovers can make tracks to a couple train attractions in the North region. The Hesston Steam Museum in LaPorte educates visitors on the valuable contributions steam machinery has made in American industry, while the National New York Central Railroad Museum in Elkhart celebrates the glory days of the second largest railroad in the United States.

JUST DESSERTS

After a long day of play, refresh and refuel with a variety of sweet treats.

Experience nitrogen-frozen ice cream at Nappanee’s Rocket Science Ice Cream, which offers a unique twist on classic treats. Families can watch ice cream creations take shape in a cloud of vapor. Valpo Velvet Ice Cream in Valparaiso dishes out more than 60 flavors, including chili chocolate and banana chocolate chip. Overlooking Sylvan Lake, Sundaes on Sylvan in Rome City is a charming spot to enjoy hand-dipped ice cream, sundaes, and shakes. Milky Way in Frankfort is an adorable drive-in offering

everything from nachos to soft-serve. Familyowned McCord Candies in Lafayette has treated its customers to homemade ice cream and confections for generations. It has been a must-visit since 1912. Cocoa connoisseurs flock to DeBrand Fine Chocolates in Fort Wayne for rich truffles and hot chocolate. Glass jars and wood boxes teeming with treats fill Crown Point’s Candy Cove with sweet surprises. And, Antiqology in Huntington, offers an exciting array of craft sodas, ice cream sandwiches, pies, and candies.

SURPRISES AWAIT

Monster Truck Hall Of Fame

Made IN Indiana

FROM SWEETS TO SEATS AND SCENTS TO SOUND GEAR, NORTHERN INDIANA’S MAKERS TURN EVERYDAY GOODS INTO MUST-HAVE TREASURES—PERFECT INSPIRATION FOR YOUR NEXT ROAD TRIP.

NORTHERN INDIANA isn’t just scenic farms and lakecountry charm—it’s a powerhouse of consumer creativity. From candy and cosmetics to motorcycles, furniture, and iconic quilted handbags and totes, the region is sprinkled with makers worth a detour. Here’s a look at the brands filling shelves (and wish lists) across America.

Elkhart County is famously known as the RV Capital of the World, home to major recreational vehicle manufacturers that produce more than 80 percent of the RVs built worldwide. visitelkhart county.com/rv

Recognized for its world-famous gummy bears, Albanese Confectionery in Merrillville is a candy lover’s paradise. Families can tour the factory, sample treats, and stock up on

sweet souvenirs. albanese candy.com

An hour away, chocolate lovers can indulge in caramels, toffee, truffles, cookies, covered pretzels, malt balls, and more at South Bend Chocolate, named for its home city. Tickets for its factory tours can be purchased online or onsite. sbchocolate.com

Find small-batch fragrances handcrafted using natural essences at Annie Oakley Perfumery & Studio in Ligonier. Visitors can take a behind-the-scenes tour, meet the perfumer, and blend a custom scent as a personal souvenir. annieoakley.com

If you’ve sipped a Fairlife Nutrition Plan high-protein, low-sugar shake, you’ve tasted milk sourced from northern Indiana’s Fair Oaks Farms. While production itself isn’t open to the public, Fair Oaks Farms offers agricultural experiences and

glimpses into dairy life. fairlife.com

Motorsports fans know the name Hoosier Racing Tire. Since 1957, this Lakeville company has made high-performance tires for nearly every racing class. Travelers can stop by the headquarters to soak in some racing heritage. hoosiertire.com

Meanwhile in Goshen, Janus Motorcycles builds elegant, vintageinspired bikes by hand. The shop offers test rides and factory tours where visitors can meet the craftspeople and see motorcycles in various stages of assembly. janusmotorcycles.com

If you have a taste for culinary history, familyowned Maple Leaf Farms in Leesburg has been the nation’s leading producer of duck products since 1958. The company’s commitment to humane, mindful, sustainable farming is celebrated throughout

the region’s restaurants. mapleleaffarms.com

Smith Brothers Furniture in Berne builds heirloom-quality upholstered pieces like sofas, sectionals, recliners, and accent chairs. The company, which celebrates its 100th birthday this year, operates two factories and employs more than 400 people. smithbrothers furniture.com

Whetstone Woodenware in Silver Lake invites shoppers into its charming workshop store, filled with handturned wooden spoons, dippers, cutting boards, scoops, spatulas, biscuit cutters, and more that are designed to last generations. whetstone woodenware.com

Fort Wayne’s Sweetwater is a hub for music hobbyists as well as professional performing artists. With the largest on-site inventory of musical instruments and equipment in the

U.S. and a vast online catalog, Sweetwater’s influence stretches far beyond Indiana. sweetwater.com

The aroma of fresh bread often traces back to Aunt Millie’s Bakery (auntmillies.com), a Midwest kitchen staple headquartered in Fort Wayne. Other household names like Peg Perego (pegperego.com), maker of strollers and ride-on toys, and Vera Bradley (verabradley.com), whose outlet and annual sale draw fans of the signature quilted bags from across the country, also hail from Fort Wayne.

In Syracuse, Polywood transforms recycled plastics into durable outdoor furniture like dining sets, benches, kids’ picnic tables, and Adirondack chairs that come with 20-year warranties. The eco-friendly pieces maintain their vivid hues with ColorStay Technology. polywood.com

Vera Bradley

Fair Oaks Farms

Sweetwater

On Instagram

THREE OF OUR FAVORITE POSTS FOR INSPIRING WANDERLUST.

See more at instagram.com/ visitindiana

TAKE YOUR BEST SHOT

1. A horse-drawn buggy provides transportation on Northern Indiana roads in Shipshewana Photo by David Arment/@visitshipshewana // 2. Kurtz Produce created this maze as a tribute to the 60th anniversary of the Fort Wayne Zoo. Photo by @gentie.media // 3. Fusion Fest, presented by IBEW Local 153 in South Bend, is an incredible celebration of our region’s cultures and talents!

Photo by @sbvpa

Happy Tails

A FAMILY TRIP OR WEEKEND GETAWAY DOESN’T FEEL COMPLETE WITHOUT YOUR BEST BUDDY. THE NORTH REGION BOASTS AN ARRAY OF ATTRACTIONS, RESTAURANTS, AND LODGING OPTIONS THAT ALLOW PETS TO TAG ALONG. SO, PACK UP YOUR VEHICLE AND TAKE FIDO WITH YOU FOR A FUN-FILLED C-A-R R-I-D-E.

play Places to explore, exercise, and get a good sniff of the grounds • Gabis Arboretum at Purdue University Northwest in Valparaiso is a 300-acre oak preserve with formal gardens, woodlands, wetlands, and prairies that give your leashed pets a romp in nature.

e Mid-America Windmill Museum in Kendallville displays 52 windmills across over 40 pet-friendly acres (dogs must be leashed).

e museum was originally built to display all windmills manufactured at the local Flint and Walling Company. Fort Wayne Outfitters offers bike, kayak, and paddleboard rentals on the town’s three rivers. If you rent a kayak, they will even set you up to paddle with your dog. While in the area, take a walk or hike along the paved 9-mile Pufferbelly Trail that runs northsouth between Fort Wayne and Huntertown. Take your doggie out to the ballgame at Four

Winds Field for South Bend Cubs’ Tail Waggin’ Tuesdays. From April through September, canine companions are welcomed at the home diamond of the Chicago Cubs farm team. Have some fun in the sun at Indiana Dunes National Park in Porter, which allows leashed dogs on all trails and beaches with a few exceptions.

Pokagon State Park on Lake James near Angola oﬀers outdoorsy activities with nine petfriendly hiking trails.

If you’d like to let your dog run free oﬀleash and meet some new pals, the North region is home to plenty of dog parks, including Woodland Dog Park in Portage, Creek Ridge County Park in Michigan City, Nives Ave. Bark Park and Rum Village Dog Park in South Bend, Fido’s Forest in Fort Wayne, Lemon Lake County Park in Crown Point, Centennial Park in Munster, Nappanee Dog Park in Nappanee, and Sprocket Dog Park in Goshen, among others.

Sit Where to grab a bite and a drink with your four-legged friend • Numerous restaurants and pubs throughout the North region allow dogs to accompany their owners on patios

and in outdoor dining areas. These include: Fair Oaks Cowfe in Fair Oaks (which also includes an on-site dog park); Craft House and Third Coast Spice Cafe in Chesterton; Villa Macri in Granger; Doc’s Smokehouse in Dyer; Bridges Waterside Grille and Panini Panini in Michigan City; South Bend Brew Werks and Howard Park Public House in South Bend; The Vine in Elkhart; Goshen Brewing Company in Goshen; Digby’s Pub and Patio, East End Grill, and Teays River Brewing & Public House in Lafayette; Friendly Fox and Hop River Brewing Company in Fort Wayne; Jed’s BBQ & Brew in Angola; and Cerulean in Winona Lake. More options

Indiana Dunes National Park

can be found on the Bring Fido site at bringfido.com.

STAY Inns that accommodate overnight visits with pets • When you’re ready to retire for the night, rest easy knowing that all members of your pack will have a comfy, cozy place to relax, curl up, and sleep.

All Indiana state park inns have designated pet-friendly rooms. In the North region, you’ll find the Potawatomi Inn at Pokagon State Park. Located on Lake James, this Angola spot connects guests with outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and winter tobogganing.

Other hospitable hotels and inns in the region include The Bradley in Fort Wayne. Named for Vera Bradley, the boutique hotel boasts luxury accommodations, a rooftop bar, and a hip restaurant, all decked out with pretty patterns. Amenities like pet beds, special treats, and an upgrade package with a welcome kit are available.

Hotel Elkhart, where Art deco extravagance meets modern amenities, encourages guests to bring furry friends along. The Tapestry Collection by Hilton property in Elkhart offers 93 rooms, a fitness facility, and a rooftop bar.

For a waterfront getaway, the Oakwood Resort overlooks Lake Wawasee in Syracuse with a variety of room and cottage options. An on-site restaurant and a calendar of events and live entertainment make this a great spot to linger and enjoy lake living.

The Van Buren Hotel at Shipshewana provides a convenient home base when traveling through Northern Indiana’s Amish country. The hotel features amenities like a heated indoor pool, fitness facilities, and a cozy fireplace area in the lobby.

Windmill Museum

NORTH festivals

Festival Highlights

FUN AND FANFARE AWAIT AT THESE ANNUAL GATHERINGS CELEBRATING EVERYTHING FROM MAPLE SYRUP TO GERMAN CUISINE AND CRAFTS IN THE NORTH REGION.

SHIPSHEWANA ICE FESTIVAL

JANUARY • Ice carvers take to the streets of Shipshewana, drilling and sculpting works of art, during this competition that includes a chili cook-off. Nearby shops offer extended hours so visitors can warm up and peruse their wares. visitshipshewana.org/icefestival

MENTONE EGG FESTIVAL

JUNE • Known as “The Egg Basket of the Midwest,” Mentone pays tribute to its signature 3,000-pound man-made egg during a three-day event that includes a flea market, egg toss, and Miss Chick and Mr. Rooster pageant. mentoneeggcity.com/egg-festival

MARSHALL COUNTY BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL

SEPTEMBER • Indiana’s largest five-day festival draws visitors to Plymouth for activities like an antique car show and hot air balloon launches. blueberryfestival.org

WAKARUSA MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL

APRIL • Tap into the sweet taste of maple syrup in downtown Wakarusa. This gathering celebrates the work of artisan vendors in its craft marketplace and features games, rides, and a parade. wakarusachamber.com

PIEROGI FEST

JULY • Downtown Whiting draws more than 300,000 people to honor traditional Eastern European dumplings with Polish folk music and dance ensembles, a parade of women dressed in housecoats and babushkas, and a pierogi eating contest. pierogifest.net

WESTVILLE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

OCTOBER • Fall fanfare abounds in Westville with activities like a jack-o’-lantern contest, pumpkin bake-off, pie-eating contest, costume parade, pumpkin slingshot, and fireworks. westvillepumpkinfestival.com

FORT WAYNE CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL

MAY • Purdue University Fort Wayne hosts a showcase of Japanese arts and culture. Enjoy a tea ceremony, listen to traditional music, try on a kimono, and watch martial arts and bonsai demonstrations. cherryblossomfw.com

INDIANA BACON FESTIVAL

AUGUST • Delphi’s courthouse square fills with the scent of bacon during this tribute to cured meat. Activities include a bacon-eating contest and barbecue cook-off, games and inflatables, and more than 20 food and drink vendors. indianabaconfestival.com

BERNE CHRISTKINDLMARKT

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER • Raise a mug of glühwein, wassail, or heiße schokolade to this German-themed holiday mart in Berne. Visit more than 20 chalets featuring handmade crafts and gifts. bernechristkindlmarkt.org

Marshall County Blueberry Festival

Sweet Treats Word search

CAN YOU SPOT THE NAMES OF THESE ICE CREAM PARLORS AND CANDY SHOPS IN THE NORTH REGION?

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look for THE BOLDED WORDS

ALBANESE CONFECTIONERY, MERRILLVILLE

ANTIQOLOGY, HUNTINGTON

CANDYCOVE, CROWN POINT

DEBRAND FINE CHOCOLATES, FORT WAYNE

MCCORD CANDIES, LAFAYETTE

MILKYWAY, FRANKFORT

ROCKETSCIENCE ICE CREAM, NAPPANEE

SUNDAESONSYLVAN, ROME CITY

SOUTHBENDCHOCOLATE, SOUTH BEND

VALPOVELVET ICE CREAM, VALPARAISO Answers on page 112

DeBrand Fine Chocolates

VISITOR RESOURCES

Welcome! Your information on regional convention and visitor bureaus, chambers of commerce and local welcome centers. Find even more at VisitIndiana.IN.gov.

Angola

Steuben County Tourism Bureau

430 N. Wayne St., Ste. 1B 260.665.5386 visitsteubencounty.com

Auburn

DeKalb County Visitors Bureau

1601 S. Van Buren St. 260.927.1499 visitdekalb.org

Berne

Berne Chamber of Commerce

205 E. Main St. 260.589.8080 bernein.com

Bluffton Wells County Chamber of Commerce 211 Water St. 260.824.0510 wellscoc.com

Columbia City

Whitley County Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center

128 W. Van Buren St. 260.723.7131 whitleychamber.com

Culver

Culver Visitor Center

819 E. Lake Shore Dr. 574.842.3510 findculver.com

Delphi

Carroll County Chamber of Commerce

215 S. Washington St. 765.564.6757 carrollcounty chamber.com

Elkhart Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau 3421 Cassopolis St. 574.262.8161 visitelkhartcounty.com

Fort Wayne

Visit Fort Wayne 927 S. Harrison St. 260.424.3700 visitfortwayne.com

Fowler Benton County Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 163 765.884.2080 beinbenton.com

Hammond South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority 7770 Corinne Dr. 219.989.7770 southshorecva.com

Hartford City

Hartford City Chamber of Commerce 121 N. High St. 765.348.1905 blackfordcounty.com

Huntington Huntington County Visitor and Convention Bureau 407 N. Jefferson St. 260.359.8687 visithuntington.org

kendallville Noble County Convention & Visitors Bureau

401 E. Diamond St. 260.636. 3602 visitnoblecounty.org

Knox Starke County Chamber of Commerce

400 N. Heaton St. 574.772.5548 starkecountychamber.com

Logansport

Cass County Visitors Bureau 425 E. Broadway 574.753.4856 visitcasscountyin.com

Marion

Marion–Grant County Visitors Bureau

P.O. Box 1327 Marion, IN 46952 765.668.5435 showmegrantcounty.com

Michigan City Visit Michigan City–LaPorte 4073 S. Franklin St. 800.634.2650 219.872.5055 michigancity laporte.com

Monticello

Enjoy White County P.O. Box 80 Monticello, IN 47960 574.313.1421 enjoywc.com

Morocco Discover Newton County 4117 S. 240 W. 888.663.9866 ext. 2601 newtoncounty indiana.com

Peru

Miami County Tourism Bureau 13 E. Main St. 765.472.1923 visitmiami county.com

Plymouth Marshall County Convention & Visitors Bureau P.O. Box 669 574.936.1882 visitmarshall county.in

Porter

Indiana Dunes Tourism 1215 N. S.R. 49 219.926.2255 indianadunes.com

Portland Jay County Visitors & Tourism Bureau 118 S. Meridian St., Ste. C 260.726.3366 visitjaycounty.com

Rensselaer

Discover Jasper County 104 W. Washington St., Ste. B 219.866.3080 discoverjasper county.com

112 E. 8th St. 574.224.2666 fultoncounty chamber.com

Shipshewana Shipshewana/ LaGrange County Visitors Center

350 S. Van Buren St. 260.768.4008 visitshipshewana.org

South Bend

Visit South Bend Mishawaka

101 N. Michigan St., Ste. 300 800.519.0577 visitsouthbend.com

Wabash

Visit Wabash County Indiana 221 S. Miami St. 260.563.7171 visitwabash county.com Warsaw Kosciusko County Convention & Visitors Bureau 111 Capital Dr. 574.269.6090 visitkosciusko county.org Winamac Pulaski County Indiana 623 W. 11th St. 574.946.3869 pulaskionline.org

INDEX

This guide includes the attractions and points of interest; hotels and lodging; festivals and events; recreation, nature, and sports sites; restaurants and sweet shops; shopping; wineries, breweries, and distilleries; communities, arts districts, and Main Streets; and Made IN Indiana manufacturers mentioned in this issue.

ATTRACTIONS & POINTS OF INTEREST

Allen County Public

Library Genealogy Center .............................89

Alley Oop .......................66

The Alley ........................59

Angel Mounds

State Historic Site ........36

Art on the Square ........43

Arts Place ......................62

Auburn Cord

Duesenberg Automobile Museum ............92

Benjamin Harrison

Presidential Site ...........60

Big Peach ..........................6

Blacklight Murals..........92

Blue Gate Performing Arts Center ....................85

Bob Ross Experience ..58

Brawl Statue ...................19

Bumblebee Statue .......19

Candles Holocaust Museum and Education Center .........60

Captain Janeway Statue ...............................19

Carnegie Center for Art & History ..........40

Century of Progress Homes ..........84

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis ........14, 68

Clear Creek Welcome Center & Rest Area ......76

Civic Auditorium ..........88

Conner Prairie..12, 20, 60

Corydon Capitol

State Historic Site ........43

Culbertson Mansion

State Historic Site .........37

Early Ford V-8 Foundation Museum ...92

Eiteljorg Museum .........58

Ernie Pyle WWII Museum ..........................60

Everwise

Amphitheater................58

Fiberglass Freaks’ Batman Museum ...........18

Ford Center ....................41

The Gallery ....................64

Gene Stratton-Porter

State Historic Site ........84

Gennett Records Walk of Fame...........................62

George Rogers Clark

National Historic Park ...37

Gibson Theatre ..............41

The Glass Museum ......62

Grissom Air Museum ..85

Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes ...........88

Grover Center Museum & Historical Society .....64

Hall of Heroes

Superhero Museum .....18

Haynie’s Corner Arts District ....................41

Hayswood Theatre......43

Hendricks Live! .............63

Heroes Gallery...............18

Hesston Steam Museum ...................94, 95

Hillforest Victorian House Museum.............42

Historic Mansfield

Roller Mill .........................61

Honeywell Center ........90

The Hoosier Gym ..........14

The Hound Statue ........19

The Hulk Statue ............19

Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame ...................14

Indiana Dinosaur Museum ..........................84

Indiana Military Museum ...........................37

Indiana State Museum ..........................58

Indiana Track & Field and Cross County Hall of Fame Museum .........62

Indiana University .........41

Indiana Welcome Center ..............................15

Indianapolis Motor Speedway .........................9

International Circus Hall of Fame ..................85

International Monster

Truck Museum & Hall of Fame ..................95

James Cultural Plaza ..93

James Dean Gallery....60

James Dean

Landmarks Trail ............60

The James Dean Museum ..........................60

James Whitcomb Riley Boyhood Home and Museum ..................60

James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home .............60

Jasper City Mill .............36

Joe Palooka Statue ......19

Jug Rock ........................36

kidscommons................46

Koch Family Children’s Museum of Evansville ..46

Koch Immersive Theater & Planetarium ...............46

Kokomo Opalescent Glass Factory .................74

Kuji Alley.........................56

Lanier Mansion State Historic Site ...................40

Larry Bird Museum ....................14, 62

Levi and Catharine Coffin State Historic Site ........60

Limberlost State Historic Site ...................84

Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial ..........6

Megatron Statue ...........19

Metamora Grist Mill .....36

Michigan City East Pierhead Lighthouse ..88

Mid-America

Windmill Museum ........98

Monastery Immaculate Conception ..............37, 54

Muensterberg Plaza and Clock Tower ...84, 85

Museum of Overbeck

Art Pottery ....................62

NCAA Hall of Champions .....................58

New Albany Riverfront Amphitheater................40

National Auto & Truck Museum ..............93

National New York Central Railroad Museum ..........................95

Newfields .......................58

Notre Dame University .......................88

Old Lighthouse Museum ..........................88

Optimus Prime Statue ..19

Piano Alley......................37

Purdue University ........89

Quilters Hall of Fame ...72

Richmond Art Museum ..........................62

Rotary Jail Museum ....60

RV/MH Hall of Fame ...85

Santa Claus Museum and Village .....................46

Santa Statue ..................46

Science Central ............94

Sechler’s Pickle Factory ...........................85

Seiberling Mansion ......60

Self.e Alley ......................37

St. Meinrad

Archabbey ......................37

Star Wars Walkers .......19

The State Theatre........92

Steuben County

Soldiers Monument .....89

The Strand Theatre .....92

Studebaker National Museum ..........................85

Swope Art Museum ....60

T. C. Steele State Historic Site ....................37

Terre Haute

Children’s Museum ......68

Tibetan Mongolian

Buddhist Cultural Center ..............................41

Trine University ............89

USS LST-325

Ship Memorial ........36, 37

Victory Field .................58

Victory Theatre .............41

Vincennes State Historic Sites ..................37

Whitewater Canal State Historic Site ...................36

Whitewater Valley Arts Association ..........62

Whitewater Valley Railroad...........................62

Who North America ....18

Wilbur Wright Birthplace Museum........60, 76

World’s Largest Ball of Paint ......................9

HOTELS & LODGING

Abe Martin Lodge .......49

The Amaya ....................89

Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa ...................88

Bottleworks Hotel ........76

The Bradley ...................99

Canyon Inn .....................49

Casa Finale .....................41

Casa Urbana ..................63

Chandler Hotel .............40

Charley Creek Inn ........90

Clifty Inn .........................49

Fort Harrison Inn ...........76

French Lick Resort/ West Baden Springs .........12, 31, 41, 49

Grant Street Inn.............41

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Portland .............62

Home2 Suites by Hilton ..........................76

Hotel Elkhart .................99

Hotel Indigo Columbus Architectural Center ...49

Inn at High Hats ............62

Inn at Joseph Decuis ..89

Joseph Decuis Farmstead Inn ...............89

Lost River Hostel ..........41

Marmalade Sky Bed and Breakfast ...............63

Morris Inn .......................88

Oakwood Resort .........99

Old Jail Inn .....................63

Patoka 4 Seasons Resort .............31

The Pepin Mansion Historic Bed & Breakfast ........................40

The Plum House ...........62

Potawatomi Inn ............99

The Queen and I Homestead .....................76

Riley’s Railhouse ..........88

The Sherman..................41

Spring Mill Inn ...............49

Turkey Run Inn & Cabins ..........................76

The Union Club Hotel...89

Van Buren Hotel at Shipshewana ............99

Wingate by Wyndham Hotel ...........89

Woodridge Inn .............62

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

500 Festival ...................72

Anderson PowWow and Indian Market .........72

Berne Christkindlmarkt ........100

Canal Days .....................62

Carmel Festival of Ice ..72

Earth Day Festival ........72

Enchanted Luminaria Walk .............72

Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt ..........38

Fort Wayne Cherry Blossom Festival ........100

Frankfort

Hot Dog Festival ..........90

Frühlingsfest .................38

Fusion Fest .....................97

Greenwood Freedom Festival ..........72

Haynes-Apperson Festival.............................72

Indiana Bacon Festival..........................100

Jay County Fiber Arts Festival ..................62

Madison Chautauqua Festival of Art .......38, 40

Maple Syrup Festival ..38

Marshall County Blueberry Festival .....100

Mentone Egg Festival .........................100

Metamora Strawberry Days ..........38

Orleans Dogwood Festival............................38

Parke County Covered Bridge Festival..6, 12, 72, 79, 80 Pierogi Fest .................100

Rockin’ on the River ....40

Roostertail Music Festival ...............40

Shipshewana Ice Festival ...................100

Shoals Catfish Festival............................38

Swiss Wine Festival ....38

Tipton County Pork Festival .................62

Wakarusa Maple Syrup Festival .............100

West Side Nut Club Fall Festival ..........38

Westville Pumpkin Festival..........................100

RECREATION, NATURE & SPORTS

SITES

American Cruise Line’s Ohio River tours ...........40

Badlands Off Road Park ........................11

The Barn at Helm ..........79

Batesville Skatepark & Outdoor Adventure .....41

Beanblossom Bottoms Nature Preserve ...........20

Beasley’s Orchard .......58

Big Four Bridge ............36

Big Four Station Park...36

Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park .......47

Bird Song Park .............89

Black Pine Animal Sanctuary .......................94

Black River Welcome Center ..........48

Bluesprings Caverns ......9

Bradt Nature Area ........27

Brookville Lake .............27

Brown County State Park........12, 23, 27, 31, 54

Brum Woods ..................41

Buffalo Trace Trails .....48

Cagles Mill Lake ......27, 61

Calli Nature Preserve .........................36

Canine Companion Corral ................................76

Cataract Falls .............6, 61

Cave River Valley Nature Area ....................27

Cecil M. Harden Lake ..27

Centennial Park ............98

Chain O’Lakes State Park ...............26, 27

Charlestown State Park ...............27, 40

Clifty Creek Alpacas ...63

Clifty Falls State Park ...........6, 27, 48

Columbian Park Zoo ...94

County Line Orchard ..88

Crabby Apple Family Orchard & Market ........62

Craig Park .......................76

Crate Escapes ................76

Creek Ridge County Park ..................98

Deam Lake State Recreation Area ............27

Deep River Waterpark.......................94

Deming Park ..........62, 76

Dull’s Tree Farm ............15

East Race Waterway ....11

Emerson Dog Park .......76

Exotic Feline Rescue Center ..............68

Exploration Acres ........94

Fair Oaks Farms .......9, 96

Falls of the Ohio

State Park ......................48

Falls Park ........................62

Ferguson Dog Park .....48

Fido’s Forest .................98

Flow Park .......................40

Forest Park .....................76

Fort Harrison

State Park ......................20

Fort Wayne

Outfitters ........................98

Fort Wayne Promenade Park ..........84

Fort Wayne Zoo ..........94

Four Winds Field .........98

France Park .....................11

French Lick Scenic Railway..............41, 48, 54

Friendship Botanic Gardens ..........................88

Full Tilt Arcade & Pinball...........................19

Gabis Arboretum .........98

Garfield Park Conservatory .................79

Garfield Trail ..................69

Goat Milk Stuff..............46

Goodrich Park................76

Griffy Lake Nature Preserve ............41

Hardy Lake .....................27

Harmonie State Park ...27

Heritage Farm Alpacas & Events.........68

Hill’s Bark Park ..............76

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari ..................11, 36, 46

Hoosier National Forest .................20, 24, 41

Indian Creek Shooting Center ............31

Indiana Beach ..........11, 94

Indiana Caverns...............9

Indiana Dunes .11, 20, 23, 27, 88, 98

Indiana State Fair .........59

Indianapolis Zoo.... 58, 68

Inspiration Park .............41

Interlake Off-Road State Recreation Area ....30, 32

Jasper Farmers Market .............................42

K1 Circuit ..........................61

Karst Farm Park .....41, 48

Kokiwanee Nature Preserve ............................6

Koteewi Run ...................14

LaGrange County Parks ................20

Lark Ranch ......................47

Lemon Lake County Park ..................98

Liberty Park ...................41

Lieber State Recreation Area ....................22, 27, 61

Lincoln State Park ........27

Linton’s Enchanted Gardens ..........................94

Loon Lake ......................89

Madison Riverfront Dog Park ........................48

Marengo Cave .........9, 48

Marion’s Woods Nature Preserve ...........89

Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary .......................62

McCloud Nature Park ..76

McCormick’s Creek State Park...20, 27

Mehlig Dog Park ...........76

Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden ............46

Mill Race Park ...............48

Minnetrista Museum & Gardens.....58

Mississinewa Lake ........27

Monon Trail .....................76

Monroe Lake ............27, 41

Mounds

State Park ................26, 27

Muscatatuck Park ........48

Nappanee Dog Park ...98

Nashville Express Tour Trains .....................48

New Albany Dog Park .........................48

Nives Ave. Bark Park..98

O’Bannon Woods State Park .......................27

Ohio River Greenway..40

Ohio River Scenic Byway .............................36

Ouabache State Park ..27

Paoli Peaks .....................14

Parke County ...................6

Patoka Lake 11, 27, 31, 36

Perfect North Slopes ..14

Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area .........33

Pippero Pup Park ........48

Pokagon State Park ..14, 25, 27, 98

Potato Creek State Park .......................27

Potawatomi Zoo ..........94

Press Play Gaming Lounge .............................19

Prophetstown State Park ................27, 32

Quakertown State Recreation Area ....26, 27

Quilt Gardens ...................9

Raccoon State Recreation Area ............27

Redbird Off-Road State Recreation Area ...........30

Retro Rush Arcade .......19

Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve ....................4, 20

Riverfront Plaza............90

Rivergreenway Trail ....89

Rock Rest Falls .............36

Rockin’ Thunder River Tours.....................34

Rockville Chautauqua Pavilion ...........................63

Rockville Lake Park ....63

Rum Village Dog Park 98

Rusty’s Ranch ................76

Salamonie Lake .............27

Salamonie River State Forest ......................6

Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum .........41

Shades State Park ...............24, 27

Shakamak State Park ..27

Smock Bark Park ..........76

South Bend River Lights....................88

Splash Island .................63

Spring Mill State Park ...............27, 48

Sprocket Dog Park......98

Squire Boone Caverns ..9

Starve Hollow State Recreation Area ....25, 27

Stream Cliff Farm..........37

Summit Lake ..................27

Thislethwaite Falls .......69

Tippecanoe River .........27

Trine State Recreation Area ....25, 27

Tulip Trestle ....................41

Turkey Run State Park ..........4, 24, 27

Ultimutt Dog Park ........76

Versailles State Park ....27

Virginia B. Fairbanks Art and Nature Park ...20

Washington Park .........88

Wesselman Woods ......41

White Oaks

Bison Farm .....................85

White River State Park ......................58

Whitetail Acres Nursery Reindeer Encounter .....15

Whitewater Gorge Trail ......................76

Whitewater Memorial State Park .......................27

WhoaZone at Whihala Beach .............94

Williamsport Falls ...........6

Wilstem Wildlife Park............................40, 41

Winona Lake ..........82, 83

Wizard’s World .............19

Wolf Park ................84, 85

Wonder Walks .............20

Wonderlab Museum of Science, Health, and Technology ....................46

Woodland Dog Park ...98

Wyandotte State Recreation Area ............27

RESTAURANTS & SWEET SHOPS

7th Street Bar & Grill ....93

9th Street Bistro ............64

Abbott’s Candies ...74, 78

Adrienne and Co. ..47, 50

Albanese Confectionery.. 15, 96, 101

Alexander’s on the Square ................64

Ann’s Restaurant ..........76

Antiqology .............95, 101

Arni’s Frankfort ............90

The Bee Hive..................76

Bird’s Nest Cafe ...........49

Black Dog Coffee ........92

Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery..................84, 85

Boone County Cake Co. .........................66

Bridges Waterside

Grille.................................98

BRU Burger Bar ............76

Cammack Station ..70, 78

Candy Cove ...........95, 101

The Candy Mill .......47, 50

Cerulean .........................98

CJ’s Candies .................66

Cobblestone Grill ..........76

Court House Grounds...76

Craft House ...................98

Crossroads Family Restaurant .....................49

Daily Scoop ...................43

DeBrand Fine

Chocolates .............95, 101

Deli at Sixth & Main .....93

Dhing’s ThaiPhilippine Bistro ...........92

Digby’s Pub and Patio 98

Divvy ................................76

Doc’s Smokehouse .....98

East End Grill.................98

The Exchange Pub + Kitchen................49

Fair Oaks Cowfe ..........98

Farm House Cafe .........49

Fire by the Monon ........76

Foxgardin ........................76

French Licks ...........47, 50

Fresita’s Artisan Ice Cream .......................90

Friendly Fox ..................98

Funny Farm Coffee Company..........42

The Garage ....................49

Ghyslain

Chocolatier .............70, 78

Grandma’s Cow Palace ....................64

Habanero Grill & Cantina ........................90

Hilligoss Bakery.....70, 78

Hoosier Cupboard 70, 78

Hoover’s Candy Shop............47, 50

Ivanhoes ..................70, 78

J. Edwards ..............70, 78

J. Miller Steak Company ........................42

Jed’s BBQ & Brew .......98

Jen’s Bistro ....................92

Jeny’s Tacos ..................92

Jimmie’s Dairy Bar 70, 78

Joseph Decuis ..............89

Just Peachy Cafe .........64

Karv .................................43

Kent Java Bar ...............43

Lazy Cow Creamery ................47, 50

Lil’ Charlie’s Restaurant and Brewery..................49

Linne’s Bakery & Cafe 64

Little Miss Cupcake .....90

Mae’s Townhouse ........42

Main & Madison Market Cafe ...................64

Main Street Grille ..........76

Martinsville Candy Kitchen ........15, 78

Mason’s Root Beer Drive In.............................47

McCord Candies...95, 101

Milky Way ..............95, 101

Millstone Dining Room 15

The Mug...........................76

Muldoon’s........................76

The Nashville House ...49

Natural State Provisions........................76

Nick’s English Hut ........49

Nick’s Kitchen ................15

Nixie’s Burgers .............43

Noble Coffee.................64

Norma Jean’s Ice Cream Shop .....47, 50

Oasis Diner .....................76

Oink Inc. Smokehouse 43

Panini Panini ..................98

Papa’s Grill .....................49

Parlour ............................48

Payne’s.............................76

Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant .....................90

Petite Chou Bistro & Champagne Bar ............76

Pizza Forum...................93

Press Coffee Co. ..........66

The Prewitt Restaurant + Lounge ........................63

Proof 124

Table & Tavern..............42

Rafferty’s........................49

The Red Pepperoni .....49

The Red Yeti..................48

Revery ..............................76

Roca Bar East ...............49

Rocket Science Ice Cream ...............95, 101

Rosie’s Place ..........64, 76

Runcible Spoon ............49

Rusted Silo ......................76

Santa’s Candy Castle..........46, 50

Saratoga Bar & Cafe ....76

Schimpff’s Confectionery.......44, 50

Schnitzelbank Restaurant .....................42

Schwatzer’s ...................42

Scoops Ice Cream 47, 50

Seeds and Greens Natural Market & Deli ...............................49

St. Elmo Steak House..15

Stacks Restaurant .......66

Stockwell Inn .................49

Stories Restaurant .......43

Strange Brew Coffee ...79

Strong’s Brick

Oven Pizzeria ................42

Sundaes on Sylvan ................95, 101

Third & Main ..................42

Third Coast

Spice Cafe ......................98

Twenty Restaurant ......90

Two Chicks

Whisky Business...........76

Ullery’s Homemade Ice Cream .......................70

Uranus Fudge Factory & General Store ............70

Valpo Velvet Ice Cream ...............95, 101

Villa Macri.......................98

The Vine .........................98

Vino Villa .........................76

Whatchamacakes ........92

Wick’s Pies ..............15, 78

The Willard ....................64

Zaharakos ...............47, 50

SHOPPING

The 1819 Boutique.......42

27 Leaves .......................90

Alley Cat Antiques ......92

Annie Oakley

Perfumery & Studio ....96

Antique Alley ................62

Antique Vault & Records .......................16

Audie Jayne ..................42

Back Alley Mercantile 42

Bargain Shoppe ...........92

Bash Boutique ..............64

Beehive Body Co. ........66

Black Wax Cafe .............16

Blackbird Design ..........64

Bluebird Boutique .......90

The Bookmark ..............64

Bookworm .....................43

Brick Street Boutique 64

Brimso’s Antiques .......90

Brooch Boutique ..........92

The Castle Games .......42

Cataract General Store 61

Chestnut Street Market .............................43

Comic Quest ..................18

Delilah’s Boutique ........90

Denim & Honey

Boutique .........................43

The Design Hub ...........90

Dog-Eared Pages ........43

Dragonfly Boutique ....42

Eclectic Jade .................64

Ellis Jewelers ................90

Farm Girl Mercantile....64

Geek Street ....................18

Good Co. ........................66

Hamerlynck ...................42

Hearts Desire Gift Shop ........................42

Hope Collective Resale Boutique ...........90

House of Peacock .......42

Hummingbird Boutique .........................42

Ignition Music Garage ..16

Indiana Gifts ..................66

Karisma ...........................64

Krypto’s Comix .............42

Landlocked Music.........16

Lawrenceburg Home Boutique ............42

Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets ..........88

Linden Tree Gifts .........64

Little Sprouts ................93

Logan Village Mall .......64

Looking Glass Antiques .........................43

Love Me Two Times on Main...............92

Luna Music ......................16

Lyn-Maree’s Boutique 93

The Magic of Books ....42

Main Street

Amusements ..................19

The Mix Marketplace ..64

Modest Midwest ..........66

Modoc’s Market ...........90

Moonshot Games ........64

Noblesville Antiques on the Square ...............64

Once Upon a Time ......92

Pear Tree Gallery .........92

The Poppy Boutique ..64

Reading Room Books ..90

The Record Farm .........92

Salvage Sisters

Antique Market ............64

Second Time Around ..42

The Shops at Perry Crossing ...............76

Space Monkey

Records............................16

This Old Guitar

Music Store ....................42

This Olde House ..........42

Three Sisters Books & Gifts ................64

The Toy Pit .....................18

Toodleydoo Toys .........64

Vintage Whimsy ..........64

Warm Glow Candle Company ..........74

Whiskey Wrangler Mercantile Shop ...........43

The Wild Bohemian ....64

Wild Geese Bookshop .......................64

Wine & Cheese Bar .....90

Wooden Ivy Boutique ..................90, 92

Yelle’s Boutique ...........92

Yoho General Store .....41

WINERIES/ BREWERIES/ DISTILLERIES & NIGHTLIFE

16-Bit Bar + Arcade .....19

Arcademie ......................19

Bar_Botics Arcade.......19

Barker Brewhouse.......48

Big Lug Canteen ...........76

Cedar Creek Winery ...76

Cupkas Bee Good Meadery .........................93

Goshen Brewing Company ........................98

Hard Truth Distilling .....41

Hop River Brewing Company ........................98

Huber’s Orchard & Winery .............................37

Klooz Brewz ...................76

Mallow Run Winery......76

Metazoa Brewing Co. ..76

Recbar 812 ......................19

Route 65 Tavern ..........49

Sara’s Wine & Bier Bar ...........................49

Sonka Irish Pub .............76

South Bend Brew Werks...................98

Sportsman’s Grille & Billiards ............49

Tappers Arcade Bar .....................19

Teays River Brewing & Public House .............98

Tree City Brew Co. ......43

Union Pub and Social 48

Upland Brewing ...........49

Urban Vines Winery & Brewery .......................76

Whyte Horse Winery ..84

COMMUNITIES, ARTS DISTRICTS & MAIN STREETS

Angola......................88, 93

Auburn ............................92

Aurora .............................42

Batesville .........................41

Bloomington + Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District .....41, 43

Brookville ......................43

Cambridge City ............62

Carmel Arts and Design District ...............67

Columbus + Columbus Arts and Entertainment District .......................12, 43

Connersville...................62

Corydon..........................43

Elkhart ................................9

Evansville .......................40

Fort Wayne + Arts Campus

Fort Wayne ..............6, 89

Frankfort ........................90

Franklin ...........................64

French Lick .....................41

Greensburg...........4, 6, 43

Jasper .............................42

Kendallville ....................92

Lafayette + Tippecanoe Arts and Cultural District.............89

Lawrenceburg ..............42

Lebanon .........................66

Logan’s Landing...........92

Madison + Madison Arts and Cultural District......40, 43

Michigan City ................88

Nashville + Arts Village Brown County.........37, 43

New Albany ...................40

New Castle ....................64

New Harmony...........9, 37

Nickel Plate District (Fishers) ...........................67

Noblesville + Noblesville Cultural Arts District ............64, 67

NoCo Arts and Cultural District.............43

Pendleton.......................62

Plainfield .........................63

Portland ..........................62

Rockville .........................63

Santa Claus .....................15

Seymour .........................42

Shelbyville .....................64

Shipshewana .............9, 97

South Bend ....................88

Terre Haute + 41/40 Arts and Cultural District......62, 67

Valparaiso .........................6

Wabash + Wabash Cultural District.............90

Vincennes .......................37

MADE IN INDIANA

Aunt Millie’s Bakery ....96

Bar Keepers Friend ......74

Ball Corporation ............74

Clabber Girl Baking Powder ............................74

Cummins.........................44

Elkhart County RVs.....96

For Bare Feet.................74

Guardian Bikes .............44

Harpsicle Harps ............44

Holder Mattress ............74

Hoosier Racing Tire ....96

Indiana Limestone Company ........................44

Janus Motorcycles ......96

Maple Leaf Farms ........96

Marion-Kay Spices ......44

Peg Perego....................96

Polywood .......................96

Red Gold Tomatoes .....74

Smith Brothers Furniture .........................96

South Bend Chocolate ...............96, 101

Sweetwater ...................96

Tell City Pretzels ..........44

Triple XXX Family Restaurant ......................15

Vera Bradley .................96

Weaver Popcorn...........74

Whetstone Woodenware ................96

BROCHURE GUIDE

Need advice? A field guide to your Indiana destination? Scan the QR code on this page, go to VisitIndiana.in.gov/brochures or call or visit the websites listed below to find all the resources you need to make your trip a successful one.

Indiana Travel Guide

Your indispensable companion to travel in Indiana. Get insider info on Indiana’s great dining, attractions, state parks, shopping, and more!

317.234.2085

VisitIndiana.in.gov

Indiana Tourism Packet

Your indispensable companion for travel in Indiana. You receive an Indiana Travel Guide, Festival Guide, and email updates. 317.234.2085

VisitIndiana.in.gov

Indiana Festival Guide

It’s your ultimate guide to festivals throughout Indiana. No glove box is complete without it. Complimentary Travel Guide included.

317.234.2085

VisitIndiana.in.gov

Indiana DNR Recreation Guide

Official guide to state parks, inns, reservoirs, forests, fish and wildlife areas, nature preserves, historic features, and more.

877.463.6367

dnr.in.gov

Travel Tips

Hover your phone’s camera over this code and click on the link that pops up to access free tripplanning resources.

Daviess County –Authentic Amish Tours

Experience the simple joys of our Amish community. You’ll find handcrafted furniture, quilts, antiques, and more. Enjoy fishing, hunting, camping, pickleball, disc golf, and other activities.

812.254.5262

visitdaviesscounty.com

Experience Madison, Indiana

Explore the #1 Best Small Town in the Midwest, discover breweries and wineries, enjoy festivals, and experience our music, shopping, and dining scenes. 812.265.2956 visitmadison.org

Relive the Story in Vincennes/Knox County

Vincennes is Indiana’s first city, an ideal getaway for history enthusiasts. Visit historic sites and the Red Skelton Museum, enjoy festivals, lush agritourism, and more.

800.886.6443

visitvincennes.org

SOUTH

SOUTH

Ripley County – Southeast Indiana – Adventure Awaits

Milan ’54 Basketball Museum, Versailles State Park (mountain biking, hiking, boating, camping), muzzleloading competition, unique lodging, and fun public art and festivals. 812.689.7431 ripleycountytourism.com

CENTRAL

Adventures in Festival Country Indiana

Just south of Indy, Festival Country is the place for festivals, music, charming downtowns, wine, craft brews, golf, and more. It’s more festive here!

317.739.8600 festivalcountryindiana.com

CENTRAL

Explore Kokomo

Explore Kokomo Opalescent Glass factory tours, Elwood Haynes and Greentown Glass museums, Seiberling Mansion, art experiences, antiques, trails, breweries, boutiques, and more.

765.457.6802, visitkokomo.org

CENTRAL

Spencer County Visitors Bureau

Santa Claus, Indiana, is home to Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari and Christmas-themed attractions. Nearby, find outdoor rec and sites dedicated to Lincoln’s boyhood home. 888.444.9252, santaclausind.org indianasabelincoln.org

Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau

You’ll find a distinctive blend of shopping, dining, attractions, racing, and casino action! Plan your visit today to Anderson and Madison County.

800.533.6569

visitandersonmadisoncounty.com

Hamilton County, Indiana –Just North of Indy

Visit Hamilton County—Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield, and the northern towns just north of Indy. Discover local art, dining, music, and outdoor fun. Get away today!

317.848.3181, visithamiltoncounty.com

Visit Morgan County

Known for beautiful scenery, historic small towns, and hidden gems, Morgan County invites you to discover the best of both worlds with everything you love about small towns, all within minutes of big-city attractions. 765.346.5611, visitmorgancountyin.com

Visit Bloomington

Explore the best of Bloomington, including Indiana University, things to do, places to eat, unique attractions, special events and festivals, outdoor opportunities, and so much more.

800.800.0037 visitbloomington.com

Covered Bridges of Putnam, Parke & Vigo counties

40 covered bridges, Turkey Run and Lieber state parks, lakes, DePauw University, canoeing, Cataract Falls, golf, galleries, museums, and Amish. 800.829.4639, goputnam.com

765.569.5226, coveredbridges.com 812.234.5555, terrehaute.com

Hendricks County

Discover small-town charm combined with big-city adventure just west of Indy. Plenty of outdoor recreation, signature restaurants, and more hidden gems await. Plan your trip today.

800.321.9666

visithendrickscounty.com

Visit Richmond–Wayne County

Right off I-70! Outdoor adventures, free chocolate trail, Antique Alley, active arts and culture scene, music history, flower farms, kayaking, trendy shops, and charming districts! 800.828.8414, visitrichmond.org

NORTH

Elkhart County and Amish Country of Northern Indiana

Quilt Gardens and the communities of Bristol, Elkhart, Goshen, Middlebury, Nappanee, Wakarusa, and Shipshewana are set along the scenic Heritage Trail.

800.262.8161, visitelkhartcounty.com

NORTH

Northern Indiana’s Kosciusko County – Clearly Kosciusko

It’s always a good day for adventure. Explore everything Kosciusko County has to offer, such as local dining and shopping, indoor activities, cultural centers, and recreational trails.

574.269.6090, visitkosciuskocounty.org

NORTH

South Shore –Along Lake Michigan

Minutes from Chicago! Explore the Indiana Dunes, casinos, candy factory, brewery/winery tours, agricultural experiences, downtowns, and more!

219.989.7979 alongthesouthshore.com

Fort Wayne –Family-Fun Getaways

Join the fun! Families love our new riverfront attractions, award-winning children’s zoo, and amazing festivals! Check out our hotel packages and getaway deals.

260.424.3700, visitfortwayne.com

Shipshewana – At the Heart of Amish Country, Indiana Stay, shop, and see Shipshewana! Amish homestyle cooking, farms, quaint shops, large flea market, family-friendly hotels, charming B&Bs, outdoor fun, and more!

866.710.4197, visitshipshewana.org

Steuben County

With more than 101 lakes, Steuben County is a recreational wonderland. Hike, bike, boat, or toboggan Pokagon State Park; visit a winery; see buffalo; and discover unique restaurants.

800.525.3101 visitsteubencounty.com

Fulton County Indiana Tourism

Fulton County will give you plenty of reasons to become a repeat visitor. Come visit our charming communities and fall in love with our laid-back vibe and friendly hospitality.

574.224.2666, fultoncountychamber.com

South Bend Mishawaka and Notre Dame

Explore simple pleasures here. Notre Dame, East Race Waterway, Potato Creek State Park, museums, destination dining, and vibrant performing arts await.

800.519.0577, visitsouthbend.com