7 of the Most Charming Towns in Indiana
With the scenic shores of Lake Michigan to the north, and the gently rolling hills of the Ohio River Valley to the south, the Midwestern state of Indiana has something for everyone. No matter what time of year you visit, you will find an exciting hometown festival, outdoor recreational opportunity, or one-of-a-kind attraction to keep you entertained. Although Indiana has its fair share of bustling cities, it's the state's small, charming towns that make it feel like home. Check out these seven the next time you are road-tripping through Indiana.
Shipshewana
Considered the "heart of Amish country" in Indiana, Shipshewana is like no other town in the state. It has all the best of Amish culture, from delicious homemade treats to friendly markets selling one-of-a-kind home furnishings and decor. The welcoming town is also home to the Shipshewana Flea Market, the Midwest's largest open-air market selling Amish food, crafts, clothes, and much more. If shopping isn't your thing, Shipshewana also has plenty of outdoor and cultural attractions to offer.
If you are a history lover, make a stop at the Shipshewana Historical Society. It is housed in a renovated one-room Farver school and features artifacts from Chief Shipshewana and other relics from the town's early days. The Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park is the perfect place to spend the day with your family, as it appeals to travelers of all ages. You can feed the resident animals, take a safari-style wagon ride, and visit the petting zoo.
Nashville
Although it's not as big and bustling as the Tennessee city that shares its name, the quaint town of Nashville has plenty to offer visitors, who flock to the destination from all over. Located in the rolling hills of Southern Indiana, Nashville has long been known as an artists' enclave. The town is the center of the Brown County Art Colony, which was formed in 1907, and is known as the "artist colony of the Midwest."
Although Nashville is an arts and culture hub, it has no shortage of natural beauty as well. Spend a morning or afternoon exploring Brown County State Park, which has opportunities for biking, hiking, wildlife-viewing, swimming, and horseback riding. Nashville is also home to two historic covered bridges: the Bean Blossom Covered Bridge and the Ramp Creek Covered Bridge. Both make picturesque backdrops for photo shoots any time of the year.
Corydon
Cute Corydon has an authentic hometown feel, complete with a historic downtown filled with family-owned boutiques, antique shops, and eateries, and several annual festivals that take place in the bustling town square. The town was the site of Civil War's Battle of Corydon, and is home to a number of interesting historic sites, such as the William Henry Harrison Log Cabin. The Corydon Capitol State Historic Site was Indiana's first state capital, and is open for tours.
The Harrison County Discovery Center is another one of the town's popular attractions, and features immersive and interactive natural history exhibits. Explore the region's Civil War, early settler, and Native American roots in a fun and engaging setting. If you want to get outdoors, head over to the 300-acre Hayswood Nature Reserve, which offers opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and biking, among other activities.
Angola
Situated in the far northeastern region of the state, quaint Angola was named one of America's best small towns by USA Today, and with good reason. The town offers the perfect balance of history, outdoor recreational fun, and shopping opportunities, making it one of Indiana's most charming destinations. Angola is home to more than 200 acres of park land, and four miles of hiking and biking trails as well. The town's parks and recreation department organizes several annual events, including the American History Fest.
Don't miss a trip to the Pokagon State Park, which is situated around pretty Lake James and was named after the 19th Century Potawatomi chief Leopold Pokagon. Depending on when you visit, you can go cross-country skiing, swimming, or boating at the park, among several other activities. Golfers can practice their sport at both the Glendarin Hills Golf Club, and the Zollner Golf Course.
Winona Lake
A small lakeside town in northern Indiana, Winona Lake has long been known as a scenic and relaxing summer retreat. In addition to the beautiful lake, the town also has a 9-mile trail system for hiking and biking, parks, a beach, and numerous shopping opportunities. The Village At Winona is on the shores of Winona Lake, and offers unique boutiques, antique shops, cafes, galleries, and eateries serving local fare.
If you are traveling with children, the town's Limitless Park is home to state-of-the-art playground equipment, paths for walking and running, and a splash pad to cool down in during the hot summer months. If you love history, check out the Winona History Center, which is located in the historic Westminster Hotel and features interactive displays. The Stonehenge Golf Course is a scenic spot to swing your clubs.
Vincennes
Known as Indiana's "first city," historic Vincennes is the ideal family vacation or weekend getaway destination for history lovers all ages. Charming Vincennes is the hometown of legendary comedian Red Skelton, and has a museum dedicated to his life. Other must-see historic sites include the Indiana Military Museum and the George Rogers Clark National Memorial, which is the country's second-largest national monument.
If you are visiting Vincennes during the fall months, check out the Apple Hill Orchard, where you can pick your own apples, peaches, and nectarines, as well as purchase freshly squeezed juice and other homemade treats. The Art Space Vincennes Gallery is located in the 200-year-old Cyrus Allen home, and displays work from local artists.
Huntingburg
Last but certainly not least, Huntingburg is referred to as the "Hollywood of the Midwest," due to being the filming location of several movies, including A League of Their Own and Hard Rain. Despite being a well-known film backdrop, Huntingburg retains its small-town charm with a quaint downtown filled with Victorian-era buildings. If you are visiting during the summer months, don't miss the weekly farmers market and several other annual events, such as a 4th of July celebration.
Sports enthusiasts will delight in a trip to League Stadium, a historic baseball stadium dating back to 1894. In addition to local baseball games, several special events take place in the stadium each year. Spend a sunny day exploring Charles Niehaus Memorial Park or Altstadt Acres, which features a disc golf course.
Dynamic Indiana is teeming with charming small towns that will make you feel right at home, whether you are visiting for a day, a week, or more. Whether you crave a quiet, relaxed stay amongst nature or an exciting adventure filled with beaches, water activities, and live entertainment, you will find it in this Midwestern gem of a state.
