6 of the Most Overlooked Towns in Indiana
One of the most-visited of the Midwest states, Indiana manages to attract upwards of 30 million tourists each year. While most of these visitors are here to spend time in the big cities like Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, those wanting a true Indiana experience will venture to some of the state’s often overlooked destinations.
Paying a visit to destinations like Chesterton near the spectacular Indiana Dunes or Syracuse on Lake Wawasee will provide curious travelers with some of the most spectacular scenery in the Midwestern USA region. Add to this list the communities of Madison, French Lick, Beverly Shores, and Corydon, and these six most overlooked Towns in Indiana make for the perfect Hoosier State getaway.
Chesterton
Its location on the I-94 highway an hour east of Chicago makes Chesterton an ideal day trip or weekend getaway destination for those wanting to experience the natural wonders of Indiana Dunes National Park. One of the state’s major attractions, these spectacular sand dunes are literally minutes away across the I-94 and offer miles of beautiful beaches to explore along the shores of Lake Michigan. Other fun things to do here include hiking and birdwatching.
Chester is also a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts, with the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm (both part of Dunes National Park) offering a peek into the region's past with historic buildings and educational programs that recount the lives of early settlers. Popular events to check out include Chesterton’s European Market, held from May through October, with vendors selling artisanal goods, fresh produce, and gourmet foods.
Syracuse
An hour’s drive northwest of Fort Wayne is Syracuse, an often-overlooked destination that’s worth visiting for its proximity to several pretty lakes. Of these, it’s Lake Wawasee that’s the big draw. The largest natural lake in Indiana, it’s an idyllic setting for water sports including boating, fishing, and swimming, and is connected to the smaller Syracuse Lake for even more opportunities for fun on the water. Want to get out on the water but don’t own a boat? The Wawasee Boat Company offers pontoon boat rentals.
Other attractions include the Syracuse-Wawasee Trail, an 11-mile network of paths that includes an easy five-mile section around Syracuse Lake that’s suitable for pedestrians and cyclists. Veterans Memorial Park at Crosson Mill is another great place to visit and, along the Syracuse Community Center, is used for community events.
Madison
Madison is located midway between Cincinnati, OH, and Louisville, KY, and boasts a lovely setting overlooking the Ohio River directly opposite the state of Kentucky on the opposite bank. A highlight of a visit is wandering the Madison Historic District, an area of more than 130 blocks that contains hundreds of structures of every type, size, and period, most dating from 1812-1920. Must-sees include the Lanier Mansion, one of Indiana's State Historic Sites and a pre-Civil War mansion with stunning Greek Revival architecture (guided tours are available).
Another architectural gem is the Madison Railroad Station Museum. Located in a restored 1895 railroad station, it features artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that explore the golden age of rail travel. The riverfront is also worth a visit. In addition to hosting year-round events, it presents opportunities for boating, fishing, and leisurely strolls along its banks.
French Lick
Despite its rather curious name - or perhaps because of it! - the town of French Lick is a mighty fine place to spend a few hours or even a weekend. Established in 1811 and named after the original French trading post (itself named after a salt lick for animals), it grew in popularity as a spa town for its mineral springs. This tradition of hospitality continues at the French Lick Resort. Comprising two historic places to stay - the French Lick Springs Hotel and the West Baden Springs Hotel - these grand hotels offer guests a taste of opulence with their luxurious spas, championship golf courses, and dining options.
Other major attractions include the French Lick Casino, with its gaming tables, slots, and live entertainment, and the nearby Hoosier National Forest, a great spot for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Be sure to also book a ride aboard the French Lick Scenic Railway for its fun trips through the country.
Corydon
Although often bypassed by travelers zipping along the I-64 from Louisville, KY, to St. Louis, MO, Corydon is well worth stopping at for a look-see. This attractive small town holds a special place in the state's history as it served as the first capital from 1816 to 1825 before the owner moved to Indianapolis. Among the town's most significant landmarks are the Corydon Capitol State Historic Site, which includes the original 1816 capitol building, and Governor Hendricks' Headquarters, which served as the home and office of Indiana's second governor (guided tours are available).
Corydon's role in the Civil War is commemorated at the Battle of Corydon Memorial Park, the site of the only Civil War battle fought in Indiana. Another notable attraction is the Indiana Caverns, part of the state's largest cave system and home to adventures including underground boat rides, ice age fossils, and natural formations.
Beverly Shores
Located within Dunes National Park, Beverly Shores is an entirely different experience from visiting Chesterton. With a population of only 600 residents, this small community is unique in that it was absorbed by the park after its boundaries were expanded in 1976, making a visit here a very unique experience.
In addition to the many amenities and activities available in the park, Beverly Shores is home to a unique collection of historic homes built for the 1933 Chicago World's Fair. Known as the Century of Progress homes, they were later transported to Beverly Shores by barge and are now part of a historic district that showcases early 20th-century architectural innovation and design. Tours of these homes are available, offering a glimpse into the past and the somewhat utopian ideals of the World's Fair.
The Final Word
From the sandy shores of Lake Michigan to the state’s small but scenic lake district, Indiana boasts no end of overlooked towns that are worth investigating. Whether it's exploring the dunes near Chesterton and Beverly Shores, enjoying lake life in Syracuse, exploring Madison’s magnificent historic district, relaxing in French Lick's luxurious spas, or uncovering the past in Corydon, Indiana invites visitors to experience these six lesser-known yet equally captivating destinations
