9 Unforgettable Small Towns to Visit in Indiana
Although states like Michigan and Ohio often overshadow the Hoosier state, Indiana is one of the top vacation destinations in the US. Indianapolis, its capital, is the most famous for the Motor Speedway, home to the NASCAR Cup series and other car races. However, Indianapolis is not only known for its bustling cities. It also has a treasure trove of charming small towns offering unique and memorable experiences. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, this Midwestern US State has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore these nine unforgettable small towns to visit in Indiana.
Shipshewana
Shipshewana is a small charming town in Newbury Township, LaGrange County, Indiana, with a population of 841 in 2023. It is unique for the Amish and Mennonite communities and exciting festivals to celebrate the town's culture. Mayfest is one of the most popular events featuring a 3V3 basketball tournament, food, craft show, and live music. Other festivals include the Fall Craftsmen Festival every beginning of October, featuring over 200 artisans selling hand-made crafts and exciting children's events.
Visitors can explore Shipshewana Flea Market, taste the famous mouth-watering cinnamon caramel donuts at Rise'N Roll Bakery, or learn about the faith and life of the Amish people at Meno-Hof Museum, open year round. Families can have fun at Dutch Creek Animal Park, while food lovers can satisfy their taste buds at Yonder Meat and Cheese. For the most unforgettable experience, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the idyllic countryside landscapes or a walk to admire the beautiful murals depicting Shipshewana's rich history.
Madison
Madison is a small town along the Ohio River, with a population of 12,252 in 2023. It's one of the oldest founded cities in Indiana with a rich history and was once home to Indiana's first railroad. To date, it is the largest continuous historic landmark district in Indiana, featuring major architectural styles from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Madison has nine historical museums, including the Ben Schroeder Saddletree factory, the Lanier Mansion, built in 1844, and Scofield House in 1817. The entire downtown, with over 1,500 buildings, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Food lovers can explore over 30 restaurants in Downtown Madison for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Santa Claus
Santa Claus offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages, and visiting it any time of the year feels like Christmas! The small town in Spencer County had a population of 2,555 in 2023 and is one of the most charming US Christmas towns.
Santa Claus Candy Castle is a popular attraction, a historic castle dedicated in 1935 with a vast selection of old-fashioned, hard-to-find candy and unique hand-made confections. Visitors can take memorable selfies with the many Santa Claus statues throughout the town and buy Christmas gifts from the Santa Claus Christmas Store. They can tour the Santa Claus Museum and village to see the 22-foot-tall restored statue of Santa originally built in 1935. Kids can have a memorable experience at the Holiday World Theme Park, with impressive coasters and magnificent waterslides.
West Baden Springs
West Baden town is home to the iconic West Baden Springs Hotel, an architectural marvel many consider the world's eighth wonder. The hotel had the world's largest free-spanning dome for 50 years. Today, it is a top destination for unforgettable honeymoons, family getaways, weddings, and corporate events.
West Baden Springs is one of the most scenic Indiana towns with many historical buildings, including the French Lick West Baden Museum, home of the world's largest Circus Diorama. It also has notable historic landmarks like the restored First Baptist church, originally built in 1920. The former Oxford Hotel now houses the French Lick West Baden visitor center. Travelers can take a trolley tour to learn about the town's history.
Frankfort
Frankfort is a small town in Clinton County with a population of 16,474 in 2023. It's one of the fastest-growing towns in Indiana and is famous for many historical landmarks and an old scape. Downtown Frankfort is the major attraction for visitors seeking unforgettable experiences, hosting almost 50 buildings constructed in the 1870s.
Clinton County Courthouse, which operates to date, is the most impressive, retaining its French Second Empire style. Travelers can unwind at TPA Park or explore the Clinton County Historical Society & Museum. It has exciting artifacts, including medical equipment, clothes, military memorabilia, and century-old school furniture.
Crawfordsville
Crawfordsville is a city in Montgomery County, West Central Indiana, with a population of 16,514 in 2023. It has a rich history and unique culture, with more museums, historical buildings, and performance venues than any city in Indiana. The town has an array of historical landmarks, including the Carnegie Museum of Crawfordsville, an interactive museum of history, science, and arts.
History buffs interested in Civil War and literary history can explore General Lew Wallace's Study and Museum and The Lane Place, the former home of Senator Henry Lane and the founder of the Indiana Republican Party. Montgomery County Rotary Jail Museum is the first ever built in the US, making it a worthwhile place to visit for a memorable experience. Nature lovers can explore SugarCreek Nature Park, with over 4,000 feet of trails.
Seymour
Seymour is famous as the hometown of the American Rock 'N' Roll legend John Mellen Camp. It is located in Jackson County, Indiana, with a population of 21,342 in 2023.The town has a rich railroad history as a railroad town and is often referred to as the 'Crossroads of America' due to the intensive railroad infrastructure. Seymour is home to several historic landmarks, including Seymour High School Gymnasium, which hosted the final game in the movie 'Hoosiers,' Freeman Army Airfield Museum, and South Indiana Centre for the Arts. The downtown area features several buildings dating back to the late 19th century and early 20th century.
Corydon
Corydon is a city worth visiting for an unforgettable experience. With a population of 3,102 in 2023, the town provides small-town vibes and a fascinating history and is one of Indiana's most adorable small towns. It was the first Capital of Indiana until 1825.
The Corydon Capitol Historic Site is the main attraction harboring Indiana's first state capital building and offering a detailed account of the state's early political history. Corydon has several historic sites, including the Battle of Corydon Memorial Park, reminiscing the only civil war fought within Indiana borders. History buffs can explore Constitution Elm, a historic site where legislators first drafted the Indiana State Constitution in 1816. Collectors can shop antiques from Red Barn Mall while nature lovers enjoy recreational activities in Hayswood Nature Reserve.
Aurora
Aurora, a quaint small river town in Dearborn County, Indiana, houses around 3,487 people. It offers fun, charm, and beautiful scenery, creating an unforgettable experience. Aurora has countless historic buildings, including Hillforest Mansion, an Italian Renaissance-style mansion built in 1855, and Versateu historic site highlighting Indiana architectural history. History buffs can explore Levi Stevens House, built in 1849, Aurora History Museum, which opened in 1979, and Dinsmore Homestead. Aurora offers exciting outdoor recreation activities on the Ohio River, including boating, biking, and swimming.
Explore Unforgettable Small Towns In Indiana
Although the Hoosier State is famous for Indiana Motor Speedway, it has a wealth of small towns offering unforgettable experiences. From rich cultural heritages in Shipshewana to architectural wonders in West Baden Springs and amazing Christmas vibes in Santa Claus, these towns leave lasting memories for every visitor. So pack your bags ready for a memorable vacation in the Hoosier State.
