12 Most Hospitable Towns In Indiana
Hospitality runs in Hoosier's blood. Although technically in the North, Indiana has a strong Mid-Southern culture that can be felt in many of its communities. Indiana's small towns make guests feel right at home with attractions ranging from rural Amish walking trails, well preserved territory capitals, serene mazes, and world class hotels. Here are 12 of the most hospitable towns in Indiana.
Shipshewana
Shipshewana lies in the heart of Amish country. It's one of the largest Amish population centers in the United States, and it brings with it a humble charm. There are quaint places to see all around Shipshewana, like the Menno-Hof Interpretative Center, a place that provides information on Amish lifestyles. Visitors can also take a buggy through town with Buggy Lane Tours or enjoy a home-cooked Amish-style meal at the Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery. Shipshewana also boasts one of the largest flea markets in the Midwest at the Shipshewana Trading Place Flea Market. The best way to explore this town is to go on a journey through the countryside with the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail, a 17-mile paved trail running by several communities and local Amish businesses.
Madison
Nestled on the Ohio River is one of Indiana's crown jewels: Madison. The town was a major steamboat hub in the 1800s. Although, over time, boats began taking other routes on the river, the legacy that boom left behind can be felt across its historic downtown area. In fact, Madison has one of the largest historic blocks in the United States. Residents will happily give visitors tours of buildings such as the Schroeder Saddletree Factory Museum, where parts of horse saddles were made in the 19th century, or the awe-inspiring 1844 Greek Revival Lanier Mansion State Historic Site. Beyond these historic spots, one can explore serene limestone waterfalls at the Clifty Falls State Park or see fine local art at Gallery 115 Madison.
Corydon
Corydon is a classic Indiana town. In fact, one could argue this is the most important Indiana town, as it served as the original state capital of Indiana from 1816 to 1825 before it was moved further north to its current spot in Indianapolis. Those who live here are deeply proud of Corydon's historic roots. Visitors can see those roots at the Corydon Capitol State Historic Site, which includes all manner of buildings from the first Capitol Building itself to the red brick 1817 Headquarters of Governor Hendricks. Other sites include the Battle of Corydon Historic Site, where Confederate troops clashed with defenders of the town during the American Civil War. For those who want to dig below the surface, the Indiana Caverns are another ideal place to go, as visitors can even take underwater boat rides here.
Marshall
The community of Marshall is tiny, at around 275 people, but it has a big reason to be proud. It's home to one of Indiana's most magnificent parks, Turkey Run State Park. This park is famous for its sandstone ravines, which are regularly tackled by the most vigorous of hikers. With the 5-mile hiking challenge, hikers can tackle three canyons, climb up a ladder, and cross a suspension bridge. There are other activities in the park for those not as athletically inclined, such as a Turkey Run Interpretative Center and Planetarium to learn more about the world above and below. Another intriguing location is the 1848 Lieber Cabin, the oldest virgin timber cabin in the state, as well as the 1841 Lusk home, built by early settler Captain Lusk.
New Albany
The Ohio River town of New Albany is directly across the waters from Louisville, Kentucky, the home of the Kentucky Derby. Don't let Louisville overshadow this cute community. There's a lot to do and see here in this historic community. For example, the downtown area has the marvelous Mansion Row, where one can explore the French Imperial-style Culbertson Mansion. Constructed in the 1890s, this mansion offers tours and even a haunted house during the Fall. Speaking of the Fall, New Albany comes alive each October with the Harvest Homecoming Festival, an event that features food, rides, and much more. To get the full New Albany experience, grab a locally brewed drink and pizza at the New Albanian Brewing Company and go for a walk on the Greenway Trail, a paved trail that runs for 7 miles on the Ohio River.
Vincennes
Most towns in Indiana only date back to early English settlements. Vincennes is an exception, as it was founded by French Explorers in 1732, making it the oldest-founded town in the state of Indiana. When the town came under English and American possession, they recognized its importance and established it as the capital of the then-Northwest Territory. The Original Territory Capitol Building is still standing in all its 1805 red brick grandeur. Another major site is the Jefferson Academy, the first school of higher learning in Indiana, named after Thomas Jefferson in 1801. Presidential history buffs will also appreciate Vincennes, as they can check out Grouseland, the mansion home of William Henry Harrison, the governor of Indiana territory who would go on to become the 9th president for a brief time. Lastly, for those who want a good laugh, the Red Skelton Museum of American Comedy is sure to bring a smile to everyone, as it honors the comedian's life and his characters.
French Lick
Most small towns don't have large hotels other than a few corporate locations. French Lick has one of the most beautiful hotels in the entire world. The West Baden Springs Hotel has a 200-foot dome over its atrium and was the largest free-standing dome in the United States and the world for some time. The other major hotel, the French Lick Springs Hotel, has been rebuilt several times but began as a spa resort for those looking to try the curative mineral water in the area, especially at Pluto's Well. Today, the hotel has a casino on-site, but there's more to see and do around town than just the hotels. Visitors can escape to the 8,800-acre Patoka Lake, go for a ride on the French Lick Scenic Railway, or learn about town basketball legend Larry Bird and others at the French Lick West Baden Museum.
Wabash
This town is sure to light up your life. After all, Wabash was the first electrically lighted city in the world. It claims this honor in 1880 when the Wabash County Courthouse was lit up with electricity. Despite its modest population of just over 10,200 people, Wabash has a lively reputation, as the Honeywell Center downtown is always holding live music shows, while the 13-24 Drive-in Theatre keeps the old tradition of enjoying a movie from inside your vehicle. Wabash hasn't forgotten its historical roots, however, as you can see multiple log cabins at Paradise Spring Historical Park, named after the Treaty at Paradise Spring, where Potawatomi and Miami tribes ceded the land north of the Wabash River. By checking out the nearby communities in the wider Wabash County, one can also find two covered bridges, one in Roann and the other in North Manchester.
New Harmony
New Harmony might be one of the most hospitable towns on this list simply due to its heritage. The town was initially founded by a group of utopian Christians called the Harmony Society in 1814. However, when their society encountered difficulties, they sold it to Robert Owen in 1825, who also had a vision of an ideal society. Today, its residents aim to create a space where everyone can take a bit of that positive spirit home with them. These include serene spaces like the outdoor private hedge maze, the Harmonist Labrinth, the open-air Jane Blaffer Owen Sanctuary, and its intriguing Roofless Church. You can also experience rejuvenation at the Harmonie State Park on the shores of the Wabash River.
Santa Claus
Santa Claus is proof that the holidays don't have to end in December. This joyful town keeps a cheerful heart all year round with a mixture of holiday-themed attractions, a massive amusement park, and Abraham Lincoln historic sites. At the Santa Claus Museum and Village, visitors can see a massive statue of St. Nick or send him a letter in a historic post office. The Santa Claus Christmas Store stocks candy, ornaments, and other holiday goodies. As for thrills, the Holiday World & Splashin' Safari is a favorite among both locals and Hoosiers, as there are heart-pounding wooden roller coasters, water rides, and free unlimited soft drinks. Lastly, a few minutes away, there is the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial and Lincoln State Park, where Abraham Lincoln grew up as a youngster. It's perfect for outdoor recreation and education.
Jasper
Many immigrants traveled across oceans to eventually settle in Indiana. One such community was German Catholics, who came in large numbers to the area that would become Jasper. The most vivid sign of their legacy is the Monastery Immaculate Conception, located just a hop away in Ferdinand. This monastery is truly a site to behold that looks more like home in Europe with its towering domes. It also happens to contain St. Benedict's Brew Works, the only brewery in a monastery in the United States. Speaking of history, Jasper has the largest county museum in Indiana, the Dubois County Museum, which has info on sports, the military, a log cabin, and more. For art enthusiasts, see a live performance at the Astra Theatre or the Jasper Arts Center.
Nashville
Nashville is a hidden gem that often gets ignored due to its name. But its residents can sing you its praises all day long. Nashville is often compared to the Great Smoky Mountains due to its forests, rolling hills, and cute artisan shops. The most visited place in Nashville is Brown County State Park. Its trails run up and down through hills and include lakes for swimming and fishing. There's also a 90-foot tall Fire Tower that grants a sky-high view of the surrounding hills. In Nashville's cute downtown area, visitors can shop for local antiques at the Brown County Antique Mall or visit local artist's galleries like Anabel Hopkins Fine Art, which regularly presents impressionist landscapes.
Hoosier hospitality is on full display in all of these small towns. Amish cooks will provide a homecooked meal in Shipshewana, while the jolly residents in Santa Claus will bring a smile to your face. Vincennes and Corydon will teach you the value of understanding your roots, while Nashville will invite you into a serene outdoor landscape that inspires local artists. These 12 hospitable towns will leave travelers feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world.
