6 Underappreciated Towns to Visit in Indiana

Known as "the crossroads of America," Indiana is a small U.S. state in the Midwest. It shares borders with Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois, and Michigan and touches Lake Michigan. Today, Indiana's economy mainly comprises services and manufacturing, though it produces a fair degree of agriculture and is a part of the Corn Belt. Indiana shares Northern and Southern U.S. traits, offering a unique hybrid of culture and attitude. Chicago also plays a big role in Indiana's society and economy, being the biggest major city center near the state. Due to its geographic position, Indiana sees a true, four-season climate with very cold winters and fairly warm summers. With numerous art galleries, performing arts centers, and live music available year-round, these underappreciated towns throughout the state will surely leave you with a memorable vacation.

Lawrence

A short drive from bustling Indianapolis, Lawrence is an ideally located, historic military town with a bustling arts scene. The city center is named Fort Ben, and it has its origins as a military base that was active for over 80 years. Today, it is fairly forgotten outside of this community. Today, the Lilly Endowment donated $5.8 million toward developing a Cultural Campus, complete with a Theatre at the Fort and gallery space. The Fort Harrison State Park and The Fort Golf Course are open to the public and both offer hiking trails, horseback riding, and sledding. Lawrence is just a short drive from the Pogues Run Art & Nature Park, Mount Comfort, and Ellenberger Park.

Granger

Granger is a census-designated place located a short drive from Chicago and Lake Michigan. This small community is a slow-moving, underappreciated place made for a quiet getaway away from the chaos of life. That said, there are various places to eat in town, with some of the best being The Chief, Creamery of Granger, Salsa's Mexican Grill, Bare Hands Brewery, and Capri Italian Restaurant South Bend. Granger directly borders the state of Michigan which is home to several small lakes. These include Goose Lake, Pleasant Lake, and Garver Lake, all worth a day trip from Granger. The Sunny Haven Recreation Park is a private nudist park dedicated to excessive relaxation and socialization.

Clarksville

The oldest American town in the northwest, Clarksville, is named after Lewis and Clark, who ventured through the region on their cross-country journey. Today, this town's size means it doesn't get the traction it could. Home to the Falls of Ohio, a prehistoric fossil site, Clarksville is worth a visit for anyone interested in paleontology. The Colgate Clock in town is one of the world's largest clocks. Catch a show at the Clarksville Little Theatre or the Derby Dinner Playhouse for dinner and a show. Spend the day exploring town by bike along the Ohio River Greenway, stretching through Clarksville and into Jeffersonville and New Albany, allowing you to explore the greater region.

Seymour

Located in Jackson County, Seymour is home to the Brownstown Speedway, several museums and historic pathways. The town also is home to various covered bridges such as the Mendoza Covered Bridge and Shieldstown Covered Bridge, for those interested in their architecture! The Fort Vallonia Museum, Underground Railroad, Conner Print Museum, and Jackson County History Center can keep the whole family busy for the weekend, offering excellent exhibits to explore the area's history. This regularly overlooked town is a short drive from Lake Onyx and the East Fork Lake River, offering ample outdoor recreation for those looking to lay their heads in town while exploring Indiana's waterways.

Beech Grove

Known as a small town in the big city, Beech Grove is a small community just minutes away by car from downtown Indianapolis. Beech Grove is a walkable community and prides itself on the Franciscan Trail, offering 2.2 miles of trails right through the city, passing through some of the town's most beautiful city parks. Along Main Street, stop into Spaulding Jewelry, Sutterields, Napoli Villa, or the Eckstein Shoe Store to make the most of Beech Grove's local businesses. Some of the best, unknown local restaurants include 5th Avenue Grill and Bar, as well as the Tea Room of Rustic Root.

Yorktown

Last but certainly not least, in this exploration of underappreciated towns in Indiana, Yorktown is one of the best places in Indiana to raise a family. Yorktown has two golf courses, sits along the White River and Buck Creek, and is home to some of the best canoeing in the state, making it an incredibly relaxing destination. Yorktown is a short drive from the larger town of Muncie and is certainly worth exploring while staying in Yorktown. Coffee Cravings, Four Day Ray Brewing, and Pizza King offer some of the tastiest bites and sips in town. Morrow's Meadow sits between both waterways and is a great spot to spend an afternoon outdoors with a picnic.

Indiana's culture, geography, and warm summers make it an excellent state to visit this year, whether you're looking to complete a larger road trip or find a cozy retreat for a long weekend. Many small towns throughout the state are worth visiting along the way, each offering its own Indiana flare. Much of the state is overshadowed by nearby states and their major cities, making these underappreciated towns all the more deserving of a getaway to explore them.