6 Undisturbed Towns To Visit In Indiana

Thanks to its location in the American Midwest, Indiana offers a fascinating glimpse into the country's historic and cultural heartland. Spanning over 36,000 square miles, America’s 19th state is also home to many towns that appear almost untouched by time. Dotted across the state, these small communities embody the very essence of “Hoosier” hospitality and make for charming alternatives to bigger destinations like the state’s capital, Indianapolis.

These seemingly undisturbed towns are not only rich in history and often feature unique attractions not found elsewhere in the region, but they also serve as excellent bases from which to get out and explore the state’s natural beauty. Read on to find out more about our choice of Indiana’s most unspoiled small towns.

Madison

Located along the Ohio River about 90 miles southeast of Indianapolis, Madison is undoubtedly one of the best-preserved small towns in Indiana. Designated a National Historic Landmark District, the town’s stunning architecture is spread over 130 blocks and includes numerous attractive old buildings from the 19th century. Highlights include the majestic Lanier Mansion State Historic Site, built in 1844 in Greek Revival style. It’s also one of Madison’s most colorful attractions thanks to its bright orange façade (guided tours are available).

The Jefferson County Historical Society, located downtown in the old Madison Railroad Station, offers a fascinating look into the town’s transportation history. Afterwards, enjoy a wander down to the riverfront with its pleasant parks and excellent views; and if you’re feeling really adventurous, book a thrilling jetboat ride with Rockin Thunder River Tours. Speaking of fast boats, the town’s also the scene of the Madison Regatta every July, an annual hydroplane boat race that dates back to 1929. For a quieter experience, Clifty Falls State Park on the northern outskirts of Madison offers the chance to explore a number of hiking trails and waterfalls.

Nashville

Situated in the rolling hills of Brown County 90 minutes south of Indianapolis, Nashville, while starting to get noticed for its cultural attractions, remains a relatively undisturbed small community. If the arts are your thing, start exploring at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site. Once the home of the prominent Indiana artist, interesting exhibits as well as examples of Steele’s work line the walls, while the lovely grounds feature picturesque lily ponds and paths to wander. You’ll also find several downtown art galleries to visit including the Hoosier Artist Gallery and the Brown County Art Guild, both featuring the work of local and regional artists.

Nashville’s creative spirit is also celebrated at events like the Brown County Art Colony Weekend, a September event that honors the artists who helped establish the town’s artistic legacy. The Brown County Playhouse is another cultural highlight and has been bringing entertainment to the town since 1949, while nearby Brown County State Park, the largest in Indiana, offers miles of hiking trails, horseback riding, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

Culver

Located along the shores of Lake Maxinkuckee, Indiana’s second-largest natural lake, Culver is 75 miles west of Fort Wayne and is well worth a visit. This peaceful lakeside town is home to Culver Academies, a prestigious boarding school known for its historic architecture and beautiful campus. Although a mile outside town, you can walk there along a lovely lakeside path connecting the school to the downtown Culver Academies Museum & Gift Shop.

The Culver Historical Society also operates a great museum that will set the stage for your exploration with exhibits about the history of the town and its academy. If you want to get out on Lake Maxinkuckee, Culver Marina Rentals offers pontoon boats as well as kayaks and paddle boards for rent. And for a guarantee of good weather, visit in July to enjoy Culver Lake Fest with its live music and fireworks.

Rising Sun

Rising Sun, located just 40 miles west of Cincinnati along the Ohio River, offers a pleasant escape for day-trippers and weekenders alike. Named by town founders for the sunrises over the hills of Kentucky on the other side of the river, you can enjoy the same views from the Rising Sun Riverfront Levee at the end of Main Street. You can also see them from the Rising Sun Casino, which also offers 3-star accommodations.

A great place to start exploring downtown Rising Sun is at the Ohio County Historical Museum with its displays and artifacts from the region’s early settlement days. If you can’t make it for a visit during the summer months, September’s a good time to stop by thanks to the Navy Bean Festival which celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with live music, food vendors, and a festive parade.

New Harmony

Located midway between St Louis, MO, and Louisville, KY, New Harmony was founded in 1814 by the Harmony Society, a Christian group originating in Germany. It later became a center for social reform under Robert Owen. Interesting things to do in New Harmony include the Roofless Church, a striking open-air structure designed by architect Philip Johnson. It’s part of the New Harmony Historic District which features many other well-preserved 19th-century buildings including the old Mattias Scholle House, as well as a number of original log cabins and barns.

The town’s extensive waterfront is also fun to explore. In addition to a lengthy riverfront trail, the Jane B. Owen Overlook at the Atheneum Visitors Center boasts superb views over the Wabash River. The Harmonist Labyrinth, a meditative garden maze, is another must-do, while New Harmony’s Kunstfest in September celebrates the town’s German heritage with crafts, traditional foods, and music.

Angola

Located in northeastern Indiana just 50 miles north of Fort Wayne, Angola is a great spot for outdoors enthusiasts wanting to explore Pokagon State Park. This popular destination offers a range of cool outdoor activities including hiking, camping and, in winter, a toboggan run. The town itself is also fun to explore on foot, with the Steuben County Courthouse (1868) and the town square being a great starting point.

July is a great time to visit the Angola Balloons Aloft festival. This colorful event sees around 33 or so hot air balloons take to the skies, with public rides available. Free live music, food vendors, and a variety of family-friendly activities are also featured. Angola is also home to Trine University, established in 1884 with a pleasant campus.

The Final Word

Pay a visit to Indiana’s most undisturbed towns and you’ll enjoy a variety of authentic Midwest experiences not available in the region’s larger urban areas. From the artistic heritage of Nashville to the historic charm of New Harmony, each destination offers unique attractions and cultural events that showcase the quieter side of the Hoosier State. Whatever your passion and interests, these six undisturbed towns to visit in Indiana won’t disappoint.