7 Bizarrely Named Towns In Indiana

When most people think of Indiana, they might picture its famous cities like Indianapolis or South Bend. But beyond the well-known spots, the state is home to some towns with names so unusual they spark curiosity. Indiana, the Hoosier State, became the 19th state in December 1816, but some of its settlements long predate that. Take a look at Vincennes, whose deep-rooted history prompted a French journalist to call it "a colony in a remarkable surviving mode."

From playful and peculiar to downright head-scratching, these seven bizarrely named towns have histories as unique as their names. Whether their origins stem from legends, mispronunciations, or just sheer creativity, these small towns offer a glimpse into Indiana’s past and plenty of attractions worth visiting.

French Lick

Needing no further fanfare than its name, this 19th-century spa town is a longtime resort destination. Founded in the mid-1800s as a French trading post, the "lick" innuendo relates to the nearby spring, or salt lick, by which a fortified ranger post was established in 1811. First known as Salt Spring, the town's waters, which really proved to have health benefits many years later, drew wellness seekers and holidaymakers among them, with many casinos established for the latter crowd. The adjacent Patoka Lake is perfect for planning an escape to southern Indiana’s Orange County this summer, along its sizable tentacle-like shores with a swimming beach and plenty of camping ops.

French Lick West Baden Museum offers an insightful look into the town’s history, with unique exhibits and memorabilia. Meanwhile, the breathtaking French Lick Scenic Railway provides stunning panoramas along its route, which is perfect for nature lovers. As the train chugs through the landscape, keep an eye out for the Burton Railroad Tunnel, a hidden gem tucked away in the Hoosier National Forest. End the day with a scenic tasting at the hilltop French Lick Winery or some Bavarian comfort food at the heart of downtown.

Gnaw Bone

This mile-long town of under 200 draws tourists to discover the secrets behind its name. Theories include the derivative from the original French settlement of Narbonne. Others link it to poverty in the area during the Great Depression and drought in the 1930s. Perhaps the most interesting legend ties to a dog gnawing a bone along the highway, which turned into "the corner where the dog gnaws on the bone.” Regardless, easy access to nature and no stoplights make Gnaw Bone a real retreat. Literally, a stroll down to Brown County State Park, throw your bags at the popular Brown County/Nashville KOA Holiday. It is just minutes to a fun and easy trek down Salt Creek Trail with bridge views.

Spend an immersive day in nature at the hilly Laura Hare Nature Preserve at Downey Hill. After an outing, unwind across town east at Brown County Winery or catch a show at Brown County Music Center. Commemorate your visit with a photo at the 1875 Homestead Bed & Breakfast or the 1838 Ramp Creek Covered Bridge.

Montezuma

Snug against the Wabash River's eastern shore, Montezuma is located in one of the state's most concentrated areas of covered bridges. Just 70 miles west of Indianapolis, the town of 900 residents is the western gateway to Parke County's annual Covered Bridge Festival. Suspiciously sounding like Moctezuma II, the ninth Emperor of the Aztec Empire (aka, the Mexica Empire), reigning in the early 16th century, its name remains veiled in mystery. Backing the theory, Aztec Park is a quaint retreat in the town, perfect to start the day.

Those here for the bridges are flush for choice. From Mecca Bridge to Phillips Bridge and the magnificent West Union Bridge, all are within a 15-minute drive. In town, the riverfront allure is coupled with Cherry, Poplar, Sycamore, and Walnut—not the local farmers market, but the street names—which makes it a fun family escape. The town's creepy yet cool Montezuma B&O demands a selfie across, then follow the Little Racoon Creek. Stop next door at Tasty Freeze for a treat to relax and reflect as you ponder the mystery behind the town’s name.

Roachdale

Although it may sound off-putting, there are not any more creepy crawlies here than in any other town in the US. Founded in the 1880s, the friendly residents living in a pea-sized perimeter today signal great livability in the area. Quite the craftsmen they are, the remodeling and woodwork shops in the area are perfect to spruce up your space back home. So don't be quick in "judging" the town, named after Judge Roach, a railroad official. Roachdale embraces you in a quaint downtown along Indiana Street, parallel to the train tracks.

Meanwhile, plan a summertime getaway to relax by Heritage Lake just 20 minutes south. The lake has everything from tennis courts to a playground, so the whole family can have some waterfront fun. On the way back lies the Big Walnut Nature Preserve, with another scenic bridge and Tall Timbers Trail for a fun hike. All these natural advantages and the rural feel always bring a welcoming change in pace from the city.

Shipshewana

Named after a local Potawatomi Indian, Shipshewana is a charming town that preserves its Amish heritage while offering a variety of attractions for visitors. This early Amish settlement, part of Newbury Township, is best explored on a horse-drawn carriage ride, which gives a glimpse into its rich cultural history. The town’s quaint atmosphere is complemented by its Victorian-style buildings and scenic rural surroundings.

A trip to Shipshewana Lake Park is a must, whether for fishing, picnicking or simply enjoying the peaceful waterfront. If visiting in June, the Shipshewana Quilt Festival is a highlight, drawing enthusiasts from all over to admire and purchase stunning handmade quilts. History lovers should stop by the Menno-Hof Museum, which offers an in-depth look at the region’s Amish and Mennonite traditions. For shopping, the town is packed with unique finds. The Shipshewana Flea Market, one of the largest in the Midwest, is the perfect place to browse for antiques, handcrafted goods, and fresh produce. Meanwhile, Blue Gate Theatre offers live performances, while Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery serves up delicious Amish-style comfort food.

Valparaiso

Valparaiso offers something in every season, like several golf courses, top-notch sporting events, and cultural entertainment. In between family-friendly restaurants and hotels, the clues behind the name are hidden through local landmarks. Dating back to 1832, the area was a U.S. government purchase from the Potawatomi Indians. Separated out of Portersville, the town was platted in 1836 and named after the Spanish word for "vale of paradise." The standout name matches the small town that prospers with 35,000 residents today, historic buildings, and thriving businesses along its aesthetically pleasing streets.

The world-class Valparaiso University offers beautiful public grounds, while the Fairgrounds Park and the serene Ogden Gardens Park are part of the local park system. You will meet friendly residents on a neighborhood stroll, shopping, or a family day at Central Park Plaza. For the cultural side of town, attractions include the Memorial Opera House, the Brauer Museum of Art, and the Chicago Street Theatre. At these sites, visitors can watch a play, appreciate local art, or enjoy some live music.

Vincennes

This town of 16,500 feels spacious despite being home to some of Indiana’s most historic landmarks. The Old French House, a French Creole structure built in 1806 by Michel Brouillet, nods to the town’s European-inspired name. Yet, even this well-preserved home is not as old as Vincennes itself. Indiana’s oldest settlement, Vincennes, was founded by French traders in 1732. A young officer, François-Marie Bissot, Sieur de Vincennes, established a fur trading post here to protect New France from the British. Following the Seven Years' War, the town fell under British rule before ultimately being captured by American forces led by George Rogers Clark in 1779 during the Revolutionary War.

A visit to Vincennes feels like a European getaway in the heart of the Midwest. Begin at George Rogers Clark National Historical Park, where a grand columned memorial commemorates the town’s pivotal role in the American Revolution. Nearby, Grouseland, the home of William Henry Harrison, stands as a historic house museum, offering insight into Indiana’s territorial past. Visitors can then stroll through Vincennes University, founded in 1801, the oldest college in Indiana. After a day of exploring, stop for a bite at Ponderosa Steakhouse, where an all-you-can-eat buffet awaits.

Which Bizarrely Named Town Will You Visit?

Boasting different histories and attractions, these small towns burst with charm of the state known for its humor, reflected in their names. While some can make your skin crawl and others inspire European glamour, like Vincennes, discovering Indiana through its bizarrely named towns promises to be an unforgettable journey. For covered bridges, visit Montezuma; for forest hikes, Gnaw Bone; and for rural charm, Roachdale. Perfect for a theme of a road trip through the smallish state, you will meet the Hoosiers, a nickname given to the local inhabitants and natives.