7 Most Eccentric Towns in Indiana

Although Indianapolis often steals the spotlight, some of the smaller towns in Indiana have a quirky side that might surprise even the state’s lifelong residents. German festivals, historic art colonies, Amish farms, and clusters of cascading waterfalls are just a few of the attractions in the Hoosier State that defy its otherwise tranquil Midwestern reputation. Think you know Indiana inside and out? These seven eccentric towns might just change your mind.

Shipshewana

Shipshewana is located in LaGrange County, home to the third largest Amish community in the United States. As a result, the town is the perfect destination for a change of pace. The best way to start a visit to Shipshewana is with a carriage or buggy ride offered by tour companies like Blue Gate Carriage and Buggy Lane Tours.

After exploring town, travelers can head over to one of Shipshewana’s nearby farms, such as Stutzman Dairy Farm, a local farm that has been family-owned for six generations where visitors can watch farmers milk the cows or have a meet and greet with some of the local farm animals. Those who enjoy antique hunting should not miss a Wednesday morning at the Shipshewana Trading Place Auction, where eight to ten animated auctioneers lead the weekly antique auctioning.

Jasper

Jasper emerged as a center for German immigrants in the late 1830s, largely thanks to Pastor Fr. Joseph Kundek, who promoted the town in German newspapers in Louisville and Cincinnati. Although the centuries have passed, Jasper maintains elements of its German heritage through festivals and cuisine. Each summer, the town hosts its annual Jasper Strassenfest to commemorate its early roots, featuring German song and dance, a beer garden, local food vendors, and German family-friendly activities and games.

Those unable to visit Jasper during this annual festival can still celebrate its German influence at Schnitzelbank, a highly rated restaurant serving authentic German cuisine, such as Schnitzels and Sauerbraten. For an afternoon outdoors, head over to the Parklands of Jasper, an expansive central park spanning 75 acres and containing wetlands, woods, and two miles of trails.

Beverly Shores

Beverly Shores stands apart from much of Indiana, with sandy dunes and wide shores along Lake Michigan. Less than a ten-minute drive from town, visitors can reach Indiana Dunes National Park, which offers over 50 miles of trails that wind through shifting dunes, sunny prairies, and serene woodlands. The town has also been recognized as one of the state’s official Bird Towns due to its preservation efforts. Travelers can cruise along Beverly Drive with their windows rolled down, keeping their eyes and ears out for the evasive Northern Shrike.

For some fresh fruit or berry picking, there are several surrounding farms and orchards to visit, such as Wilk’s Blueberry Farm or Stateline Blueberries, which are open seasonally. To finish off the day after exploring Beverly Shores, enjoy a meal at the local Goblin and The Grocer, a market and restaurant that offers everything from crab dip to eggs benedict.

French Lick

French Lick originated as a French Trading Post near a salt lick and spring, inspiring its unconventional name today. Visitors can explore the town’s early history at the French Lick West Baden Museum, home to various exhibits such as the World’s Largest Circus Diorama, a detailed scale model of the 20th Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. French Lick is also known for its historic French Lick Scenic Railway, a living museum that offers passenger train excursions through the surrounding countryside.

After digging into French Lick’s history, travelers can unleash their inner child at one of the nearby attractions, such as Shotz Miniature Golf and Lazer Tag, Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park, or French Lick-West Baden Indoor Karting.

Nashville

Nashville’s art scene is unbeatable, located in Brown County, which is often referred to as the “artist colony of the midwest”. Visit the former studio and home of T.C. Steele, an impressionist painter, and the first major artist to reside in Brown County. Throughout the property, visitors can admire more than 50 paintings on display.

Those looking for a unique piece of art to take home with them are in luck in Nashville. There is an abundance of art galleries and studios to explore, some of the highlights including Anne Ryan Miller Glass Studio, the Spears Gallery Pottery Studio, and the Brown County Art Gallery & Museum. Looking for some live entertainment? The historic Brown County Playhouse is a great place to catch a play or musical performance.

Wabash

Wabash is internationally recognized as one of the world’s first electrically lighted cities, making it a fascinating historical and scientific stop. Those interested in this historic event can visit the Wabash County Courthouse, which houses one of the original lights that lit up in 1880.

There are seven waterfalls near town as well, making Wabash the perfect destination for hikers. Salamonie River State Forest is a popular destination, particularly the Three Falls Trail, which is a short hiking trail leading to cliff overhangs and scenic waterfall views. Charley Creek Gardens is home to another gorgeous cascade, as well as six acres of well-maintained gardens with both native and foreign plants. End the night at Market Street Grill, a local restaurant offering bottomless drinks and homestyle meals.

Madison

Madison has a thriving arts and music scene, featuring over 15 live music venues, and is recognized as one of the state’s twelve official Arts & Cultural Districts. Its architecture is one of the highlights of this district, featuring Italianate, Federal, Greek, and Gothic revival architecture. The 19th-century Francis Costigan House, with Greek Revival architecture, and the 1839 St. Michael the Archangel Church, with a Gothic Revival style, are just a couple of the beloved historic buildings to admire.

Make sure to stroll through the many art and music studios downtown, including Crawdaddy Music,a vintage instrument shop, and Gallery 115, which combines multiple art galleries and a café under one roof. On the outskirts of town, travelers can spend the day at Clifty Falls State Park, home to seven waterfalls, 70-foot gorges, swimming pools, picnic areas, and ten hiking trails to explore. The Heritage Trail is another hiking option, beginning in the historic district and winding along an old railroad before ascending a wooded hillside.

Due to their smaller populations, these seven towns often fly under the radar. However, travelers are truly missing out by skipping them. Whether your perfect weekend includes laser tag and go-karting or gallery hopping and architecture tours, there is something special awaiting each and every traveler. So, set aside the map and let yourself venture off the beaten path on your next trip. You may just be surprised by what you encounter!