7 Picture-Perfect Towns in Indiana

The “Hoosier State” of Indiana forms an important part of the American Midwest, and with its alluring history, beautiful natural surroundings, and unique cultural character, it is indeed a great place to discover. With its easy access to Lake Michigan and its borders with several other States, including Illinois and Michigan, Indiana and its scenic towns are undoubtedly treasures waiting to be experienced. From river towns to historical centers, the picture-perfect towns of the “Hoosier State” are always ready to welcome guests and showcase why some of the very best of genuine Americana live here.

Vevay

The town of Vevay was founded by Swiss immigrants in the 1810s and is today the seat of Switzerland County. Beautifully situated along the Ohio River, this modest town of nearly 1,800 residents is a charming place where one can experience a slice of the 19th century through an exploration of a number of maintained landmarks. These include the Benjamin Schenck Mansion (1874) and the Hoosier Theatre (1837), which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visit such other fascinating places like the River History Museum, chronicling life along the Ohio River and its role in the growth of early America, while spending time at the always popular Swiss Wine Festival cannot be missed. Every August, grape stomping, live music, food vendors, river boat rides, and a fireworks display delight all ages in one of the best small-town Indiana experiences around.

New Castle

New Castle is situated along the path of the Big Blue River (a watershed of the mighty Mississippi River) and can trace its foundational roots to the 1820s. Today, the home of just over 17,000 people, this seat of Henry County is a pleasant stop where hot summers and cold winters give guests and residents alike wide-ranging seasonal changes. Outdoor lovers will surely appreciate the stunning Summit Lake State Park, where fishing, cycling, hiking, and even birdwatching and ice fishing opportunities abound. Meanwhile, in town proper, an exploration of fascinating history is possible through visits to sites like the Commercial Historic District and buildings like the Henry County Courthouse (1866), amongst many other 19th-century edifices. With its close proximity to the city of Indianapolis (44 miles), New Castle serves as a great place for a day trip for those looking for a slower pace of life.

Logansport

Founded around the year 1826, Logansport is scenically situated where the Eel and Wabash Rivers meet and serves as the seat of Cass County. Full of charm and historical intrigue, this town of some 18,000 residents is a great place for a weekend getaway where both history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts can find something to enjoy. Visit the Courthouse Historic District and view 19th-century buildings like the Ferguson House, constructed in 1895, amongst several others included on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition, Logansport hosts a number of popular yearly festivals, which include the Jazz and Blues Fest and Art on the Avenue, which can satisfy many eclectic interests. Naturally, with the town’s location near the two rivers of Eel and Wabash, a quiet and reflective afternoon is never far away.

Crawfordsville

The town of Crawfordsville was established in the 1820s and is beautifully located right on the banks of the Wabash River. The seat of Montgomery County, this scenic town has many historic landmarks for visitors to admire, giving guests an intimate snapshot into the 19th century. Explore landmarks like the Montgomery Courthouse (1876), the Sheriff’s Residence (1882), and the Lane Place House (1831), amongst several others that are included on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition, Crawfordsville is the home of Wabash College Men’s College, founded in 1832, where an inviting campus and splendid changing colors make it a great place to spend an afternoon. And do not forget the Shades State Park, where breathtaking vistas of dramatic cliffs, pretty waterfalls, and lush green spaces ensure this is one of the most serene and calming outdoor outings in Indiana.

Marion

The town of Marion is situated along the Mississinewa River, which some 30,000 residents call home. This charming town and seat of Grant County is full of splendid natural surroundings and interesting American history, and it is indeed a great place to discover on any road trip in Indiana. Explore the Downtown Commercial Historic District and such historic landmarks as Grant County Jail (1904) or the Aaron Swayzee House (1855), amongst many others. Meanwhile, a visit to the campus of Indiana Wesleyan University (1920) is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon and enjoy a smaller town ambiance. And for the outdoors enthusiast, visiting Marion would not be complete without a stop at the Cardinal Greenway Trail. Here, fun opportunities for biking, hiking, jogging, and birdwatching make this a pleasant excursion for the young and old.

Nashville

Established in the early 1800s, Nashville serves as Brown County’s seat and today is home to a modest population of just under 1,300 people. A scenic community that is well known locally as an artists’ colony, Nashville is full of a plethora of special and charming novelty shops, galleries, and antique stores that all reflect a loving heritage for American art. Indeed, taking home a unique part of America has never been easier! Meanwhile, a visit to Indiana’s largest state park, the Brown County State Park, is a can not-miss for the outdoor adventurist. With splendid chances to go hiking, biking, fishing, and even horseback riding, this is one of the most scenic and peaceful outdoor excursions in all of the “Hoosier State.”

Connersville

Connersville is located along the Whitewater River’s northern banks, where just over 13,000 residents call home. Established in the 1810s, it stands as one of Indiana’s oldest towns (founded even before the State’s admission to the Union in 1816) and continues to give a fascinating historic ambiance for all who visit. Indeed, Connersville has several landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which include Canal House (1842) and the Elmhurst Mansion (1831), amongst many others. Meanwhile, spending time along the Whitewater River is always a pleasing and reflective experience, while any of the town’s inviting green spaces are great for the traveling family or solo traveler alike. Visit the Doc O Love recreation area or enjoy a relaxing picnic at Manlove Park, where alluring scenery and a friendly atmosphere make Connersville a real Indiana gem.

Indiana, or as it is lovingly known, the “Hoosier State,” is one of America’s most fascinating places. Here, intriguing history, a special cultural ambiance, and stunning natural features ensure that it is one of the Midwest’s most popular and important centers. And through an exploration of some of Indiana’s smaller towns, another side of the State can be appreciated. From the banks of the Big Blue River in New Castle to the historic streets of Crawfordsville, these and other smaller State towns are indeed welcoming places for all ages. While the larger cities like Indianapolis and Fort Wayne will always attract their share of attention, these smaller Indiana towns should not be overlooked. So take to the road and come see the “Hoosier State” through the lens of these great American towns!