8 Best Towns in Indiana for a Winter Getaway

If you are looking for a winter getaway destination, the Midwest state of Indiana offers everything that makes the season special. You will find everything from sledding and skiing at the scenic Indiana Dunes to shopping and eating in one of the state's cozy eateries or boutiques. Indiana offers no shortage of recreational activities for those who love to be outside when the temperature dips and an abundance of indoor attractions if you prefer to stay indoors.

Shipshewana

The tiny town of Shipshewana is big on scenic beauty and tourist attractions, as it's an Amish enclave filled with old-world charm. The town is home to the Shipshewana Flea Market, the state's largest, quaint streets with shops featuring homemade goods such as blankets, jewelry, furniture, and sweet and savory treats. The Menno-Hof Museum offers visitors an opportunity to learn all about the region's Amish and Mennonite communities while staying warm on cold winter days.

During the holiday season, downtown Shipshewana glows with festive lights, and visitors can ride horse-drawn carriages. The town offers a wide selection of places to lay your head at night, no matter what type of experience you seek. For example, history lovers can rent a rustic, handcrafted cabin from Shipshewana Campground North & Amish Log Cabin Lodging.

Santa Claus

When it comes to winter getaway towns in Indiana, it doesn't get more festive than Santa Claus. Appropriately dubbed "America's Christmas Hometown," Santa Claus celebrates the holiday year-round. However, the small town comes to life during the winter months and treats visitors to many holiday events and activities, unique shopping experiences, and cozy lodging options.

You can start your stay with a visit to the Santa Claus Christmas Store and then enjoy freshly roasted chestnuts over an open fire at Santa's Candy Castle. Families will enjoy posing in front of the town's 22-foot-tall Santa Claus statue, located near the charming Santa Claus Museum and Village. Lincoln State Park boasts miles of trails for those who want to brave the cold with a refreshing hike. Santa's Lodge, close to area attractions, has an indoor pool, and is a full-service hotel popular with traveling families.

Madison

For those looking for an exciting winter retreat in the Hoosier state, the welcoming town of Madison may be the perfect destination. Located on the Kentucky border, Madison combines the best of Midwest charm with Southern hospitality. You can enjoy the crisp winter air at Clifty Falls State Park, which offers over 1,500 acres of natural beauty, including the Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge. The town also offers many art studios and galleries, museums, live music venues, and breweries and wineries in which to stay warm and cozy. Some options include the Lanier Mansion State Historic Site, the Lanthier Winery, the Thomas Family Winery, and the Madison Railroad Station Museum.

During the winter holiday season, Madison offers a wide array of festive special events, including the annual Christmas Music Showcase. Depending on your desired location, the town has many lodging options, including the classy and historic Iron Gate Inn, which is within easy walking distance of downtown.

Nashville

The quaint town of Nashville is an artist enclave and inspirational destination year-round and a cozy retreat during the cold winter months. Situated in the gently rolling hills of Brown County, Nashville is the perfect place to stay indoors while exploring boutiques and art galleries or get outside and experience nature. If you want to take a winter hike, lace up your boots and spend a day at Brown County State Park, which offers miles of trails and a visitors center to warm up in.

Other scenic options include Yellowwood State Forest and Trevac Bluffs Nature Preserve. Downtown Nashville offers plenty of opportunities to "shop local" as you hunt down the perfect holiday gifts for friends and loved ones. The area is also blessed with many unique lodging options for every getaway budget, such as Betty Lou's Garden Guest Suite in town and the historic 1891 Schoolhouse Inn in nearby Morgantown.

French Lick

French Lick offers all the best of Indiana condensed into a tiny, charming town. Located in the southern region of the state near the Kentucky border, French Lick is a winter getaway hotspot. Visitors come from all over to play at Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park, an ideal place for families to get rid of their cabin fever. Not only is the French Lick Springs Hotel a warm and welcoming place to stay while visiting the area, it offers a variety of holiday events to keep people of all ages entertained. The resort's "50 Days of Lights" event starts with a tree lighting ceremony and includes children's activities and other types of festive fun. The French Lick Scenic Railway also treats locals and visitors to a Polar Express Train Ride each holiday season.

Corydon

Corydon is the perfect place to warm up during a winter getaway, whether you are exploring the boutiques and eateries in the charming downtown or spending an afternoon at one of the indoor attractions. Located in the state's southern region, the quaint town hosts "Light Up Corydon" each holiday season and offers everything from carriage rides to a visit from Santa. The family-friendly event also features live entertainment, a parade, and shopping opportunities.

Located in downtown Corydon in a historic building, Harrison County Arts features exhibits showcasing artwork from local artists on a rotating basis. The Hayswood Theatre offers additional opportunities for staying warm and entertained during the cold winter months with its plethora of live shows, including musicals, comedies, dramas, and children's workshops. Corydon is blessed with various lodging options, including several comfortable chain hotels, such as the Hampton Inn.

Richmond

If you find yourself traveling through east central Indiana this winter, stop in the charming town of Richmond. You will find it all here, from a bustling downtown filled with unique boutiques and eateries to award-winning museums and other historical attractions. Richmond is home to a thriving Amish community, and visitors are treated to homemade baked goods, furniture, and other items at several local markets.

During your winter getaway, warm up with a trip to the Joseph Moore Museum of Natural History, which features Egyptian mummy and prehistoric animal exhibits, or the Levi and Catharine Coffin State Historic Site & Interpretive Center. Richmond's lodging options are endless, from luxurious bed and breakfast-inns to rustic campgrounds. Antique lovers will feel at home at The Inn at High Hats, located on Indiana's Antique Alley.

Greenfield

About 50 miles west of Richmond, and just east of the state capital, Greenfield's claim to fame is its bustling downtown historic district, which springs to life with festive holiday decor and activities each winter. Visitors can spend a cold day exploring Wooden Bear Brewing, which offers a rotating variety of local brews in a family-friendly setting. The James Whitcomb Riley Boyhood Home and Museum celebrates the life of the famous Indiana poet with tours and exhibits.

For those who want to take a brisk winter walk, head to either Riley Park or Beckenholdt Park, which features wetlands, native prairies and grasslands, and a fishing pond. Greenfield offers cozy lodging options at every price point, such as Hampton Inn Greenfield.

Although Indiana winters may be cold and snowy, don't let the frigid weather deter you from enjoying a seasonal getaway. The Midwestern state's friendly and welcoming small towns will keep you warm as you explore local cafes, shops, museums, and other indoor attractions. For the more adventurous, countless outdoor recreational areas, such as city and state parks and wildlife refuges, await. The state also offers endless holiday events and activities to make visitors of all ages feel festive.