The Best Small Towns in Indiana for a Weekend Retreat
Indiana—the Crossroads of America—is a state that wears its heart on its sleeve—a place where heritage and the heartland meet. How can one define a perfect day? It is undoubtedly a sun-kissed afternoon in an Indiana town, with the scents of adventure and freshly mown grass filling the air.
The folks in this state—the Hoosiers—will greet you with a smile and a story. You will learn about covered bridges that whisper secrets. You will feel crunches of falling leaves beneath your feet and see basketball courts where dreams reach beyond the rim. Read on as you explore these best nine Indiana small towns for a weekend retreat.
Portage
You can find Portage beautifully seated at the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Portage is an industrial town famous for its proximity to the Indiana Dunes National Park.
This town appeals to the outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure. You can enjoy kayaking or hiking through the scenic Park. The towering dunes and lush forests are a sight for days. You may go swimming in the clear waters of West Beach, located west of Ogden Dunes Beach, or simply relax on the golden sands. If you are into competitive shooting sports, get ready for an adrenaline-filled day at Blastcamp Paintball & Airsoft in Hobart, 10 minutes away. Craving a sumptuous meal? You can grab one at the 76-year-old Schoop’s Hamburgers. For accommodation, visitors may check in at Baymont by Wyndham Portage Indiana Dunes or Days Inn by Wyndham Portage.
Shipshewana
One interesting thing about Shipshewana is its thriving Amish culture. This quaint town is known for its simplicity and charm, as well as its traditional way of life and bustling flea market. Dubbed the "Midwest's Largest Flea Market," the Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market is the ultimate out-of-town attraction.
You may want to check out the historic downtown area and browse through handmade crafts and fresh produce. Enjoy world-class entertainment and some of the best Amish and Mennonite cuisine at the Blue Gate Restaurant & Theatre. If you enjoy history, get to know about the culture of the Amish and Mennonites through interactive exhibits and guided tours at the Menno-Hof Amish/Mennonite Information Center. At night, relax in one of the many cozy hotel rooms or suites at the Farmstead Inn.
French Lick
If you are seeking a weekend of relaxation and pampering, look no further than the funny-named French Lick. Famous for its ancient spa resorts, French Lick provides an opulent getaway. Aside from its natural springs, the town has countless options for fun and entertainment for visitors.
Nothing compares to taking a train ride through the scenic Hoosier National Forest, 16 minutes away. It is nothing short of a natural wonder as it takes you through Indiana’s second-longest train tunnel. If you are yearning to learn how it got its unusual name, you may like to see the French Lick West Baden Museum, which is rich in the history of this charming town. A nearby town, Eckerty, which is 25 minutes from French Lick, also offers a wildlife conservatory at the Patoka Lake Nature Center. At the end of the day, you may relax at the French Lick Springs Hotel or French Lick Springs Villa.
Hobart
Hobart is a quaint city in Northwest Indiana along the banks of the Deep River. Lakefront Park is a perfect spot for leisurely strolls, fishing, or even picnicking. It offers scenic views of the river and the beautiful natural surroundings.
The Cressmoor Prairie Nature Preserve, situated at the north end of Hobart, is home to a small but very rare parcel of black-soil prairie, which is very uncommon elsewhere in Indiana. You might also like to enjoy live music performances at Hobart Art Theater. End your day by staying at the Comfort Inn Hobart.
Richmond
Steeped in history, Richmond is situated in east-central Indiana and lies right on the border with Ohio. One charming thing about this town is the stunning Victorian-era buildings. The Richmond Art Museum, which hosts William Merritt Chase’s self-portrait, invites you to discover a diverse collection of American art.
You cannot miss the stunning Thistlethwaite Falls, situated just south of Springwood Park on Waterfall Road, when visiting Richmond. The city is also reputable for its rose heritage, boasting over 100 varieties of All-American Selections roses. Experience this beauty firsthand at the Richmond Rose A.A.R.S. Garden, located on the south side of Glen Miller Park. For a quick lunch, you may swing by the Galo's Italian Grill or Carlo’s Cuisine. And to wrap up your day, you can rest at the Hampton Inn & Suites Richmond or Richmond Inn & Suites.
Merrillville
When you visit Merrillville, you will find that the bustling town is just a short drive from downtown Chicago. This town has very easy access to urban amenities and outdoor attractions. It also caters to families and shopaholics alike.
It is a shopper’s paradise. Shop till you drop at the Southlake Mall, which is one of the largest shopping centers in the area. You can also catch a live performance by the Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra at the Auditorium at Living Hope. Visitors can discover the astounding beauty of the night sky at Merrillville Community Planetarium. If you are in town with family, you can spend the night at the 3-starred Hilton Garden Inn in Merrillville.
Angola
Although not widely recognized as one of Indiana's major cities, Angola has its charms. Angola, which is surrounded by small lakes, is a paradise for nature lovers.
While in Angola, you can see the historic Angola Train Depot or spend the day exploring the hiking trails and picnic areas of Pokagon State Park. That is not all; you can rent a boat to explore at Angola / Hogback Lake KOA Holiday. In addition, you might like to cast a line for a chance to catch walleye, bass, and other fish while you are there. If you are a bibliophile, a large variety of books, magazines, and other media can be found in the Carnegie Public Library. If you need a lodge, the Potawatomi Inn Resort & Cabins has cozy rooms with breathtaking lake views.
Beverly Shores
Beverly Shores is a peaceful town known for its sandy beaches and natural dunes. This sleepy town of less than 700 people is also the location of the magnificent Kemil Beach. It is situated seven minutes away from the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore.
A 1933 World's Fair exhibit called the Century of Progress Homes is also located in the town. In addition, there is the Armco-Ferro House and the Cypress Log Cabin near Indiana Dunes National Park, which are open for tours. The Indiana Dunes National Park Great Marsh Trail is also a great place to put on those hiking shoes and hike away. You can also stay at Al & Sally's Motel or Bridge Inn in Michigan City, 6 miles from the town, to rejuvenate.
New Albany
Situated across Louisville, Kentucky, along the Ohio River, New Albany used to be a major Midwest city and an essential Underground Railroad destination. It boasts an abundance of historically significant architecture, including several exquisitely maintained 19th-century structures. Despite its small size, there exists a vibrant arts scene and cultural attractions that rival those of much larger cities. You can see this at the Carnegie Center for Art & History. Another fantastic venue for summertime live entertainment is the New Albany Riverfront Amphitheater. No weekend retreat is complete without indulging in the local culinary scene, and this town offers plenty of options to satisfy any palate. You can grab a meal at Board And You Bistro and Wine Bar. You may also like to book a room at The Pepin Mansion Historic B&B.
The simplicity and charm of these small towns in Indiana are second to none. From the picturesque shores of New Albany to the ancient streets of French Lick, every town provides a unique escape from the everyday stress. The peace and tranquility will leave you feeling renewed and ready to take in everything that life has to offer.
