6 Indiana Towns That Rival Europe's Best
There is history to be unearthed in all pockets of the United States, but people need not always go digging to discover the past: many towns settled by European pioneers so many centuries ago were founded as representations of faraway homelands. In Indiana alone there are several such small towns with European flair, lively with the colorful charm of their distant counterparts and the cobbled streets of historic downtowns. The parallels are as endless as each town's welcoming vibes, so if it's a trip with a European feel you are looking for, look no further.
Jasper
Home to an annual festival called Strassenfest that has been held every year since the 1970s, the town of Jasper and its Strassenfest festival celebrate the municipality's German heritage. Strassenfest highlights local buildings and people alike who are important to the town and its history, offers live performances on the Glockenspiel stage, and sets up several food booths for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.
Beyond the festival, Jasper has several historic buildings including the Dubois County Courthouse, in the center of downtown and on the National Register of Historic Places; the Astra Theatre, which first opened in 1936; and the Jasper City Mill, which is still operational today. Also featuring a 2.1-mile paved riverwalk, visitors to Jasper can elect to ride the Spirit of Jasper train, which has a “Ride & Dine” dinner train amongst many others. Walking the old streets of Jasper, it is easy to feel as though you are in a different country entirely.
Ferdinand
Similar to Jasper, the small town of Ferdinand feels as though it has been spliced from Western Europe and delivered to American soil. So much so that its biggest attraction, Monastery Immaculate Conception, rivals even the most beautiful of the monasteries and abbeys in Europe with its large Romanesque dome and towering stained glass windows. Founded in 1867, guided tours of Monastery Immaculate Conception are available to visitors; the gift shop sells Hildegard cookies, and the associated brewery — St. Benedict's Brew Works — sells local craft beer.
Not to be outdone, St. Meinrad Archabbey is just 10 minutes away, and is every bit as historic and impressive in its creation. Visitors to Ferdinand can also enjoy local shops, like the Ferdinand Antique Emporium, or several outdoor places of recreation such as the Ferdinand State Forest, just outside the city, or Old Town Lake, a popular site for walking trails, hiking, and fishing.
Madison
Erected proudly on the banks of the mighty Ohio River, surrounded by Clifty Falls State Park, the town of Madison comes with European riverside charm and acres of walkable history. Visitors can enjoy strolling Madison's downtown business district, which is the largest continuous National Historic Landmark in the country. Even the town website advertises that Madison's architecture contains Federal, Italianate, Greek, and Gothic Revival. Walking the ancient streets of Madison will feel like walking not just through Europe, but through time.
More modern amenities can be found inside the city proper, too. Mad Paddle Brewstillery serves a wealth of microbrew options, while River Oak Chophouse “offers a culinary experience that celebrates the finest in steak and seafood.” Containing all the Old World antiquity and architecture of an overseas city, yet home to an array of modern delights as well, Madison is a must-see in the beautiful state of Indiana.
Valparaiso
Named after Valparaíso, Chile, the Indiana city of Valparaiso — Old Spanish for “Vale of Paradise” — has a rich history shaped by various immigrant communities, with strong civic and cultural traditions. European influences have shaped the city in magnificent establishments such as the Memorial Opera House and the Central Park Plaza, the former of which was built in 1893. The Plaza hosts the Valparaiso Market, at which guests and residents alike can enjoy a variety of locally grown and handmade goods. The stunning Ogden Botanical Garden is home to perennial and annual displays, native and ornamental trees, and four acres of shaded walking trails.
Zionsville
Picturesque Zionsville evokes the charm of a European village, with its brick-paved Main Street, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. The heart of Zionsville is its vibrant main road, and there are days' worth of activities for prospective visitors to enjoy. Black Dog Books sells rare titles; Auberge sells traditional and contemporary French food; Vintage Charm offers trendy clothing. Certain times of the year bring different events to Main Street, including a Farmers Market running May through September, and a Ghost Walk in October, for those who want to brave a 45-minute tour through the historic village. No matter your age or time of year you plan on visiting, there is something for everyone on the brick Main Street of Zionsville.
Oldenburg
Sharing its name with a city in Germany, Oldenburg is small but packed with history and culture. Known as the “Village of Spires,” this German-Catholic town has two beautiful churches: Holy Family Church, which is attached to a school that has a bowling alley and cafeteria in its basement; and the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, which has beautiful interior design in its columns and altar.
Beyond the impressive buildings of religious magnitude Oldenburg has many shops and restaurants worth visiting. Carriage House Antiques boasts a wide assortment of collectibles, while Schwestern Gallery of Arts showcases local art and handmade gifts. What it lacks in size, Oldenburg makes up for in authenticity, history, and beauty.
Fans of European-style architecture, distinct historical districts, family oriented annual events, and lively main streets have plenty of options in the state of Indiana. All of the towns on this list borrow from an overseas history, and in their very foundations mirror some of the most gorgeous and quaint European villages someone could possibly hope to see. Do not miss out; these six Indiana towns with cross-continental flair are waiting to be discovered.
