7 Quirky Little Towns In Indiana
Strange, unusual, odd, unexpected, or out of the ordinary are just a few of the descriptions of something characterized as weird. But did you notice none of the descriptive words were bad, mean, unsightly, or unfavorable? In Indiana, “weird” simply means you might trade a racetrack roar for the clip-clop of an Amish buggy, stumble on decommissioned circus wagons in a quiet river town, or find a jail that literally spins its cells. Here, being different than the norm is often a very good thing. Many Hoosier communities are known for their eccentric attractions, offbeat histories, or quirky traditions, and those unique aspects are exactly what make them even more memorable. Explore the unique and diverse aspects of these seven unusual towns in Indiana.
Shipshewana
Shipshewana is renowned for its dominant Amish presence and authenticity, which sets it apart from other Amish areas that are more focused on tourist attractions. Visiting Shipshewana will feel like stepping back in time. Visitors are invited to partake in those timeless activities and might want to start with a visit to the Menno-Hof, an Amish and Mennonite cultural center. Through multi-image presentations, historical surroundings, and vibrant displays, the center aims to enlighten travelers about the faith and life of Amish and Mennonites.
Learning about the Amish, you will discover one thing that they excel at, and that’s food! Enjoy a traditional Amish meal at Blue Gate. The cozy atmosphere and home-style meal will leave you wanting more, so be sure to check out the Blue Gate Bakery afterward for homemade bread, cookies & bars, pies, and more. And for those that can't get enough of their delectable meal, be sure to check out their recipe page to duplicate the sweet and savory delights at home. End the night by partaking in an activity that is a daily way of life in Shipshewana, with Shipshewana Buggy Rides. Tours range from a leisurely stroll through town to ending up at a farm milking a cow. Choose your own adventure while learning about the daily lifestyle of these unconventional people.
Peru
Known as the “Circus Capital of the World,” Peru still very much honors that legacy. Previously a winter home for circuses, there are still remnants of the past scattered all about town. A main attraction is the International Circus Hall of Fame. Containing the only remaining circus wagon shed in the U.S., the Hall of Fame features circus artifacts, costumes, posters, photographs, films, route cards, and books, as well as an abundance of old circus wagons, spread across five buildings on the compound. The winter storage quarters started housing equipment in 1892 and continued through 1921. Learn more about this thrilling pastime at the Circus City Museum. Photos, miniatures, displays, and costumes from the circus's past adorn the museum for visitors to enjoy the old days of the circus.
Although notoriously known for its connection to the circus, Peru also offers other attractions. Aircraft enthusiasts will take delight in a visit to the Grissom Air Museum and Airpark. Not only can you view displays of aircraft from the Cold War era, but visitors are also encouraged to climb into the cockpit of an F-4 & Huey Helicopter Trainer, venture to the top of the lookout tower, and partake in a flight simulator.
Nashville
The hills and hollows of Nashville, Indiana, made it an ideal location for illegal stills to produce moonshine during prohibition. Today, the town and the surrounding county pay tribute to those prohibition days at the local distilleries. Partake in the moonshine tradition with a visit to the Bear Wallow Distillery. The distillery opened in 2014 and jokingly refers to itself as the first “legal” still in Brown County, given the number of illegal distilleries still in operation. Named after the actual Bear Wallow, where moonshiners would hide from the law during prohibition. Due to the overwhelming fear of bear attacks, the sheriff would not enter. Plan a tour or partake in a tasting of their aged whiskeys, moonshines, and Hoosier Hooch. Another local distillery worth visiting is Hard Truth Distilling Co. This place is more than just a distillery, though; the venue features a terrace area for live entertainment, a full-service restaurant, distillery and ATV tours, mixology classes, and even an on-site Hard Truth Cabin for overnight guests, situated among the trees on its 325-acre wooded property.
Break out from the local notoriety and participate in a different kind of activity at Brown County State Park. The “Little Smokies” cover 16,000 acres of hills, ridges, ravines, and more. Glacial meltwater from the ice age has created narrow ridges, steep slopes, and deep gorges for hikers to explore. Almost 20 miles of forest-lined roads run through the park with multiple scenic points for admiring the vista. Climb the 90-foot Fire Tower, view the rare Yellowwood tree, or check out the endangered timber rattlesnake in the nature center.
New Harmony
Harmony can be described as peaceful coexistence, mutual agreement, consensus among people, inner peace, and contentment. Coincidentally, the town of New Harmony really lives up to and represents those ideologies. The town was created on the idea of social experiments presented through religion and science, and it invites its visitors to rejuvenate their mind, body, and spirit through activity. The Harmonist Labyrinth is a manicured hedge designed to evoke serenity and peacefulness to its guests. Take on the challenge of the maze and try to make your way to the center, where the Rappite temple can be found. One true path leads to the temple that was reconstructed in the 20th century, after being left in devastation when the Rappites left the community. The Roofless Church is another spiritual destination that promotes peace and harmony. The non-denominational church features six sacred spaces within its walls, including courtyards, gardens, sculptures, memorials, and more. The highly sophisticated and spiritually moving church was designed to evoke a sense of warmth and comfort.
Enjoy another serene experience that focuses more on nature, as opposed to religion, but can still feel spiritual. At Harmonie State Park, there are idyllic trails for hiking, biking, mountain biking, and walking. The park also offers cabins and campsites for visitors to spend the night under the stars.
Santa Claus
If your town is going to be named Santa Claus, you'd better be prepared to live up to the hype. Well, the town of Santa Claus, Indiana, does just that, with all its Kris Kringle-themed attractions. Christmas lovers will not want to miss a trip here to delight in all the wonders, starting at the Santa Claus Museum and Village. The museum displays photos, documents, and artifacts from the early days of the town, when its population consisted of around 100 residents and was still named Santa Fee. Today, the museum is filled with antique toys and Santa Clauses of all shapes and sizes. The town’s original post office is near the museum and offers a letter-writing station. All letters written to Santa are responded to by volunteers! Standing in front of the museum is a vintage 22-foot Santa statue, inviting everyone to have their picture taken. Continue on your Merry journey at Santa’s Candy Castle. From nostalgic candy to popular modern candy and everything in between, the castle has a variety of delights. Built during the Great Depression, the four-room castle is stocked full of more candy choices than one can think of. Don’t skip town without a visit to the Santa Claus Christmas Store. Collectables, ornaments, and delectable treats are available for purchase, putting everyone in the Christmas spirit.
French Lick
With a name as intriguing as French Lick, it's no wonder this town has a unique and diverse history. A previous resting spot on a bison migration path, the town has become quite popular for all its extraordinary quirks. Begin your stay at the French Lick Resort. Originally built in 1845, the property has continued to expand to as late as 2019, and now includes a museum to learn about its rich history of its famous mineral water, gambling, and restorations. Partake in all the amenities offered on the compound, which include tours, gambling, dining, mineral spring spas, golf, and so much more. While there, learn all about the infamous Pluto Water. The smell of the Sodium-filled water was once a bigger attraction than the resort itself. Claiming to have healing powers, guests would bathe in and drink the marketed water, only to discover decades later that it was riddled with lithium. The onsite water plant was eventually closed down, but the history remains.
Venture off the resort and learn more about the town at the French Lick West Baden Museum. Established to commemorate the town’s 150th anniversary, the museum aims to preserve its history through engaging exhibits, interactive experiences, and personal accounts. Featuring the World’s Largest Circus Diorama and a 5 and 10 Vintage Dime Store, the museum is nothing short of unique.
Crawfordsville
In 1891, Crawfordsville had possibly its most famous moment, when dozens of residents reported seeing a blood-red creature flying overhead. The town was on such high alert about this mysterious phenomenon that newspapers across the U.S. reported on it. It turned out to be a flock of birds. But the legend carried on, and many years later, the story was featured on MonsterQuest, a History Channel show about various monsters. Although the town no longer celebrates its famed history of flying monsters, it does have another unique attribute that makes it a one-of-a-kind town. It has the first and only rotating jail. The Rotary Jail Museum was once a working jail that had cells that could only be accessed through a single door, allowing for the rotation of the cells. Visitors are welcome to tour the jail that still spins and marvel at the immense carousel-like platform in the basement that spins the cells. Jail artifacts are also on display, and ghost tours can be scheduled.
Break out from behind bars and stop by the Sugar Creek Nature Park. With over 4,000 feet of trails across the 64-acre park, nature enthusiasts can hike, fish, or explore at one of the 12 outdoor workstations. End your stay in Crawfordsville with a hands-on experience at the Carnegie Museum of Montgomery County, located in the heart of downtown. Exhibits include Citizens in Action, Local Authors, Explorer’s Zone, and WOW Gallery. This includes notables from authors, astronauts, politicians, Broadway performers, Jeopardy game show contestants, and other local celebrities.
A Weird Vacation In Indiana
In a state famously known for its international speedway, professional sports teams, and, of course, vast cornfields, learn more about the lesser-known attractions, traditions, and sideshows of the state. Who would have guessed this quiet midwestern state is the only place in the U.S. that houses decommissioned circus wagons? Or that there is an entire Amish community welcoming guests with open arms? The oddities of this state are part of what makes it great, and you are invited to enjoy that greatness in these seven weird little towns in Indiana.
