8 Most Breathtaking Towns In Indiana
Indiana's diverse landscape is a compelling blend of pristine countryside, expansive farmlands, dense forests, tranquil lakes, and sections of rugged terrain featuring cliffs and dunes. Shipshewana's Amish community is calming and alluring, with delectable homestyle cooking and friendly residents. Stroll along the brick roads in Zionsville's movie-worthy downtown area and fill up on all the classic American small-town vibes. Angola and New Harmony are top-tier retreats for immersing in the great outdoors, or discover the state's historic roots in Corydon and Metamora. Indiana provides a little bit of everything, from family-friendly adventures to a storied past, nature escapes, and unparalleled experiences.
Nashville
Nashville is an artsy town in the rolling hills of Brown County. Featuring a walkable downtown with lovely local boutiques and well-preserved historical buildings, Nashville is a living storybook brimming with old-world charm. Set inside an adorable dollhouse structure, kids will love picking out a new item at The Toy Chest. As Indiana's oldest toy store, it has been a cherished Nashville retailer for years. Afterwards, satisfy sweet tooths at The Chocolate Moose. Indulge in homemade ice cream topped with sprinkles or the Cookie Monster Sundae and let your inner child feel the magic.
Raise a glass and make a toast at one of Nashville's finest establishments. Sip on award-winning wines at Country Heritage Winery, set on a stunning 100-acre vineyard on a family farm. Stop by on weekdays to enjoy Happy Hour specials, or join the lively crowd for one of the events. Nothing beats an open mic night or Sunday brunch buffet paired with a glass of vino. Head over to the Hard Truth Distilling Co. for more of Indiana's first-class specialties. Tour the distillery with samples included, kick off the summer with a Tiki Cruise, or take a mixology class. Take home a bottle of vodka, rum, rye, or bourbon as a tasty souvenir to remember Nashville.
French Lick
With the lush greenery of the Hoosier National Forest in the background, French Lick is a tranquil town renowned for its mineral springs and a world-class spa. Historic and elegant, rejuvenate at the iconic French Lick Resort. The exquisite paradise is characterized by a massive dome with skylights that encompasses part of the resort. Relax at the spa and soak in the Historic Signature Pluto Bath, a private tub filled with the famous mineral springs. This practice has been beloved since the 1800s and is rewarding for promoting health and wellness.
For a more family-friendly time in French Lick, take the kids to Big Splash Adventure. Fun for all ages awaits at this 40,000-square-foot indoor waterpark. Let toddlers play in the Splish Splash Pool, lounge on the waters at the Lost River, or go fast down the Pirate's Plunder water slide. After a long day of splashing about, head to The Boatyard eatery to satisfy all levels of hunger. Keep it light with the Boatyard Salad or soup of the day, or dig into a classic burger or basket of chicken strips.
For a panoramic view of French Lick and Indiana's natural beauty, hop aboard the French Lick Scenic Railway. The fascinating ride takes passengers through Hoosier National Forest and the Burton Tunnel. Various packages are available for memorable rides. Book the Polar Express train ride and cozy up with hot chocolate and cookies, or try the Tasting Train with a selection of wine, tequila, bourbon, and chocolate paired with views of the century.
New Harmony
Thriving since 1814, New Harmony is a breathtaking Indiana town on the banks of the Wabash River. Featuring a unique labyrinth and meticulously maintained 19th-century buildings, New Harmony is an eccentric mix of history and creative imagination. Part spiritual and part artistic masterpiece, The Roofless Church is an intriguing New Harmony wonder. Constructed to welcome all faiths, the inclusive place of worship can be found on North Street. Fascinating for book lovers and history buffs, the Working Men's Institute proudly stands as Indiana’s oldest continuously operating library. Aside from an enchanting book collection, the library also includes a museum. Explore reproductions of Renaissance art, as well as New Harmony's heritage and natural history.
It is no secret that the Midwest boasts beautiful landscapes that belong in a magazine. Spend a lovely afternoon at Harmonie State Park. Gather the family for a picnic, sleep under the stars during a peaceful camping session, or roam the trails by bike, horse, or on foot. The park is also a serene spot for fishing or boating on Indiana's sparkling waters.
Shipshewana
Huddled in the heart of Indiana's Amish Country, Shipshewana is a quiet and welcoming retreat. Horses and buggies trot along the soothing country roads winding past endless green pastures and rows of farms. Take a deep dive into Amish culture at Menno-Hof, the town's cultural center. Learn about the Amish lifestyle through striking displays and engaging presentations. Partake in the interactive tour and experience a tornado simulation as well as a peek inside a typical Amish Room. Afterwards, savor some hearty Amish fare at the Blue Gate Restaurant and Bakery. Feel right at home with Amish Beef and Noodles, Homestyle Meatloaf, or try a bit of everything at the buffet.
Kids and adults alike will adore the Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park. Open from May 1st until mid-October, feed the animals from a guided wagon ride or take your own vehicle through the zoo. Get even closer to the animals at the petting zoo area. See an array of animals including zebras, lemurs, deer, cows, camels, ostriches, and alpacas.
Angola
In the northeastern corner of Indiana, Angola is an idyllic rural town encircled by rich forests, glimmering lakes, and picture-perfect farmlands. Get an adrenaline fix at Pokagon State Park for an all-around adventure. Go tobogganing or cross-country skiing when Indiana turns into a winter wonderland. During other seasons, play a game of volleyball on the sand, complete the Hell's Point Challenge hike, or rent a paddleboat, rowboat, or pontoon. Gather the family for a day out at Pokagon State Park by taking a trail ride, soaking up some sun on the beach, and letting kids play at the playground.
Angola offers nostalgic attractions for the younger crowd and the young at heart. Catch a classic flick or new feature at the Brokaw Movie House. The experience is not just an average theatre. Grab some popcorn and a soda, and engage in movie night at Brokaw's 1931-style theatre. Before the show, refresh with ice cream at The Backyard Creamery & Mini Golf. Challenge the family at the 18-hole course and then celebrate with one of twelve flavors of sweet, cold ice cream.
Metamora
Step back in time in Metamora, an enchanting Indiana town that gives a glimpse of life in the 1800s. As the center of attention in Metamora, the Grist Mill is equally iconic and historic. After a fire in 1932, it was rebuilt and remains in use today. Corn meal, grits, flour, and cereal are all manufactured with this incredible feat. Continue the historic venture by dining at the Martindale House, the oldest building in Metamora. First constructed in 1838, the building wore many hats, from a store to a hotel and an agent's office. Stop by for a Tavern Burger, Shepherd's Pie, Reuben, or homemade fruit cobbler.
Metamora is a rare Indiana gem with one-of-a-kind landmarks on every corner. See the colossal cookie jar collection at Grannie's Cookie Jars & Ice Cream Parlor. Thousands of these quirky collectables line the walls at this adorable shop. Purchase a scoop of frozen happiness while wandering around and scoping out the decor.
Zionsville
Zionsville is a quintessential American small town, with strong Hallmark movie vibes and a tight-knit community. Walk around the brick-paved streets of the charming downtown area. Lined with local boutiques, cozy cafes, and eateries, it makes for the ultimate afternoon. The Indiana town exudes vintage flair and features many well-preserved historical buildings. Relish that down-home feel at the Zionsville Farmer's Market. Support the locals and purchase artisan bread, eggs, apple cider donuts, beef, and fresh produce. Gather a colorful bouquet at Anne-Marie's Flower Farm. Pick your own beauties from July to September to brighten up any space or someone's face.
Strange, but wildly captivating, the AFCA Antique Fan Museum is a rare oddity. Walk around the museum and see thousands of antique fans on display. Some of these historic relics date back to the early 1800s. The Antique Fan Museum is a memorable and exciting Indiana attraction that is dazzling for all.
Corydon
Corydon embodies a slower pace of life in Indiana, making it an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of a bigger city. As Indiana's first capital city, Corydon is a living history book, with many Federal-style landmarks glowing in the town. Built sometime between 1814 and 1816, the Corydon Capital State Historic Site commemorates the town's earliest roots. Book a guided tour in advance to take a deep dive into Indiana's fascinating history. Visit during the fall and kick off the spooky season with the Real Haunted Happenings Tour and get a chilling glimpse at the ghostly side of Corydon.
Corydon is the place to take home a piece of Indiana with noteworthy souvenirs. Pick up a previously loved souvenir from Red Barn Antique Mall. Housed in a well-maintained 1880 barn, the business sells incredible treasures. From pottery to vinyl records, furniture, glassware, clothing, decor, and jewelry, the variety is out of this world. Artistic, luxurious, and elegant, Zimmerman Art Glass has an exceptional selection of handmade glass items. Choose from fruit, animals, bowls, vases, and decanters. Make the holidays special with a glass Easter egg, snowman, shamrock, or Christmas ornaments.
Discover Indiana's Breathtaking Small Towns
Bring a camera to capture the immaculate wilderness of Indiana's topography as well as the comforting charm of small towns. Bask in the great outdoors in Angola's Pokagon State Park or savor a glass of superior wine at Nashville's Country Heritage Winery. Restore mind, body, and spirit at French Lick's long-running and legendary spa. Discover Amish life in Shipshewana or step into a bygone era in historic Metamora. Indiana's welcoming atmosphere and extraordinary sites make the state a choice destination.
