2025 GROUP TOUR PLANNER
Indiana’s vibrant theaters and concert halls showcase a burgeoning music and theater scene
Hot Spots for Entertainment Walkable Historic Districts in Indiana
Old-time atmosphere, well-preserved landmarks and retail fun
Indiana 2025 Group Tour Planner
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INDIANA FACTS
Population:
Statewide: 6.89 million
Indianapolis: 876,665 (also the state capital)
Fort Wayne: 271,865
Evansville: 114,651
South Bend: 103,415
Carmel: 103,093
Fishers: 105,631
Getting Here by Air
Indianapolis International Airport (IND):
Served by Air Canada, Alaska, Allegiant, American, Contour, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, Spirit, United South Bend International Airport (SBN): Served by Allegiant, American, Delta, United Evansville Regional Airport (EVV): Served by Allegiant, American, Delta, United Fort Wayne International Airport: (FWA): Served by Allegiant, American, Delta
Getting Here by Rail
Amtrak stations in Connersville (COI), Crawfordsville (CRF), Dyer (DYE), Elkhart (EKH), Hammond-Whiting (HMI), Indianapolis (IND), Lafayette (LAF), Michigan City (MCI), Rensselaer (REN), South Bend (SOB), Waterloo (WTI)
Average Temperatures by Season:
North – Spring 71, Summer 81, Fall 63, Winter 31
Central – Spring 73 Summer 84, Fall 65, Winter 36
South – Spring 77, Summer 88, Fall 70, Winter 41 Schwabenblitz/Bigstock.com
HOT SPOTS FOR ENTERTAINMENT HOOSIER STATE HARMONIES
Indiana’s vibrant theaters and concert halls, from intimate clubs to grand amphitheaters, showcase a burgeoning music and theater scene
By Billy Stampfl
TThe arts thrive in Indiana, with a rich history of theaters and concert venues that draw in music lovers, theatergoers and groups looking for memorable experiences. Whether nestled in urban centers or tucked away in small towns, Indiana’s performance spaces offer something for every type of visitor,
from grand opera houses with intricate architecture to open-air amphitheaters surrounded by natural beauty. These venues don’t just provide worldclass entertainment; they also bring communities together, revitalizing local culture and creating hubs of activity. From intimate nightclubs to majestic
theaters, Indiana’s live performance scene is diverse, vibrant and flourishing. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key attractions across a truly musical state.
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre
Beef & Boards in Indianapolis offers a fun experience, with dinner and a show
all in one place. Audiences are immersed in the performances in this iconic and intimate venue, where nobody sits farther than six rows from the stage. A dinner buffet, freshly prepared onsite, precedes each performance and is included in the ticket price along with select beverages. Guests may also choose to enjoy delicious gourmet desserts and tasty bar beverages, available for purchase from their table.
Clyde Theatre
The Clyde Theatre in Fort Wayne is where history and modernity beautifully intertwine. Originally a 1950s movie house, the Clyde Theatre’s distinct Art Deco marquee is a nod to its past. In the 2010s, the theater faced decline, but a $9 million renovation breathed new life into the space. Now a premier 2,000-person concert hall, it boasts some of the finest light and sound systems in the Midwest. Musicians like Charley Crockett have made unforgettable performances here. Concertgoers appreciate the thoughtful amenities, such as VIP sections that allow for a more exclusive experience and the attached Club Room restaurant, which makes the Clyde Theatre a perfect date night destination, too.
Embassy Theatre
Staying in Fort Wayne, the Embassy Theatre is a grand testament to Indiana’s performing arts history. Built nearly 100 years ago, the Embassy has hosted a wide array of entertainers, from vaudeville acts to magicians, and even silent films. The theater, saved from demolition in the 1970s, has been meticulously restored, with special attention paid to maintaining its original baroque architecture. Its detailed carvings and lavish interior still evoke a sense of grandeur, transporting visitors to a bygone era of elegance. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Embassy Theatre
VIEW FROM STAGEBEEF AND BOARDS
today draws in music fans and cultural enthusiasts, who come not only for the performances but also to admire the building’s stunning design.
Palladium
Another iconic venue is the Palladium, part of Carmel’s Center for the Performing Arts. Walking into the Palladium, it’s hard not to be impressed by its grand Europeanstyle architecture. The 1,600-seat hall was designed to deliver exceptional acoustics, with elements like adjustable glass panels and retractable curtains to optimize sound quality. With an array of performances ranging from cabaret to classical music, the Palladium is the go-to venue for high-caliber acts like Yo-Yo Ma and Lucinda Williams, as its commitment to creating an extraordinary listening experience makes it a standout destination for both locals and tourists.
Elliott Hall of Music
On the Purdue University campus, the Elliott Hall of Music features another Indiana gem, albeit on a larger scale.
One of the biggest proscenium theaters in the United States, it has hosted everything from the Dalai Lama to rock bands like Jethro Tull. Opened in 1940, the hall’s grand proscenium arch adds to its commanding presence. Elliott Hall’s 6,000-person capacity and rich history make it a significant part of Indiana’s cultural landscape.
Ruoff Music Center
For those who prefer the thrill of an outdoor concert, Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville is the ultimate destination. Known to many as Deer Creek, this sprawling amphitheater, built in 1989, has become synonymous with largescale summer concerts under the stars. With 6,000 seats under its pavilion and room for 18,000 more on the lawn, Ruoff has hosted major acts from Frank Sinatra to Radiohead, as well as festivals like Farm Aid. The experience of seeing a top-tier band perform while enjoying the Indiana night sky is nothing short of magical. Ruoff consistently ranks as one of the top amphitheaters in the U.S., and its fans praise everything from the pristine facilities to the staff’s hospitality.
Duke’s Indy
For a more intimate concert experience, Duke’s Indy is the place to be. A honkytonk bar in the heart of Indianapolis, Duke’s draws country music fans and casual listeners alike. With a capacity of just 150, the venue creates a close-knit atmosphere, where the music is personal and the audience can get up close and personal with the performers. A pink neon sign above the stage encourages patrons to focus on the music, contributing to the authenticity of the experience. Duke’s might be small in size, but it’s big on character, providing a slice of Indiana’s thriving country music scene.
Bluebird Nightclub
No list of Indiana’s venues would be complete without mention of The
Bluebird Nightclub in Bloomington. This college town bar has seen countless bands perform over the years, with artists like Lou Reed and John Mellencamp making surprise appearances. The wooden beams above the stage, known for their acoustics, contribute to the intimate vibe, making the Bluebird a favorite.
Lincoln Amphitheatre
Meanwhile, nestled in the woods of Lincoln State Park, the Lincoln Amphitheatre is a one-of-a-kind concert venue. Surrounded by nature, this complex is perfect for those who want to spend the day hiking or enjoying the outdoors before settling down for an evening of live music. Its lineup is filled with tribute bands and seasoned
performers, making it a great option for fans of classic rock and country music. The natural backdrop and cozy atmosphere make for an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Blue Gate Restaurant and Theatre
On the other side of the state, in Shipshewana, the Blue Gate Restaurant and Theatre brings guests a mix of Amish-inspired musicals and worldclass concerts by artists like Michael W.Smith and Josh Turner. Known for its wholesome, family-friendly programming, the Blue Gate is a mecca in the Midwest for its combination of dining and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy home-cooked meals before heading into the theater for a highquality performance.
WALKABLE HISTORIC
DISTRICTS IN INDIANA
Some places in Indiana have just that right blend of old-time atmosphere, well-preserved landmarks and retail fun
By Randy Mink
FFor a stroll down memory lane that keeps travelers energized and engaged, nothing beats exploring a historic town or neighborhood brimming with specialty shops and restaurants housed in vintage storefronts. This mix of nostalgic charm and modern retail offers
the best of both worlds, ensuring visitors have plenty to explore while appreciating the past.
Here is a sampling of historic districts in Indiana that are perfect for group visits. Many of these districts are in the southern part of the state, where the earliest settlements were
established, giving the region a distinct 19th-century flair.
Madison
Known as one of the Midwest’s prettiest and best-preserved towns, Madison is home to the country’s largest contiguous National Historic
THE HISTORIC ROTHROCK MILL BRIDGE IN CORYDON
District. This 133-block area is a virtual museum, with over 1,500 buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Many landmarks date back to the early 1800s when Madison was a major port on the Ohio River during the steamboat era.
The vibrant Main Street looks like it’s straight out of a movie set, with original storefronts housing locally owned businesses. Visitors can shop for crafts, antiques, home decor, books, food, and fashion. Art galleries, coffee houses, and ice cream parlors line the street, and don’t miss gourmet cupcakes at The Sweeter Life or hand-crafted chocolates at Cocoa Safari.
Madison’s downtown streets are shaded by trees and lined with fine examples of Federal, Classical Revival, and Italianate architecture. A standout is the Lanier Mansion State Historic Site, the 1844 Greek Revival home of financier James F.D. Lanier.
For a deeper look into local history, visit the Schroeder Saddletree Factory Museum, a one-of-a-kind industrial heritage site, or the Dr. William Hutchings Office & Museum, which showcases 19th-century medical history. Guided tours, including narrated trolley rides, are available through VisitMadison.
Corydon
Corydon, the first state capital of Indiana (1816-1825), is steeped in history. Its town square is dominated by the Old State Capitol, a Federal-style limestone building that served as the heart of state government. Visitors can explore two nearby historic buildings: the Coburn-Porter Law Office and Governor Hendricks’ Headquarters, once the residence of Indiana’s second governor, William A. Hendricks.
The walking tour of Corydon also includes a variety of historic sites, such as the town’s oldest house, built
in 1807, and Branham Tavern, which served as the headquarters for General William Henry Harrison during the War of 1812. The Constitution Elm, under which Indiana’s constitution was written in 1816, is a cherished symbol of the state’s beginnings.
In summer, the square hosts free concerts, and visitors can stop by Point Blank Brewing Company for a local brew.
Newburgh
Nestled on the Ohio River just east of Evansville, Newburgh was settled in 1803 and became one of the largest
river ports between Cincinnati and New Orleans by 1850. The town’s Historic Preservation District offers unique shopping, dining, and festivals in a picturesque setting.
Visitors can stroll through shops like Flutter, Honeysuckle Finds, and The Barefoot Cottage, or enjoy a scenic walk along the Rivertown Trail. The area is rich in history, with Civil Warera homes and commercial buildings. The Newburgh Museum chronicles the town’s role during the Civil War, including its capture by Confederate forces in 1862.
OLD CAPITOL BUILDING IN CORYDON
New Harmony
Located along the Wabash River, New Harmony is a small town known for its two distinct utopian communities, first founded in the early 19th century. The community, first organized by the Harmonie Society, was later purchased by philanthropists who envisioned a different kind of utopia centered on education and social equality.
Guided tours and self-guided walks take visitors past original buildings, including Community House #2, the Working Men’s Institute Museum, and the Roofless Church, designed by architect Philip Johnson. The town also celebrates the arts, with galleries, shops, and summer theater performances. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine at The Red Geranium Restaurant or Sara’s Harmony Way Wine Bar.
Lockerbie Square, Indianapolis
In the heart of downtown Indianapolis, Lockerbie Square Historic District offers a peaceful retreat with
tree-lined streets and beautiful 19thcentury homes. The neighborhood features a mix of Italianate, Federal, and Queen Anne styles and is the city’s oldest remaining residential area. A highlight of the district is the James Whitcomb Riley Home, where the beloved Hoosier poet lived for 20 years. Visitors can take guided walking tours organized by the Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana to explore the district’s charming cottages and brick mansions.
Richmond
In Eastern Indiana, the Depot District in Richmond is a true gem, featuring a collection of historic commercial buildings, many from the late 1800s. At the heart of the district is the 1902 Pennsylvania Railroad Depot, designed by renowned architect Daniel H. Burnham. The district offers an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Fans of classic cars will want to stop by the National Model T Ford Museum.
DOWNTOWN NEW HARMONY
