We just completed a survey of Travel Indiana readers, and you told us one of your favorite story topics is anything to do with history. So, I’m excited that this issue’s cover story is all about Indiana’s past and how it’s brought about attractions you can enjoy today. Our rich heritage can be experienced through exhibits, designated districts, special events, and more. We’ll start in Vincennes, the first territorial capital and Indiana’s oldest city, and take you throughout the state with many intriguing stops along the way.
...this issue’s cover story is all about Indiana’s past and how it’s brought about attractions you can enjoy today. Our rich heritage can be experienced through exhibits, designated districts, special events, and more.
History is also highlighted in our Barns and Bridges feature, which is designed to give you a road map for a fun and educational adventure. Many of these structures date back to the 1800s, and their restoration means you can glimpse how they were used back in the day. Round, octagonal, polygonal…Indiana barns come in all shapes and sizes. And, with so many covered bridges, some Indiana communities have developed fun festivals to celebrate them.
If you’re searching for a reason to travel when there’s so much to do around the holiday season, you’ll appreciate our Make & Take Getaways story, which will give you so many ideas on how to spend a few days channeling your inner artist, and creating unique gifts, all at the same time.
Speaking of the holidays, be sure and check out our shopping and special events pages, which will have you scurrying to plan your next holiday-themed getaway.
And as always, be sure and check out our website, travelindiana.com, for even more trip ideas.
Happy and safe travels!
Stephanie Nicol, Publisher + Editor
Telling the Stories of Authentic Indiana
ON THE COVER
George Rogers
Clark Memorial in Vincennes
PHOTO: Jana Jones
Indiana’s
story by GLENDA WINDERS
It was William Shakespeare who coined the phrase “Past is prologue,” meaning that history sets the stage for whatever is happening in the present. And nowhere is that more true than in Indiana.
As the pioneers moved from the East Coast across the country, many of them settled here, laying the groundwork for the cities and small towns we enjoy today and the discoveries that would come later.
A good place to start exploring this history is in Vincennes, which began as the British Fort Sackville in 1730 and became the first territorial capital between
LEFT:
The Seiberling Mansion in Kokomo.
MAIN PHOTO: Anne Shaw
INSET PHOTO: Howard County Historical Society
ABOVE:
Full-size replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer at the Wilbur Wright Birthplace Museum in Henry County. PHOTO: Stephanie Nicol
In Wayne County, you’ll discover Abbott’s Candies, the oldest candy shop in Indiana. Established in 1890, this Hagerstown gem is still crafting handmade caramels and chocolates using classical recipes that multiple generations know and love.
1800 and 1813. Today it’s possible to tour several historic sites that include the capitol, the oldest government building in the Midwest; the Elihu Stout Print Shop; the home of a French trader; and the Jefferson Academy, the area’s first institution of higher learning and the precursor to Vincennes University. Another spot not to miss is Grouseland, the home of William Henry Harrison, territorial governor and later ninth president of the United States.
Even before that, Col. George Rogers Clark and a band of 170 frontiersmen and French volunteers captured the fort in 1770, marking the birth of the United States north of the Ohio River. Today he is honored with the George Rogers Clark Memorial, which sits on the site of the earlier fort on the bank of the Wabash River. Each year re-enactors stage the historic battle here with an event called “Rendezvous.”
“History doesn’t change, but people change, and knowing history gives us a real perspective on the present,” said Janice Barniak, executive director of the Vincennes/Knox County Visitors and Tourism Bureau.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:
The Gene Stratton-Porter State Historic Site in Noble County is the former home of this famous author.
PHOTO: Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites
The Model T Museum in Richmond.
PHOTO: Richmond-Wayne County Convention & Tourism Bureau Abbott’s Candies in Hagerstown.
PHOTO: Richmond-Wayne County Convention & Tourism Bureau
Corydon was the capital when Indiana became a state. It had been moved to be more centrally located in the territory and also because Harrison’s political enemies wanted to shift the power from his Knox County stronghold. Today it’s possible to relive those days by touring the Corydon State Capitol State Historic Site, which includes the capitol building; the Federalist home where Gov. Williams Hendricks lived; the Constitution Elm, where the state constitution was written; and the Leora Brown School, the state’s first post-Civil War school for African Americans.
The caves for which Harrison County is popular are also filled with history. Squire Boone Caverns were discovered by Squire Boone and his brother, Daniel, in 1790. He later escaped capture by Native Americans
Squire Boone Caverns were discovered by Squire Boone and his brother, Daniel, in 1790. He later escaped capture by Native Americans by hiding there and proclaimed the land to be sacred.
Squire Boone Caverns in Harrison County is a historic destination that includes a working pioneer village and cavern tour that starts with a walk through a custom made door.
PHOTO: Harrison County Visitor’s Bureau/Squire Boone Cavern
by hiding there and proclaimed the land to be sacred. His burial place in the cave is a stop on the one-hour tour through this living cave where one million gallons of water rush through every day. Up top is a re-creation of Boone Village along with such modern-day fun as zip-lining.
Nearby Marengo Cave was discovered in 1883 by two children and opened shortly thereafter, and while Indiana Caverns just opened in 2013, its history might be the richest. The bones in the cave date back 38,000-42,000 years, and it is one of the longest caves in the United States with yet more of it still to be mapped.
A good place to stop for a break between the two capitals is Orange County, home to the French Lick Resorts, which also come with a fair amount of history. William Bowles opened the West Baden Springs Hotel in 1846
“History doesn’t change, but people change, and knowing history gives us a real perspective on the present,” said Janice Barniak, executive director of the
Vincennes/
Knox County Visitors and Tourism Bureau.
RIGHT:
Vincennes, Indiana’s oldest city, celebrates its heritage through historic sites and special events.
PHOTO: Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites
before volunteering for the Mexican-American War. While he was away, he put the care of his property into the hands of John Lane, who maintained and expanded it. On Bowles return he sold some of his land to Lane, who then opened a rival hotel. Today travelers from all over the world come here to take the waters of the natural springs just as their ancestors did nearly two centuries ago.
History comes to life in Franklin County’s Metamora, population 188, which was built alongside the Whitewater Canal in the 1930s. Transportation and commerce on the canal were eventually replaced with train service, but the townspeople continued to use the water to power the cotton, paper and flour mills. Today tourism provides the town’s main income, with visitors coming to see the Whitewater Canal State Historic
The Whitewater Canal State Historic Site in Metamora. PHOTOS: Franklin County Convention, Recreation, and Visitors Commission
Discover iconic destinations like the the gym where the movie “Hoosiers” was filmed and the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame. Henry County also has visit-worthy restaurants and memory-making recreational experiences.
Henry Community Health Hall of Fame Classic
in the New Castle Fieldhouse Girls Classic – Fri., Dec. 27, 2024 Boys Classic– Sat., Dec. 28, 2024
Site. Here also is the oldest — and still operating — grist mill in the state as well as the only existing wooden aqueduct in the country. A tour of historic homes is also on offer.
In Madison, nestled alongside the Ohio River, you’ll experience more than 133 blocks of outstanding architecture, as its downtown business district is one of the country’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts. Travel America says, “Madison is an outdoor museum of architecture.”
Farther north is Henry County, where basketball is king. The Hoosier Gym is a favorite stop for basketball fans from around the world. The gym served as a filming location for the movie “Hoosiers,” which was based on Milan High School’s state championship in 1954. Community volunteers sustain the gymnasium, locker room, and memorabilia highlighting Indiana’s rich basketball heritage. Just down the road is
St. Elmo Steakhouse in downtown Indianapolis.
PHOTOS: St. Elmo Steakhouse
the Basketball Hall of Fame, which celebrates Indiana basketball from its beginnings. Also in Henry County is the Wilbur Wright Birthplace Museum, where you’ll learn about the Wright Brothers and the start of aviation.
Boone County had a brush with historic greatness on February 11, 1861, when President Abraham Lincoln stopped in Lebanon en route to Washington, D.C., for his inauguration and addressed the citizenry from the back of his train. Today that exact spot is market by a historical marker to remind locals and visitors that the country’s 16th president was here. In Zionsville a 266-square-foot mural adorns a building across from Lincoln Park. The president’s funeral train would pass through here again on his way back to Springfield, Illinois.
In downtown Indianapolis, St. Elmo Steakhouse has been a landmark since 1902, and is the oldest Indianapolis
In downtown Indianapolis, St. Elmo Steakhouse has been a landmark since 1902, and is the oldest Indianapolis steakhouse in its original location. It was named for the patron saint of sailors and started out as simply a small tavern with a basic menu.
steakhouse in its original location. It was named for the patron saint of sailors and started out as simply a small tavern with a basic menu. Today, it’s famous for its high-quality steaks and shrimp cocktail, but its classic turn-of-the-century Chicago saloon décor has changed very little.
Then it’s on to Tippecanoe County, whose geologic history began after the last ice age between 12,000 and 16,000 years ago. This history comes alive at Prophetstown State Park , Indiana’s newest, where visitors have the opportunity to experience the fens, seeps, wetlands, savannahs, trees and plants from seeds found hundreds of years ago as they developed during that time.
Within the park is The Farm at Prophetstown, a farming and education center that offers experiences in all aspects of farm life from the 1920s. Also in the park is a Native American Settlement , where there are demonstrations like basket weaving.
Just down the road is the site of the Battle of Tippecanoe, where Native Americans and white settlers clashed in a battle of cultures. A museum teaches visitors about 19th-century settlement and Native American lifestyles.
In Zionsville, you can shop and dine along historic Main Street, and see the mural celebrating Abe Lincoln’s visit to Boone county in 1861.
PHOTOS: Discover Boone County
Today visitors can step back into the 19th century with a tour of the original factory that ends in a tempting gift shop.
Purdue University students and alumni might be interested in some more recent history: This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Purdue Memorial Union, which opened its doors while still unfinished on Sept. 9, 1924.
New York glassmaker Charles Edward Henry encountered history in 1888, when he stopped in Kokomo after a business meeting in Chicago to find out what Indiana’s gas boom was all about. He negotiated with local officials to have them provide a factory site and free natural gas and opened his business later that year, providing colored glass to such artists as Louis Comfort Tiffany. The gas boom has long since ended, but Kokomo
Opalescent Glass continues to make colorful sheets of art glass to ship around the world, using the same methods and recipes employed by Henry back in the day. Today visitors can step back into the 19th century with a tour of the original factory that ends in a tempting gift shop. Not far away from the glass factory is the Seiberling Mansion, another way to experience the past. Monroe Seiberling moved here to open the Kokomo Strawboard Co., and he started building his exquisite home — a mix of Queen Anne and Romanesque Revival styles — in 1889. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is open for tours and also houses the Howard
Kokomo Opalescent Glass.
PHOTOS:
Top: Phil Allen
Bottom: Kokomo Opalescent Glass
Grant County bills its history as “classic and cool,” and rightly so. Iconic film star James Dean was born in Marion and grew up in Fairmount. He died in 1955 after filming only three movies, but because they captured the spirit of a generation, they made him a legend.
County Museum. “Christmas at the Seiberling ” sees it decorated for the holidays and special events.
Grant County bills its history as “classic and cool,” and rightly so. Iconic film star James Dean was born in Marion and grew up in Fairmount. He died in 1955 after filming only three movies, but because they captured the spirit of a generation, they made him a legend. Today fans can follow the James Dean Trail to find the James Dean Museum, James Dean Birthsite Memorial, James Dean Memorial Park , three murals devoted to the actor and his grave at the Park Cemetery
“James Dean’s spirit forever echoes through Fairmount — a small town that cradled a rebel soul and a timeless icon,” said Haley Anderson, Grant County CVB executive director. “In every corner and every memory, his legend lives on, reminding us that even the quietest places can foster the brightest stars.”
The Ball family, makers of the famous Ball mason jars, has a rich history in Muncie, and it can be experienced throughout the area. Discover the charm of Minnetrista Boulevard, where you can admire the historic Ball family homes, stroll through the enchanting Oakhurst gardens, and immerse yourself in the
captivating Oakhurst Experience. Unleash your creativity at the Bob Ross Experience, or let your kids explore their sense of adventure and creativity in the Backyard Garden and Betty’s Cabin Plus, enjoy a network of trails and paths perfect for leisurely walks amidst the beautiful surroundings.
Richmond/Wayne County’s history and heritage run deep. The historic National Road is the trail pioneers used as they made their westward trek. Today it’s known as U.S. 40, and here you can immerse yourself in the many historical museums and attractions depicting the way of life of Hoosier families and pioneers
LEFT:
The James Dean Museum in Fairmount. PHOTOS: Grant County Visitors Bureau/James Dean Museum
ABOVE:
The Oakhurst Experience at Minnetrista in Muncie.
PHOTO: Minnetrista
Billy Sunday’s home in Winona Lake is now a museum that is available by appointment for tours.
during the westward migration. You’ll be amazed when you discover where preCivil War runaway slaves hid at the Levi & Catharine Coffin House, a popular attraction where visitors can experience guided tours and an interpretive center.
The Historic Richmond Depot District is a must-visit area, and is a collection of great restaurants, shops, and attractions in spaces that have maintained their historical integrity.
Also in Wayne County, you’ll discover Abbott’s Candies, the oldest candy shop in Indiana. Established in 1890, this Hagerstown gem is still crafting handmade caramels and chocolates using classical recipes that multiple generations know and love.
Winona Lake in Kosciusko County was established by the Beyer brothers, who discovered that the area’s artesian spring water could be useful in their refrigeration business and later for a resort. In 1894 the resort was sold to a minister who turned the property into a
TOP:
The Billy Sunday Home Museum in Winona Lake. PHOTOS: Archives & Special Collections, Morgan Library, Grace College & Seminary
BOTTOM:
The Barker Mansion in Michigan City.
PHOTO: The Barker Mansion
venue for religious retreats, and it wasn’t long after that that evangelist Billy Sunday began preaching there to a population that could swell to 250,000 in the summers. Today, thanks to a restoration project begun in 1994, the Village at Winona recalls the “golden age” of the place with shopping and entertainment for locals, visitors, and students at Grace College Sunday’s home is now a museum that is available by appointment for tours.
LaGrange County is the third largest Amish community in the United States, thanks to settlers who were attracted to the area because of cheap land in 1841. They created a small town with a church, blacksmith shop, post office, and sawmill that eventually became Shipshewana Since then travelers have been drawn to visit because of their fine craftsmanship and homemade food. Now one way to recall their arrival and learn about their way of life is to tour Menno-Hof. Here you’ll explore a 17th-century sailing ship and replicas of a printing shop and meeting house as well as the Amish Room, which explains how an Amish home is arranged.
Michigan City in LaPorte County is home to the Barker Mansion, built in 1857 and home to several generations of the Barker family, who were instrumental in shaping the railway landscape through the Midwest. Today the home’s 38 rooms and its gardens are open for tours. A special treat for children is the dress-up “Enchanted Garden Hour” series, where costumed characters read stories, kids make crafts and refreshments are served.
For many years Valparaiso was the home of Orville Redenbacher and his partner, Charlie Bowman, who became world-famous for developing a superior brand of popcorn, Red Bow, which incorporated both of their names. Needing a way to advertise their product, they eventually adopted Redenbacher’s likeness
and name, and he appeared in television commercials. Today he is remembered with a sculpture by Lou Cella that sits on a park bench in Central Park Plaza and a nearby plaque that recounts his and Bowman’s accomplishments. Every fall, the Valparaiso Events organization hosts their annual Popcorn Festival to celebrate this history.
The Romanesque Porter County Memorial Hall, also known as the Memorial Opera House, was built in Valparaiso in 1892-93 to seat 100 people and became the meeting place for the Grand Army of the Republic. William Jennings Bryan is said to have spoken here during his 1896 presidential campaign, and Theodore Roosevelt, John Phillip Sousa, and the Marx Brothers were other famous people who came to visit. The building fell into decline with the advent of movies, and by World War II it was an abandoned building. Various groups have renovated and maintained it so that today it is still remarkably intact. It is on the National Register of Historic Places and remains a venue for the performing arts.
Noble County is home to The Cabin at Wildflower Woods, the beloved home and final resting place of Gene Stratton-Porter, one of Indiana’s most widely read authors and one of the world’s first nature photographers and conservationists. The Gene StrattonPorter Memorial Society shares her legacy with visitors by telling her story and making her achievements relevant for today’s society and future generations.
In Fort Wayne, you can experience events and re-enactments at the Old Fort , a copy of the original fort constructed by Major John Whistler and his men during 1815-1816. It was the last of three American forts to stand in the area, and was by far the most sophisticated and carefully designed allwooden forts ever built in North America.
Here you’ll explore a 17th-century sailing ship and replicas of a printing shop and meeting house as well as the Amish Room, which explains how an Amish home is arranged.
LEFT, TOP TO BOTTOM:
The Farm at Prophetstown, close to Lafayette, is a 1920s farmstead.
Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette Purdue Memorial Union.
PHOTO: Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette
5 Arch Brewing Company in Centerville/Wayne County features the 1893 World’s Fair back bar.
PHOTO: Richmond-Wayne County Convention & Tourism Bureau
PHOTO:
RIGHT:
Menno-Hof in LaGrange County.
PHOTO: Visit Shipshewana/LaGrange County CVB
Come for the history, Stay for the Full Experience
Founded in the early 1800s as a trading and transportation center, Wayne County is brimming with historic treasures, along with an extensive list of modern-day experiences.
PILGRIMAGE WINE COMPANY
2527 Treaty Line Rd, Cambridge City (757) 618-6642 • pilgrimagewinecompany.com
This authentic, old-world style winery grows its own grapes on-site, and provides a peaceful escape from modern life. Spend the afternoon enjoying highquality wines in a serene setting. This veteranowned and operated winery is dog-friendly and kid-friendly, so bring the whole family.
For over 30 years, Cope has promoted sustainability through education & demonstration. Explore our 130 acres, rich with trails, forests, ponds, and wetlands, or tour our certified living building. Join us in protecting the environment for future generations.
LEVI AND CATHARINE COFFIN HOUSE
201 US-27, Fountain City (765) 847-1691 • indianamuseum.org
Tour the Levi and Catharine Coffin State Historic Site and experience how the Coffins used their 1839 home to aid more than 1,000 freedom-seekers on their journey north on the Underground Railroad. Voted a top 25 historic site by the History Channel.
ABBOTT’S CANDIES
48 E. Walnut Street, Hagerstown (877) 801-1200 • abbottscandy.com
At Abbott's Candies, every piece of candy is a work of art, because they are all done by hand. Our chocolates and buttery caramels are crafted using time-honored techniques that ensure every bite is as good as the memory. Whether you're sinking your teeth into our creamy chocolates or indulging in our signature caramels, made with the original 1890 recipe, you'll taste the difference that over a century of expertise brings. Experience the sweet perfection of Abbott's Candies. Abbott’s is the oldest candy shop in Indiana, established in 1890, and you'll be delighted by the history when you visit our shop in Hagerstown.
WARM GLOW CANDLE STORE
2131 N Centerville Rd, Centerville (765) 855-2000 • warmglow.com
Easily recognized by the huge candle out front, this is a shopping mecca full of Warm Glow Candles, home decor, Indiana wine, gifts, gourmet foods, and more. You’ll be amazed at the 22,000-square-foot store which also has a café.
RICHMOND FARMERS MARKET
47 N 6th Street, Richmond IN (May-October) 101 S 1st Street, Richmond IN (November - April)
Open Saturdays year-round from 9am-Noon. You’ll find a large assortment of products from over 30 100% local farmers and vendors, including seasonal produce, meat, eggs, honey, baked goods, jams and jellies, candles, soaps, jewelry, fine art, crafts and more!
This farm is operated by the third Alexander generation of beekeepers, selling honey, beekeeping supplies, and pollination services. They also provide educational opportunities and hands on learning for new beekeepers. Be sure and check out the gift shop in the apiary.
THE GENNETT MANSION AND GUEST HOUSE
1829 E. Main Street, Richmond gennettmansion.weebly.com
Spend the night or plan your next event at the beautiful and historic Gennett Mansion, with eight fireplaces, crystal chandeliers, a stunning Starr baby grand piano, and gracious staircase. The first floor has 4,000 square feet and can host 40 people in the grand dining room. There are three luxurious renovated bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms for an overnight stay. Adjacent to the mansion is the Gennett Mansion Guest House, originally a carriage house, now a cozy twobedroom, one-bath overnight rental. It holds a bit of local history, with legends saying it once stored set pieces from the civic theater. Both properties are conveniently located near area attractions.
ARTIST’S RETREAT GUEST HOUSE
119 SW 9th St, Richmond (765) 407-0211
artistsretreatguesthouse.info
Your stay here includes everything you need to feel inspired. From the front veranda to the artist’s studio, you’ll be surrounded by a charming atmosphere that nourishes the creator within. Inside you’ll find a collection of art and antiques that infuse every space with an irresistible style. This two-bedroom, one-bath rental offers Wi-Fi, a large living area, a library, cable TV, a beautiful garden, and even an art studio full of canvases and paint. This Craftsman bungalow is conveniently located in the Earlham College neighborhood, close to many Wayne County attractions.
THE CHOCOLATE TRAIL
5701 National Rd E., Richmond (765) 935-8687
visitrichmond.org
The free Chocolate Trail pass is a fun and flavorful adventure to 13 merchants featuring locallymade chocolateinspired samples. From a 1890s candy factory to bakeries, ice cream parlor, cafes and distinctive shops, there’s a great variety of spots.
WAYNE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM 1150 N A St, Richmond (765) 962-5756 • wchmuseum.org
Comprised of eight buildings, the museum is a unique repository of local history from early pioneer life to modern times. Exhibits include two log cabins, early Richmond made automobiles, a 3000-year-old mummy, and more. And they have rental space for up to 120 people.
Grande Dames The of French Lick
story by GLENDA WINDERS
Walk in the footsteps of a U.S. president, celebrities, and gangsters and discover the storied past of French Lick’s sister resorts, while enjoying the luxuries of spas, fine dining, and luxe accommodations.
French Lick has a deep, rich history all its own. Its two grande dames are, of course, the French Lick Springs Hotel and the West Baden Springs Hotel, each of which has a storied past.
Where the hotels are located now was once fertile territory for Native American hunters because of a salt lick that wild animals visited as they traveled along the Buffalo Trace. In fact, the town was named after the French traders who had settled in this area. In 1826 the state government authorized salt-mining in the area, but the saline deposits turned out not to be commercially successful.
In 1832 Thomas Bowles and his physician brother, William, bought 1,500 acres of the land and around 1845 opened a hotel there. When he went off to fight in the Mexican American war the following year, he leased the land to another doctor, John Lane, on the condition that he enlarge and improve the property, which he did.
When Bowles returned five years later to reclaim his operation, Lane bought land from him and opened his own competing hotel, and the two operated as rivals for decades. Today, however, the properties are managed as sisters who share the same three sulfur springs — Lithia, Proserpine and Pluto — that are still said to heal more than 50 conditions and diseases.
The contemporary owners still honor the two hotels’ traditions, and visitors still come to take the waters in a variety of ways. The Spa at French Lick offers 28 rooms for massages, facials, wraps, and soaking in Pluto Water. At the Spa at West Baden the same services are available along with a twolevel natatorium.
Whether you’re coming for spa treatments, swimming, cycling, golf, gaming, horseback riding, archery, pickleball, hiking, dining, or something else out in town, enhance your experience by learning more about the storied past of these hotels, both of which are on the National Register of Historic Places. Several possible options will enable you to do just that.
PHOTOS:
PHOTO:
A tour of the French Lick hotel will yield several surprising bits of information. You’ll learn, for example, what U.S. president launched his campaign here, how tomato juice happened to be invented here in 1917, why gambling was shut down in 1949 and what celebrities have stayed here over the years.
A similar tour of the West Baden hotel will reveal how the building, with its unusual architecture and spectacular 200-foot freespan glass dome was built in less than a year. And maybe you’ll be able to help solve the mystery of the Angel Room, a tiny, drumshaped room above the medallion in the middle of the dome. Inside, someone painted three exquisite angels, but no one knows for sure who the artist was.
Return to the Roaring 1920s with a Twilight Tour, when costumed interpreters will portray such famous guests as golfer Walter Hagen, writer Edna Ferber, and the “unsinkable” Molly Brown, and tell their stories. Other possibilities include visiting the resident historian to ask questions or booking a trip into town with him on a Historical Trolley Tour to learn even more about the area.
If you’d rather browse about on your own, grab a map and follow the Ferguson Trail to take the self-guided Historical Walking Tour. At West Baden, learn for yourself how the Chicago Cubs won the World Series in 1908 after training here. You’ll also find out that this National Historic Landmark has spent time as a Jesuit seminary, a U.S. Army Hospital, and a private college. Be sure to make a stop at the sunken gardens.
At French Lick find out about the legendary guests who once came here to party and rub shoulders with celebrities, politicians, and gangsters. You’ll also learn about the many iterations and additions to the building, how it went into decline after the Great Depression, and the many times it has changed hands since then.
While you’re in the area, check out some other historic places nearby that have earned spots on the National Register of
Historic Places. They are: the Thomas Braxton House (now a bed-andbreakfast), the Dixie Garage, the First Baptist Church, the Homestead Hotel, Jenkins Place with two historic homes, Lindley House, Lynd School, Newberry Friends Meeting House, Orange County Courthouse, and the Orleans Historic District for a variety of architectural styles, the Oxford Hotel, and Paoli Historic District with 144 notable buildings and West Baden National Bank. At the end of the day, plan to dine at one of the hotels, where even the restaurants have been touched by history. French Lick’s fine-dining restaurant is 1875: The Steakhouse, named for the first Kentucky Derby run not far away. Sinclair’s Restaurant at West Baden is named for
one of the hotel’s early owners, as is Café Sinclair. The focal point at the Power Plant Bar and Grill is the electrical switchboard that once powered the French Lick hotel. French Lick-West Baden is chockful of present-day amenities, and while you’re here you can relax, rejuvenate and contemplate what has gone before in its past.
TOP AND MIDDLE: French Lick Springs Hotel
PHOTOS: Visit French Lick West Baden
BOTTOM: West Baden Springs Hotel PHOTO: Visit French Lick West Baden
Vincennes is home to many historic attractions
George Rogers Clark National Historical Park, located on the banks of the Wabash River in Vincennes, is located on what is believed to be the site of Fort Sackville, commemorating the finest moment in General George Rogers Clark’s career. Outdoor areas of the park include grassy areas, walking paths, and picnic tables, and the visitor center and parking area are open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Clark Memorial building is open on request between these same hours. You can go inside the memorial building by checking in with rangers at the visitor center first.
Other historic attractions in the area include Grouseland, which includes the William Henry Harrison Mansion and Museum, a National Historic Landmark important for
its Federal-style architecture and role in American history. The museum features an impressive collection of art, furniture, memorabilia. There are three original portraits of Harrison in the collection, Harrison family pieces, and military and campaign memorabilia collected since the house opened in 1911.
Fort Knox II was built in 1803, three miles north of Vincennes on the Wabash River. The fort’s location is outlined with short posts and interpretive markers which tell the story of the site, which was used as a military installation from 1803-1813. Fort Knox was the mustering location of the army that fought the battle of Tippecanoe in November of 1811.
This season, celebrate Vincennes history with some fun events. On December 6-7 there’s Christmas at Grouseland, a candlelight tour of the mansion with seasonal décor, guides in period dress, and horse-drawn carriage rides. There’s also Christkindlmarkt, a downtown festival with vendors, traditional German food, kids activities, and entertainment, capped off with the annual, sold-out Frosty Mug Pub Crawl Saturday night. It’s also a First Friday Art Walk weekend, which means all three galleries open their doors with special events like artist’s talks and entertainment.
George Rogers Clark Memorial
Destinations H ISTORIC
DUBOIS COUNTY MUSEUM
2704 Newton Street • Jasper 812-634-7733
duboiscountymuseum.org
One of the largest county museums in the state of Indiana, this museum showcases the rich German heritage and history of the Dubois County area. Visit the double log cabin, historical exhibits, and “Main Street Dubois County.” There’s also a one-room schoolhouse and play yard, interactive Lewis and Clark expedition boat, and more.
SAINT MARY-OF-THE-WOODS HISTORIC DISTRICT
1 Sisters Of Providence • Saint Mary of the Woods 812-535 -3131 • smwhistoricdistrict.org
Discover the enchanting Saint Mary-of-theWoods Historic District near Terre Haute. Stroll through wooded grounds and marvel at its collection of 67 buildings on the National Register. From the magnificent Big Church to Lourdes Grotto, you’ll find awe inspiring architecture reminiscent of Europe. Don’t miss the Shell Chapel – lined in shells!
THE BARKER MANSION
631 Washington Street 219-873-1520 • barkermansion.org
Built in 1857 & expanded in 1905,this English Manor–style home features period furnishings from the Gilded Age. Enjoy tours, special events and a permanent exhibit - Haskell & Barker Car Company and The Legacy of Freight. The Mansion offers rental spaces for weddings, meetings, family gatherings, corporate retreats, and more. Open Tuesday-Sunday 11am-4pm. Tickets available at the door and online.
NOBLE COUNTY
Noble County, Indiana, boasts several historically interesting sites, with one of the most notable being the Gene StrattonPorter State Historic Site in Rome City. Gene Stratton-Porter, a prominent author, naturalist, and photographer, is best known for her novels such as “The Girl of the Limberlost.” The site includes her former home, the Limberlost Cabin, which has been preserved and offers insights into her life and work. Additionally, the Stanley One Room Schoolhouse in Noble County’s rural community of Stanly is a significant historical site, serving as a tangible link to past educational practices. Another notable historical site is the Noble County Courthouse in Albion, which exemplifies 19th-century architecture and has been a central part of the county’s history since its construction in 1886. These sites reflect Noble County’s rich history in literature, architecture, and regional development.
ABBOTT’S CANDIES
48 E. Walnut Street • Hagerstown
877-801-1200
abbottscandy.com
For over 130 years, nestled in the heart of Hagerstown, Abbott’s Candies has always been more than just a candy store; it’s a living piece of Indiana’s past. As the oldest candy shop in the state, Abbott’s has been crafting its famous confections with the same dedication since 1890, when W.C. Abbott first stirred the kettle to create our nowlegendary recipe.
You can taste over a century of tradition with every bite of our handmade chocolates and our signature, soft caramels, Abbott’s still uses the original recipes and time-honored techniques that have been passed down through generations, keeping the artistry of old-fashioned candy-making alive. Watch our artisans as they work their magic crafting each piece of candy as a homage to the past. Don’t leave without tasting a free sample of our world-famous caramel, made just as it was over a hundred years ago. It’s more than a sweet treat; it’s a taste of the rich history that has made Abbott’s Candies a beloved part of Indiana’s heritage.
For those who appreciate history, Abbott’s Candies offers an experience that blends nostalgia with timeless flavors. We invite you to come and tour this hidden gem and taste the history.
PARAMOUNT THEATRE
1124 Meridian Street • Anderson 765-642-1234
andersonparamount.org
John Eberson started building this atmospheric theatre in 1928, and it opened on August 20, 1929. The theatre was primarily built for vaudeville and movies, to escape the real world. The design was to give the illusion of a Spanish casa or villa complete with wrought-iron gates, statues, a ceiling painted like a sky with stars that really twinkled, and clouds projected onto the ceiling which slowly moved across the sky. Thousands of tiles in the original design of the lobby floor were set by hand and the terra cotta façade on the building facing was so detailed it merited its own blueprints.
The entire complex was originally designed as a seven story hotel and theatre with a ballroom on the 7th floor. With downsizing, the building stopped with three floors and the third floor is now the ballroom. There are 12 of these John Eberson atmospheric theatres left in the USA. And their Grand PAGE Theatre Pipe Organ is one of only three Page organs remaining in an original installation in the United States.
Today, the Paramount offers a variety of great shows, including musical productions, special guest shows, and more.
TOWN OF ROANN Wabash County visitwabashcounty.com
In northeast Indiana’s Wabash County, the tiny town of Roann (pop. 479) attracts thousands of visitors who come to explore its signature historic landmarks, like Stockdale Mill and the covered bridge. But what makes this area even more special, is its modern-day amenities. You can plan a day here, and one of your first stops should be Log Cabin Antiques, specializing in a curated collection of vintage and antique items. New merchandise is added every weekend.
Next, head to Mom and Pop’s Jazzy Junk, a large space filled with antiques and collectibles in the heart of downtown. You’ll find multiple booths with a great variety of vintage merchandise at The Barn. Dig through antiques, collectibles, household items, and vintage clothing to find your new hidden treasure.
When it’s time for a food stop, check out Lynn’s Restaurant, serving traditional diner American food with burgers, tenderloins, homemade breakfast, and so much more. Bailey’s Pizza Parlor specializes in delicious pizza, specialty subs, breadsticks, homemade bakery bread, and baked goods such as pies and cookies. Finish up with some dessert at In-Laws Creamery and Catering, a family-owned business offering not only ice cream and sweet treats at their storefront, but also a catering menu.
HOLIDAY EVENTS TRADITIONS
Plan your next road trip around the state’s best holiday events and traditions BROWN COUNTY CHRISTKINDL MARKET
COZY UP IN A PRIVATE IGLOO AT FOUR
CORNERS
WINERY!!
294 East 600 North • Valparaiso 219-286-3603 • fourcornerswinery.com
Escape to your own winter wonderland with our exclusive igloo rentals. Sip on your favorite wines while staying warm and toasty inside a beautifully decorated igloo, complete with blankets, ambient lighting, and stunning vineyard views. Perfect for intimate gatherings, date nights, or a unique outdoor experience.
Reserve your igloo starting November 1 and enjoy a magical, unforgettable experience at Four Corners Winery!!
LA PORTE SANTA PARADE
NOVEMBER 30
Lincolnway • Downtown La Porte livinthelakelife.org
Santa Claus is coming to town –downtown, that is! Held annually on the last Saturday in November, the City of La Pore’s Santa Parade is a longtime favorite among residents and visitors alike. Get into the holiday spirit with dozens of Christmasinspired floats, and don’t forget to get your picture with Santa back at his chalet!
THE BARKER MANSION
631 Washington St. • Michigan City 219-873-1520 • barkermansion.org
The Barker Mansion has original furnishings and art objects and will be decorated for the holiday season. The mansion features a permanent exhibit, Haskell & Barker Car Company and the Legacy of Freight. The Barker Mansion is on the National Register of Historic Places. For more information visit: barkermansion.org.
SAT. DEC. 7 10 AM - 6 PM
SUN. DEC. 8 10 AM - 4 PM
Coachlight Square in Nashville browncountychristkindlmarket.com
Located in the heart of Coachlight Square, the Christkindl Market brings the charm and warmth of a traditional European holiday market to Brown County, Indiana. This festive event is brimming with unique gifts, lively family entertainment, and a vibrant Christmas atmosphere. Visitors can explore a variety of festive booths featuring handcrafted items by local artisans, enjoy live music that fills the air with holiday cheer, and delight in special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. The market also features the enchanting presence of a traditional Christkindl Market angel, adding a touch of magic to the experience. The Christkindl Market is perfectly timed to coincide with other holiday activities in Brown County, such as the Light Parade and Stuff a Stocking event, making it an ideal destination for creating lasting holiday memories. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift, soaking in the festive spirit, or simply enjoying the beauty of Brown County during the holiday season, the Christkindl Market offers something special for everyone. Make sure to visit Brown County, Indiana, this holiday season to immerse yourself in the joy and tradition of the Christkindl Market and the surrounding festivities.
HOLIDAY EVENTS TRADITIONS
THE LERNER THEATRE
410 S. Main Street
574-293-4469 • thelerner.com
The Lerner Theatre is kicking off it s centennial celebration in style, blending tradition with festivity as the holiday season approaches. In honor of its 100-year legacy, the theatre will be adorning her iconic windows with vintagethemed holiday displays, paying homage to its rich history in the heart of Downtown Elkhart. The annual holiday window displays are put together in partnership with Premier Arts, the resident theatre company of The Lerner Theatre.
The decorations for 2024 reflect the spirit of The Lerner’s ongoing commitment to the arts, with each piece representing the different eras of the theatre’s existence. The festive lights
ALL ABOARD THE HOLIDAY EXPRESS
At Ruthmere Museum
NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 29
302 E. Beardsley Ave. • Elkhart
574-264-0330 • ruthmere.org
“All Aboard the Holiday Express” is the theme for Ruthmere’s 2024 holiday tours! Each room of the museum will be decorated with vintage and modern-day train décor and model trains, some of which will be on loan from collectors throughout Elkhart County. Ruthmere has created an unforgettable experience of holiday décor and Christmas cheer.
This year’s theme captures the glory days of when America’s railroads were symbols of progress. Elkhart has a rich history with the railroad. The Norfolk Southern Railway’s Elkhart Yard is the largest railroad freight classification yard east of the Mississippi River; as such, Elkhart
and intricate ornaments bring warmth to the winter months, while inviting the community to celebrate this incredible milestone. Featured alongside the holiday window displays in 2024 will be the iconic ELCO letters that once shone brightly above Main St. in the marquee. As the theatre continues to offer world-class entertainment, the centennial holiday display marks the beginning of a year-long celebration, embracing both nostalgia and the future of the performing arts in Elkhart. For more information about The Lerner Theatre or it’s events, please visit thelerner.com.
functions as a vital link in the chain connecting the Atlantic Seaboard with the Midwest and beyond.
Bring the whole family to appreciate not only the splendor of Ruthmere’s stunning Christmas décor, but also the rich history behind trains and engineering. Ruthmere Museum, the 1910 Beaux Arts home of Albert and Elizabeth Beardsley, was built during the golden age of rail travel. This historic mansion features lavishly decorated silk wall coverings, hand-carved woodwork, painted murals, and a world-class art collection. Its vintage décor will transport you back through time to an era of adventure and innovation.
Tours begin November 30. For hours visit Ruthmere.org.
1011 N. Main St. • Elkhart 574-266-2006 x105
wellfieldgardens.org
Wellfield Botanic Gardens’ Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights, presented by Welch Packaging, will transport you to a magical setting with lights, sound, and beauty, perfect for families to enjoy during the holiday season. Each year, Wellfield is bigger and brighter. For 18 nights in November and December, enjoy a holiday light show inside the Gardens. Tickets are available online or at the gate. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and must exit by 9 p.m. Last admission is at 8:09 p.m. Adults (ages 13 and older) are $15, children (ages 3 to 12) are $10 and kids (ages under 3) are free. If you are a Wellfield member, admission discounts will apply!
Corporate and private rentals are available, please email info@wellfieldgardens.org.
Visit https://wellfieldgardens.org/winterwonderland-holiday-lights-2024/ for more information.
WELLFIELD BOTANIC GARDENS WINTER WONDERLAND
PARLOR CITY CHRISTMAS DECEMBER
14
Downtown Bluffton
FB@ParlorCityChristmas
Pop on over to Downtown Bluffton on Saturday December 14th from 8 a.m.-2p.m. to enjoy carriage and trolley rides, a shopping fair featuring more than 35 vendors, musical entertainment, a goodie walk throughout downtown, reindeer visits, Historical Mansion of Christmas Trees, and more to be announced on their Facebook event page @ParlorCityChristmas. Most events are FREE, thanks to community sponsors! NEW THIS YEAR will be a trampoline show along Market Street. Picture your favorite Hallmark movie with small town charm come to life! Great opportunity for local/handmade gift shopping too!
KOKOMO HOLIDAY EVENTS & TRADITIONS
NOVEMBER 4-17
Trim-a-Tree Festival
See dozens of Christ mas trees and wreaths all beautifully decorated for the holidays and lined from one end to the other in Kokomo’s Markland Mall. All remain on display for 2 weeks before they are auctioned off to the highest bidder. Proceeds benefit We Care, a local non-profit.
NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 29
Christmas at the Seiberling
While your in town check out: Wonderland of Lights at The Ouabache State Park and grab tickets for “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” by the Wells County Creative Arts Theater.
For a full list of holiday events go to visitwellscounty.com
Experience olde world charm with Christmas events found exclusively in DUBOIS COUNTY.
duboiscountychristmas.com
NOVEMBER 3–10, 2024
Huntingburg Christmas Stroll
Stroll Huntingburg’s Historic 4th Street. Enjoy unique specialty shops and eateries as you experience all the joys of the holiday season. Event highlights include the fashion show, tree lighting, igloo rentals, sips and bites, Santa visits, horse drawn carriage rides, home tours, and more! Be sure to come back Dec. 7 for “A Christmas Journey” parade and ice rink in Market Street Park.
The elegance of the Seiberling Mansion is a perfect setting to celebrate the holiday season! Explore the mansion with its artfully decorated trees, wreaths, garlands, holiday décor and thousands of Christmas lights – both inside and out. Opening Night Lighting Ceremony will be held on Saturday, Nov. 30. Open Tuesday-Sunday 1-4 p.m. and select evenings.
DECEMBER 7
City of Kokomo Christmas Parade
Enjoy an old-fashioned lighted Christmas parade down Main Street in downtown Kokomo with lighted floats, marching bands and of course, Santa Claus! Parade starts at 6:30 p.m. with Letters to Santa, vendors, and kid’s activities open before the parade.
Find a list of all holiday events at VisitKokomo.org.
NOVEMBER 16–17, 2024
Ferdinand Christkindlmarkt
Shop six market locations throughout Ferdinand, featuring handmade treasures, primitives, antiques, delicious regional food and wines, and over 200 booths in a festive setting. Other highlights include live glockenspiel performances, a marionette theater, free shuttle service, tours of the Monastery, and Evansville Philharmonic “Sounds of the Season” concert.
DECEMBER 6–8, 2024
Jasper O’Tannenbaum Days
Enjoy holiday shopping and activities centered around the colossal Christmas Tree and throughout the newly revitalized downtown. Highlights of the festival include horse drawn carriage rides, artisan demonstrations in stores, visits with Santa, Holiday Bazaars, and cookie walks. Don’t miss a variety of performances during the holiday season by Jasper Community Arts with the Norm Lewis Christmas Show on December 7th.
91ST ANNUAL PURDUE CHRISTMAS SHOW
DECEMBER 7TH AND 8TH
Elliott Hall of Music
West Lafayette
Holiday Cheer Starts Here!
The 91st Annual Purdue Christmas Show is the must-see event of the year! Whether you’re a longtime fan or experiencing the performance for the first time, the Purdue Christmas Show is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Gather your family and friends and create lasting memories as you sing along to your favorite songs and marvel at the extraordinary student talent on display.
December 7, 2024: 12:00 PM (Noon); 4:00 PM
December 8, 2024: 2:00 PM
Get your tickets today at am.ticketmaster.com/purdue or by calling the box office at 765-494-3933
All PMO perform in the Pensemblesurdue Christmas Show, including the Purdue Bells, Heart & Soul, Purduettes, University Choir, Purdue Varsity Glee Club. Members of the All-Campus & Community Chorale participate in the combined Vocalis choir, tool.
Make this holiday season one to remember as we come together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas!
“A CHRISTMAS STORY” COMES HOME
NOVEMBER 16 - DECEMBER 30
Indiana Welcome Center 7770 Corinne Drive • Hammond 219.989.7979
achristmasstorycomeshome.com
Immerse your family in the holiday classic A Christmas Story with animatronic window displays featuring memorable scenes from the film. Macy’s six window displays bring to life the fictional town of Hohman, inspired by author Jean Shepherd’s real hometown, Hammond, Indiana.
This year, you can once again visit the top of Santa’s Mountain for a special photo opportunity. Climb the stairs to share your Christmas wishes, take a photo, and enjoy a ride down the big red slide. Be sure to schedule your time in advance on the website to secure your spot, though walk-ins are welcome if there’s an opening.
Be sure to check the schedule for special events like Mommy’s Little Piggy Mashed Potato Eating Contest, Holiday for Heroes, All is Calm, Wag Your Tail Wednesdays, and more exciting entertainment.
Before you leave, stop at the gift shop, stocked with official A Christmas Story merchandise—perfect for your holiday shopping! And don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with “Flick,” immortalized as a bronze statue at the flagpole.
NOBLE COUNTY WINDMILL WINTER WONDERLAND
DECEMBER 6-8 / DECEMBER 13-15
Mid-America Windmill Museum’s Winter Lights Exhibit 732 S Allen Chapel Road • Kendallville 260-347-2334
Save the date for the Mid-America Windmill Museum’s Annual Windmill Winter Wonderland, taking place December 6-8 and 13-15, 2024. Held at the museum located at 732 S Allen Chapel Road, Kendallville, IN, this enchanting event features a stunning winter lights exhibit that transforms the grounds into a festive spectacle. The Windmill Museum is a great place for families, offering beautifully illuminated windmills, holiday-themed displays, and a range of family-friendly activities. Enjoy seasonal refreshments, live entertainment, and create lasting memories in this magical setting. For more information, call (260) 347-2334. Don’t miss this delightful celebration of the season!
STONE’S TRACE HISTORICAL SOCIETY VINTAGE CHRISTMAS WITH ST. NICHOLAS
DECEMBER 7 / 1-4 PM
5111 Lincolnway South • Ligonier visitnoblecounty.org
The Stone’s Trace Historical Society’s Vintage Christmas Event on December 7, 2024, will be held at the Stone’s Trace Tavern in Ligonier. This festive celebration invites visitors to experience a nostalgic holiday atmosphere with historic charm. Attendees can enjoy beautifully decorated period homes, a lively Christmas market, and traditional craft demonstrations. The event also features carol singing, historical reenactments, and a visit from Saint Nicholas for children. Local musicians will perform classic holiday tunes, and seasonal treats will be available. The celebration offers a delightful glimpse into the past and a chance to create new holiday memories.
A DREAM OF BEAUTY AT GENE STRATTON PORTER STATE HISTORIC SITE
1205 Pleasant Point • Rome City visitnoblecounty.org
Enjoy this special holiday event is to be held on December 1st from 1:00 to 5:00pm at the Gene Stratton-Porter State Historic Site at 1205 Pleasant Point, Rome City. The Cabin at Wildflower Woods is the beloved home and final resting place of Gene Stratton- Porter, one of Indiana’s most widely-read authors and one of the world’s first nature photographers and conservationists.“A Dream of Beauty,” which comes to life at the Gene StrattonPorter State Historic Site in Rome City on Sunday, December 1st, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. Visit Stratton- Porter’s Cabin in Wildflower Woods decorated as it would have been in 1917. Enjoy entertainment, holiday goodies, crafts, and horse-drawn wagon rides around the property, plus visit Santa. Self-guided tours of the property, holiday treats, crafts, and so much more are included with admission.
CHAIN O LAKES STATE PARK- CHRISTMAS CAROL CLUE HUNT
DECEMBER 14-29
Chain O’Lakes State Park visitnoblecounty.org
At Chain O’Lakes: Celebr ate the holidays with us this month by participating in the CHRISTMAS CAROL CLUE HUNT! Look for the numbered stations along Trail 5 and guess which Christmas carol is being portrayed. The clue hunt list can be picked up at park headquarters or can be viewed online at https://www. facebook.com/chainolakessp. Submit your answers to be entered into a drawing to win some cool prizes, including a 2025 Entrance Pass!
HILLFOREST MUSEUM’S
Victorian Christmas Exhibit
213 Fifth Street • Aurora hillforest.org
This holiday season, experience the magic of Christmas past at Hillforest Victorian House Museum, the graceful National Historic Landmark located in downtown Aurora. Known for its Italianate architecture, the 1855-era mansion is especially beautiful during the holidays, when a festive assortment of holiday trees, greenery, and traditional decorations transport visitors back in time to the splendor of a Victorian Christmas.
Tour the mansion, all decked out in its holiday finest, savor a Victorian Christmas Tea with family and friends, or plan to attend a special holiday event, including Holiday on the Hill, which features a delicious holiday meal and live musical entertainment in the mansion’s parlors. This year, Hillforest’s Victorian Christmas Exhibit will run from November 5 through December 29. The museum will then close for the remainder of the winter before reopening in early April.
AURORA’S MIRACLE ON MAIN
Downtown Aurora aurora.in.us
Discover Downtown Aurora’s “Miracle on Main” this holiday season! Enjoy one of the largest Dickens Villages in the Tri-State, holiday tree lighting, Christmas tours of Hillforest Museum, visits and breakfasts with Santa, carolers, concerts, and more. Then explore the beautifully-decorated shops and restaurants in the historic district of this charming city located along the Ohio River in Southeast Indiana.
LAWRENCEBURG’S WINTER WONDERLAND
Downtown Lawrenceburg
downtownlawrenceburg.com
The holidays come alive in Downtown Lawrenceburg during Winter Wonderland, a special celebration in this historic Ohio River city. Visit the Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, then enjoy breakfast and visits with Santa, holiday performances, the Winter Wonderland, PAWS Pet Parade and lots more holiday fun! Be sure to make time for specialty shopping and destination dining in the festive downtown district, which is all decked out and ready to welcome visitors throughout the Christmas season and beyond.
PERFECT NORTH SLOPES
19074 Perfect Lane • Lawrenceburg perfectnorth.com
‘Tis the season for skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing at Perfect North Slopes, one of the region’s biggest downhill ski destinations. Located off Interstate 275 in Southeast Indiana, the facility offers skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing throughout the winter — plus convenient equipment rentals, flexible passes, and friendly staff.
Family-owned and operated, Perfect North is the “perfect” place to go for outdoor winter adventure. And because they make their own snow, you can enjoy fun on the slopes throughout the season, which typically runs through early March.
Known throughout the Ohio River valley, Perfect North offers lessons for beginners, special group rates, and an updated lodge perfect for grabbing some refreshements between runs. Visitors will also find several Southeast Indiana hotels located only a few minutes’ drive away.
BEST HOLIDAY HOPPING INDIANA’S
GREEN OAK ANTIQUES
3024 S 425 E • Rochester 574-223-5702 • greenoakantiques.com
Boutiques, wineries, specialty shops, and downtown shopping districts— they all combine to make this year’s holiday shopping a fun adventure. Check out some of Indiana’s best shopping spots.
Celebrating 46 years in 2024 and going strong! Our shop is brimming with small antiques, antique furniture, seasonal décor, garden iron, our signature Green Oak Furniture, and pieces needing a little TLC. Join us for our Holiday Open House from Nov. 1 – Nov. 10 We can’t wait to see you!
AMERICA’S ANTIQUE MALL
8311 Indianapolis Blvd. • Highland Open Daily 10am -7pm 219-237-2386 • americasantiquemall.com
America’s Antique Mall offers more than just vintage, collectibles, & antiques. Shoppers will also find furniture, farmhouse décor, hard to-find collectibles, handmade goods, holiday décor & more. With 300+ booths, 350 showcases, and 50 gift shop shelves to choose from, you will find that special something to take home. Santa Comes to Visit - check for times online!
519 West Water Street • Centerville 765-855-5483 • warmglow.com
Celebrate the warmth of the season at the Warm Glow Christmas Open House December 5th – 8th. Warm Glow is a 22,000 sq.ft. shopping mecca attached to one of the largest candles in the world. Here you’ll find everything you need for the holiday season including limited edition holiday candles, custom floral arrangements, Indiana made wine and craft beers, holiday décor, and gifts for family and friends. Save with our secret Santa sales.
Enjoy beer, wine and food sampling. Warm up with specialty coffee drinks at Artisans & Java and treat yourself to gourmet truffles or fudge. Explore our pavilion full of unique and fun items for your patio and garden. Find that original, one of a kind handcrafted gift from local artisans and crafters. Entice your inner foodie with an array of spices and seasoning mixes; cooking sauces; bread, dessert or dip mixes; and hearty soup starters.
Take a break from shopping and enjoy a bite to eat at the Stone Hearth Café where you can enjoy BBQ smoked on site, salads, pizza, delicious pies and cobblers. Don’t forget to visit with Santa and get a free digital photo!
WARM GLOW CANDLE COMPANY
CITY OF WHITING
Grab your holiday shopping list and spend a day in the City of Whiting, Indiana’s quaint and cozy downtown business district. With walkable shops and eateries galore, 119th Street offers handcrafted, homemade products that embody the holiday spirit. While exploring Whiting this holiday season, be sure to take a cheerful stroll or drive through our historic downtown to view the City’s holiday light displays. The many city lights and decorated business windows create a colorful, holiday ambiance the entire family will love. Spread the cheer, savor the season, and share the warmth of gift giving all holiday season long in Whiting, Indiana. whitingevents.com
Holiday shopping in Boone County, IN offers a charming experience with local boutiques, unique gifts, and festive markets. Residents and visitors can explore small-town shops, from handcrafted goods to specialty items. Seasonal events, like Christmas markets, create a festive atmosphere, supporting local businesses and fostering community spirit during the holiday season. Shop local and celebrate!
DOWNTOWN KOKOMO visitkokomo.org
Stylish shoppers will love Annmarie’s Boutique, Olive Tree Boutique, and P.F. Hendricks & Co. For a retro shopping experience, check out “Geek Street” to find Kokomo Toys & Collectibles, Comics Cubed, Chapter 2 Books, or Outhouse Records. And be sure to visit Indiana’s largest record store & coffee shop, Black Wax Cafe.
Shelby County is full of fun shops, from boutiques to antiques, and everything in between. You’ll find a great selection of antiques at Nostalgia on 9, Mama’s Pink House Antiques, Sugar Creek Antiques, and Jim’s Antiques. If treasure hunting and thrifting is your thing, be sure and visit 44 Family Flea Market, Me and My Sisters Flea Market, St. Vincent de Paul Store, and Cancer Association Thrift Store which supports the Cancer Association of Shelby County. Stop for coffee and tea then browse the amazing books for sale at Three Sisters Books and Gifts. In the market for unique clothing? Boutiques throughout the county offer a wonderful selection of clothing and accessories. Plan plenty of time to shop at Elegant L, Pink Poppy, Redefined Hope Boutique and Coffee Shop, and Polka Dot Plus.
More treasure hunting can be found at Bohemian Farmgirl Market, along with Westside Home Goods, carrying goods related to the home at an affordable price. They have furniture, appliances, decor, area rugs, bath vanities, cleaning supplies, pet items, tools and more.
THE GIFT SHOPPE AT THE SHRINE OF CHRIST’S PASSION
10630 Wicker Ave. (US 41) • St. John 855-277-7474
shrineofchristspassion.org
Christmas Open House
November 1-4
10am - 5pm 20% off storewide
Our one of a kind 12,000 sq. ft. Gift Shoppe is brimming with beautiful displays of unique and exciting gift ideas. In our vast selection you are sure to find that perfect gift for any occasion. This is truly an extraordinary retail experience that offers items to fit every budget.
Because of the exceptional shopping experience The Gift Shoppe at The Shrine of Christ’s Passion has become a destination store. Along with our beautifully inspiring religious items we also offer our guests an array of distinctive gifts, a gallery filled with incredible artwork, fine jewelry, accessories, and gifts for all occasions.
The moment our guests walk through our doors they experience that “wow” effect. A magnificent winding staircase (lift also available) leads to our mezzanine level where it is Christmas year round.
All purchases support the ministry of The Shrine of Christ’s Passion.
FRENCH KNOT WAREHOUSE SALE
525 Wabash Avenue Lafayette frenchknot.com
SATURDAYS December 7 and 14 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
A once-a-year event, artisan-made hats, hand accessories, and gifts. Up to 75% off samples, seconds, and overstocks. As seen in Anthropologie, Sundance, QVC, and other major retailers.
French Knot works hand in hand with over 1000 women artisans in Nepal to skillfully handknit their products using fair trade practices. Their mission is to create beautiful accessories that are responsibly sourced, long lasting, and celebrate time-honored craftsmanship.
COCOA SAFARI CHOCOLATES
118 W Main St. • Madison 812-273-8800 • cocoasafarichocolates.com
Cocoa Safari Chocolates is an independent gourmet chocolate shop where we create our chocolates and confections in our on-site kitchen. We make our chocolates in small batches to ensure that you have the freshest chocolates available. We use premium quality chocolate and the highest quality ingredients. All of our chocolates are handmade, hand dipped and hand decorated.
Downtown Martinsville Central Indiana facebook.com/RediscoverMartinsville
If you’ve never been to downtown Martinsville, consider yourself invited to come explore one of the most intact historic downtown districts in the state of Indiana! Centered around the beautiful red brick Morgan County Courthouse and filled with historic buildings housing a wide variety of locally-owned businesses, Martinsville’s downtown district offers lots to discover, including holiday gifts for everyone on your list! Indulge in the newly opened coffee house and indoor playplace, shop locally-crafted jewelry, modern boutiques and working artist studios, or create your own pottery masterpiece! Choose from several eateries for lunch, and don’t forget the 100-year-old candy store!
Don’t miss out on fun seasonal holiday events, like weekly candy pours, Small Business Saturday at the WCBK Christmas Light Parade, the Bobby Helms Jingle Bell Rock Christmas Music Spectacular, Santa at the Martinsville Candy Kitchen, the Martinsville Cookie Stroll and more. Grab your family, your best girlfriends, or the kids and head to downtown Martinsville for a day (or weekend) of fun exploring the heart of this quaint historic community located midway between Indianapolis and Bloomington. Find more information on upcoming events and activities in Martinsville and beyond at visitmorgancountyin.com.
Three Moons Fiberworks LLC is a unique fiber arts studio, store, and school, conveniently located in northwest Indiana.
Come visit our gift gallery brimming with one of a kind fiber creations from local artists, explore
CHESTERTON TOYS
201 S. Calumet
219-728-3030 chestertontoys.com
Welcome to Chesterton Toys, the Home of Kid-Powered Entertainment! We search far and wide to discover unique playthings to stretch the limits of your imagination, while leaving the batteries behind. Our dedicated staff is here to ensure that you always find what you’re looking for, or quite often, something you didn’t know existed. Take a look around and let us know how we can help! Be sure to visit www. ChestertonToys.com to shop online. You can even create an order to be picked up in the store just to make your life a little easier!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING DINING
yarn for your next project among the veritable rainbow of hand-dyed yarn or hand-spun yarn produced by local artists, and see our extensive selection of weaving yarn in a wide variety of fiber types and sizes.
While you are here, take time to explore our studio, which has one of the most diverse collection of looms in the Midwest, including over thirty floor looms, table looms, triangle looms, inkle looms, and more. All of the equipment in our studio is available for use – including spinning wheels and stainless-steel dyeing stations.
Have a few hours in your schedule? Arrange a one on one no-experience necessary weaving class where firsttime weavers can create their own rug or similar project! Already a weaver? You can reserve time on a loom –enjoy some quiet time weaving in front of our full-length windows with a view of charming downtown Chesterton. We will even warp up your project so you can focus on weaving – contact us for cost and availability.
CHELLE’S BOUTIQUE & GARAGE
211 Broadway
219-928-3001
chellesonline.com
At Chelle’s we believe in being socially conscious. The shop is full of handpicked pieces from manufactures that are leading the way with conscious purchase in mind. Here you’ll find local artists wares, women’s apparel and accessories, intimates, home furniture and décor, beauty and gifts, paint and paint accessories and workshops for all ages. Creating an experience is what we are about at Chelle’s, the atmosphere is fun and inviting and all our customers are treated as friends.
The Chesterton European Christmas Markets in downtown Chesterton, attracts locals and tourists alike to celebrate the holiday season. We will be open for two 2 special holiday markets; Nov. 30 and Dec. 7, from 8-2pm CT. There will be
tents filled with local products and artisans selling their wares, along with gift wrapping, food demonstrations, a Santa parade, local store happenings, and Christmas trees and wreaths to purchase. As you wander the market, nibble on foods, treats, and traditional drinks such as spiced cider or mulled wine to keep you warm. True to tradition, the event will be open to all and free of charge.
CARMEL
HOLIDAY SHOPPING DINING
CARMEL CHRISTKINDLMARKT
10 Carter Green
CarmelChristkindlmarkt.com
TheIceAtCarterGreen.com
You will find an array of authentic German food and gifts from holiday ornaments to traditional steins and pottery. The market
hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays, 4 to 9 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays, noon to 9 p.m. and Sundays, noon to 8 p.m. from November 23 through December 24. Ice Skating at The Ice at Carter Green opens November 23 and runs through February 2, 2025.
CARMEL ARTS & DESIGN DISTRICT
Main Street and Range Line Road
CarmelArtsAndDesign.com
The Carmel Arts & Design District is located along Main Street and Range Line Road and is home to interior designers, nine art galleries, specialty shops and a growing list of restaurants to please any palate. Mark your calendars for our Allied Solutions’ Meet Me on Main events, November 9 and December 14. These gallery walks feature crafts and activities for all ages, live music and special events with our talented Indiana artisans.
MIDTOWN PLAZA
365 Monon Boulevard
MidtownPlazaCarmel.com
Midtown Plaza is a vibrant revitalization of Carmel’s old industrial area and brings its own unique, urban atmosphere, distinct from its adjacent districts, the Arts & Design District and City Center. Midtown’s shops and restaurants include everything from hot coffees and chilled wines to savory tacos or pizza by the slice. Indoor and outdoor seating around the plaza is available all year long.
CARMEL CITY CENTER
720 South Range Line Road
CarmelCityCenter.com
With the appeal of a neighborhood and the vibrancy of a downtown, Carmel City Center is a marketplace of independently owned shops, restaurants, entertainment venues and residences. More than a dozen businesses offer a bit of everything including home décor, children’s clothing and toys, handcrafted pottery and tranquil spas. Plan your shopping trip around lunch and dinner at one of City Center’s incredible restaurants ranging from savory pastas to decadent desserts.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING, EVENTS DINING
CORN CRIB CAFE
0920 N. SR 5 • Shipshewana
260-267-9777
corncribcafe.com
Small, family owned café serving homemade daily lunch specials and serving locally sourced foods. Unique breakfast plates, sandwiches, pizzas, salads and soups. Don’t forget our freshly made Amish pies and cookies available for your holiday gathering. Dine in or carry out. Call in or order on online. Serving breakfast 7a-11a and lunch from 11a-2p Mon. – Sat.
SHIPSHEWANA’S LIGHTS OF JOY
345 S. Van Buren St.• Shipshewana 260-768-4129 • shipshewanalightsofjoy.com
Shipshewana’s Lights of Joy light drivethrough experience is home to two million+ LED Christmas lights displayed over an almost 2 mile symphony of colorful light scenes, animatronics, & more this holiday season. While here, enjoy a concert at the Blue Gate or shop Ship-Chic Markets at Shipshewana Trading Place and get in the Christmas Spirit!
FIVE LAKES COFFEE
0920 N. SR 5 • Shipshewana 260-267-7190
Get your day started with a great cup of coffee. Local, small batch roastery serving hot, iced or frozen drinks. Grab a delicious breakfast sandwich or baked good. Check out our seasonal drinks throughout the year. Share the love of coffee with your friends and family with a Five Lakes Gift Card. Walk in or drive thru available. Mon-Fri: 4:30am – 6pm / Sat: 7am – 6pm
VISIT SHIPSHEWANA
350 S Van Buren St. (260) 768-4008 • VisitShipshewana.org
Plan your Holiday Shopping Getaway today in Shipshewana, Amish Country. Book your cozy lodging. Dine in family-owned cafes, Eat the popcorn, drink the coffee, and don’t forget to enjoy the lights! Request a FREE Travel Guide. Stop at the Visitors Center for a FREE Coupon Book and get deals and discounts at shops, attractions, and restaurants.
YODER POPCORN
0920 N. SR 5 • Shipshewana 260-768-4051
yoderpopcorn.com
Yoder Popcorn has been in business for 87 years. It all started back in 1936 when Rufus Yoder started growing popcorn on his family farm. In the Amish custom, he shared his excess crop with his neighbors and friends. They told their neighbors and friends about the excellent quality of Yoder Popcorn and soon a business was born. In 1999, Russ Yoder and his parents, Sharon & Richard Yoder, bought the business. Sharon was the great niece of Rufus, making Russ the 4th generation to run the family business. Currently Russ and his wife, Allyse, own and operate the store located in Shipshewana, IN. Besides operating the shop, they also farm 2,000 acres, operate 2 other businesses and handle several commercial properties.
Our store is now located just outside of Shipshewana at the intersection of 5 & 20. We have everything for your popcorn needs. That includes 9 varieties of popcorn kernels, microwave popcorn, oils, seasonings, poppers and so much more. We also make HOMEMADE caramel corn made with real ingredients. We do custom orders for weddings and other events. We have a large selection of tins and gift baskets for any occasion.
Hours Mon – Fri: 9am-5pm Sat: 9am-4pm
GOSHEN HOLIDAY SHOPPING DINING
SOAPY GNOME HOMEBODY MERCANTILE
210 S. Main Street
574-971-5294
soapygnome.com
Soapy Gnome specializes in beautiful, practical gifts for the home and bath. Buttermilk soaps and body care products are made on site. Local products, unique products and the cozy vibes create a one-of-a-kind experience.
FABLES BOOKS
0215 S. Main Street
574-534-1984
fabelsbooks.com
Welcome to Fables! Fables Books is a locally owned, independent bookstore located on Goshen, Indiana’s vibrant Main Street corridor - serving our community with a curated selection of books and literary gifts both in-person and online. Soft toys, stickers, funny socks, Goshen merch, bookmarks, tote bags, art and writing utensils, puzzles, party games and a bargain basement are just a very few of the things you can wind your way through on your visit to our store.
You’ll find our space welcoming to everyone, with comfortable seating, wide aisles, tables for learning a new game, and books. So. Many. Books. Used and new books are available in a variety of topics and genres - plan plenty of time to browse the selection. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Our friendly and knowledgeable booksellers are here to help with orders or recommendations.
We enjoy helping you find the perfect gift for any occasion. Our staff loves assisting you in putting together a personalized assortment for your special recipient.
THE ELECTRIC BREW
118 E. Washington Street
574-533-5990
theelectricbrew.com
The Electric Brew in downtown Goshen, Indiana, is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a community hub. Since 1996, The Electric Brew has been serving up freshly roasted, Fair Trade Certified coffee, delicious homemade treats, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Located at 118 East Washington Street, this beloved local spot is perfect for catching up with friends, working on your latest project, or simply enjoying a moment of peace with a steaming cup of coffee.
If book clubs are your favorite, give one of ours a try! Take a minute to browse our website - check out the upcoming events, view our instore inventory, and join our bookish community. We believe it’s possible that reading could change the world, starting with us. We look forward to seeing you in Goshen!
Our menu features a variety of coffee drinks, from robust espressos to creamy lattes, alongside a selection of teas, smoothies, and freshly baked goods. We also offer hearty breakfast and lunch options, making it an ideal spot for any time of day. The Electric Brew is committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing, ensuring that every cup of coffee supports communities around the globe. Come experience the cozy, friendly environment that has made The Electric Brew a staple in Goshen. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’ll find a welcoming space and a great cup of coffee waiting for you.
GOSHEN BREWING CO.
315 West Washington goshenbrewing.com
Goshen Brewing Co. is a family-friendly solar and wind powered brew-pub located in an old recycled power house next to the Elkhart River and bike path, just two blocks west of Main Street. GBCo. has a diverse and frequently
rotating list of beer on tap. The food menu consists of local and organic ingredients, including Pad Thai Tuesdays, and Sunday brunch. Stay up to date with the weekly music & events at goshenbrewing.com
Carmel Christkindlmarkt and The Ice at Carter Green
Since its grand opening in 2017, the Carmel Christkindlmarkt has continued to grow. Now, featuring more than 60 unique food, drink and gift vendors, the market attracts visitors from all over the world and, in 2023, was once again voted as USA Today’s No. 1 Best Holiday Market in North America.
Guests can shop for authentic Germanmade or inspired holiday gifts, snack on giant Bavarian pretzels or kartoffelpuffer (traditional German potato pancakes) and adults will stay warm sipping the signature, spiced mulled wine called Ghlüwein at the first “Tower of Ghlüwein” in America, which stands three stories high in the center of the Market. Younger guests will love the Kinderecke for crafts, music and festive activities for kids. The Carmel Christkindlmarkt is open November 23 through December 24. For more details visit CarmelChristkindlmarkt.com
The Ice at Carter Green a large, authentic ice-skating rink that is built into the middle of the Market for the holiday season and can
TOP: Sights and sounds for all ages at the Christkindlmarkt.
MIDDLE: Magnificent Monon Greenway from Carter Green to Main Street.
BOTTOM: The Ice at Carter Green.
hold up to 250 skaters at a time, is the place to be for skaters of all ages and talents. Glide around the rink under the stars or day skate with friends after shopping at the market. Be sure to follow TheIceAtCarterGreen.com for rink schedules and rental information and special events and programming including sensory-friendly skate days especially designed for people with special needs.
After the Christkindlmarkt ends, the Ice at Carter Green season continues through February 2, 2025. Winter-time activities there include special events such as the Festival of Ice featuring professional ice carving competitions and the Carmel Winter Games with friendly team competition on The Ice.
Make Memories & Traditions
Beyond the magic of the market and the ice rink, the city is beautifully decorated including the Magnificent Monon from Carter Green to Main Street. Stop and take photos in one of several lighted archways on the Monon Greenway as you make your way between the city’s central districts. Be sure to hop on and off the trail and grab food and drinks at the many restaurants in City Center, Midtown and the Arts & Design District.
Too many shopping bags or maybe you just want to sit and enjoy a relaxing ride around the city? Our Holiday Trolley runs on Fridays and Saturdays starting November 23 until December 21. For all things wintery and wonderful to do in Carmel, visit HolidaysInCarmel.com. We can’t wait to see you!
is where the holidays shine brightest FRENCH LICK RESORT
If you always find yourself saying “it doesn’t feel like the holidays yet,” a visit to French Lick Resort puts a little twinkle back into this season.
This holiday wonderland in southern Indiana always goes big for the holidays, and it’s worth the trip to experience the holiday magic at French Lick Springs Hotel and West Baden Springs Hotel. Here are ten ways to celebrate the season at French Lick Resort...
Two Grand Tree Lighting Ceremonies
The festivities get rolling early with the annual tree lighting ceremonies. West Baden Springs Hotel kicks things off with a November 16 tree lighting, and French Lick Springs Hotel is next up with its grand ceremony on November 23. Watch the hotels’ towering trees light up for the first time, enjoy holiday music, a visit from Santa and children’s activities at both ceremonies. Rooms fill up fast for both weekends, so be sure to book early.
Stroll & Admire
Really, you can make a trip out of admiring all the dazzling holiday decorations and lights. From more than a dozen Christmas trees to a half-million holiday lights resort-wide, this winter wonderland is loaded with spectacular photo ops. While you visit, be sure to stop
by the West Baden Springs Hotel atrium to enjoy performances by the Dickens Carolers (December 7, 14 and 21).
Gingerbread Houses, Small and Large
Bring the family December 7 or 14 and craft your own gingerbread house from a variety of sweet treats. Afterward, visit the upper level of the Event Center to see the hotel’s famous gingerbread house display, made from more than 700 pounds of real gingerbread and candy confections.
Holiday Light Show
When it gets dark, head outside to view the spectacular animated light show projected onto the façade of French Lick Springs Hotel. You’ll oooh and ahhh at the wintry scenes coming to life on one of the Hoosier State’s iconic hotels.
See (or Write) Santa
Santa Claus Meet & Greets are Fridays and Saturdays, November 29 to December 21 (5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.). Bring a phone or camera to snap your photo.
You can write a letter to Santa by filling it out and dropping it into special holiday mailboxes. You’ll get a reply sent from Santa himself to your house in time for Christmas.
More for the Kids to Enjoy
They can make a stuffed buddy at Santa’s Toy Maker Workshop, have breakfast with Rudolph at The Grand Colonnade Restaurant, or try story time and cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus. And if you’ve got kids with that pent-up Christmas energy, they can burn some of it at the Winter Break Bounce Bash (daily from December 21-29) with bounce houses, games and more.
Thanksgiving Feast(s)
Yes, feasts, plural.
Both French Lick Springs Hotel and West Baden Springs Hotel will roll out their sumptuous Thanksgiving buffets on
Turkey Day, and these spreads have a little something to please every taste. If simplifying Thanksgiving this year, make a weekend of it (with no cooking *and* no dishes) at either hotel.
New Year’s Eve
Got plans yet? It’s party time (times two) with a pair of New Year’s Eve celebrations at the resort — each offering something a little different.
At French Lick Springs Hotel’s “Arctic Elegance” themed party, treat yourselves to a buffet dinner then rock into 2025 with a band and a Champagne toast. Or enjoy the serenity of New Year’s Eve under the dome at West Baden Springs Hotel, with live entertainment, late-night snacks and dessert, and a special toast at midnight.
Polar Express
The wildly popular ride on the French Lick Scenic Railway has opened 950 more seats this season. If you’ve been waiting and wanting to take your little ones on a magical holiday adventure, you’ll still want to book early because this ride to the North Pole fills up fast.
Keep the Holiday Cheer Going
Once you’re done with the usual hustle and bustle of the holidays, take a few days and decompress. Call it Christmas 2.0 — a gift for yourself.
Sleep in and order room service. Hit the casino. Plan a spa day. Weather permitting, you can get outdoors for a horseback ride or shooting range experience.
French Lick Resort’s holiday lights, trees and decorations stay up into the first week of January — so you can hang onto the holidays a little longer.
To learn more and plan your holiday adventure, visit frenchlick.com.
story by GLENDA WINDERS
arke County is certainly Indiana’s star when it comes to covered bridges. They have 31 of the historic structures within their borders and a covered bridge festival each autumn to boot. They also have the chance to walk across the Wabash River on the Montezuma iron bridge. But all throughout the state are remarkable bridges from bygone times and more modern eras, as well as aging barns that serve to recall slower and quieter memories from the past. Using these structures to map out a series of road trips will provide days of fun this season.
The John T. Myers Pedestrian Bridge symbolically links Lafayette and West Lafayette, beginning at Riehle Plaza on the Lafayette side and ending in Tapawingo Park in West Lafayette. The site hosts musical performances, festivals, and community celebrations. The River Promenade Deck on the Lafayette side offers views of the Wabash River, fountains, skyline panoramas, and public art.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:
The Frank Littleton Round Barn in Hancock County is the largest round barn in the state.
PHOTO: Visit Hancock County
Brown Swiss Dairy Round Barn in LaGrange County.
PHOTO: Visit Shipshewana/LaGrange County CVB
The Matthews Bridge in Grant County.
PHOTO: Grant County Visitors Bureau
All throughout the state are remarkable bridges from bygone times and more modern eras, as well as aging barns that serve to recall slower and quieter memories from the past.
The Cumberland Bridge serves as the centerpiece of a Labor Day festival that features an antique tractor pull, a steampowered sawmill, horse rides, and the like.
arroll County lays claim to two popular bridges. Adams Mill Bridge was constructed in 1872 but for 30 years was closed and vandalized. In 1999 townspeople raised the money to restore it and add window openings so travelers could enjoy a view of Wildcat Creek. Also over Wildcat Creek is the Lancaster Covered Bridge, one of only two in the state built using an iron substructure patented by Alpheus Wheelock in 1870.
The Leota Covered Bridge in Scott County, completed in 1995, is the newest one in the state, but its location is historically significant. The spot where it crosses Cooney Creek is at the intersection of two of the oldest trails that crossed southern Indiana in the 18 th century — the Cincinnati Trace and the South Bloomington Trail. Also here is a barn that today stands on the site of the Scott County Heritage Center and Museum. It was dismantled at another location and brought here to be reassembled, and now it is the venue for weekly sales of donated items by the Friends of the Museum
The 181-foot-long Cumberland Bridge spans the Mississinewa River at Matthews in Grant County and also serves as the centerpiece of a Labor Day festival each year that features an antique tractor pull, a steam-powered sawmill, horse rides, and the like.
nother iron bridge that dates back to 1916-1917 connects Hancock and Rush counties. Officially registered as the County Line Bridge, it is affectionately known by locals as “the Great Iron Lady of Blue River.” The structure is painted bright red, making it a favorite setting for local and visiting photographers. Once silos with grain elevators came into use in 1882, it wasn’t long until farmers began building their barns around them. It made perfect sense for feeding their cattle since they no longer had to walk the entire length of a rectangular building to get the job done. Some 152 round barns were constructed in the state between 1889 and 1936, and 73 still remained in 2018.
The annual Parke County Covered Bridge Festival, held each year in October, is Indiana’s largest festival.
FAR LEFT AND TOP:
PHOTOS: Parke County Convention & Visitors Commission
LEFT: Irishman’s Covered Bridge at Fowler Park in Terre Haute.
PHOTO: Terre Haute Convention & Visitors Bureau
esides its remarkable bridge, Hancock County is also home to the Frank Littleton Round Barn, the largest (102 feet in diameter) in the state. It was completed around 1903 and nearly destroyed by a tornado in 2023. Thanks to the Indiana Barn Foundation, in collaboration with barn expert Rick Collins of Trillium Dell Timberworks, the structure was saved.
Fulton County, however, takes the prize for having the greatest number of round barns — 17 at one time. Built between 1900-1924 after a drawing done by the University of Illinois, the barns were thought to be faster, cheaper and more economical. All of the lumber was one inch thick and green so that it would form
Floral Hall, also known as The Round House, is located ar the Jay County Fairgrounds in Portland. PHOTO: Visit Jay County
a circle, unlike traditional barns with huge beams across them. C.V. Kindig and sons built 11 of the round barns in the county, and seven are still standing today.
Barns with multiple sides provided the same benefits as round barns but with some added advantages. They were easier and cheaper to build because their walls were straight instead of circular, they could better withstand the prairie winds and their space could be more efficiently utilized.
An octagonal building called Floral Hall or the Round Building sits at the fairgrounds in Jay County. A two-anda-half-story frame building with vertical board siding and battens, it was built in 1891. Each side measures approximately 33 feet long. But Jay County has had
Join our Sip & Savor Passports and discover the amazing flavors of Northern Indiana’s Kosciusko County. Sign up for these passports and earn the chance to win $150 in Kosciusko Cash. Passports include the Taco Trail, Breakfast Trail, and Sipping Trail. Sign up by scanning the QR code today.
Kosciusko County Visitor Center • 111 Capital Dr. Warsaw, IN 46590 574-269-6090 • info@koscvb.org • VisitKosciuskoCounty.org
The Lincoln Memorial Bridge in Vincennes. PHOTO: Vincennes/Knox County Visitors and Tourism Bureau
& Bridges BARNS
THE PARKE COUNTY COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL
OCTOBER 11-20 coveredbridges.com
Indiana’s largest festival, The Parke County Covered Bridge Festival is a 10-day festival showcasing the county’s 31 historic covered bridges and features authentic arts and crafts, fantastic food, and beautiful fall foliage. Each of the nine festival locations offers something special. Spend a few extra days and discover why this area is so special.
CUMBERLAND COVERED BRIDGE Grant County showmegrancounty.com
This 181-foot covered timbered bridge, built in 1877 and restored in 1999, spans the Mississinewa River at Matthews and is the last remaining covered bridge in Grant County. It was swept from its abutments by the great 1913 flood, and floated a quarter mile downstream. It was later returned to its abutments by horses, and provides a scenic, serene setting for picnics or daydreams. The bridge is the site of an annual festival on the weekend after Labor Day. Mark your calendar for next year’s Matthews Cumberland Covered Bridge Festival, where
you can walk or drive through the 1877 bridge for unique craft exhibits, live entertainment, a variety of food vendors, antique engines, a steam-powered sawmill, an antique tractor pull and the world famous Matthews Lions Club frosted malts! Inflatables, horse rides, and fun for all the kids in your life to enjoy.
FOWLER PARK
3000 E Oregon Church Road • Terre Haute 812-462-3392
vigoparks.org/pioneer-village-virtual-tour/
Fowler Park’s historic covered bridge and Pioneer Village offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the past with activities throughout the year. Located in Vigo County, Indiana, just 10 miles south of Terre Haute, this picturesque park features the historic Irishman’s Covered Bridge, serving as a striking entrance to the Pioneer Village. This 1845 bridge, a prime example of 19thcentury engineering, is a favorite spot for photographers and history enthusiasts.
The Pioneer Village is a meticulously recreated 19th-century settlement, complete with log cabins, a schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and a gristmill. Each structure is authentically furnished, providing an immersive experience of early pioneer life. Reenactors bring the village to life during special events, demonstrating traditional crafts and daily routines of the era.
One of the most anticipated events at Fowler Park is the annual Pioneer Days Festival, held the first weekend in October. Another highlight is the Old-Fashioned Christmas event, the first weekend in December, where guests can experience a nostalgic holiday celebration complete with carolers, hot cocoa, and a visit from Santa Claus. The village buzzes with activity as artisans showcase their skills, from blacksmithing and pottery to candle making and quilting. Visitors can participate in hands-on activities, enjoy period-appropriate food, and listen to live music.
Exciting developments are underway for 2025, with more cabins and a new covered wagon available for rent, enhancing the park’s immersive experience. Whether you’re a history buff or looking for a unique family outing, Fowler Park promises a memorable adventure into the past.
Barns and Bridges of Scott County
our history… our stories
re barns a thing of the past? The classic wooden barns that used to populate the state are few and far between, which makes the barns in existence today so much more special and important.
Historical barns are once again living their best life. A barn on the site of the Scott County Heritage Center and Museum has been dismantled and re-erected by a local contractor, making this attraction a fun destination. Friends of the Museum hold weekly sales of donated items—from antiques and gifts to furniture and crockery—from May to September. You don’t want to miss a sale as you never know what might be available; once they even had a grand piano.
Another immensely popular use for a barn today is the celebration of a wedding. Many families prefer the feeling of tranquility in the countryside for their special event. Enjoying a dance party can be so much more fun in a rustic atmosphere and while imagining the activities that took place in the previous life of the barn.
Historically, the classic functions of a barn were to provide shelter for farm animals, dry storage for crops, stalls for milking cows and goats, and storage for farm equipment. Unexpectedly, barns also made
great hiding places. For example, a man named Coffin hid in a barn in Leota, Indiana, to evade his pursuers—he had just shot and killed the local sheriff and was later apprehended.
Today, Leota is known for the Leota Covered Bridge which was constructed in 1995 and is a community favorite. Interestingly, the roadway it covers is at the intersection of two of the oldest trails that crossed southern Indiana in the eighteenth century—the Cincinnati Trace and the South Bloomington Trail. The bridge, looking very much like an open-ended barn, is about 40 feet long and crosses Cooney Creek. Take a walk, ride your bike, or drive over this beautiful landmark as it continues to shine bright in this beautiful community.
visitScottCounty.org
Leota Covered Bridge
H E Weir Farm Barn
Montgomery Farm Barn
Celebrate history, art, great food, and more in
The Covered Bridge Capital of the World
story by GLENDA WINDERS
If I say, “Parke County,” chances are you will respond with “covered bridges,” and rightly so. More covered bridges are here than anywhere else in the world, so the two have become synonymous in Hoosier parlance and beyond. The many creeks and streams in the county are the reason for this phenomenon. Early settlers needed to cross the water with their horses and buggies, and they wanted to protect the bridges they built with a superstructure that would cover the decking.
The Parke County Covered Bridge Festival commences October 11-20 and is the highlight of the year in these parts. It’s the largest festival in the state, and the very mention brings to mind pumpkins, persimmons, and all things apple.
The 10-day festival includes nine stops close to the county’s 31 covered bridges where you’ll find eating, shopping, arts and crafts, visiting with neighbors, and plenty of time to check out the iconic structures. Each location, however, has its own personality. Festival headquarters since 1972 are in Rockville, where visitors will enjoy festival foods, craft vendors, wood-carving demonstrations, an art gallery, the Thirty-Six Saloon, and the historic Ritz Theater. Then it’s on to Billie Creek Village, where it’s more of the same plus a general store, old schoolhouse, and three covered bridges.
Discover homemade apple butter at Bloomingdale, then dive into a chicken-andnoodle dinner at the Friends Meeting House The historic district at Bridgeton includes several places from the past you won’t want to miss – a mill, waterfall, log cabin, school, 1878 house, and hundreds of craft booths.
In Mansfield hundreds of vendors offer a variety of goods, and the roller mill is a museum you won’t want to miss. Mecca offers a schoolhouse, the Mecca Covered Bridge and the 1899 Mecca Tavern known for their hand-breaded tenderloins. Then head out to Rosedale for a country market that sells homemade specialties such as bread, ice cream, and chicken-and-noodle dinners; Tangier for “buried beef,” and unique hand-crafted brooms; and experience Montezuma for wagon tours of the Wabash and Erie Canal, delicious crullers, and antiques.
While you’re in Montezuma, take a walk or ride your bike across the Wabash River on the 850-foot restored B&O Bridge. In a 2017 “rails to trails” project, the abandoned railroad bridge was restored by taking up the rails, pouring a concrete surface, and erecting wooden handrails
— all made possible by county commissioners, eight volunteers, and a grant from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
The 31 covered bridges are available to visit all year, of course, and so are the businesses that make coming here such a special pleasure. You’ll find a wide selection of antiques, the farmer’s market, handmade crafts, local fine art, and much more to make your time here worthwhile.
Beyond the covered bridges, there’s plenty else to do, too — from museum tours and an art gallery to golf and outdoor recreation at Turkey Run & Shades State Parks as well as Rockville & Raccoon Lakes. The eating is good year-round, too. The selection includes everything from homemade family-style dinners to ethnic meals, baked goods and ice cream, and a couple of wineries are worth dropping in to, as well.
Parke County will always mean “The Covered Bridge Capital of the World,” but it means a whole lot more — no matter what time of year you come to visit.
TOP: The Parke County Covered Bridge Festival.
MIDDLE LEFT: Turkey Run State Park.
MIDDLE RIGHT: The Parke County Covered Bridge Festival Food
BOTTOM: Montezuma Railroad Bridge
Find Everything You Need for the Holidays at Fair Oaks Farms: Memorable Events, Unique Gifts and Effortless Holiday Hosting
As the air turns crisp and winter whispers its arrival, Fair Oaks Farms transforms into a festive holiday destination inviting families and friends to celebrate the season in style, create cherished memories, find the perfect gifts and simplify your holiday hosting. From seasonal shopping, to special dining experiences, hotel packages, and so much more, here are some of our favorite ways to celebrate the holidays at Fair Oaks Farms.
Start your holiday season with a bang – or rather, a smash! On November 2, join us for the Pumpkin Smash Bash, a fun event where guests can smash the remains of our pumpkin crops. This playful tradition helps prepare the fields for next year’s harvest and offers a fun, hands-on way to bid farewell to fall. It’s the perfect opportunity to unleash your inner child and share a laugh with family and friends.
From November 1-10, participate in our Days of Giving. Bring in non-perishable food items or a new, unwrapped toy for a child aged 0-14, and receive $6 off a one-day adventure admission. It’s a simple way to give back to the community and spread holiday cheer.
For a snow globe dining experience that is as unique as it is cozy, reserve an evening in one of our Farmhouse Igloos starting November 15. These private, full-service dining spaces provide gourmet food under the stars, surrounded by the beauty of a winter wonderland.
Starting November 22, the Forest of Lights transforms our nature trail into a dazzling display of holiday lights. Wander through the illuminated trails, warm up by the bonfires with hot cocoa and s’mores, and don’t miss special appearances by Santa and other holiday friends on select evenings. This enchanting experience is perfect for creating lasting holiday memories with family and friends.
Thanksgiving is all about the food, but preparing the feast can be overwhelming. Let Fair Oaks Farms handle the cooking with Thanksgiving To Go. Enjoy a chef-prepared Farmhouse Thanksgiving Dinner that serves 4-6 or 8-10 people, ready for pick up
on November 27. This year, focus on making memories with your family, not on making dinner.
Looking for a unique, handmade gift idea? Join our Soy Candle Workshop on December 14. Create your own candle with a custom scent, housed in a beautiful holder. It’s a fun and creative experience ideal for friends, kids, couples, or groups and the perfect way to add a personal touch to your holiday gifting.
For those who prefer unique treasures for holiday gifting, there’s also plenty of seasonal shopping to be done at our Holiday Market Open 10am-6pm CT, you can find freshly baked treats, unique home décor, and Fair Oaks Farms merchandise.
Gift a year of experiences with a Fair Oaks Farms membership. Ideal for families, a membership provides access to our kidfriendly adventures, experiential museums
and special events all year round, offering countless opportunities for fun and learning. It’s especially great for those who support agriculture and share in our altruistic goal of feeding the world’s body, by feeding the world’s mind and heart.
Escape and unwind with our Holiday Hotel packages, with options featuring adventure passes, souvenirs, and gift cards.
The barn-themed hotel and indoor pool featuring a family-friendly waterslide, and indoor hot tub, is the perfect winter escape, offering relaxation and a touch of holiday magic.
For more details, to purchase tickets, or to book your holiday experience, visit us at fofarms.com This holiday season, let Fair Oaks Farms help you celebrate, gift and host with ease.
TOP LEFT: Limited cheese collections available for gifts or parties.
TOP RIGHT: Escape and unwind with our Holiday Hotel packages.
BOTTOM LEFT: Inside the gift shop at Fair Oaks.
BOTTOM RIGHT: Join our Soy Candle Workshop on December 14.
A Magical Visit to Turkey Run
Consistently
voted one of the best state parks in
the United States
story by GLENDA WINDERS
It’s difficult to overstate how magical a visit to a state park in the winter can be. As enjoyable as the parks are in the summer, they grow quieter, more intimate and beautiful in a different way when seasons change. And nowhere is this transition more evident than at Turkey Run State Park
For starters, the park is located in scenic Parke County, home of some 31 covered bridges, so even the drive to the destination provides a step back in time and a gradual disengaging from the hustle and stress that might be going on back home.
Upon arrival, check in at the Turkey Run Inn. The rustic hotel was built in 1919 but upgraded over the years. It retains its original charm but with modern amenities.
If you’re just now planning your visit, be sure to make reservations to this popular destination;
Turkey Run is consistently voted one of the best state parks in the United States.
Perhaps the best news of all is that prices in the winter are more budget friendly.
Between December 1, 2024, and February 27, 2025, there’s a two-for-one special. Stay any night, Sunday through Wednesday, and get a second consecutive night free, except for the week between Christmas and New Year’s, December 22 to January 2. Book online or call 877-LODGES-1 to book today.
Once you’re snuggled in, you don’t have to leave the building for anything if that’s your wish, and you’ll certainly want to eat here.
TOP: Turkey Run Inn.
PHOTO: Parke County Convention & Visitors Bureau
MIDDLE LEFT: Turkey Run Inn indoor pool.
MIDDLE RIGHT: Turkey Run Inn Cabins.
PHOTO: Parke County Convention & Visitors Bureau
BOTTOM: Turkey Run State Park Suspension Bridge.
The Narrows Restaurant invites you to dress casually and enjoy comfort food and Indiana favorites all day long. Start your morning with a hearty breakfast. The Happy Camper comes with eggs; bacon, sausage or ham; potatoes, oatmeal or grits; and a biscuit or toast. Or maybe you’ll choose pancakes, French toast, or the Ranger Hearty Omelet.
Lunch might be a Hoosier pork tenderloin or a fish sandwich or ultimate BLT. Then finish off the day back here with a whitefish dinner, fried chicken, or one of the daily specials — chicken and noodles on Monday, meatloaf on Thursday, and the like.
You might be tempted to spend the day inside, and that would be easy to do at the indoor pool, playing table tennis and video games in the Gobbler’s Arcade, or visiting the interpretive Nature Center, which is open year-round. You could also browse in the gift shop or maybe stay curled up by the fireplace in the lobby with a good book.
But being outdoors here can be the most fun. When the leaves are off the trees, you’ll enjoy an entirely different experience from the one you had if you’ve been here in the summer. It’s the perfect season for hiking, and it’s even better if you happen to come just after a snow. To get to most of the trails, you’ll need to cross the park’s iconic suspension bridge, a unique experience in and of itself.
While you’re out here, take a minute to consider the rich history of this second in
the state park system, named for the wild turkeys that once lived in the area. Its trails were carved when meltwater from the last glacier some 12,000 years ago ran through the porous sandstone. Then Salmon Lusk, a scout for William Henry Harrison who had discovered the land enroute to the Battle of Tippecanoe, used the land grant he was given at the end of his military service to buy the first 288 acres of what would become the park in 1823. An early conservationist, he fought all attempts to use the land for cutting down its trees, but after his death the timber buyers tried again to get the wood.
A commission headed by Richard Lieber was looking into establishing a system of state parks, and when he saw the area where the park is today, he knew its exceptional natural features belonged not just to one person but to the people of Indiana. He initiated the campaign to raise the money to buy the rest of the land, and the park became a reality. During your hike, take a minute to give thanks to these people who saved the old-growth trees and preserved the land that made the park — and your visit — possible.
TOP: Narrows Covered Bridge.
PHOTO: Parke County Convention & Visitors Bureau
BOTTOM: Turkey Run Park Suspension Bridge.
PHOTO: Parke County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Fall Forward IN WABASH
story by GLENDA WINDERS
Nowthat autumn is here and winter is not far behind, it’s time to mark your calendar and point your vehicle toward Wabash County Every month brings with it new surprises, events to enjoy, and ways to have fun.
“Wabash County is known for how welcoming and friendly the people are,” said Biz Bishop, content manager at Visit Wabash County. “Come experience it first hand by shopping, eating, and experiencing local businesses and the wonderful owners living out their dreams.”
In October, for example, the Long Lake Resort celebrates a Fall Festival the likes of which you have probably never encountered. The family-friendly North Manchester RV park has been welcoming campers since 1926, and when it comes to festivals, they know how to put on a fantastic one.
In addition to the pumpkin patch and hayrides that you might expect, other activities to offer include a Ninja Warrior Course, face-painting, yard games, s’more-making, gem-mining, scarecrow-building, tumble tubes, a petting zoo, pony rides, and tons more. Food, drinks, fall decor, and gourds will be available for purchase.
Come November head to Nordmann’s Nook in North Manchester be sure to order your holiday pies and baked treats, and while you are there browse the seasonal décor items as well. Pumpkin pie, anyone? Another must-stop for a sweet treat is Bailey’s Pizza Parlor in Roann for holiday treats such as homemade pies with a variety of flavors available.
In December everyone’s attention turns to holiday shopping, and this year several new stores will tickle your fancy. Start your exploration at NINE Boutique inside The Coop in North Manchester. Here you’ll find trendy jeans, sweaters, tops, and dresses along with accessories that express your casual chic personality.
River Hippie in Lagro offers funky fashion that you can style with their jackets, scarves, and jewelry. Don’t miss the bead bar, where you can choose from their selection of beads and gems to make a bracelet that is yours alone. Also here are home goods curated from exciting cities such as Tucson and Paris.
At Collective Creation, a consignment and gift shop in Wabash, take your pick of all kinds of locally crafted pieces. Vendors who have booths here are artists and merchants offering a variety of handmade items that will delight you.
Also in Wabash is Treasured Finds, a vendors market under one roof. Its many vendors offer new and used furniture, home décor and collectibles. You say you’re a vendor? If you’re an artisan, up-cycler or collector, they’ve got room for you, too!
So let those leaves turn, let the snowflakes swirl, and don’t be afraid to Fall forward with gusto because Wabash County is ready to catch you!
Another possibility is David Doud’s Countyline Orchard for apples, apple butter, cider, and more. Or eat some chili and help out 24 local charities at the same time when you stop in at Paradise Spring Historical Park for the 21st annual Wabash Cannonball Chili for Charity Cookoff
Nearby Geronimo is a cozy place where you can select clothing and other pieces to add a dash of vintage western flair to your lifestyle. Options here include everything from knives and Stetson hats to trunks, vests, and plaid flannel shirts. The owners are keeping it green by purveying second-hand wares.
Geronimo is a cozy place where you can select clothing and other pieces to add a dash of vintage western flair to your lifestyle.
Wabash Cannonball Chili for Charity Cookoff.
River Hippie in Lagro offers funky fashion that you can style with their jackets, scarves, and jewelry.
ABOVE: David Doud’s Countyline Orchard for apples, apple butter, cider, and more.
LEFT: Nordmann’s Nook in North Manchester is a great place to order your holiday pies and baked treats.
ALONG THE SOUTH SHORE OF LAKE MICHIGAN
Fall for the views along the South Shore of Lake Michigan. Discover the magic of autumn with a camping trip under the stars. Wander through fields of vibrant sunflowers, ideal for that picture-perfect shot. Spend an afternoon birdwatching, hiking the scenic trails and catching the pink and orange hues of the sunset at the Indiana Dunes. Then, toast to the day at one of our local breweries and wineries. These cozy fall experiences make for unforgettable memories. Start planning your fall getaway today!
FAIR OAKS FARMS
DEEP RIVER COUNTY PARK
LAKE VIEW BEACH
INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL PARK
& Make Take
Plan a getaway to create memories and handcrafted gifts
story by JULIE CAMPBELL
Imagine this: You desperately need a getaway and crave a creative outlet. But the holidays are coming up, and you don’t know if you can justify the luxury of recharging your batteries when you have so much to do. You’d love to create meaningful, one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list. So why not combine all these things into a magical Make & Take weekend away?
As more people turn to creative hobbies to relieve stress, DIY opportunities are popping up all around the state. Kristen Brunton and her husband, Mark, cater to creatives at their charming 1940s-era Airbnb, Abington Cottage. As part of a getaway package offered through Visit Richmond, Kristen, a glass artist, teaches an hour-long glass class for up to eight guests in addition to their stay. “I teach guests how to cut glass and design their own pendant,” she explains. After the class, Kristen fires the glass in her kiln and mails the finished project to the crafters. The result is a unique keepsake to keep or give to someone special.
Make custom candles at Rose + Wick in Lafayette. PHOTO: Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette
Duneland Pottery in Chesterton offers workshops and classes.
PHOTO: Duneland Pottery
Glass workshop at Minnetrista in Muncie.
PHOTO: Minnetrista
Board & Brush Creative Studio in Carmel.
PHOTO: Board & Brush
While you’re in town, check out the plethora of DIY opportunities in the Richmond area. Throughout the fall and holiday season, The Barn at Helm Flower Farm in Williamsburg offers a variety of fun floral workshops. If you’re interested in working with clay and creating functional pieces, consider taking a pottery class at Ply Fiber in Richmond. They provide six potters wheels, clay and all the necessary tools. Various Make & Take workshops are available throughout the year, including Christmas needlefelted ornaments, knitting, weaving, and crocheting workshops.
Paint the Towne is an interactive art studio located in the heart of Richmond’s Historic Depot District, offering a wide range of creative experiences for all ages. With over 400 pieces to choose from, including pottery, canvas, clay, and glass, visitors can explore their artistic talents and create unique keepsakes while receiving guidance from the friendly staff.
Over in Anderson, be sure to check out Pulp & Pine DIY Craft Studio, owned by DIY queen Melissa O’Connor. Crafters can either reserve a spot or walk in during “open paint” times and put their creative spin on a variety of projects, including the ever-popular 3D door hangers and signs. Paints and all supplies are included, and the staff is available to help you with techniques and guidance.
At Minnetrista in Muncie, unleash your creativity in the very place where The Joy of Painting was filmed. This holiday season, give the gift of art with a Bob Ross Painting Workshop. Whether you gift your own creation or surprise someone with tickets, participants will learn Bob’s iconic “wet-on-wet” technique from Certified Ross Instructors and craft a true masterpiece. Also at Minnetrista, plan on attending a glass workshop where you can make your own beautiful glass art to
gift, or surprise someone with tickets to a hands-on experience. From glass blowing to fusing, participants will craft unique pieces guided by skilled instructors.
In Carmel, you can create your own bath and body product scents using salt scrubs, moisturizers, shower gel, and more at Bath Junkie. You can even plan a private party for groups of six to eight people. Penn & Beech Candle Co. offers a “pour your own candle” experience, and at Painting With a Twist, they invite you to “sip, socialize, and create” with in-store events and private parties. Michaelangelo Candles on Main Street also offers candle workshops.
If painting pottery is more of an interest, Carmel’s Color Me Mine is a great choice, whether you’re a walk-in, or want to plan a group outing. And at Board and Brush you can create personalized signs for yourself or as a gift using a custom stencil process.
Up in Lafayette/West Lafayette, you can fashion your very own candy cane during McCord Candies Candy Cane Tour, held during the holiday season. McCord has been a fixture in downtown Lafayette for over a century. While you’re in the Lafayette area, why not try your hand at candle making? Flora Candle Company, Rose + Wick and Hairspa & Co. all offer custom candle making workshops. Hairspa & Co.’s scent stylists will also help guests create a personalized room spray or bath and body products.
You can paint pottery and create a one-of-a-kind gift at All Fired Up in West Lafayette. Guests can select from over 600 pieces of pottery, create their masterpiece, and pick it up in one week after it’s fired in the kiln. Want to try something even more daring? Take a workshop at Lafayette’s Inspired Fire, where creatives can choose between glassblowing and glass making classes. Beginners can also learn
LEFT, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Bath Junkie in Carmel.
PHOTO: Bath Junkie
McCord Candies in Lafayette.
PHOTO: Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette
Needle felted ornament workshop at Ply Shop + Studio in Richmond.
PHOTO: Richmond-Wayne County Convention & Tourism Bureau
ABOVE, TOP TO BOTTOM:
Make your own jewelry at Belove in Winona Lake.
PHOTO: Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau
Bob Ross painting workshop at Minnetrista in Muncie.
PHOTO: Minnetrista
Chelle’s Boutique & Garage in Chesterton.
PHOTO: Chelle’s Boutique & Garage
how to fuse and cut glass for pendants, suncatchers, magnets, and more.
Creating with flowers is always a fun group activity, and several Lafayette area flower farms and greenhouses offer workshops and flower bars. Check out 21 Petals Flower Market and Farm, Rubia Flower Market and Bennett’s Greenhouse for some floral fun.
Those with a sweet tooth will love a weekend getaway that includes a cake decorating class at Cochran’s Catering and Cakes in Jamestown. Classes are led by owner and cake lady extraordinaire, Beth Cochran Stokes.
Farther up north in Kosciusko County, Winona Lake offers several fun DIY experiences in the Village at Winona Make your own jewelry at Belove Gift Shop with beautifully crafted beads from MudLOVE and Bel Kai jewelry. Belove will even invest a portion of all sales into local community needs. The Beaded Peacock, also located in the Village at Winona, has a huge selection of beads to make your own jewelry. Classes and bead parties are offered year-round.
While you’re in the area, check out Pottery Bayou, a paint-your-own pottery studio that allows you to create your own unique masterpiece. The studio also offers the option to design your very own fused glass jewelry.
In Wabash, there are lots of great options for a Make & Take Getaway. For starters, there’s Wabash Woollen Works where their workshops let you discover the whole process, from raw fiber and growing the plant to beautiful pieces made from luxurious, naturally dyed yarn. At JoJo’s Olfactory & Co., you can create your own custom one-of-a-kind scent to incorporate into the product of your choice. Offering a variety of ways to be creative, Make It Your Own Art Studio offers pottery painting, wheel throwing, slab work, canvas painting, mosaics, and board painting.
If you’re in the Porter County area, check out the variety of classes and workshops offered. Three Moons Fiberworks is a full spectrum fiber arts studio, school, and store offering classes in weaving, spinning, and dyeing. They have special crochet nights and shawl classes, and even offer technical talks. Pieces of Jayde and Chelle’s Boutique are both unique shops that offer great shopping along with special workshops and classes. At Chelle’s, you can turn a recycled window into a treasure, or take a chunky throw blanket class where you can bring your own snacks and supplies and create a blanket with friends. At Duneland Pottery, you can create your own works of ceramic art.
For the ultimate getaway, why not combine a stay at the beautiful West Baden Springs or French Lick hotels with Fiber Friends Night at Red Hill Fiber & Co.? Every Tuesday night from 6 to 8 p.m., knitters and crocheters are welcome to bring along their current work-inprogress and join fellow crafters in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Light snacks are provided.
The Sterling Butterfly in downtown Martinsville is not only a great place to shop, with works from more than 20 artists, but it’s also a great place to create your own art pieces. One of the most popular is their stained glass workshops.
Not into crafting? Most of these DIY experiences would also make fabulous gifts for crafty friends or relatives, so consider contacting your favorite businesses to purchase some gift cards.
TOP TO BOTTOM:
Abington Cottage in Richmond.
PHOTO: Abington Cottage
Chesterton’s Three Moons Fiberworks offers a variety of weaving classes.
PHOTO: Three Moons Fiberworks
Paint the Towne in Richmond’s Historic Depot District.
PHOTO: Richmond-Wayne County Convention & Tourism Bureau
M AKE & TAKE Getaways
THE STERLING BUTTERFLY
96 E Morgan St. • Martinsville 765-318-2159 thesterlingbutterfly.com pamalahurst@yahoo.com
Hours: Tue-Friday 10am – 5pm / Saturday 10 am – 4 pm And By Appointment
Create unique handcrafted jewelry at The Sterling Butterfly with Pam Hurst’s scheduled workshops. Grab your family or friends, as groups of 4-6 may schedule their own appointment. Book through Facebook or call for more details!
FREE UPCYCLED ORNAMENT
WORKSHOP AT
THE ART BARN SCHOOL OF ART
DECEMBER 7; 1-4PM
695 N.400 E. • Valparaiso artbarnschool.org
Create upcycled holiday ornaments, centerpieces, or other decorations with family & friends (ages 6+ with a parent). Shop our Holiday Gift Gallery for regionally-made fine art & craft items or gift a class or workshop to a loved one. Art Barn is the perfect place for holiday gift-giving.
CLASSIC STAINED GLASS AND GIFT GALLERY
250 E. Hoosier Street • North Vernon 812-346-4527
classicstainedglassshop.com
Classic Stained Glass is a full-service stained glass store, carrying all of the tools, glass, and supplies for the stained glass crafter. They have nearly 500 pattern books in stock and carry an excellent selection of glass. Classes are available for all levels of experience from beginner to advanced and everything in between.
VARIOUS LOCATIONS IN MUNCIE destinationmuncie.org
The Muncie area is full of fun Make and Take options. To start, plan a visit to Minnetrista, where you can channel your inner Bob Ross during their Bob Ross Painting Workshops. You’ll learn Bob’s “wet on wet” technique from an experienced and certified Ross instructor. Minnetrista also offers a variety of glass making projects, including glass blowing, at their glass workshops.
At Made in Muncie Pottery, classes provide specific instruction for a technique, the bare pottery for the project, and all glaze and supplies. They even offer one-hour pottery throwing lessons.
Cornerstone Center for the Arts is “where art and community come together.” They provide access to the arts for all, and provide opportunities for creative expression. Classes here include stained glass, 2D workshops, ceramics, and more, all in a historic setting.
KANKAKEE
KANKAKEESANDS
Newton
County’s Diverse Nature Preserve
story by CHIP SUTTON
Marketing Manager for The Nature Conservancy
Adrive up U.S. 41 in Newton County just north of Morocco may yield some surprising sights. On either side of the highway, prairie grasses wave in the wind. Birds fly overhead, scouring the prairie for their next meal. And on the west side of the highway, you just might spot a herd of bison. Bison? Yes!
A small herd of bison, also called buffalo, was brought to The Nature Conservancy’s (TNC) Kankakee Sands nature preserve in Newton County in 2016. Since then, the herd has grown to more than one hundred strong and has been attracting visitors from all over the Midwest since their arrival.
History of the Area
The land that is now Kankakee Sands was once part of the Grand Kankakee Marsh system and the home of Beaver Lake, then the largest lake in Indiana--seven miles long and five miles wide. It was a shallow lake, only ten feet at the deepest, filled with vegetation and wildlife. The historical area has been referred to as “the Everglades of the North,” and there is a documentary of the same name describing the rich history of the land and the draining of the lake which took place in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
In December 1996, The Nature Conservancy purchased 7,200 acres of agricultural ground in Newton County and began the process of converting these acres to the diverse prairies of today’s Kankakee Sands. Known as the Efroymson Prairie at Kankakee Sands,
LEFT:
It’s a new day for Kankakee Sands! Improvements at the preserve will help make this special place a visitor destination in Newton County.
this land is special because it is surrounded by permanently-protected properties that span the Indiana-Illinois border. Together, these properties conserve more than 36,000 acres of prairie and oak savanna habitat, and the Efroymson Prairie connects them all.
More than 600 species of native plants have been used to plant the prairies here and, as a result, the land is teeming with native wildlife. The preserve provides a habitat for more than 240 bird species, including such rare species as the Henslow’s sparrow, northern harrier, and least bittern.
It’s also home to 70 species of butterflies, including the state-endangered regal fritillary butterfly, and more than 900 species of moths. Dragonflies, bees, frogs, lizards, snakes, badgers, and bison all hover, slither, and roam here.
A Great Preserve Getting Better
TNC partnered with the National Park Service’s Rivers Trails and Conservation Assistance Program and Purdue University to plan for improved access and visitor experience at Kankakee Sands. These improvements will help make the preserve a more welcoming, inspiring, and educational destination for all visitors. They include improvements to view the bison herd at both the Welcome Area and Bison Viewing Area. TNC anticipates that these improvements will be completed this fall, in time for National Bison Day on November 2.
Whether you are visiting alone, with a small group, a school group, or a tour group, there is always something to see and do at Kankakee Sands. There is never a dull moment on the prairie, and any time of the year is a good time to visit, whether for a quick stop or a full day.
Dining, Art, Shopping, and More Await You in Valparaiso
story by CARRIE STEINWEG
Valparaiso translates to “Vale of Paradise” and it certainly is one in many aspects - for foodies, art lovers, music and theatre aficionados, nature lovers, families, college students, shoppers. They’ll all find a little bit of paradise in this cozy and family-friendly, yet trendy Northwest Indiana county seat.
Start your adventure in downtown Valparaiso, which is full of dining and shopping opportunities and the setting of many events throughout the year. Park Plaza is the hub of activity during all seasons as the setting for a twice-weekly farmers market, a splash pad, summer movie nights and concerts, Hometown Jams’ entertainment series, beer and wine festivals and more, as well as an ice rink during winter months surrounded by twinkling lights and the city’s massive holiday tree.
Valparaiso Events, a non-profit dedicated to enhancing life in “Valpo” via distinctive events and experiences, organizes more than a dozen unique festivals and events each year, including the city’s signature event for 45 years, the wildly popular Popcorn Festival in September. Next up are Pink Friday (a shopping/ dining day dedicated to small businesses the Friday before Thanksgiving, November 22) and Holly Days, a magical annual December tradition with live entertainment, ice sculptures, a live nativity, Holiday Express train and more.
Downtown Valparaiso is a shoppers dream. Select gift, decor and clothing items at such places as Indie Indie Bang! Bang!, Ella Jayms Boutique and Ivy Boutique. Pick up gourmet items at Old
Pastry, Designer Desserts, the Spice & Tea Exchange and more. Specialty stores like Rocket Fizz, Hungry Hound, Pickles and Toys in the Attic make a shopping excursion all the more fun.
Hungry? Valparaiso is truly the premier foodie destination in Northwest Indiana. A variety of independent eateries serve up anything you could be craving - from Spanish tapas at Don Quijote to elevated American grub at Main & Lincoln and Radius to wood fired pizza at The Rolling Stonebaker to ethnic specialties at Meditrina Market
Cafe, Pesto’s, El Salto, Furin Japanese Restaurant & Bar, Martini’s and others You’ll also want to experience a stunning sunset from the rooftop of Stack’s Bar & Grill. This is just the tip of the foodie iceberg.
Whatever libation you prefer, you’ll find a place to enjoy it! Sip on brews at Blockhead Beerworks, Ironwood Brewing Co., Washington Street Tap Room or Valpo Pour House. Pour a glass of wine at LambStone Cellars Winery, Anderson’s Winery and Vineyard or Four Corners Winery. Enjoy mead at Misbehavin’ Meads or ciders and slushies at Aftermath Cidery. And for spirits, creative cocktails and more check out Journeyman Distillery at The American Factory, where you can do tours and tastings, enjoy a meal or cocktails, listen to live music and explore parts of the 140,000-foot dining and retail space. The
PHOTOS CLOCKWISE: Holly Days attendees celebrate with a living Christmas Tree photo op! Four Corners Winery is a great place to sip and unwind.
PHOTO: Carrie Steinweg
The Orville Redenbacher statue in Central Park Plaza gets festive for the holidays.
PHOTO: Carrie Steinweg
DESTINATION
new craft brewery at this location, Sea of Monsters, releases new beers weekly. Get a group together and pedal your way around to several of these spots on the 15-passenger Beer Pedaler
Valpo has a bustling arts scene, with visual arts exhibits and a series of murals and public art pieces commissioned by the Valparaiso Creative Council, the Art Walk at Cumberland Crossing, Rotary Library Garden, Memorial Opera House, Chicago Street Theatre and the Valparaiso University Center for the Arts, which includes the Brauer Museum of Art. You can also learn about the fascinating history of the area at the PoCo Muse, Porter County’s historical museum. The museum has rotating exhibits so there is always something new to discover. The Zao Island Entertainment Center is a perfect place to hang out with the kids with an arcade, mini-golf, laser tag and rides. A spectacular parks department manages
ABOVE: A brand new mural behind Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop was painted by local artist Felix “Flex” Maldonado.
PHOTO: Carrie Steinweg
LEFT: Designer Desserts has cupcakes of every flavor to enjoy.
PHOTO: Carrie Steinweg
not only Central Park Plaza, but a number of other parks and recreational facilities. Ogden Botanical Garden features a stunning Japanese garden with pond, gazebo and an array of seasonal blooms. Rogers-Lakewood Park spans 122 acres with two lakes offering boat rentals, making it an ideal spot for fishing, hiking and picnicking. Valparaiso also has a skate park, outdoor pickleball courts, two public golf courses and more. Creekside Trails is a multi-use trail system with 13+ miles of soft surface for walking, hiking and biking. At the trailhead is Trailyard Outpost , a mountain bike and outdoor shop. They also have mountain bike, fat tire bike and snowshoe rentals. The Trailyard Restaurant & Bar sits next door as a familyfriendly eatery with inviting outdoor seating. Don’t forget to grab a coffee, bubble tea or
cold-pressed juice here as well before or after your trail adventures.
Porter County Parks has additional programming and events at Sunset Hills Farm County Park, including Pop-Up Beirgarten dates and Trunk or Treat. A highlight of the year is the Winter Lights Drive Through running November 23 through January 1.
For more information on the area, visit: ci.valparaiso.in.us valparaisoevents.com valpochamber.org
TOP LEFT: Trailyard Outpost has all your biking and outdoor needs.
TOP MIDDLE: Trailyard Outpost offers mountain bike and snowshoe rentals for outdoor fun.
TOP RIGHT: Journeyman Distillery is the perfect place for tastings, meals, and group gatherings.
PHOTO: Carrie Steinweg
HOLIDAY SHOPPING DINING
Shop small, shop local in downtown Valpo for holiday gifts
ELLA JAYMS
260 S. Franklin St., Suite 102 • 219-510-1102 ellajayms.com
A lifestyle boutique dedicated to women of all generations, Ella Jayms offers thoughtfully curated goods that spark joy and celebrate life’s happiest moments. Goods include clothing, footwear, accessories, home goods, and children’s items.
HUNGRY HOUND
64 Lincolnway • 219-286-6387 hungryhound.com
Specializing in quality food, gourmet treats, and supplies for cats and dogs, Hungry Hound also offers grooming, training, and nutritional counseling from local pet experts. Every pet deserves the best!
INDIE INDIE BANG BANG
19 E. Lincolnway • 219-286-6642 indieindiebangbang.com
Indie Indie Bang! Bang! offers bold, beautifully designed, affordable luxuries for all and is the perfect place for thoughtful gifts that bang, pop and sizzle from small and mid-size creators.
LIFESTYLES
122 Lincolnway • 219-464-9167 lifestylesvalpo.com
For the style-savvy customers who love eclectic, affordable gifts and home essentials, Lifestyles has a curation of unique artwork, home décor, jewelry, kitchen accessories, and more!
OLD WORLD MARKET
76 S. Washington St. • 219-476-0700 oldworldmarketonline.com
Offering a unique selection of cheeses, cured meats, wines, craft beers, and specialty foods, this iconic Valpo store is a great stop for gifts as well as a delicious choice for catering!
ROCKET FIZZ
157 Lincolnway • 219-242-8359 rocketfizz.com
Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop carries thousands of unique and fun candies, bottled soda pops, gifts, nostalgic posters, and more. There’s something for everyone!
Don’t forget these downtown favorites for your holiday meals & celebrations!
RESTAURANTS, COFFEE SHOPS AND BAKERIES:
Aftermath Cidery & Winery aftermathcidery.com
Be Good Juicerie begoodjuicerie.com
Blockhead Beerworks blockheadbeer.com
Blue Point Seafood bluepoint-seafood.com
Designer Desserts designerdessertsbakery.com
Fluid Coffee Roasters fluidcoffeelove.com
Journeyman Distillery journeyman.com
Mixtape Social Kitchen mixtapegrub.com
Peddlers Pizza Pub peddlerspizzapub.com
Roots Market Café rootsmarketcafe.com
Valpo Velvet valpovelvet.com
Visit valparaisoevents.com for full restaurant and retail directories and the Downtown Dining & Shopping Map that highlights even more great stops in historic downtown Valpo.
SCENTED SCIENCE
60 Lincolnway • 219-242-8281 scented-science.com
Visit Valparaiso’s scent bar to create custom bath, body, home, and automotive scent products. Enjoy a specialty cocktail while you create, and shop in their grab-n-go and artisan boutique areas.
THE SPICE & TEA EXCHANGE
161 Lincolnway • 219-615-3162 spiceandtea.com
Specializing in fine spices, loose-leaf teas, salts, sugars, and handcrafted seasonings that are mixed in store daily, you’ll find the perfect gifts at The Spice & Tea Exchange.
The award-winning Porter County Museum is this area’s oldest institution devoted to the history and culture of Porter County. Also known as the PoCo Muse, the museum is open six days a week, Tuesday-Sunday, from 11a to 5p, and offers free general admission.
Plan your visit this season to see our newest featured exhibit, The V&N: Porter County’s Electric Interurban Rail Line. The Valparaiso and Northern Railway (V&N) was an electric interurban train line in Porter County that operated from 1910 to 1938, connecting Valparaiso to Chesterton by way of area lake resorts.
Exhibits change frequently, a variety of engaging programs are available each month, and free half-hour guided tours are offered on Saturdays at 2p. For more information, visit pocomuse.org or find @pocomuse on social media.
PORTER COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION
775 Meridian Road • Valparaiso Sunset Hill Farm Park portercountypark s.org facebook.com/pcparksandrec 219-465-3586
Winter Lights Drive Through Nightly November 23 - January 1
MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE
104 Indiana Ave. • Valparaiso 219-548-9137
memorialoperahouse.com
At Memorial Opera House we use theatre and the arts to build community and create a sense of belonging. Dedicated to veterans of all wars, Memorial Opera House stands tall as a living tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our great country. Built in 1893, the Opera House has boasted a rich history, stunning architecture, a dedicated staff, generous sponsors, donors, and volunteers, and loyal patrons for over a century. This past summer, Memorial Opera House has enhanced and enriched these features through months of stunning interior renovations.
Experience a fresh take on Memorial Opera House’s historic splendor with an array of programming throughout the season, including multiple mainstage Broadway style musicals each year, LimeLights Youth Theatre education and The Penguin Project®, a robust concert series of regional tribute bands and original national acts, Memorial Day and Veterans Day celebrations, comedy acts, fundraisers, film festivals, special events, holiday festivities, and rental space for your wedding, event, or particular gathering. Enjoy an entertaining, enriching, and affordable performance in the heart of beautiful downtown Valparaiso with Memorial Opera House.
Kick off the winter season with us by taking a drive with your family through the holiday lights display at Sunset Hill. Lights are on nightly from November 23, 2024 until January 1, 2025. Free admission.
In addition to Winter Lights, every December we host pictures with Santa at Sunset Hill. Check our Facebook and webpage for more information as it becomes available.
Our parks include Sunset Hill Farm Park in Valparaiso, Brincka Cross Gardens in Michigan City, Brookdale Park in Chesterton, and Dunn’s Bridge in Kouts. We host many events for all ages year round. Our parks are also available for facility rentals for your next event.
Indiana’s
story by JANE AMMESON
When Abraham Lincoln stopped at the Noon Day Inn in 1844, the stage stop in Haubstadt had already been serving travelers for almost 20 years, having opened in 1825, making it the oldest restaurant in continuous operation in Indiana. Now expanded many times over and called the Log Inn, one section of the interior with its original hewn log walls and chinking still is much as it was when Lincoln came to dine and where drivers changed horses on the 21-hour journey (if the weather was good) between Evansville and Vincennes—a trip that now takes about an hour by car.
We can’t pinpoint other places still in business where Attorney Abe might have dined, but there are plenty of historic eateries in the state to construct a perfect road trip for foodies.
The last iconic Triple XXX Thirst Station remains in West Lafayette, where it’s been on the hill since 1929. Just steps from the campus of Purdue University in West Lafayette, you can’t help but notice the Triple XXX on the hill in Chauncey Village. The Triple XXX Family Restaurant name change reflected that it was no longer just a thirst station. The diner’s tag line, “We were here before your mother was born” isn’t just lip service. Ask almost any regular who sits along the winding countertop how long they’ve been coming in and ordering the Breakfast Special, or Duane Purvis burger, and you’ll hear some great stories that span generations.
Another great spot for burgers is the Lemon Drop in Anderson, still serving since 1953. Famous for the Onionburger—onions cooked between two patties—they also serve tenderloins, fish, and more. There are traditional sides
There are plenty of historic eateries in the state to construct a perfect road trip for foodies.
like fries, onion rings, and chili, all served in a small space with original décor.
In the oh-so Germanic town of Oldenburg, German fare is also part of the heritage of two restaurants—the Pearl Street Pub which opened in the 1850s as the King’s Tavern and the relatively new Bavarian-style Brau Haus which is over 100 years old.
In 1902, a restaurant opened in downtown Indy that became a true landmark. St. Elmo Steak House is the oldest Indianapolis steakhouse in its original location. And besides great cuts of meat, their shrimp cocktail is on the level of a national treasure.
But enough with the 20th century, let’s backtrack to the 1900s again. It’s country cooking with heaps of fried chicken and their famous fried biscuits (don’t ask about the calories because you really don’t want to know) served with apple butter at The Nashville House, Brown County’s first restaurant, which opened in 1859 and was also a place to spend the night. The original building burned down in 1943 but the “new” place still retains that old time country charm.
Established in 1878 in tiny Avilla in Noble County, the St. James is considered the oldest restaurant in Northern Indiana. The exterior, though extensively restored, is just as charming as it looks in vintage photos when it was a hotel with a dining room on the main floor.
Last time we looked, there were no oceans near Fort Wayne but that doesn’t stop the Oyster Bar, a rambling restaurant dating back to 1888, from serving a wide variety of seafood including, you guessed it, oysters in many variations. While you’re in Fort Wayne,
consider a stop at the relatively new Coney Island Weiner (1914), the oldest Coney stand in America. Long time locals say it hasn’t changed—the same Coney and chili recipes and steamed buns.
Indiana’s famed deep fried pork tenderloin sandwiches originated at Nick’s Kitchen in Huntington. The place started off as a hamburger stand in 1904 run by Nick Freienstein who saved enough money to open up a restaurant in 1908. It’s his recipe that’s still used today.
Located in the building formerly known as the Hotel Kentland, circa 1894, on the courthouse square in downtown Kentland is the Old Colonial Inn. It’s easy to spot the landmark tower above the front door in the recently restored brick building. Step inside to experience the warmth and history of their rooms, along with a variety of delicious dinner selections and attentive staff. The menu echoes the original when the restaurant opened in 1964, and features superior quality meats and seafoods.
LEFT, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:
German fare at Brau Haus in Oldenburg.
PHOTO: Brau Haus
Also in Oldenburg is the Pearl Street Pub.
PHOTO: Pearl Street Pub
Fort Wayne’s Famous Coney Island.
PHOTO: Visit Fort Wayne
RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM:
Triple XXX Family Restaurant in Lafayette from its early days until present.
PHOTOS: Triple XXX Family Restaurant
The Lemon Drop in Anderson.
PHOTO: Anderson-Madison County Visitors Bureau
The Oyster Bar in Fort Wayne.
PHOTO: Kelly Benton/Visit Fort Wayne
LAOTTO BREWING COMPANY
202 Main Street • Laotto • 260-897-3360 laottobrewing.com
LaOtto Brewing Company is Majority femaleowned brewery & pub featuring craft beers on tap, made on-site. MAKING INSPIRED BEER IN LAOTTO, IN. Established in 2015, by family, for family. Each beer is carefully crafted on-site and served in our brewpub. The owners invite the community to come thirsty and bring friends while enjoying memorable drinks and pubgourmet meals. Each summer & fall, the beer garden is available for open-air dining!
ALBION ALE HOUSEHOME OF GUESSWORKING BREWING CO.
108 S. Orange Street • Albion • 260-636-2446 facebook.com/AlbionAleHouse/
The Albion Ale House boasts Made in Noble - Guesswork Brewing Company and restaurant. Here you can pick from 1 of 25 craft beers on tap and one of the region’s favorites for hand-crafted burgers! We brew our beer on-site, offer Carryout Growlers and Bombers, and feature over a dozen taps, beer flights, and more.
HARRY STUFF BREWING
4319 W. Highway US Highway 6 • Wawaka 260-350-9137 • harrystuffbrewing.com
Harry Stuff Brewing is a family-owned brewery on Southfork Farms in Noble County, adjacent to Mallard Roost Wetland Conservation Area. It features beers to go, smoothies, delicious starters, flatbreads, brick-fired pizzas, Colombian empanadas, gluten-free options, weekend Latin specials, and weekly desserts by Gabriela’s European Desserts in Ligonier. The beer consists of natural ingredients only. Water from the farm, yeast, hops, and barley comprise the bulk of our ingredients, including natural fruits, coffee beans, cacao, and vanilla beans. Harry Stuff’s philosophy is that you should be able to trust your beer!
Returns to Fort Wayne November 22 – 23 at Electric Works INDIANA ARTISAN HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE
The state’s preeminent art and food holiday experience is the place to find gifts of good taste and gifts that taste good in northeast Indiana. The Indiana Artisan Holiday Marketplace will launch the holiday season, offering Hoosierhandcrafted art and delicacies from November 22-23 in the GE Club at Electric Works in Fort Wayne.
From hand-smithed jewelry to handmade caramels, fine watercolors to striking wood art, functional pottery to tasty sauces, the Indiana Artisan Holiday Marketplace will feature gifts and decor by about 40 artists, fine crafters, and smallbatch food and beverage makers whose work has been designated among the best made in Indiana.
The two-day art and food experience will feature creatives from all over Indiana. They will set up engaging booths and meet shoppers from 4-8 p.m. Friday, November 22 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, November 23 in the GE Club, 1020 Swinney Ave., Fort Wayne. They will be on hand to talk about how their work is crafted, and some will demonstrate their creative process. All food artisans will offer samples. There will be gifts and décor for all budgets and ages. Admission is $8 per person; 14 and younger are free.
It will be an experience without comparison and housed in a special place.
“The Indiana Artisan Holiday Marketplace will provide an opportunity to buy one-of-a-kind artwork and artisan foods directly from the Hoosiers who make it,” said Indiana Artisan Executive Director Rosalyn Demaree. “It will be an experience without comparison and housed in a special place.”
GE Employees themselves built the GE Club in 1927, creating a social gathering spot, basketball gym and bowling alley. The Marketplace will be centered in the main floor gymnasium, which has been restored to a beautiful luster.
“It’s uncommon for a venue to be as special as the show, but that’s true here,” said Demaree. “We are thrilled to be able to use a building steeped as deeply in Indiana history as are many of the traditional arts that Indiana Artisan members create
today,” including stringed instruments, chocolates, textiles, journals, and honey.
Work that carries the Indiana Artisan seal has gone through a rigorous evaluation process. It is the state’s moniker for identifying and recognizing the best of Hoosier craftsmanship. About 230 artisans in 57 counties currently have art, food or beverage that has met the high standards. Each is an entrepreneur; many hail from some of the state’s smallest
communities. It isn’t often that they come together in one location.
While a select few Indiana Artisans will participate in the Holiday Marketplace, the highly respected brand includes painters, potters, woodworkers, bakers, snack makers, weavers, glass artists, photographers, wineries, distilleries, paper and mixed media artists, leatherworkers, and more. A list of artisans participating in the Holiday Marketplace will be posted on the organization’s website, www.IndianaArtisan.org
Brown County Art Gallery
Brown County’s original art gallery, established in 1926, featuring many of Indiana’s finest contemporary and early art colony masters.
3 blocks East of Courthouse Main St. & Artist Dr. Nashville, IN 47448
812-988-4609 browncountyartgallery.org MON-SAT 10-5, SUN 12-5
BROWN COUNTY
NORTH VERNON
Visit the James Whitcomb Riley Boyhood Home and Museum
Visit the James Whitcomb Riley Boyhood Home and Museum in Greenfield. This is the home where “Little Orphant Annie” came to stay, and where “The Raggedy Man” worked in the garden and watered the horses and fed them hay.
Riley romanticized and idolized his boyhood in Hancock County. He called Greenfield...”The Best Home This Side of Heaven.” A visit to the Riley Boyhood Home offers a glimpse into that
childhood. The home is just as it was for Riley when he lived there as a boy in the 1850s and 1860s. You will learn about the Riley Family, and how the everyday people and experiences in Riley’s life became immortalized in his poetry.
The James Whitcomb Riley Boyhood Home and Museum is open Tuesday thru Saturday from 11am to 4pm with the last tour starting at 3pm. The Riley Home is open seasonally March - October, but will accept special “By Your Request” group tours during the off season months. You can learn more about the Riley Home at jwrileyhome.org
During the first full week of October, Greenfield celebrates Riley with the largest 4 day craft festival in the state. This year the Riley Festival will be October 3rd - 6th. There are over 450 craft booths and food trucks. There is a wide selection of live entertainment and two parades. The most interesting parade is the “Parade of Flowers” where the Hancock County school children commemorate Riley’s birthday by placing flowers at the statue’s base.
The Riley Festival also has several competitions, which are open to the public. This includes Photography; Fine Art; Pumpkin Decorating; Baker’s Best; Home Arts and Quilts; and of course...poetry. Go to rileyfestival. com to get more information.
For up to date info on everything in Hancock County go to visitinhancock.org
Now is the perfect time to Discover Michigan City!
Visit this city by the lake to explore unique shopping, dining, cultural and recreational experiences. We invite you to DISCOVER Michigan City all year and can’t wait to share what makes our beloved community so special!
DISCOVER A DESTINATION
You will find Michigan City a great place to stay for a while. Choose from national chain hotels and independent inns and resorts. Michigan City offers a variety of lodging options. Locations for your weddings, reunions, or corporate retreats here will please you and your guests with the convenience of being near major highways, airports, and rail lines.
DISCOVER SHOPPING
You’ll find independent boutiques, and art galleries as well as your favorite national brands in Michigan City’s diverse retail scene. Stroll through the city’s historic downtown or head to the city’s south side with local retailers of organic foods, home furnishings, and antiques.
DISCOVER FOOD
Searching for ways to please your palate? You will find them all in Michigan City. Italian beef, deep-fried pork tenderloin sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs and lake perch are just a few specialties you’ll want to try at one of the local establishments. Add the fun of local breweries and wineries, along with old-fashioned drive-ins and ice cream shopsMichigan City’s food satisfies any taste.
Good News Vintage
613 Franklin Street
219 -256-9 963
@goodnewsvintagemc
Welcome to Good News Vintage, located in the historical Staiger Hardware building in beautiful downtown Michigan City! We take pride in offering you hip, hand-picked curated collections of original vintage finds! Featuring a closet FULL of sustainable fashion… walls covered in mid century art and 2000 sq. ft. of vintage, vintage…and MORE vintage! Check Facebook and Instagram for current shop hours.
525 Franklin St. 219-706-9139
northstarproperties.com
For more information on all that Michigan City has to offer, visit DiscoverMichiganCity. com, email info@mcachamber.com or call 219-874-6221
Choose to stay at North Star Properties during your visit to Michigan City, where our specialty is short-term rental management and accommodations. We make every effort to satisfy the special needs of our guests by offering a concierge-style service, from reservations to the check-in process, and throughout your entire stay. We use the latest technologies to enhance the guest experience while also being on-hand if needed. We can coordinate excursions, tours, private chefs, and more. Our goal is to offer 5-star hotel concierge services in private homes. We are selective with our inventory and fit all budgets and accommodate most group sizes. We are dedicated to maintaining a professional, trustworthy, long-term relationship with our guests to have them coming back year after year. North Star Properties is also a real estate firm covering all aspects of real estate, whether it’s managing your rental home, selling, or buying. We are respected in the community and our philosophies are based on honesty and integrity. Our mission is to provide our clients with extraordinary real estate services, backed by a reputable company, so our clients can focus on what matters most in their lives while we handle what matters most with their homes.
Visit Morgan County
MorganCounty, Indiana invites you to discover friendly small towns, scenic backroads, secluded forest trails... and seasonal fun! It’s a perfect weekend getaway for a group of friends, or the whole family - and you can do it all just minutes from downtown Indianapolis and Bloomington. With unexpected experiences, family-friendly festivals and the state’s only winery that’s also home to a brewery and distillery, Morgan County is more than you expect, and exactly what you need. Discover the gorgeous landscape created by long-melted glaciers on a fall or winter hike. Create your own work of art, guided by a local artist. Visit a family farm to see how they produce honey, lavender or even wine! Shop independently owned boutiques and eateries in a picturesque Main Street setting and indulge in treats from a 100+ year old candy store!
They make candy canes by hand each Saturday in Nov. and Dec. at the Martinsville Candy Kitchen, and be sure to mark your calendar for holiday events like a Christmas Light Parade, Victorian Christmas Celebration, the Bobby Helms Jingle Bell Rock Christmas Music Spectacular, the Martinsville Cookie Stroll, Santa at Old Town Waverly Park , and more! Stay in the know about upcoming events in Morgan County throughout the year including fun festivals, live music opportunities, local winery and brewery happenings and more! Find all the information you need about things to do, where to stay, places to eat, festivals to experience and more to discover in Morgan County at visitmorgancountyin.com
Berries & Ivy
Don’t miss the Christmas Open House Nov. 2nd from 10-4!
Located on the Historic Downtown Square this unique home decor and gift shoppe is always a destination experience, but never more so than during the holiday season.
HOURS: Tues - Thurs 11am - 5pm Fri 10am - 5pm • Sat 10am - 4pm NOW OPEN Sundays Nov & Dec 12-4
28 N. Main St. • Martinsville 765-342-7722
Facebook.com/berries&ivycountrystore
Hunter’s Honey Farm
A family-owned and operated farm featuring honey, beeswax, bee pollen, candles, honey soap, moisturizing cream, lip balm, gourmet food and much more. Tours available year round (reservations required).
6501 W. Honey Ln. • Martinsville 765-537-9430
HunterHoneyFarm.com
MON-SAT. 9-6
The Sterling Butterfly
96 E Morgan St. • Martinsville 765-318-2159 • thesterlingbutterfly.com pam@thesterlingbutterfly.com
Hours: Tue-Friday 11am – 5pm / Saturday 10 am – 4 pm And By Appointment
The Sterling Butterfly is a gift shop and art studio featuring local and regional artisan crafted products, including artisan jewelry by Pam Hurst. Want to experience the hottest trend? We now offer permanent jewelry! Art and jewelry workshops are available monthly, follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional information.
