Top 10 Best Small Towns in Indiana
Indiana is home to a plethora of amazing small towns. These 20 towns and cities, all with populations of 25,000 or less, are a must-see for anyone looking to ... read more...experience the hospitality and charm of Indiana's small towns. Beautiful gems are awaiting you and fun activities sure to please all ages and walks of life, with sprawling plains that seem to stretch for miles around or rivers looping lazily through. Let's have a look at the best small towns in Indiana now.
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Williamsport is a town in Washington Township, Warren County, Indiana, United States. It is the county seat of Warren County and the largest of the county's four incorporated towns. Williamsport Falls is in the heart of downtown Williamsport. Williamsport is the county's largest town and home to the county's sole hospital. If you're passing through during the fair, the fairgrounds here also host the annual Warren County Fair!
TMF Center, which manufactures parts for construction equipment and trucking; GL Technologies, which procures industrial tooling; and Kuri-Tec, which manufactures industrial hoses and accessories, are all located in Williamsport. St. Vincent Williamsport Hospital, a 16-bed acute care facility operated by Indianapolis-based St. Vincent Health, is located in the town. The hospital has a 24-hour emergency medical service as well as an ambulance service. Williamsport also has a nursing home, "Williamsport Nursing and Rehabilitation", which primarily serves seniors with health care and rehabilitation services. These are significant local employers, as health care and social services account for 9.8% of all jobs in Warren County.
Take a walk-through downtown Williamsport - Old Town has a beautiful view of the Wabash River and buildings on the Indiana Register of Historic Sites and Structures like the Presbyterian Church and the Tower House. There's also the historic Warren County Courthouse, which has been standing for over a century! Get a slice of pizza at Biggy's Pizza before heading to Mind Song Books to peruse their odd collections. Don't forget to see the Williamsport Falls, which are the highest in the state and are also located downtown.
In fact, the entire town is built along the banks of the beautiful Wabash River, and there's so much to do here that if you come, you'll want to stay for a few days to take it all in. Camping, boating, fishing, and swimming are just a few of the activities available in and around Williamsport and along the Wabash. Residents of Williamsport take pride in their wholesome, welcoming, and kind culture. There are many historic homes and shops to visit and admire, and if you like old-fashioned architecture, you'll love it here! There are plenty of places to stay in and around Williamsport if you're planning a visit to this adorable small town.
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Crown Point is a lovely town, and the downtown square is the main tourist attraction. The Old Lake County Courthouse can be found here. The "Grand Old Lady" moniker tells you everything you need to know about the structure. Muhammad Ali even got his driver's license here. You can shop downtown after touring the courthouse. If you have children, they will enjoy visiting Bulldog Park, which is located near the square. There is a splash pad in the summer and an ice rink in the winter.
Crown Point became a popular place for couples to get married because there was no waiting period for marriage licenses; it became known as Marriage Mill. Many celebrities, including Tom Mix, Rudolph Valentino, Cassius Clay, and Jackson 5 patriarch Joseph Jackson and his wives, married in Crown Point. Crown Point, Indiana, a charming and historic town, is a small, vibrant attraction in the state's far north. Crown Point was known as the Marriage Mill for decades because of the speed with which marriage licenses were issued, and many famous people, including Cassius Clay, Rudolph Valentino, Colleen Moore, and Tom Mix, came to this same room to obtain their license.
Crown Point has recently become every bargain hunter's dream, where you can spend hours looking for treasures ranging from historic furniture to collectibles and retro household items. Crown Point is also working to connect a section of this trail to the Pennsy Trail. So, if you enjoy the thrill of the game, check out this location after visiting Crown Point. Crown Point has a beautiful city center with stunning architecture that is compact and easy to get around on foot. Crown Point is at the southern end of the longest off-road trail in northern Indiana, which leads to Hammond. If you visit Crown Point between May and October, take time to visit the museum located on the second floor of the Old Lake Courthouse. Just southeast of Courthouse Square is a craft brewery that has revived a historic tradition in Crown Point.
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If you're looking to get out of town and do some statewide exploring, Madison, Indiana is a charmingly historic town to visit. This charming town on the Ohio River is a thriving community that combines history, heart, architecture, and a community-focused spirit. Madison, Indiana is a small riverfront town near the Kentucky border that provides a unique getaway for many visitors. With a population of around 12,000 people, this area of Indiana is small in size but big on beauty.
In fact, Madison was ranked second in the state for Best Main Streets, and it's easy to see why. Madison was also named one of America's best small town food scenes by USA Today readers. Spend an afternoon strolling around town, shopping, eating, and learning about the area. Madison actually has one of the largest historic districts in the country, with a plethora of architectural structures ranging in style and history. Lanier Mansion, for example, is a historic house built in the 1800s that guests can still tour today. Take a stroll along the river and enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, and cool temperatures of the Midwest.
Come experience the charm and history that Madison, Indiana has to offer. Madison is surrounded by lush landscapes that are home to several quality wineries, in addition to its history and old homes. Enjoy a glass of wine under the hot summer sun at Lathier or Thomas Family wineries. In downtown Madison, you'll find rows of inviting boutique stores, cozy cafes, and beer gardens. During the summer, the city provides free live music in public parks.
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In Metamora, you can travel back in time and experience what life was like in the 1800s. From Wednesday to Sunday, you can stop by the gristmill and purchase a bag of freshly stone-ground cornmeal or flour. See the canal boat and the United States' only operational wooden aqueduct. On weekends, you can board the Whitewater Railroad for a short trip. On the 2.6-mile rustic hiking and biking trail along the historic Whitewater Canal, you can enjoy the lush scenery of the Whitewater River Valley 365 days a year. Along with the historical features and attractions, Metamora has around 40 businesses, including shops, restaurants, and lodging.
Metamora is especially enjoyable in the summer, but there's plenty to do even when it's cold and snowy. Metamora, Indiana is a small town in Franklin County on Indiana's east coast. This charming town has only about 188 residents but provides a bustling environment for visitors and tourists. Metamora, like many small Indiana towns, has a lovely, covered bridge, though this bridge is unique. The Metamora Aqueduct Covered Bridge is actually built over their infamous canal. On warmer days, you can take a horse-drawn boat ride down the canal. It's charming and provides the best view of Metamora.
While Metamora is not a large city, there are many historic buildings, local shops, and old homes to explore. Indeed, there is plenty of local shopping here, and many shops and restaurants are open all year. Granny's Ice Cream and Cookie Jars, as well as the Smelly Gourmet, are just a few of the businesses that are open all year. There's even a working grist mill for you to check out. After a fire destroyed the original mill shelter in 1900, this structure was rebuilt. There is also a gem mine, horseback riding, carriage rides, and hiking trails in Metamora. You'll never be bored in this small town!
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One of most interesting getaways is a small town in Indiana that has as many things to do and see as the plentiful cookies in your favorite cookies n' creme ice cream. And, like ice cream, this small town in Dearborn County, Aurora, is a pleasant surprise. Aurora, Indiana, has a long history: it was platted in 1819 and named after the goddess of dawn in Roman mythology of the same name. It's also fitting, because this lovely little slice of heaven is a day trip fit for a goddess. It's the perfect combination of scenic, quaint, charming, and fun, and we think you'll want to live here.
It has one of the cutest main streets in Indiana, with a plethora of shops, historic buildings, and other fascinating treasures. You'll also come across some truly unique public art installations, such as the stunning Gabbard Riverfront Park Mural. This is unique to Indiana; it is entirely Aurora and entirely enjoyable. The old homes and historic buildings, such as the Hillforest Mansion, built in the Italian Renaissance style in 1855, will pique the interest of history buffs.
Aside from the Hillforest Mansion, at least a dozen other Aurora structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Who knew this little-known treasure was so important? So now you know. The town has a strong sense of community and a strong sense of camaraderie. There are always events, festivals, and other fun activities going on, especially on weekends. You'll discover some delightful new annual traditions here, and you might just decide to make them your own. There are also numerous water-based activities available due to its location on the Ohio River. Explore Aurora's splash pad, swimming, marinas, boating, biking, and other activities! There's so much to do in this town that you might need more than a weekend to see it all. Plan a visit to Aurora as soon as possible if you're looking for a beautiful, charming small town in Indiana that's worth your time and then some.
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Indiana is full of amazing small towns, each with their own distinct vibes and attractions. While many small towns provide compelling reasons for Hoosiers to visit, one small town stands out. This town may be small, but it is vibrant and alive, and it is impossible not to explore once you arrive. There's something energizing about Nashville, Indiana, nestled in the heart of picturesque Brown County. This town has a population of around 1,000 people and is only 1.02 square miles in size.
T.C. Steele, the famous impressionist, lived in Nashville, which became known as a haven for artists. Nashville is still known as an artist's colony, making it an unusual and inspiring place to visit. There are many interesting shops to explore, such as Nature's Cabin. Like most Nashville small shops, the outside of this store is adorned with art, eclectic details, and nature, making the view from the outside just as captivating as the inside. You can even watch the employees expertly make delicious batches of fudge at one of the more delectable shops, The Nashville Fudge Kitchen.
In Nashville, Indiana, no decor or art display is too vibrant or large. Walking through the historic downtown streets provides amazing, colorful sights. Even the gardens in this tiny town are as whimsical and magical as you'd expect. Take a charming train tour to see all of the most popular sites in this artsy town. You'll see historic sites like the Palace Theater, which hosts a plethora of incredible musical and theatrical performances, and the Nashville General Store, a quirky and incredible little shop worth exploring. You'll also find the entrance to the gorgeous Brown County State Park in this fine, little town.Nashville, Indiana is an incredible, one-of-a-kind town with huge tributes to history, nature, and art that you won't be able to resist exploring.
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Shipshewana, Indiana, is one such delightful little town. It is an amazingly magical Christmas town that must be experienced to be believed. A holiday season in Shipshewana is one you'll never forget. This small Amish community in Indiana is a charming delight all year. It's pleasant, friendly, and so magical that you might find yourself wishing you could live here. Shipshewana comes alive in the winter, when the snow falls, and the nights become longer than the days.
Attend a variety of festivals and annual traditions that will undoubtedly become your own. The holiday season begins almost immediately after Halloween; in early November, attend the Shipshewana Christmas light parade, which is followed by a tree lighting ceremony. When the tree is lit, the holiday festivities in Shipshewana really begin. The annual Chocolate Day, held in mid-November, is one of the town's sweetest traditions. Get a one-of-a-kind chocolate box from Aunt Millie's Candy & Nut Shop before wandering around town collecting chocolates to fill it with. It's the epitome of pure magic.
Any visit to the fascinating town will include seeing horse-drawn carriages and learning about the local Amish-Mennonite culture. Shipshewana is a popular Heritage Trail stop. With a variety of guided tours of local establishments available, the town is a great way to explore the historic LaGrange County. Menno-Hof, along with the family-friendly Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park, should be visited by visitors to Shipshewana for an interactive cultural experience. Explore the expansive flea market with over two dozen independent vendors selling handcrafted wares and antiquities from May to September.
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Goshen, also known as Maple City, is located near the Michigan border in northern Indiana. The charming small town is lined with charming brick buildings and is home to a sizable Amish community. The century-old Old Bag Factory, which was revitalized in the 1980s, is one of the top landmarks. It was once an abandoned factory and is now a creative space with galleries, artisan shops, and old factory memorabilia. Goshen's economy is centered on the automotive and recreational vehicle industries. Automotive component manufacturers like Benteler exist, as do companies that build custom bodies onto chassis like Supreme, Independent Protection, and Showhauler Trucks. Dutchmen, Forest River, and Keystone are among the RV manufacturers.
Goshen has seven parks and several greenways and trails that wind through the city, one of which runs along the old Mill Race and hydraulic canal that was once used to power an old hydroelectric power plant. Plans drawn up in 2005 call for the plant to be reopened and redevelopment along the canal to begin. The Pumpkinvine Nature Trail follows the former Pumpkin Vine Railroad from Goshen to Middlebury and Shipshewana. The trail begins at Abshire Park, northeast of Goshen. It is one of Goshen's recreational highlights. They, along with the Maple City Greenway and the Millrace trail, provide many miles of easily accessible walking, running, and biking trails.
When the sun shines, join the locals at Fidler Pond Park, their favorite hangout. Visitors can SUP or kayak on the lake, or simply walk around the picturesque landscape, which is home to one of the country's largest country fairs. Shop locally owned stores for one-of-a-kind finds and handcrafted items in the walkable downtown. The Soapy Gnome sells luxurious handcrafted soap and skin care products. Discover art finds ranging from midcentury modern to African artifacts at Found, as well as handmade and fair trade items at Ten Thousand Villages. Goertzen Pottery in the nearby Old Bag Factory combines traditional techniques with contemporary designs.
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Corydon, Indiana is a small town in far southern Indiana. This town is noteworthy for several reasons, one of which is that it served as the capital of the Indiana Territory from 1813 to 1816. It was named the state capital in 1816, but by 1826, that honor had been given to Indianapolis. Still, there's enough history here to keep history buffs interested, as well as enough shops, restaurants, and great local attractions to keep just about anyone happy. Corydon, Indiana, is a historic town ideal for getting away from it all.
Corydon, Indiana, has a population of under 4,000 people. It is, however, a popular tourist destination due to its rich history and overall relaxed, low-key atmosphere. The neighborhoods are visually appealing and photogenic. When you arrive, you have an almost immediate sense of belonging, as if you've always belonged here. Despite the town's small size, there are plenty of things to do. Corydon will appeal to history buffs, foodies, and just about everyone else. Visit Indiana's first capitol building and learn about the state's formation.
Visit any of Corydon's other significant historical sites, such as the Battle of Corydon Memorial Park, where Indiana's first - and only - Civil War battle was officially fought. The Cedar Hill Cemetery and the Leora Brown School are two other historic sites in town. There are a few more, so make sure to look through all of your options when you arrive. History buffs and casual explorers alike will enjoy a visit to the world-famous Butt Drugs, which Corydon is proud to claim as its own. Butt Drugs is a legendary local pharmacy that evolved into something entirely different. Today, it sells a variety of unusual and offbeat confections, and many people come to Corydon JUST to visit. To learn more about this local legend, click here. Other nearby attractions include caverns that can be visited and toured, O'Bannon Woods State Park, and four different bridges.
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Indiana has many unique small towns, from the world's Christmas capital to this charming artists' colony. While every small town in Indiana is unique in its own way, this one stands out as the most memorable. New Harmony, Indiana, is a lovely small town that was once a utopian village. While the Utopia no longer exists, remnants of this fascinating period in history can still be admired. The Cathedral Labyrinth, which was inspired by the Chartes Cathedral in France, can be found here. Visitors are encouraged to walk through the labyrinth in a calm, meditative state.
One block away is the Roofless Church, a non-denominational place of worship. This stunning structure is one you should definitely investigate. The Harmonist Labyrinth is a second Labyrinth in New Harmony. This hedge maze encourages visitors to successfully solve the maze in order to find the stone grotto in the center of the Labyrinth. The log cabins in New Harmony are replicas of homes that the Harmonists would have lived in during the period of Utopia. The Atheneum, another unique structure, is a great place to learn about New Harmony's history. This fascinating structure serves as a historical visitors center for visitors interested in learning more about this incredible town.
You'll enjoy exploring this small town of less than 1,000 people because it has old-fashioned charm, an incredible history, and intriguing buildings and architecture. New Harmony was founded by Harmonists with the intention of creating a religious utopia. It may not have achieved its lofty goals, but community stewardship has allowed the town to maintain its peaceful vibe into the twenty-first century. Find peace among the historic architecture, sip local whisky, or go on a ghost tour at night.