Looking to plan a couples vacation close to home this summer? Crawfordsville and the surrounding area offers plenty of options to fill up a multi-day itinerary. Here are some ideas to fill out your plan:
1. Hiking. Turkey Run State Park’s Trail 3 was named the Midwest’s Best Hike in the 2023 Midwest Living’s annual Best of the Midwest list. The 1.7-mile trail is a relatively rugged trek that traces a creekbed through a deep, refreshingly cool, fern-lined ravine. Turkey Run, which features sandstone cliffs and hemlock groves, offers 10 other trails of varying difficulty, horseback riding, a nature center, historic inn and restaurant, and even a swimming pool, and is located near Marshall in Parke County.
2. More Hiking. Shades State Park, along with adjacent Pine Hills Nature Preserve, offers hikes and terrain similar to Turkey Run, without as many crowds. Located about 17 miles southwest of Crawfordsville (off S.R. 47), it is a favorite for hikers seeking a more a bit more solitude. The beautiful sandstone cliffs overlooking Sugar Creek and numerous shady ravines provide the backdrop for your journey through this nature lover’s paradise.
3. Float Trips. Go canoeing, kayaking, or tubing on Sugar Creek, which is frequently cited as Indiana’s most beautiful waterway for float trips. In addition to the towering trees and dramatic sandstone bluffs that line the banks, scenery includes historic mills, covered bridges, and a variety of wildlife, such as soft-shelled turtles, white-tailed deer, great blue herons, and bald eagles.
4. Covered Bridge Cruising. Explore the covered bridges throughout Parke and Montgomery Counties without all the traffic of the fall crowds. The town of Bridgeton offers the most famous Indiana covered bridge as well as a historic mill that is still in operation.
5. “City” Jaunts. When you are ready for activities a little more on the “small-town” side, historic downtown Crawfordsville is sure to have something to suit your fancy. Wander through Cabbages & Kings Antique Mall, Athens of Indiana Art Gallery, Heathcliff Boutique (fine women’s clothing) or catch a live show at the Vanity Theater. Several outdoor events with live music take place during the summer at the Marie Canine Plaza and Pike Place, hosted by Crawfordsville Main Street.
6. Museums. For history lovers, there are four museums located near downtown Crawfordsville. The General Lew Wallace Study & Museum includes the personal study where this Civil War veteran penned the infamous novel (which became a movie) Ben Hur, along with an 1870 carriage house and museum of related memorabilia. The Rotary Jail Museum was the first of 18 rotary jails (think super-sized bird cage) built in the country, and 1 of only 3 left standing, and the only one that is still operational! Lane Place is the Greek revival home of Senator Henry S. and Joanna Lane, now open for tours. Lane was a U.S. Representative, U.S. Senator and helped found the Republican Party. The Carnegie Museum is housed in Indiana’s first Carnegie Library building and is an interdisciplinary and interactive museum of history, science and art.
7. Eats. When the stomach starts growling, unique downtown dining options include Francis & Mount, Maxine’s on Green Bakery & Bistro, Little Mexico, A-Second City Cafe, El Charro Taqueria, Backstep Brewing Company and Arni’s Pizza.
8. Lighter Eats. For lighter fare, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your sweet tooth at Miss Sugar Ray Chocolatier, or for something a little less caloric, check out the healthy shakes and teas at Healthies.
9. Place to Relax Since there’s so much to explore in the Crawfordsville area, you’ll need a base from which to stage and recover from all your adventures. Consider spending a relaxing night or two in your own luxury log cabin at Cabins & Candlelight, just 12 miles from historic downtown Crawfordsville. Located on 32 acres along Sugar Creek, your cabin includes an oversized whirlpool tub, queen-size Sleep Number bed, stone fireplace with gas logs, full kitchen stocked with breakfast food, screened back porch, gas grill, and outdoor firepit.
For more information about all the current events, attractions and dining options in Montgomery County, go to Visitmoco.com.