Hillsboro IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hillsboro, Indiana.
1. Noel's Gift Shop
UNIQUE LOCAL SHOPPING
Noel's Gift Shop in Hillsboro offers a charming selection of handpicked gifts and home decor items. Visitors appreciate its friendly atmosphere, with locally sourced crafts and seasonal decorations making it a favorite stop for both tourists and residents. The shop is an excellent place to find a souvenir or a special present while exploring this small Indiana town.
2. Coal Creek Cellars
WINERY AND VINEYARD EXPERIENCE
Coal Creek Cellars is a picturesque winery located near Hillsboro, offering tastings of locally produced wines in a beautiful rural setting just outside of town. Guests can relax on the scenic patio, enjoy live music events, and take part in seasonal festivals hosted at the vineyard. The historic barn and peaceful landscape create a memorable wine tasting experience for visitors seeking a relaxing afternoon.
3. Clements Canoes Outdoor Center
RIVER ADVENTURES AND RENTALS
Located along nearby Sugar Creek, Clements Canoes Outdoor Center provides rentals for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing adventures. Families and adventurers can enjoy peaceful stretches of water, views of scenic bluffs, and opportunities for wildlife spotting along the river. Friendly staff are available to assist with equipment and guide visitors through a variety of trip options.
4. Shades State Park
GORGES AND HIKING TRAILS
Shades State Park, a short drive from Hillsboro, is renowned for its deep sandstone ravines, stunning overlooks, and well-maintained hiking trails. Visitors can explore rugged landscapes, scenic waterfalls, and enjoy birdwatching in the park's dense forests. The park's unique topography makes it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers throughout the region.
5. Turkey Run State Park
FAMOUS INDIANA STATE PARK
Turkey Run State Park is one of Indiana's most popular outdoor destinations, known for its dramatic sandstone gorges, suspension bridge, and historic lodge. Hikers can traverse scenic trails that wind through canyons, along streams, and under towering trees. The park also offers horseback riding, camping, and opportunities to spot local wildlife, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Old Jail Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Old Jail Museum in Crawfordsville presents a fascinating look into local law enforcement history with its unique rotary jail design. Visitors can tour authentic cells, explore exhibits detailing the area's past, and learn about the jail's role in the community. Knowledgeable guides share stories and anecdotes that bring the museum's history to life.
7. Rotary Jail Museum
HISTORIC ROTARY JAIL
The Rotary Jail Museum is the only remaining operational rotary jail in the United States, offering guided tours of its unusual circular cell block. Exhibits highlight the history of criminal justice locally and nationally. The museum is especially popular with families and visitors interested in unique architecture and historical curiosities.
8. Carnegie Museum of Montgomery County
INTERACTIVE LOCAL MUSEUM
Housed in a historic Carnegie library building, the Carnegie Museum of Montgomery County features interactive exhibits on the area's history, culture, and achievements. Children and adults alike enjoy hands-on displays and rotating special exhibitions. The museum serves as both an educational destination and a community gathering space.
9. Downtown Covington Historic District
QUAINT DOWNTOWN EXPLORATION
Downtown Covington Historic District offers visitors a blend of charming historic architecture, boutique shops, and local eateries. The district is perfect for a leisurely stroll while admiring preserved 19th-century buildings. Special events and festivals frequently add to the lively atmosphere throughout the year.
10. Fountain County Courthouse
ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Fountain County Courthouse stands as an imposing centerpiece in downtown Covington, with its impressive clock tower and beautifully landscaped square. This historic structure is admired for its elegant design and well-preserved details. Visitors can enjoy the surrounding park benches and public art installations nearby.
11. Portland Arch Nature Preserve
NATURAL SANDSTONE ARCH
Portland Arch Nature Preserve is famous for its unique natural sandstone arch, scenic hiking trails, and wildflower displays. Visitors can explore the preserve's lush woodlands and discover interpretive signs along the paths. The site is a haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone seeking tranquility in nature.
12. Badlands Off Road Park
ADVENTURE AND MOTORSPORTS
The Badlands Off Road Park provides a rugged landscape for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, including dirt bikes, ATVs, and 4x4s. The park's extensive trail network covers sand dunes, wooded paths, and rocky terrain, offering challenges for all skill levels. Families and adventure seekers visit year-round for adrenaline-pumping recreation.
13. Pine Creek Grist Mill
RESTORED HISTORIC MILL
Pine Creek Grist Mill is an authentically restored 19th-century grist mill set within a scenic wooded area. Visitors can see demonstrations of milling and explore displays about early Indiana industry and settlement life. The site provides picturesque views and an educational glimpse into the region's agricultural history.
14. Wabash College Arboretum
BOTANICAL COLLECTION AND TRAILS
The Wabash College Arboretum features a diverse collection of native and ornamental trees, walking trails, and interpretive signage. Located on the college campus, it offers a peaceful place for reflection, study, and exercise. The arboretum is open to the public and is especially lovely during spring and autumn.
15. Lake Waveland Park
RECREATION AND CAMPING
Lake Waveland Park is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and picnicking on a scenic reservoir near Hillsboro. The park features camping sites, hiking trails, and playgrounds for family enjoyment. Its serene setting and variety of outdoor activities draw visitors throughout the year.