Jasper IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Jasper, Indiana.
1. The Parklands of Jasper
NATURAL URBAN OASIS
The Parklands of Jasper is a stunning 75-acre central park featuring two miles of scenic trails and 25 acres of pristine woods. Visitors can enjoy numerous amenities including a signature bridge, splash pad, tree fort, musical playground, and four exercise pods throughout the park. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the wetlands area designed for nature studies, while families can take advantage of the indoor public event space for gatherings.
2. Jasper Riverwalk
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATH
The Jasper Riverwalk is a beautiful 2.1-mile paved walking path that winds along the picturesque Patoka River. This scenic pathway connects to other trails in the area, including the 1.5-mile concrete walking path at the City of Jasper Golf Courses. Visitors can enjoy peaceful views of the river while getting exercise in a natural setting.
3. Dave Buehler Plaza
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Dave Buehler Plaza is a vibrant riverfront park area featuring multiple amenities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. The plaza offers four shelter houses, fishing spots, boat access, grills, a playground, and horseshoe pits connected to the Jasper Riverwalk. Many community events are held at this popular gathering spot, making it a hub of local activity.
4. Spirit of Jasper Luxury Train
HISTORIC RAILWAY EXPERIENCE
The Spirit of Jasper Luxury Train offers visitors a unique way to experience the beautiful southern Indiana countryside from the comfort of a restored vintage train. Departing from the Jasper Train Depot, a replica of the original 1906 structure, this excursion features railway memorabilia and the charm of old-fashioned travel. Passengers can enjoy scheduled rides through the scenic landscapes surrounding Jasper.
5. Jasper City Mill
HISTORIC WATERMILL RECREATION
Jasper City Mill is a fascinating reconstruction of the historic watermill that once operated near the Patoka River. This attraction offers visitors a glimpse into the area's industrial past and the importance of water-powered mills to early settlements. Touring the mill provides an educational experience about local history and traditional milling processes.
6. Monastery of the Immaculate Conception
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
The Monastery of the Immaculate Conception is an impressive religious landmark located near Jasper in Ferdinand, Indiana. This magnificent structure, often called the 'Castle on the Hill,' features stunning Romanesque architecture and beautiful grounds that visitors can explore. Guided tours provide insight into the history and daily life of the Sisters of St. Benedict who have resided here since the 19th century.
7. Patoka Lake
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Patoka Lake is Southern Indiana's premier recreation area offering numerous water activities including boating, swimming, water-skiing, and fishing. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy biking and hiking trails, observe wildlife including bald eagles and ospreys that nest near the lake, and take advantage of camping facilities. Visitors can rent houseboats or stay overnight at campsites for an extended outdoor experience.
8. Sultan's Run Golf Course
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Sultan's Run Golf Course is a highly-rated golfing destination featuring challenging holes set amid the beautiful rolling terrain of southern Indiana. The course takes its name from a legendary horse named Supreme Sultan and incorporates natural features of the landscape into its design. Golfers particularly enjoy the spectacular 18th hole with its 40-foot waterfall behind the green.
9. Dubois County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Dubois County Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of Jasper and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore displays featuring local industries, pioneer life, and the diverse ethnic groups that settled in the region. The museum offers an educational experience that connects present-day Jasper with its fascinating past.
10. Jasper Arts Center
CULTURAL PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Jasper Arts Center is a vibrant cultural hub featuring a 700-seat theater that hosts a variety of performances throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy concerts, theatrical productions, dance performances, and other artistic events in this well-appointed venue. The center serves as the cornerstone of Jasper's thriving arts community, bringing quality entertainment to residents and tourists alike.
11. Indiana Baseball Hall of Fame
SPORTS HISTORY MUSEUM
The Indiana Baseball Hall of Fame celebrates the rich baseball heritage of Indiana with an impressive collection of sporting memorabilia. Visitors can view exhibits featuring famous Indiana baseball players, historic equipment, photographs, and other artifacts that tell the story of baseball in the Hoosier state. Baseball enthusiasts will appreciate the depth of information and the tributes to local and national baseball heroes.
12. Marengo Cave
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Marengo Cave is a spectacular underground attraction located about 39 miles east of Jasper, featuring stunning formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can choose from different walking tours through illuminated caverns to witness the beauty of this U.S. National Natural Landmark. The cave's constant cool temperature makes it a perfect destination year-round, especially during hot summer months.
13. Geode Grotto
UNIQUE RELIGIOUS SHRINE
The Geode Grotto at Providence Home is a fascinating religious shrine constructed from crystal-centered hollow rocks known as geodes. This unique attraction combines spiritual significance with natural geological elements to create a peaceful place for reflection. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship and creativity that went into building these distinctive structures.
14. Lemmon Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS SITE
Lemmon Church offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century religious life with original pews dating back to the church's founding in 1860. This well-preserved historic site provides insight into both the architectural and spiritual heritage of the Jasper area. History enthusiasts will appreciate the authentic elements that have been maintained throughout the years.
15. Birk and Berg Bike Park
CYCLING RECREATION AREA
Birk and Berg Bike Park offers cycling enthusiasts a dedicated space to enjoy various biking activities in a well-designed outdoor setting. The park features trails and facilities catering to different skill levels, from beginners to more experienced riders. Visitors can bring their own bikes to experience the thrill of outdoor cycling in this purpose-built recreation area.