Owensville IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Owensville, Indiana.
1. Owensville Carnegie Public Library
HISTORIC LITERARY HAVEN
The Owensville Carnegie Public Library stands as a cherished landmark on the town square, offering both literary resources and historical significance to visitors and residents alike. Its grounds feature a poignant war memorial that honors local veterans and adds to the site's cultural importance. Visitors will appreciate the library's beautiful architecture and convenient location with ample parking available nearby.
2. IRON Horse
LOCAL FAVORITE ATTRACTION
IRON Horse is a highly-rated local attraction in Owensville that has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from visitors. This distinctive venue offers a unique experience that captures the essence of small-town Indiana charm. Visitors seeking authentic local culture will find IRON Horse to be a worthwhile stop during their exploration of Owensville.
3. Toyota Indiana Experience Center
AUTOMOTIVE TOURISM DESTINATION
The Toyota Indiana Experience Center provides visitors with an engaging look into the world of automotive manufacturing near Owensville. With an impressive 4.9 rating, this attraction offers informative exhibits and interactive displays that showcase the process of vehicle production. Visitors can gain insight into the economic impact of Toyota's presence in the region while enjoying this family-friendly educational experience.
4. Beall Woods State Park
NATURAL FOREST PRESERVE
Beall Woods State Park welcomes nature enthusiasts to explore its pristine forest environment near the Indiana border. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that wind through one of the few remaining old-growth forests in the Midwest, offering opportunities to observe diverse plant and wildlife species. The park's tranquil setting provides a perfect escape for those seeking outdoor recreation within driving distance of Owensville.
5. Roofless Church
UNIQUE SPIRITUAL ARCHITECTURE
The Roofless Church in nearby New Harmony stands as an architectural marvel and spiritual sanctuary with its open-air design that symbolically welcomes all faiths. Designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson, this unconventional structure features sculptural elements and a serene garden setting that inspires contemplation. Visitors are drawn to its peaceful atmosphere and artistic significance, making it a must-see attraction in the region surrounding Owensville.
6. Haunted New Harmony Ghost Walks
SUPERNATURAL HISTORICAL TOURS
Haunted New Harmony Ghost Walks offer intriguing guided tours that blend local history with tales of supernatural occurrences in this historic town near Owensville. Participants explore dimly lit streets while learning about the area's unique Utopian history and the spectral residents said to still wander there. These evening excursions provide entertainment and education for those interested in the paranormal aspects of the region's rich historical tapestry.
7. Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden
WILDLIFE AND PLANT SHOWCASE
Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden delights animal lovers with its diverse collection of wildlife set within beautifully maintained botanical displays near Owensville. Visitors can observe numerous species in naturalistic habitats while enjoying the meticulously designed garden landscapes throughout the facility. The zoo's educational programs and seasonal events make it an engaging destination for families exploring the Southwest Indiana region.
8. Children's Museum of Evansville
INTERACTIVE EDUCATIONAL FUN
The Children's Museum of Evansville captivates young minds with three floors of hands-on educational exhibits designed to spark curiosity and learning. Each interactive display encourages children to explore science, art, culture, and technology through engaging play experiences. Families visiting from Owensville will appreciate the museum's commitment to making education entertaining through its diverse array of activities suitable for various age groups.
9. Eagle Slough Natural Area
BIRDING PARADISE WETLANDS
Eagle Slough Natural Area offers nature enthusiasts a wetland oasis where they can observe an impressive 160 species of birds in their natural habitat. The preserve features the northernmost bald cypress swamps in the United States, creating a unique ecosystem within easy reach of Owensville. Visitors can explore boardwalks and trails that provide access to this ecological treasure while minimizing impact on the sensitive environment.
10. Evansville African American Museum
CULTURAL HERITAGE CELEBRATION
The Evansville African American Museum preserves and celebrates the rich cultural heritage, struggles, and successes of African Americans in the region. Housed in a historic building that was once part of Lincoln Gardens, the first federal housing project for African Americans in Evansville, the museum offers compelling exhibits that document the community's journey. Visitors from Owensville will gain valuable insights into the significant contributions and experiences of African Americans in Southwest Indiana's development.
11. Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Sciences
DIVERSE CULTURAL COLLECTION
The Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Sciences houses an impressive permanent collection of more than 30,000 objects spanning multiple disciplines. Visitors can explore galleries featuring fine art, regional history exhibits, and interactive science displays all under one roof. This comprehensive cultural institution provides an enriching experience for those traveling from Owensville who wish to deepen their appreciation of arts and sciences in the context of the region's development.
12. Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve
URBAN OLD-GROWTH FOREST
Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve stands as the largest urban old-growth forest in the United States, offering a remarkable ecological treasure just a short drive from Owensville. Visitors can wander along serene trails beneath towering trees that have stood for centuries, providing a glimpse into what Indiana's landscape looked like prior to European settlement. The preserve's nature center enhances the experience with educational exhibits and programs about the unique ecosystem and its inhabitants.
13. Angel Mounds State Historic Site
ANCIENT INDIGENOUS SETTLEMENT
Angel Mounds State Historic Site preserves one of the best-preserved prehistoric Native American sites in the nation, showcasing the remains of a Mississippian culture that thrived from 1000 to 1450 CE. Visitors can explore reconstructed buildings, earthen mounds, and a museum filled with artifacts that illuminate the sophisticated society that once flourished here. The site's interpretive center and guided tours provide context for understanding this important archaeological treasure accessible from Owensville.
14. Bosse Field
HISTORIC BASEBALL STADIUM
Bosse Field, home to the Evansville Otters, holds the distinction of being the first municipally owned sports facility in the United States when it opened in 1915. This historic baseball stadium has maintained its vintage charm while continuing to host professional baseball games, offering visitors from Owensville a chance to experience America's pastime in an authentic setting. Baseball enthusiasts will appreciate that the field was featured in the classic film 'A League of Their Own,' adding to its cultural significance.
15. USS LST-325
WORLD WAR II VESSEL
The USS LST-325 stands as the last remaining representative of the largest class of ship ever to serve in the U.S. Navy, now preserved as a floating museum near Owensville. Visitors can tour this historic World War II landing ship tank that participated in the D-Day invasion at Omaha Beach, gaining insight into naval operations during this pivotal period in history. The vessel's restoration and maintenance efforts ensure that future generations can continue to learn about and honor the contributions of those who served aboard ships of this class during wartime.