Pendleton IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Pendleton, Indiana.
1. Pendleton Falls Park
NATURAL BEAUTY AND RECREATION
Pendleton Falls Park is a picturesque natural area that serves as the crown jewel of Pendleton's park system. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful waterfall views, hiking trails, and open green spaces perfect for picnics and family gatherings. The park also houses the Pendleton Historical Museum, making it both a recreational destination and a place to learn about local history.
2. Pendleton Artists Society/Gallery 119
LOCAL ART AND CULTURE
The Pendleton Artists Society/Gallery 119 showcases the vibrant artistic talent of the Pendleton community. Art enthusiasts can browse through rotating exhibitions featuring works from local artists in various mediums. The gallery also hosts workshops and events that encourage creative expression and community engagement.
3. Burmeister's Old Towne Antiques
VINTAGE TREASURES AND COLLECTIBLES
Burmeister's Old Towne Antiques is a treasure trove of vintage items and collectibles that delights both serious collectors and casual browsers. Shoppers can explore multiple rooms filled with furniture, glassware, jewelry, and unique memorabilia from bygone eras. The knowledgeable staff adds to the experience with historical insights about many of the items on display.
4. Fall Creek Golf Club
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Fall Creek Golf Club offers golf enthusiasts a challenging and scenic 18-hole course in the heart of Pendleton. The well-maintained fairways and greens are complemented by natural water features and strategic bunkers that test golfers of all skill levels. After a round, players can relax at the clubhouse which provides dining options and a pro shop for equipment needs.
5. The Christmas Store
YEAR-ROUND HOLIDAY MAGIC
The Christmas Store brings holiday cheer to Pendleton throughout the entire year with its extensive collection of Christmas decorations and gifts. Visitors can browse through themed ornaments, festive home décor, and unique holiday treasures that capture the magic of the season. The store's warm atmosphere and friendly staff create a joyful shopping experience regardless of the calendar date.
6. Historic Marker Walking Tour
JOURNEY THROUGH LOCAL HISTORY
The Historic Marker Walking Tour takes visitors on a self-guided journey through Pendleton's rich historical past. The tour features 14 historically significant sites, beginning at Pendleton Town Hall and concluding at the Pendleton Historical Museum in Falls Park. This engaging activity offers both exercise and education as participants learn about the town's development and important historical events.
7. Quack Daddy Donuts
GOURMET DONUT DESTINATION
Quack Daddy Donuts has become a beloved culinary attraction in Pendleton, offering freshly made gourmet donuts with creative toppings and fillings. Visitors can watch as their custom donut creations are prepared right before their eyes, choosing from numerous icings, toppings, and drizzles. The shop's fun atmosphere and high-quality treats make it a must-visit destination for dessert lovers and a popular spot for families.
8. Anita's Diner
CLASSIC AMERICAN COMFORT FOOD
Anita's Diner serves as both a culinary attraction and a community gathering spot in the heart of Pendleton. The restaurant offers classic American diner fare with generous portions, friendly service, and vegetarian-friendly options that satisfy diverse palates. Many visitors appreciate the nostalgic atmosphere and homestyle cooking that has made this establishment a local institution.
9. Catello's Mozzarella Bar
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN DINING EXPERIENCE
Catello's Mozzarella Bar brings a taste of Italy to Pendleton with its authentic Italian cuisine and specialty mozzarella dishes. Diners can enjoy a diverse menu featuring handcrafted pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh mozzarella prepared in various traditional styles. The restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and accommodations for vegetarian and vegan diners has made it a standout culinary destination in the area.
10. Umatilla River Parkway
SCENIC RIVERSIDE TRAIL
The Umatilla River Parkway offers visitors a peaceful escape along the riverbank with paved walking paths suitable for all ages. Nature enthusiasts can observe local wildlife while enjoying the soothing sounds of flowing water and seasonal foliage changes. The well-maintained pathway connects to other parts of Pendleton's park system, creating an extensive network for walking, jogging, or cycling adventures.
11. Harrah's Hoosier Park Casino Racetrack
GAMING AND HORSE RACING
Harrah's Hoosier Park Casino Racetrack, located near Pendleton in Anderson, combines the excitement of casino gaming with the thrill of live horse racing. Visitors can try their luck at over 2,000 slot machines and electronic table games in the casino area or watch standardbred horses compete on the one-mile oval track during racing season. The entertainment complex also features multiple dining options ranging from casual to upscale, live music, and special events throughout the year.
12. Indy Scream Park
TERRIFYING HAUNTED ATTRACTIONS
Indy Scream Park, situated near Pendleton in Anderson, delivers heart-pounding scares through multiple haunted attractions that operate seasonally. Thrill-seekers can navigate through elaborately designed haunted houses, outdoor terror trails, and interactive horror experiences brought to life by professional actors and state-of-the-art special effects. This premier Halloween destination attracts visitors from across the region with its reputation for creating memorable, adrenaline-pumping experiences for horror enthusiasts.
13. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
WORLD-CLASS FAMILY LEARNING
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, located approximately 40.8 km from Pendleton, stands as the largest children's museum in the world with interactive exhibits spanning science, culture, and history. Families can explore dinosaur exhibits with life-sized models, engage with hands-on science experiments, and experience immersive cultural displays that bring learning to life for all ages. The museum's ever-changing special exhibitions and permanent collections ensure that multiple visits offer new discoveries and educational opportunities.
14. Indianapolis Motor Speedway
RACING HISTORY AND HERITAGE
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway, about 40 km from Pendleton, represents the pinnacle of motorsports history as home to the world-famous Indianapolis 500. Visitors can tour the comprehensive racing museum featuring historic vehicles, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits that chronicle the evolution of automotive racing. For an additional fee, guests can experience the thrill of riding around the legendary 2.5-mile oval track where racing legends have competed for over a century.
15. Jimmies Dairy Bar
CLASSIC ICE CREAM PARLOR
Jimmies Dairy Bar has been delighting Pendleton residents and visitors with its classic ice cream treats and American fast food for generations. The seasonal establishment offers a nostalgic experience with soft-serve ice cream, sundaes, shakes, and food items that appeal to all ages. During warm weather months, families gather at this local institution to enjoy affordable treats and create sweet memories in a casual, friendly atmosphere.