Upland IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Upland, Indiana.
1. Taylor University
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Taylor University stands as a prominent educational landmark in Upland, offering visitors a glimpse into higher education in a small-town setting. The campus features beautiful architecture, green spaces, and occasionally hosts community events. Visitors can explore the grounds, attend sporting events, or check out cultural exhibitions depending on the season.
2. Ivanhoe's Drive In
BELOVED LOCAL EATERY
Ivanhoe's Drive In is one of Upland's most popular dining establishments, known for its extensive menu of ice cream treats and comfort food. The restaurant has been serving the community for decades and has become something of a local institution. Visitors flock here especially during warmer months to enjoy their famous ice cream concoctions.
3. Depot Park
HISTORIC RAILROAD HERITAGE
Depot Park celebrates Upland's rich railroad history in the heart of downtown, commemorating the town's formation in the late 1860s as a depot point on the Indiana Central Railroad. The park offers a peaceful green space for visitors to relax and learn about local heritage. During holidays, especially Christmas, the park transforms with special events like tree lighting ceremonies and Polar Express train rides.
4. Upland Street Fest
LIVELY COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Upland Street Fest brings Main Street to life with a vibrant celebration featuring food trucks, live music, and family activities. The festival typically includes performances by local bands like The Calico Travelers, vendor markets, and inflatable attractions for children. The event culminates with the Upland Lions Club free ice cream social, making it a perfect community gathering.
5. Walnut Creek Golf Courses
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Walnut Creek Golf Courses offers golfers a pleasant playing experience near Upland with well-maintained greens and fairways. The courses provide varying levels of challenge suitable for both beginners and experienced players. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings while engaging in a round of golf.
6. The Bridge Cafe
COZY LOCAL HANGOUT
The Bridge Cafe serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike in Upland. The cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere with a selection of coffee drinks, light meals, and baked goods. It's an ideal place to relax, catch up with friends, or get some work done while enjoying quality refreshments.
7. Labor Day Celebration
ANNUAL TOWN FESTIVAL
The Labor Day Celebration in Upland transforms the town into a hub of activity with truck shows, car cruise-ins, parades, and town-wide rummage sales. Families particularly enjoy the midway carnival, kids' mini pedal tractor pull, big wheel races, and the exciting apple crate derby. Live music and various contests round out the weekend-long festivities that have become a cherished tradition.
8. Upland Christmas Celebration
FESTIVE HOLIDAY EVENT
Upland's Christmas Celebration centers around the magical Tree Lighting ceremony at Depot Park, complete with Polar Express train rides and free carriage rides. The event features Christmas caroling followed by Santa's arrival, bringing holiday cheer to all attendees. Downtown Upland continues the celebration with a free kids' craft corner and other festive activities, making it a perfect family holiday outing.
9. James Dean Gallery
ICONIC HOLLYWOOD MEMORABILIA
The James Dean Gallery houses an extensive collection of memorabilia dedicated to the legendary actor who grew up in the nearby town of Fairmount. Visitors can explore photographs, personal items, and movie props that tell the story of Dean's short but impactful life and career. The gallery serves as a pilgrimage site for fans of the cultural icon from around the world.
10. James Dean Museum
REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE
The James Dean Museum celebrates the life and legacy of the iconic actor who spent his formative years in Fairmount. Exhibits showcase personal artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia from Dean's brief but influential career in Hollywood. Fans of classic cinema will appreciate this intimate look at one of America's most enduring cultural figures.
11. Park Cemetery
HISTORIC FINAL RESTING PLACE
Park Cemetery in Fairmount is known for being the final resting place of cultural icon James Dean, drawing visitors from around the world. The peaceful grounds offer a place for reflection and paying respects to the legendary actor who died tragically young. Beyond its famous resident, the cemetery features historic gravestones and beautiful landscaping that tells the story of the region.
12. Gas City Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
Gas City Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of this Indiana community through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore displays detailing the area's industrial past, cultural development, and notable citizens. The museum offers an educational glimpse into small-town Midwestern life through various periods of American history.
13. Salamonie Eagle Watch
MAJESTIC BIRD VIEWING
The Salamonie Eagle Watch offers nature enthusiasts the opportunity to observe magnificent bald eagles in their natural habitat near Andrews. The Indiana Audubon Society hosts guided field trips to optimal viewing locations around Salamonie Reservoir. Visitors can witness these impressive birds soaring overhead or perched in trees, especially during winter months when eagle populations are at their peak.
14. Upland Halloween Celebration
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SPOOKY FUN
Upland's Halloween Celebration provides a safe environment for families to enjoy the spooky holiday with trick-or-treating and festive activities. Children can collect treats while dressed in their favorite costumes without the concerns often associated with door-to-door trick-or-treating. The event brings the community together in celebration of Halloween traditions with an emphasis on family-friendly fun.
15. Upland Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Upland Farmers Market brings together local vendors offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and homemade goods to the community. Shoppers can browse seasonal offerings while connecting directly with the farmers and artisans who produce them. The market not only provides access to quality local products but also serves as a social gathering place for residents and visitors alike.