Things to do IN South Central Indiana
South Central Indiana
South Central Indiana is a region of entrepreneurs, artisans, students, and so much more. There are so many things to do, from one of the largest college towns in Bloomington in Monroe County to a mecca of modern architecture in Columbus in Batholomew County. South Central Indiana is also a federally recognized grape-growing region. There are dozens of wineries in the area. From the state’s oldest winery, Oliver Winery in Monroe County, to Owen County winery and vineyard, there’s something for all tastes.

Must See Attractions IN South Central Indiana
Columbus Architecture Tours
Columbus has been called one of the best cities in the world for architecture lovers. Take a tour of the places that have wowed architecture lovers the world over.
Lake Monroe
At nearly 11,000 acres, this lake offers an abundance of space for recreation of all types — no matter the season! Enjoy beach activities, fishing, water sports, hiking, and more!
Redbird
Named for the Redbird Coal Mine, the property is 1,400 acres of former coal mine land. It has miles of trails for all skill levels.
T.C. Steele State Historic Site
Theodore Clement "T.C." Steele was a notable Indiana artist and was oft inspired by the picturesque around his home in Brown County. See the natural beauty that inspired him!
Counties IN South Central Indiana
South Central Indiana is one of the most beautiful regions in Indiana. Each of its seven counties contributes to its natural beauty, unique and peaceful atmosphere, and fun activities. From big college towns and unique small cities to massive forests and rolling hills, there is a wide variety between counties, and each brings something unique to the region. Each one is well worth searching and finding all the things to do. Plan your trip to South Central Indiana.
Bartholomew County
Back to Top of ListBartholomew County, Indiana is home to Columbus which is one of the few small cities to blend world-class architecture, art and attractions well. With 80+ noteworthy buildings and public art installations, Columbus (pop. 45,000) ranks 6th in the U.S. for its architecture. Columbus is also a great place for families. Everyone’s a kid at Zaharakos Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor, a 1920s soda shop preserved to its original charm (and deliciousness). You can go fishing at Mill Race Park or start at Blue's Canoe Livery for a canoe or kayak adventure on the beautiful Driftwood River. Find your next adventure in Bartholomew County.
Things to Do IN Bartholomew County, Indiana
Columbus Architecture Tours
Columbus has been called one of the best cities in the world for architecture lovers. Take a tour of the places that…
Miller House and the Irwin Gardens
Miller House is one of the most important mid-century modern residences in the country and an architectural dream.
Zaharakos
At this 110-year-old marble palace, the sundaes are hand-dipped and cherry-topped and the soda is fizzling.
Exit 76 Antique Mall
Exit 76 Antique Mall – a gigantic antique mall and a favorite stop for pickers, right on Interstate 65 – “You’ll…
The Commons
The indoor playground features infant/toddler areas, slides, a tunnel and a two story Luckey Climber.
Kidscommons
Explore! Create! Educate! Explore three floors of interactive, hands-on exhibits designed for families.
Brown County
Back to Top of ListBrown County, Indiana, is home to thousands of acres of majestic forest, a quintessential downtown bursting with great places, and countless one-of-a-kind accommodations. Attracted by its natural beauty, famed Hoosier Group impressionist artist Theodore C. Steele (1847-1926) settled in Brown County, now called the “Art Colony of the Midwest”. Visitors can take a trip to the T.C. Steele State Historic Site, or take a heart-pumping zipline tour around Brown County at eXplore Brown County. There is so much more in Brown County waiting to be discovered.
Things to Do IN Brown County, Indiana
T.C. Steele State Historic Site
Theodore Clement "T.C." Steele was a notable Indiana artist and was oft inspired by the picturesque around his home…
Brown County Music Center
The Music Center is a state-of-the-art, indoor venue with right around 2,000 seats!
eXplore Brown County
Head to eXplore Brown County for some thrilling outdoor fun!
Hard Truth Hills
More than a home for Hard Truth Distilling Co., it’s also a destination for tours, dining at the restaurant and…
Brown County State Park
Nicknamed the “Little Smokies," this park has rugged hills, ridges and fog-shrouded ravines.
Greene County
Back to Top of ListGreene County, Indiana’s sprawling countryside is still alive today. With thousands of acres of wooded rolling hills and lakes, there is no shortage of scenic views or opportunities for outdoor recreation. For nature lovers, the county’s 8,034-acre Goose Pond Fish & Wildlife Area is one of the largest, most successful wetland restoration projects in the country, and for adrenaline-junkies, there is the Redbird Off-Road State Recreation Area which was made on an old coal mine and has miles of trails for all levels of skill. Find your fun in Greene County!
Things to Do IN Greene County, Indiana
Redbird
Named for the Redbird Coal Mine, the property is 1,400 acres of former coal mine land. It has miles of trails for…
Goose Pond
Goose Pond provides quality outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors!
Greene-Sullivan State Forest
Greene-Sullivan State Forest is one of the most beautiful and serene places to visit.
Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum
Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum is located deep in the woods amongst the rolling hills of Solsberry, Indiana.
Jackson County
Back to Top of ListMusic fans have to visit Jackson County, Indiana; there are tons of things to do. Known for one of his hits, “Born in a Small Town,” there’s a John Mellencamp Mural at The Old Guitar Music Store in his birthplace of Seymour, IN! The legend visited and signed the mural himself. Hunt, fish and just enjoy the wildlife at Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge! The Refuge Visitor Center features interactive exhibits on wildlife, wetlands, and the history of the area. Right next to Muscatatuck, Batar was rated the best restaurant in Seymour! It includes beautiful gardens, a cafe, a sweet shop and more. There is so much more to find IN Jackson County.
Things to Do IN Jackson County, Indiana
Medora Covered Bridge
Hop up on your imaginary horse drawn vehicle to take a nostalgic journey back in time.
John Mellencamp Mural
Since the Mellencamp mural was painted, hundreds if not thousands, of people have visited from all over to see it.
Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge
Muscatatuck is a pocket of wildlife habitat that is easily accessible to everyone every day, at all times of the…
Starve Hallow State Recreation Area
Starve Hollow State Recreation Area is a beautiful area, offering some of the best camping in southern Indiana.
Jackson-Washington State Forest
This part of the state contains unique topography known as the “knobs” and provides scenic views second to none.
Lawrence County
Back to Top of ListKnown as the Limestone Capital of the World, Lawrence County has tons of things to do. Its rural countryside, stone terrain, and national forests are dotted by small homes and farms in close-knit communities. Visitors can enjoy an abundance of natural features like Bluesprings Caverns and Spring Mill State Park, home to the Virgil I. Gus Grissom Memorial, which honors the Mercury Seven astronaut who was the second American to fly in space. Locally-grown persimmons, harvested each autumn to make Indiana’s famous persimmon pudding, are celebrated at a festival every September.
Things to Do IN Lawrence County, Indiana
Spring Mill
Spring Mill State Park has four interpretive facilities available to guests —the Pioneer Village, Lakeview Activity…
Gus Grissom Memorial
Lawrence County is the home of three astronauts, and Mitchell is the hometown of Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom, the second…
Bluesprings Caverns
Explore the breathtaking world of caves and caverns in Indiana! Take a boat ride along an underground river to see…
Monroe County
Back to Top of ListStudents and faculty from across the country and the world flock to Monroe County, Indiana and to IU (Indiana University) in Bloomington. On Campus, the Lilly Library is an internationally-revered collection of millions of cultural & literary artifacts. Special artifacts that can only be found at the Lilly Library include a New Testament of the Gutenberg Bible. Not far from campus is Lake Monroe. This is Indiana’s largest land-bound body of water. Visitors can enjoy camping, swimming, fishing, hiking, boating and so much more. So much more is waiting to be discovered IN Monroe County!
Things to Do IN Monroe County, Indiana
WonderLab
Did you know that one of the Top 25 science centers in the country is located in Bloomington? The WonderLab Museum…
IU (Indiana University)
The iconic Sample Gates stand as a gateway between IU and the city of Bloomington. See what there is to do while…
Tibetan Mongolian
Dedicated to the people of Tibet, this Cultural Center offers a relaxing and peaceful setting for meditation and…
Bluebird (Music City)
The Bluebird is a historic music venue booking high-caliber talent, and has contributed to Bloomington's…
Oliver Winery
Oliver Winery is one of the largest wineries in the U.S. and a world-class destination, ranked among the Top 25…
Griffy Lake Nature Preserve
Griffy Lake Nature Preserve allows visitors to rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and rowboats for their enjoyment!
Owen County
Back to Top of ListOwen County, Indiana is home to Indiana’s largest waterfall - Cataract Falls State Recreation Area. It’s a nature lover's paradise that also includes Lieber SRA and Cagles Mill Lake. You’ll also find Indiana's First State Park, McCormick's Creek State Park. Enjoy 10+ miles of hiking trails and check out the Canyon Inn for a good night’s sleep. Connect with nature in Owen County!
Things to Do IN Owen County, Indiana
Cataract Falls
Cataract Falls is the largest waterfall by volume in the state and is part of the Lieber State Recreation Area.
McCormick's Creek
Explore the spectacular limestone canyon, flowing creek, and scenic waterfalls that highlight Indiana’s first state…
Owen Putnam State Forest
Hike, hunt, fish, or go horseback riding through some of the best hardwood forests in the country at Owen Putnam…
Tivoli Theatre
Spencer Indiana's Historic Tivoli Theatre was built for local artist E.M Viquesney, and designed by architect Horam…
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