Change can be great – it brings us innovation and generally makes our lives easier. But there’s also something to be said for living life more simply. If you’re looking to take a break and unwind from your hectic daily routine, a trip to a small town may be in order. These 11 sleepy small towns in Indiana never seem to change and are perfect for a relaxing day trip.

1. Culver
Culver, IN 46511, USA
Chris Huffman/Flickr
This charming town in Indiana is located along Lake Maxinkuckee and offers many incredible lakeside activities, like boating and fishing. You can also unwind and explore local shops in their quaint downtown area and explore the local museum, golf course, and historic Culver Academy, which also has fun events going on.
2. Metamora
Metamora, IN 47030, USA
Karen Starkey/Flickr
Travel back in time to when things were simpler and less rushed. This picture-perfect canal town will transport you back to the 1900s when neighbors knew each other's names and people stopped to chat for hours. You'll never run out of things to do in this charming Indiana town, that's for sure. Take a canal ride on the horse-drawn carriage, experience shopping in the historic downtown section, and search for treasures at the Metamora Gem Mine for a memorable day trip.
3. Shipshewana
Shipshewana, IN 46565, USA
Derek Jensen/Wikimedia
No one knows how to live life more simply than the Amish, and Shipshewana is the perfect small town in Indiana to experience this alternate way of living. Explore historic Shipshewana on a horse and buggy tour, visit the barn quilt trail, check out the local cuisine at the Blue Gate Restaurant and Bakery, and get an up-close experience with exotic animals at the Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park.
4. Madison
Madison, IN, USA
Luann Snawder Photography/Flickr
Madison might be larger than most of the towns on this list, but its small-town charm and culture never seem to change. You'll love exploring the vibrant and colorful historic buildings in downtown Madison, checking out local eateries, and unwinding at the incredible Clifty Falls State Park. Explore waterfalls, hike scenic trails, or camp overnight for an amazing outdoor experience.
5. Nashville
Nashville, IN 47448, USA
Rain0975/Flickr
Nashville is a little town with a flair for the arts and a commitment to local artisans, shops, and restaurants. You won't find a local shopping area quite like this, with tiny, unique shops, a local theater, incredible restaurants, and historic buildings. You'll also find the beloved Brown County State Park here, filled with hiking and horseback riding trails, covered bridges, camping, cabins, and a variety of outdoor surprises.

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6. Oldenburg
Oldenburg, IN, USA
Chris Flook/Wikimedia
This tiny, historic town in Indiana is a mecca for German-American culture and is known as the "Village of Spires" for its incredible churches and religious schools and institutions. The Oldenburg Historic District offers a fascinating tour through the city's best examples of architecture. Cozy cafes and German restaurants like Brau Haus, the Kessing Haus Cafe, and Pearl Street Pub are great places to grab a meal, explore historic buildings, and learn more about the local culture.
7. Williamsport
Williamsport, IN 47993, USA
Huw Williams/Wikimedia
Tucked away in Warren County is the sleepy town of Williamsport, located along the lovely Wabash River. This charming Indiana town is most famous for being the location of the charming Williamsport Falls, a waterfall that's easily accessible by road and doesn't require hiking. This small town is also full of historic buildings and restaurants located in the town's downtown area.
8. Charlestown
Charlestown, IN 47111, USA
Jonathan Parish/Flickr
This little town is full of history and beauty. Take a tour of the historic and fascinating Charlestown Historic Tunnel Mill to learn more about this town's incredible history. Or, visit the amazing Charlestown State Park with miles of trails, including an adventure to Rose Island, the site of a former Indiana theme park now reclaimed by wilderness.
9. Beverly Shores
Beverly Shores, IN, USA
Tom Gill/Flickr
This beach town in Indiana is located along Lake Michigan and combines the thrill of the Indiana Dunes with the familiarity of small-town life in the Hoosier State. Enjoy visiting Kemil Beach for a quiet day on the water or explore the historic South Shore Line train station downtown. Lastly, be sure to check out the stunning 1933 Century of Progress Homes that have remained virtually untouched for decades.
10. New Harmony
New Harmony, IN 47631, USA
IIP Photo Archive/Facebook
This historic former utopian colony is a slightly eclectic small town that never seems to change - in the best possible way. Explore the roofless church and labyrinths of New Harmony and visit local antique shops and eateries that showcase small-town Indiana at its finest.
11. Merom
Merom, IN 47861, USA
Ken Ratcliff/Flickr
Merom is a tiny town near Terre Haute that never seems to change much with time. This historic town in Indiana holds the former Union Christian College, which is incredible to behold in person. It's also a National Historic Place and worthy of a tour. Merom is also home to the charming Merom Bluff Park, which is a great place to spend a few hours hiking and exploring some of the state's most untouched natural beauty.

Have you ever visited any of these 11 sleepy small towns in Indiana? Which one is your favorite? What other small towns are we missing?

For more incredible day trips in the Hoosier state, be sure to check out these 11 incredible day trips you can take in Indiana.

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More to Explore

Small Towns In Indiana

Jackie Ann | September 15, 2022

Which town in Indiana has the best restaurants?

No matter where you are in the Hoosier State, you’re never too far away from a delicious meal. Many of the best restaurants in Indiana are found in small towns, like Converse, Indiana. The town has a population of fewer than 2,000 people, but it’s home to some incredible BBQ and worthy of a road trip. If you’re craving pizza, Chesterton is one of the best towns in Indiana to grab a slice. If you’ve got your eye on a big, juicy burger, then Madison is where you need to go. Hinkle’s Sandwich Shop has been serving up the best burgers in Indiana since 1933.

 What are the friendliest towns in Indiana?

While it may not be considered one of Indiana’s small towns, Carmel, Indiana is considered one of the friendliest towns in Indiana. With a bustling arts and design district, a plethora of outdoor activities and hiking trails, and plenty of festivals and events, it’s no wonder this friendly Indiana town is home to about 100,000 people. And while it’s one of the friendliest towns in the state, you might be surprised to learn it’s also one of the most haunted. 

What is the oldest town in Indiana?

Founded in 1732, Vincennes is the oldest town in Indiana. The southwestern Indiana town is home to about 17,000 people and makes for a lovely day trip destination. From historic monuments to a charming downtown scene, you’ll never run out of things to do in this charming Indiana town. Other Indiana towns that may not be as old as Vincennes, but are still worth an honorable mention are Fort Wayne (1794), Lafayette (1825), and New Harmony (1825). 

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