11 Charming Small Towns in Indiana You’ll Want to Call Home
If you’re thinking about moving to Indiana, bustling cities like Indianapolis or Fort Wayne might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, Indiana’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 11 charming small towns in Indiana, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
1. Monticello, IN
Median Sale Price: $215,000
Homes for sale in Monticello | Apartments for rent in Monticello
Monticello is a town in north-central Indiana, famous for its lakeside attractions and laid-back atmosphere. A popular attraction for locals and visitors is the Indiana Beach Amusement & Water Park Resort. This park has been staple in the community for over 90 years with thrilling rides and beautiful views of Lake Shafer. Monticello is also known for its outdoor activities, with Lake Freeman and Lake Shafer providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterskiing.
2. Frankfort, IN
Median Sale Price: $180,000
Homes for sale in Frankfort | Apartments for rent in Frankfort
In the early 1900s, Frankfort earned the nickname, “Gem City” due to the bright glow of its new electric lights. Today, the town is perhaps best known for its Hot Dog Festival. This quirky celebration pays homage to the town’s high school mascot, the Hot Dogs. The annual event features live music, a classic car show, and, of course, plenty of hot dogs. Frankfort is also home to the beautiful TPA Park, where residents enjoy picnicking, visiting the petting zoo, and cooling off at the splash pad during the summer months.
3. Attica, IN
Median Sale Price: $128,000
Homes for sale in Attica | Apartments for rent in Attica
Located along the banks of the Wabash River, Attica is a small town with stunning natural scenery. One of the town’s most notable landmarks is Ravine Park, a 52-acre park known for its deep gorges, stone bridges, and hiking trails that attract nature lovers year-round. Additionally, Attica has the historic Devon Theatre, a restored 1930s movie theater where locals enjoy classic films and live performances. For a taste of local flavor, stop by the Hotel Attica, a historic inn that has been serving guests since the 1800s and is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious meals.
4. Crawfordsville, IN
Median Sale Price: $160,000
Homes for sale in Crawfordsville | Apartments for rent in Crawfordsville
Crawfordsville is home to Wabash College, one of the oldest all-male liberal arts colleges in the country, which has been a cornerstone of the community since 1832. Other than this, history buffs will love visiting the Rotary Jail Museum, the only known rotary jail still operational in the United States. Each September, Crawfordsville hosts the annual Taste of Montgomery County, a festival with the best local cuisine, craft beer, and live music. The town’s downtown area has tons of art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes, making it a favorite weekend destination for both locals and visitors.
5. Flora, IN
Median Sale Price: $140,000
Homes for sale in Flora | Apartments for rent in Flora
Flora is a quaint town in central Indiana that embodies the spirit of small-town living. The town has a picturesque downtown, like places like the Flora Depot Museum. A beautifully restored train station that now serves as a local history museum. Each summer, the community gathers for the Flora Hog Jog, a popular 5K race followed by a festival filled with food, games, and live entertainment. Agriculture plays a significant role in the town’s economy, and you can often find locals shopping for fresh produce at the Flora Farmers Market.
6. Shelbyville, IN
Median Sale Price: $253,000
Homes for sale in Shelbyville | Apartments for rent in Shelbyville
Shelbyville is located southeast of Indianapolis. The town is home to the historic Shelbyville Courthouse Square with a variety of shops, restaurants, and events throughout the year. One of Shelbyville’s most famous attractions is the Indiana Grand Racing & Casino, where visitors can try their luck at the slots or watch live horse racing. Shelbyville is also known for its outdoor recreation, with Blue River Memorial Park offering trails, fishing spots, and sports facilities that draw outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
7. Seymour, IN
Median Sale Price: $225,000
Homes for sale in Seymore | Apartments for rent in Seymour
This town is famous for being the birthplace of rock legend John Mellencamp. Fans can explore the town’s connection to the singer through local landmarks like his boyhood home. Seymour is also well-known for its annual Oktoberfest, a lively celebration with German food, music, and a colorful parade. Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to the nearby Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge, a serene spot for birdwatching, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoors.
8. Edinburgh, IN
Median Sale Price: $166,000
Homes for sale in Edinburgh | Apartments for rent in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a historic town near the confluence of the Driftwood and Blue Rivers. The town is home to the renowned Edinburgh Premium Outlets, a shopping destination that attracts visitors from across the state with its wide array of brand-name stores and discounts. Edinburgh’s history is also on display at the Timbergate Golf Course, built on the grounds of a former military training camp from the Civil War era. Each summer, the town hosts the Edinburgh Bicentennial Festival, a celebration of the town’s rich heritage, featuring historical reenactments, local crafts, and live entertainment.
9. Santa Claus, IN
Median Sale Price: $309,000
Homes for sale in Santa Claus | Apartments for rent in Santa Claus
Santa Claus is a unique small town that fully embraces its festive name. Known as “America’s Christmas Hometown,” the town houses Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari. This amusement park celebrates the spirit of several holidays alongside thrilling rides and water attractions. Visitors can also explore the Santa Claus Museum & Village. Here, they can learn about the town’s history and even send letters to Santa at the original Santa Claus Post Office. Each December, the town comes alive with the Santa Claus Christmas Celebration. The festival features holiday-themed events, light displays, and a Christmas parade.
10. North Vernon, IN
Median Sale Price: $180,000
Homes for sale in North Vernon | Apartments for rent in North Vernon
North Vernon has beautiful architecture, particularly in the North Vernon Downtown Historic District. While strolling through, you can admire well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Each summer, the town hosts the Jennings County Fair, a town tradition with carnival rides, livestock shows, and live entertainment. For outdoor enthusiasts, Muscatatuck County Park offers scenic trails, fishing spots, and opportunities for birdwatching. North Vernon is also home to the Park Theatre Civic Centre, a historic venue where locals enjoy live performances, movies, and community events.
11. Rockville, IN
Median Sale Price: $135,000
Homes for sale in Rockville | Apartments for rent in Rockville
Rockville, known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World,” is a small town in western Indiana. The town is the gateway to the annual Parke County Covered Bridge Festival. This 10-day event draws visitors from far and wide to explore the area’s 31 iconic bridges, shop for local crafts, and enjoy traditional fair food. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Rockville Historic District, where the well-preserved 19th-century buildings offer a glimpse into the town’s past. Finally, you can enjoy the town’s peaceful atmosphere by spending weekends exploring nearby Turkey Run State Park. The park offers several hiking trails, canoeing, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Methodology: The median home sale price is from the Redfin Data Center.
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