Things To Do
in Crawfordsville
Crawfordsville, Indiana, sits along the Wabash River as a small, historic city with a university-town atmosphere. It blends well-preserved downtown architecture with cultural institutions and a strong sense of community. The city is anchored by Wabash College and notable historic homes like Lane Place, creating a charming backdrop for visitors.
Outdoor spaces, museums, and a walkable core make Crawfordsville a comfortable overnight or weekend escape in the Midwest.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming Historic Center of Crawfordsville. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café, where you can savor homemade pastries and artisanal coffee. Afterward, visit the General Lew Wallace Study and Museum, where you can learn about the fascinating history of the area.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Montgomery County Historical Society to dive deeper into the local heritage. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant known for its classic American fare. Spend some time exploring the quaint shops and boutiques that line the streets, perfect for finding unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to a local eatery that offers farm-to-table cuisine, highlighting the region's fresh produce. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Wabash River, where you can enjoy the scenic views and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Conclude your evening with a visit to the nearby theatre for a performance or a movie.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before making your way to Shades State Park, located just a short drive from Crawfordsville. Once there, immerse yourself in nature by walking the park's picturesque trails, surrounded by lush forests and stunning rock formations. The crisp morning air will invigorate your senses as you spot various birds and wildlife.
After an adventurous morning, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park's scenic overlooks. Spend the afternoon hiking some of the more challenging trails, taking in the breathtaking views and discovering hidden waterfalls. Don't forget your camera, as the natural beauty of the park is perfect for capturing memorable moments.
As the day winds down, head back to Crawfordsville and relax at a cozy restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy a meal featuring local ingredients while reminiscing about your day spent in nature. If you're up for it, consider attending a local event or festival that may be happening during your visit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.00-4.00 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $90-150 |
| 🛒Groceries (for two) | $50-80 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable downtown with historic charm
- Strong cultural and educational presence due to Wabash College and museums
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Smaller-scale shopping and dining scene outside the downtown core
Places to Visit in Crawfordsville
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic mansion with well-preserved architecture and well-kept grounds, excellent for exterior shots and period details.
Iconic circular jail building with distinctive architecture and a clock tower, producing striking skyline and detail shots.
Gothic-inspired campus architecture, green spaces, and quiet courtyards ideal for capturing collegiate atmosphere and sunsets.
Food in Crawfordsville
Crawfordsville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Wisconsin-style custard pie with a rich, creamy filling and a hint of vanilla—an Indiana staple often found in local bakeries and diners.
Must-Try!
Thinly pounded, generously breaded pork cutlet fried to a crisp and served on a soft bun with simple toppings—an enduring Midwestern favorite.
Dishes featuring produce and proteins sourced from nearby farms, highlighting local flavors especially in seasonal menus at cafés and small restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses, honey, and other local products; great for sampling regional flavors on Saturdays.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly pleasantries are appreciated; hold doors for others and be courteous in queues and storefronts.
Respect campus spaces and quiet study areas; observe campus rules when visiting Wabash College or related facilities.
Park in designated lots; keep noise levels considerate in residential areas, especially evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Crawfordsville
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tip restaurant servers 15-20% of the bill; leave modest tips for takeout when service is limited; tip bartenders and taxi/ride-share drivers similarly.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, with cash as a backup; mobile payments (Apple/Google Pay) are commonly available in many establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with occasional showers; flowers and greenery begin to brighten the downtown and parks.
Warm to hot days with humidity; great for riverfront walks, outdoor markets, and evening strolls but stay hydrated.
Colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures; ideal for outdoor photography and scenic drives nearby.
Cold with potential snow; indoor museums and cozy cafés are pleasant refuges, though some outdoor activities may be limited.
Crawfordsville at Night
Hiking in Crawfordsville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged trails and scenic overlooks about 25 miles away, offering dramatic canyons and viewpoints.
Approximately 40 miles away; renowned canyons, bridges, and extensive hiking trails.
Airports
How to reach Crawfordsville by plane.
Major regional airport about an hour to an hour and a half drive away, offering wide flight options and rental car services.
Small general aviation airport serving private flights in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Wabash College students contribute to a youthful, educated segment and university-town events.
Many families populate suburbs and residential areas around the city center.
A sizable retiree community drawn to the slower pace and local amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved Indiana tradition with local high school and college enthusiasm.
Community and school events are common in fall across parks and stadiums.
Local leagues and park facilities offer family-friendly sports year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Crawfordsville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-forward dishes, plant-based proteins, and sides like beans, greens, and seasonal vegetables; many diners can offer veggie substitutions.