Decatur to Columbus: 5 Must-See Attractions
Are you ready to embark on an exciting road trip from Decatur to Columbus? This route takes you through charming towns and beautiful landscapes, with plenty of attractions along the way to keep you entertained. As you make your way from Decatur to Columbus, be sure to make a stop in Anderson, IN, which serves as the perfect halfway point for your journey.
Anderson, IN: The Halfway Point As you travel from Decatur to Columbus, the city of Anderson, IN, lies right in the middle of your route, making it the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs. Anderson is home to the iconic Paramount Theatre, a historic venue that has been entertaining audiences since the 1920s. You can also visit the Mounds State Park, where you can explore hiking trails and see ancient earthworks built by the Adena culture. For a quick bite to eat, head to one of the local restaurants in the downtown area, such as The Lemon Drop or The Toast Cafe.
Top Five Places to See List
Mounds State Park Just a short drive from Anderson, Mounds State Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The park is home to a network of hiking trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike. You can also explore the unique earthworks built by the Adena culture over 2,000 years ago, providing a fascinating glimpse into the area's ancient history.
Eiteljorg Museum As you continue your journey toward Columbus, make a stop at the Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis. This world-renowned museum showcases an impressive collection of Native American art, as well as Western and contemporary art. The museum's immersive exhibitions and interactive experiences make it a captivating destination for visitors of all ages.
Indiana State Capitol In the heart of downtown Indianapolis, you'll find the majestic Indiana State Capitol building. Take a guided tour of this historic landmark to learn about the state's government and see the beautiful architecture and artwork that adorn the building. Don't forget to visit the observation deck for panoramic views of the city.
Brown County State Park As you approach Columbus, be sure to make a pit stop at Brown County State Park, known as the "Little Smokies" for its resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains. The park offers stunning scenery, with rolling hills, rugged trails, and picturesque vistas. Whether you're into hiking, mountain biking, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic, Brown County State Park has something for everyone.
Miller House and Garden Once you arrive in Columbus, don't miss the chance to tour the iconic Miller House and Garden. Designed by famed architect Eero Saarinen, this modernist masterpiece is a marvel of mid-century design and landscaping. The guided tour provides an intimate look at the stunning interiors and the meticulously curated garden, offering a unique insight into the home's history and design.
Best Route for Your Trip To make the most of your journey from Decatur to Columbus, consider taking the scenic route through the heart of Indiana. From Decatur, head east on US-224, then merge onto I-69 N toward Anderson. After your stop in Anderson, continue on I-69 N until you reach Indianapolis, where you can explore the city's attractions, including the Indiana State Capitol and the Eiteljorg Museum. From Indianapolis, drive south on SR-135 toward Brown County State Park, then make your way to Columbus to visit the Miller House and Garden. This route allows you to experience the best of both nature and culture as you travel from Decatur to Columbus.