Laurel IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Laurel, Indiana.
1. Haspin Acres Off Road Park
THRILLING OFF-ROAD ADVENTURES
Haspin Acres Off Road Park offers visitors an exciting venue for off-road vehicle enthusiasts in the heart of Laurel, Indiana. The park features numerous trails of varying difficulty levels, perfect for ATVs, dirt bikes, and other off-road vehicles. Visitors can enjoy a full day of outdoor adventure while navigating through the park's diverse terrain that includes wooded areas, open fields, and challenging obstacles.
2. Laurel Town Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Laurel Town Park serves as the central recreational area for residents and visitors in the charming town of Laurel. The park provides essential amenities including playground equipment, picnic areas, and open green spaces for various activities. Families and individuals can enjoy a peaceful day outdoors while taking advantage of the park's well-maintained facilities.
3. Salt Creek Ranch
SCENIC RURAL RETREAT
Salt Creek Ranch is a highly-rated attraction in Laurel that provides visitors with an authentic rural Indiana experience. The ranch offers various outdoor activities and is known for its picturesque setting that showcases the natural beauty of the region. Guests can enjoy horseback riding, exploring the grounds, and connecting with nature in this peaceful countryside setting.
4. Whitewater Canal Trail
HISTORIC WATERWAY PATH
The Whitewater Canal Trail near Laurel follows the historic waterway that once served as a vital transportation route in the region. Hikers and cyclists can enjoy the scenic path while learning about the canal's significance in Indiana's early development through informational markers along the route. The well-maintained trail provides a perfect opportunity for outdoor recreation while experiencing a piece of Indiana's transportation history.
5. Whitewater Canal State Historic Site
PRESERVED INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE
Whitewater Canal State Historic Site preserves an important piece of Indiana's industrial and transportation history near Laurel. Visitors can explore the restored canal structures, including locks and aqueducts that showcase 19th-century engineering achievements. The site offers educational exhibits and occasional demonstrations that bring to life the era when canals were crucial to the region's economic development.
6. Metamora Gem Mine & Luna's Garden Gift Shop
FAMILY MINING ADVENTURE
Metamora Gem Mine & Luna's Garden Gift Shop offers a unique hands-on experience for visitors near Laurel, where guests can try their luck at mining for gemstones and fossils. The perfectly-rated attraction provides mining equipment and rough gem material that contains various precious and semi-precious stones waiting to be discovered. After mining, visitors can browse the gift shop's selection of jewelry, crystals, and garden accessories.
7. Brookville Lake
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Brookville Lake is a stunning reservoir located near Laurel that offers numerous water-based recreational activities throughout the year. The lake features excellent fishing opportunities, boating facilities, and swimming areas that attract outdoor enthusiasts from across the region. Surrounding the lake are scenic hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas that make it perfect for day trips or extended outdoor adventures.
8. Mounds State Recreation Area
NATURAL HISTORY PRESERVE
Mounds State Recreation Area preserves prehistoric Native American earthworks near Laurel, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's ancient past. The park features well-maintained hiking trails that wind through forested areas and provide access to the archaeological sites. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse wildlife and plant species that can be observed throughout the various ecosystems within the recreation area.
9. Metamora Historic District
PRESERVED CANAL TOWN
The Metamora Historic District showcases a well-preserved 19th-century canal town near Laurel with numerous historic buildings and attractions. Visitors can stroll along the charming streets lined with period architecture, artisan shops, and restaurants that capture the essence of Indiana's canal era. The district regularly hosts special events and demonstrations that bring history to life for guests of all ages.
10. Grist Mill Park
HISTORIC MILLING SITE
Grist Mill Park features a working water-powered mill that demonstrates traditional grain processing techniques used in 19th-century Indiana. Visitors can watch milling demonstrations and learn about the importance of water power in early American industry through informative exhibits and knowledgeable guides. The park's scenic setting along the Whitewater Canal provides excellent photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere for exploring Indiana's industrial heritage.
11. Wolf Creek Habitat
WOLF EDUCATION CENTER
Wolf Creek Habitat offers a unique opportunity to learn about and interact with wolves in a controlled environment near Laurel, Indiana. The facility is dedicated to wolf education and conservation, providing guided tours where visitors can observe the behavior and social dynamics of wolf packs. Photography sessions and educational programs make this a memorable experience for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages.
12. Franklin County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Franklin County Historical Society Museum preserves and displays artifacts that tell the story of the region's past, including Laurel's development. Exhibits showcase pioneer life, industrial growth, and significant historical events that shaped the county over generations. The museum's knowledgeable staff provide insights into local history and genealogical resources for those tracing their family connections to the area.
13. Whitewater Memorial State Park
RECREATIONAL NATURE PRESERVE
Whitewater Memorial State Park offers extensive outdoor recreational opportunities within a short drive from Laurel, Indiana. The park features a 200-acre lake for fishing, boating, and swimming, along with miles of multi-use trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking through diverse natural landscapes. Camping facilities, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities make this an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking an extended outdoor experience.
14. Yellow Bank Trailhead
SCENIC HIKING ROUTE
Yellow Bank Trailhead serves as an entry point to a network of scenic hiking paths that showcase the natural beauty around Laurel, Indiana. The trails wind through varied terrain including woodlands, meadows, and along waterways, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and native plant species. Hikers of all skill levels can find suitable routes, from short family-friendly walks to more challenging paths for experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
15. Fairfield Causeway Beach
POPULAR SWIMMING SPOT
Fairfield Causeway Beach provides a designated swimming area on Brookville Lake that attracts visitors from Laurel and throughout the region during warm months. The beach features sandy shores, clear water, and basic amenities including restrooms and picnic facilities for day visitors. Families appreciate the relatively shallow swimming area while more adventurous visitors can explore deeper waters farther from shore.