Marshall IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Marshall, Indiana.
1. Turkey Run State Park
SCENIC NATURAL WONDERLAND
Turkey Run State Park offers visitors a serene escape with diverse landscapes featuring dramatic sandstone canyons and scenic trails that traverse suspension and covered bridges. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities including kayaking on Sugar Creek, hiking through lush forests, and spotting local wildlife in their natural habitat. The park's natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
2. Alwyn Downs Golf Club
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Alwyn Downs Golf Club provides golfers with a challenging and picturesque course set among the rolling countryside of Marshall. The well-maintained fairways and greens offer both novice and experienced players an enjoyable golfing experience with varying levels of difficulty. After a round of golf, visitors can relax at the clubhouse which offers refreshments and a place to unwind while taking in views of the beautiful course.
3. Sugar Valley Canoe Trips
RIVERSIDE ADVENTURE TOURS
Sugar Valley Canoe Trips offers exciting water adventures along the scenic waterways near Marshall, Indiana. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, or tubes to explore the peaceful rivers while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty and wildlife. The friendly staff provides all necessary equipment and transportation, making it an accessible outdoor activity for families, couples, and groups looking for a refreshing way to experience Indiana's waterways.
4. Ancilla Domini Chapel
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
The Ancilla Domini Chapel dominates the center wing of the main building of the Motherhouse for the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ in the U.S. province. The chapel's history dates back to 1918 when the Sisters purchased property just beyond Donaldson for retreat, rest, and recreation after arriving from Germany in 1868. Visitors can admire the chapel's beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere while learning about the significant historical and cultural impact of the Poor Handmaids in the region.
5. Bremen Theatre
CLASSIC MOVIE EXPERIENCE
Bremen Theatre offers visitors a nostalgic movie-watching experience in a charming small-town setting within Marshall County. Movie enthusiasts can enjoy current films while indulging in classic theater snacks in this well-preserved venue that combines vintage charm with modern screening technology. The theater serves as both an entertainment venue and a cultural landmark for the community, providing affordable entertainment options for locals and tourists alike.
6. The Center at Donaldson
MULTI-PURPOSE COMMUNITY HUB
The Center at Donaldson is a versatile community hub where visitors can engage in a wide variety of activities from attending college classes to participating in retreats or conferences. The center also offers unique artistic opportunities including weaving and clay crafting workshops, making it a creative destination for those interested in developing new skills. Additionally, the facility promotes sustainability through earth-care education and natural beef production, reflecting its commitment to both community enrichment and environmental stewardship.
7. Chief Menominee Monument
HISTORICAL NATIVE AMERICAN MEMORIAL
The Chief Menominee Monument honors the Potawatomi leader and commemorates the tragic Trail of Death forced migration that began in Marshall County. Visitors can learn about this important but often overlooked chapter of American history through informational displays and the solemn monument itself. The site offers a place for reflection on Native American heritage and the historical events that shaped the region's demographic and cultural landscape.
8. Culver Academies
PRESTIGIOUS EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Culver Academies is a renowned preparatory boarding school situated on the shores of Lake Maxinkuckee with impressive grounds and historic architecture that visitors can tour. The campus features notable buildings, an equestrian center famous for its Black Horse Troop, and beautiful lakeside views that make it a point of interest for education enthusiasts and history buffs. Throughout the year, the academies host various public events including horsemanship demonstrations, cultural performances, and seasonal ceremonies that showcase the institution's traditions and student talents.
9. Lake Maxinkuckee
MIDWEST'S CAPE COD
Lake Maxinkuckee is often called 'The Cape Cod of the Midwest,' offering visitors a refreshing retreat with its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. The second-largest natural lake in Indiana features stunning sunsets, multiple access points, and rental opportunities for various watercraft from sailboats to paddleboards. Surrounding the lake are charming lakeside homes, dining establishments with water views, and scenic walking paths that make it a year-round destination for both relaxation seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
10. The Original Root Beer Stand
NOSTALGIC DINING EXPERIENCE
The Original Root Beer Stand maintains the nostalgic tradition of car hop service, bringing classic American fare directly to visitors' car windows. Famous for its creamy root beer served in frosted mugs, juicy burgers, and crispy fries, this establishment has been a beloved local institution for generations. The vintage atmosphere and consistent quality make it a must-visit culinary landmark for anyone exploring the Culver area, especially during warm summer months when the outdoor seating area buzzes with activity.
11. Marshall County Barn Quilt Trail
RURAL ART EXPERIENCE
The Marshall County Barn Quilt Trail features a series of beautiful murals painted in traditional quilt patterns adorning barns, businesses, and downtown areas throughout the county. Each colorful design is unique, reflecting the rich agricultural heritage and artistic spirit of the community through these large-scale public art installations. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided driving tour through the picturesque countryside, discovering these vibrant works while experiencing the rural charm and natural beauty of Marshall County.
12. Culver Beach
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Culver Beach provides visitors with a well-maintained sandy shoreline on the beautiful Lake Maxinkuckee, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking during warm months. The beach area includes amenities such as a playground, pavilion, and boat rental facilities where visitors can secure watercraft to explore the expansive lake. Its convenient location near downtown Culver allows beachgoers to easily access local shops and restaurants, making it an ideal centerpiece for a day trip or extended stay in this charming lakeside community.
13. Culver Downtown Shopping District
CHARMING RETAIL THERAPY
Culver's Downtown Shopping District offers visitors a delightful collection of boutique shops, antique stores, and specialty retailers set in a picturesque small-town atmosphere. Shoppers can browse unique merchandise ranging from locally crafted gifts and home décor to fashionable clothing and gourmet food items not typically found in chain stores. The walkable district's historic buildings and friendly shopkeepers create an inviting experience that captures the essence of Midwestern hospitality while providing quality shopping opportunities for those seeking souvenirs or special finds.
14. Marshall County Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Marshall County Historical Museum preserves and showcases the rich heritage of the region through engaging exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents dating back to the early settlers. Visitors can explore multiple galleries highlighting various aspects of local history, from agricultural innovations to industrial developments and the cultural evolution of the area's communities. The museum offers guided tours led by knowledgeable volunteers who provide fascinating insights and stories that bring the county's past to life for history enthusiasts of all ages.
15. Blueberry Festival
BELOVED ANNUAL CELEBRATION
The Blueberry Festival is Marshall County's signature event held annually during Labor Day weekend, attracting thousands of visitors with its celebration of the region's blueberry heritage through food, entertainment, and activities. Festival-goers can sample countless blueberry-themed culinary delights from pies and ice cream to more unexpected creations while browsing hundreds of arts and crafts vendors and enjoying carnival rides. The multi-day event also features live music performances, sporting competitions, hot air balloon launches, and a grand parade, making it one of Indiana's largest and most beloved festivals that showcases the community's spirit and hospitality.