North Judson IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near North Judson, Indiana.
1. Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum
HISTORIC RAILROAD EXPERIENCE
The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of railroading during its heyday in northwest Indiana. Visitors can explore galleries, view vintage rail equipment, and even take train rides through the Indiana countryside on Saturdays from 9:00 to 4:00 pm CDT. The museum is situated near the former junction of several major railways in historic North Judson, making it a significant landmark for railroad enthusiasts.
2. RETRO Family Fun Center
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
RETRO Family Fun Center provides entertainment options for families visiting North Judson. The center offers various recreational activities in a retro-themed environment that appeals to visitors of all ages. Families can spend quality time together while enjoying the different games and attractions available at this local favorite.
3. Bonnell's Blueberry Patch
FRESH BERRY PICKING
Bonnell's Blueberry Patch invites visitors to experience the joy of picking their own fresh blueberries in North Judson. The farm offers a rural agricultural experience where guests can connect with nature while harvesting sweet, juicy berries during the growing season. After picking, visitors can purchase various blueberry products to take home as delicious souvenirs of their visit.
4. The Irish Pub North Judson
LOCAL DINING EXPERIENCE
The Irish Pub North Judson serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike seeking refreshment and good food. The establishment offers a taste of Irish-inspired cuisine and beverages in a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the community spirit of North Judson. Visitors can enjoy hearty meals, drinks, and possibly local entertainment while experiencing the town's hospitality.
5. Erie Trail
SCENIC OUTDOOR PATHWAY
The Erie Trail provides a serene outdoor experience through the bucolic landscapes of the Kankakee sand country near North Judson. Hikers and cyclists can enjoy views of oak groves, little sand prairies, and pocket prairie marshes while spotting diverse wildlife including deer, turkeys, waterfowl, and songbirds. The trail's tranquility is enhanced by its distance from major roadways, power lines, and residential development, offering visitors a peaceful retreat into nature.
6. Norwayne Field
COMMUNITY EVENTS HUB
Norwayne Field serves as a central gathering place for North Judson's community events, concerts, and entertainment in the downtown area. The park features a splash pad where visitors can cool off during warm weather months while enjoying the recreational facilities. As one of North Judson's two main parks, it provides important green space for both locals and tourists to enjoy outdoor activities.
7. Town Park
SPORTS AND RECREATION AREA
Town Park in North Judson is dedicated primarily to sporting events and active recreation for community members and visitors. The park features playground equipment where children can play and explore in a safe, outdoor environment. A dog park located in the northeast portion offers pet owners a dedicated space where their four-legged companions can exercise and socialize.
8. Kankakee River at English Lake
SCENIC RIVER CROSSING
The Kankakee River crossing at English Lake is a highlight for many passengers taking excursions with the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum near North Judson. The train travels over an impressive open-deck steel girder bridge that spans just over 500 feet across the river, offering spectacular views of the waterway. This natural feature provides visitors with a glimpse of the region's waterways and the engineering marvel of the historic railroad bridge.
9. Ice Cream Train
SWEET RAILWAY EXPERIENCE
The Ice Cream Train offers a delightful combination of railroading history and sweet treats for visitors to North Judson. Passengers can enjoy refreshing ice cream from Sallie's Small Batch Ice Creams before boarding a vintage train for a leisurely ride through the Indiana countryside. This unique experience combines the nostalgia of rail travel with the simple pleasure of enjoying ice cream, creating lasting memories for travelers of all ages.
10. Tippecanoe River State Park
NATURAL OUTDOOR RECREATION
Tippecanoe River State Park, located near North Judson in Winamac, offers visitors a pristine natural setting with opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and wildlife observation along the scenic Tippecanoe River. The park features hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and river habitats where visitors can connect with nature. Camping facilities provide overnight accommodations for those wanting an extended outdoor experience in this beautiful corner of Indiana.
11. Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area
SANDHILL CRANE SANCTUARY
The Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area, located near North Judson in Medaryville, is internationally known for its spectacular sandhill crane migrations, particularly in late fall when thousands of cranes gather in the marshes. Visitors can observe these magnificent birds from a dedicated viewing platform, creating an unforgettable wildlife watching experience. Beyond crane season, the area offers hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities across its diverse habitats of wetlands, woodlands, and prairies.
12. Bass Lake Beach
POPULAR SWIMMING DESTINATION
Bass Lake Beach provides a refreshing escape for North Judson area residents and visitors seeking water recreation in nearby Knox. The sandy shoreline offers swimming opportunities in one of Indiana's largest natural lakes, with clear waters that are especially inviting during summer months. Facilities include picnic areas, concessions, and amenities that make for an enjoyable day trip for families and water enthusiasts.
13. Melody Drive-In Theatre
NOSTALGIC OUTDOOR CINEMA
The Melody Drive-In Theatre delivers a nostalgic moviegoing experience near North Judson in Knox, where visitors can watch films under the stars from the comfort of their vehicles. Operating seasonally, this classic American entertainment venue combines modern movie releases with the charm of a bygone era. Concessions offer traditional movie snacks, completing the authentic drive-in experience that appeals to multiple generations.
14. Starke County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Starke County Historical Society Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of the region surrounding North Judson through exhibits of artifacts, photographs, and documents. Visitors can explore displays highlighting pioneer life, agricultural development, and other significant aspects of local heritage. The museum offers insights into how the area has evolved over time, providing context for understanding North Judson and its neighboring communities.
15. Kankakee Sands Nature Preserve
PRAIRIE RESTORATION PROJECT
The Kankakee Sands Nature Preserve represents one of the Midwest's most ambitious prairie restoration projects, located within driving distance of North Judson in Morocco. Visitors can explore over 7,000 acres where native grasslands, wetlands, and savannas have been restored, providing habitat for diverse wildlife including bison, which were reintroduced to the landscape. Hiking trails and observation points allow nature enthusiasts to experience the beauty of this recovering ecosystem while learning about conservation efforts in the region.