Peru IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Peru, Indiana.
1. Grissom Air Museum
HISTORIC AIRCRAFT COLLECTION
Grissom Air Museum showcases more than 20 legendary American aircraft including a B-17 Flying Fortress, the rare B-58 Hustler, and the A-10 Warthog. Visitors can climb the observation tower for a bird's eye view of the historic aircraft and sit in cockpits to experience aviation firsthand. The museum also features exhibits on aviation pioneers like the Wright brothers, along with flight trainers, models, photos, engines, and more.
2. Mississinewa Lake
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Mississinewa Lake offers numerous outdoor recreational opportunities including a swimming beach, picnic areas, fishing, hunting, and boating. The lake features multiple State Reserve Areas around it, including Miami SRA where there is a campground. Visitors can also enjoy Frisbee golf and miles of hiking trails throughout the area.
3. American Huey 369 Museum
VIETNAM HELICOPTER HISTORY
American Huey 369 Museum is run by passionate volunteers dedicated to preserving helicopter history, particularly from the Vietnam era. The museum offers visitors an up-close look at these iconic military helicopters that played a crucial role in American military history. Visitors often remark on the dedication of the staff who provide personal insights and stories about the aircraft.
4. Miami County Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
Miami County Museum houses over 75,000 items of historical significance including pioneer artifacts, Miami Indian relics, and an extensive collection of circus memorabilia. Among its treasures is Cole Porter memorabilia, featuring his 1955 Fleetwood Cadillac, highlighting the famous composer's local connections. The museum also features exhibits on vintage Peru circa 1910, railroad history, canal history, and maintains a large archival and genealogical department.
5. Nickel Plate Trail
SCENIC RAIL TRAIL
The Nickel Plate Trail is considered one of the best trails in the state for both riding and walking, offering a scenic path through Miami County. The trail continues to expand, making it an ever-improving outdoor recreation resource for locals and visitors alike. It provides a perfect setting for cycling, jogging, or casual strolls through the beautiful Indiana landscape.
6. Seven Pillars Nature Preserve
NATURAL LIMESTONE FORMATION
Seven Pillars Nature Preserve features impressive limestone formations along the Mississinewa River that hold cultural significance to the indigenous Miami people. The preserve offers hiking trails that allow visitors to experience the natural beauty and geological wonders of the area. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy wildlife viewing while appreciating these unique rock formations that have stood for centuries.
7. McClure's Orchard
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FARM EXPERIENCE
McClure's Orchard offers visitors a delightful agricultural experience with wagon rides through their apple orchards and fruit tastings of their ripe produce. The family-owned operation provides educational tours where visitors can learn about the orchard business and sustainable farming practices. Beyond just apples, the orchard offers seasonal activities and farm-fresh products for visitors of all ages.
8. International Circus Hall of Fame
CIRCUS HISTORY MUSEUM
The International Circus Hall of Fame preserves Peru's rich circus heritage in the former Wallace Circus and American Circus Corporation Winter Quarters. Visitors can discover an enchanting world of colorful wagons, vintage posters, unique costumes, and exhibits dedicated to famous circus stars throughout history. The museum features a miniature replica of the 1934 Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, which was once the second-largest circus in the United States.
9. Circus City Festival Museum
PERU'S CIRCUS LEGACY
The Circus City Festival Museum, located in the Circus City Center, offers visitors a walk through Peru's storied circus history. The museum is filled with photographs, miniatures, displays, and costumes from the city's circus past, celebrating Peru's status as the Circus Capital of the World. While the museum is open year-round, summer visitors can experience the Peru Amateur Circus performances and the eight-day Peru Circus City Festival.
10. Oak Hill Winery
SMALL-BATCH LOCAL WINES
Oak Hill Winery is housed in a charming carriage house dating back to 1894, offering a quaint setting for wine enthusiasts. The winery produces small-batch wines the old-fashioned way, focusing on natural flavors tailored to the general public rather than wine connoisseurs. Visitors can enjoy complimentary wine tastings while experiencing the friendly, welcoming atmosphere of this local establishment.
11. Streaper's Entertainment
THRILLING ESCAPE GAMES
Streaper's Entertainment has been thrilling the community since 2011, starting with their popular Haunted Adventure attraction. The venue has expanded to offer multiple Escape Room Games that challenge visitors with puzzles and mysteries to solve. Their unique Hands-ON Nightmare experience provides an additional entertainment option for thrill-seekers looking for something beyond the ordinary.
12. Ole Olson Memorial Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
The Ole Olson Memorial Theatre serves as Peru's cherished performing arts venue, hosting a variety of live entertainment throughout the year. The historic theater provides a charming setting for concerts, plays, and community events that bring local talent to the spotlight. Visitors can experience the warm acoustics and intimate atmosphere while enjoying performances that showcase the cultural vibrancy of Peru.
13. Peru Amateur Circus
YOUTH CIRCUS PERFORMANCES
The Peru Amateur Circus continues the city's rich circus tradition by featuring talented local youth performing amazing feats under the big top. Young performers train year-round to master aerial arts, juggling, clowning, and other circus skills for their summer performances. The circus culminates in the annual Peru Circus City Festival, an eight-day celebration that draws visitors from across the region to witness these remarkable acts.
14. Downtown Peru
HISTORIC MAIN STREET DISTRICT
Downtown Peru features charming historic architecture, local shops, and restaurants that capture the essence of this friendly Midwestern community. The area comes alive during Peru's 2nd Saturdays events, featuring local bands, refreshments, and great conversations among locals and visitors. The walkable district offers numerous specialty and gift shops selling everything from souvenirs and clothing to jewelry and home decor.
15. Wabash River Greenway
RIVERSIDE NATURE TRAIL
The Wabash River Greenway offers scenic paths along the historic river that has shaped Peru's development since its founding. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, bird watching, and fishing spots while taking in views of the meandering waterway. The greenway connects various parts of the community and provides a natural retreat within easy access of downtown Peru.