Spiceland IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Spiceland, Indiana.
1. New Castle Motorsports Park
PREMIER KARTING FACILITY
New Castle Motorsports Park is a state-of-the-art karting facility featuring a 1-mile road course, 60 rental garages, and a kart shop. Visitors can watch races for free on weekends or participate by renting karts for an exhilarating racing experience. The park hosts national karting events and is home to the Kart Racers of America, which organizes 14 races annually.
2. Hoosier Gym
HISTORIC BASKETBALL LANDMARK
The Hoosier Gym is the iconic basketball venue where the classic movie 'Hoosiers' was filmed, preserving a piece of Indiana's basketball heritage. Visitors can explore this historic gymnasium that captures the essence of small-town basketball culture in Indiana. The venue maintains its original charm and offers a nostalgic experience for basketball enthusiasts and movie fans alike.
3. Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame
CELEBRATING HOOSIER HOOPS
The Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame celebrates the rich basketball tradition of the state through interactive exhibits and memorabilia. Visitors can explore displays honoring legendary players, coaches, and teams that have contributed to Indiana's basketball legacy. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of basketball in Indiana from its early days to the present.
4. Spiceland Freedom Days
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Spiceland Freedom Days is an annual tradition that began in 1976, featuring food vendors and a parade that brings the community together. The festival raises funds for scholarships supporting seniors at Tri Junior-Senior High School and provides aid to the Spiceland Volunteer Fire Department. Visitors can experience small-town charm while participating in various activities during this community celebration.
5. Draper, Inc. Factory
AMERICAN MANUFACTURING HERITAGE
Draper, Inc., established in 1902, is the largest factory of its kind in the United States, manufacturing projection screens, window shades, and gymnasium equipment. The company represents Spiceland's industrial heritage and continues to be a significant employer in the area. Visitors interested in American manufacturing might appreciate learning about this longstanding business that has been operating for over a century.
6. Spiceland Grill & Venue
UPSCALE HOOSIER DINING
The Spiceland Grill & Venue offers an elevated dining experience featuring American grill cuisine prepared by an Executive Chef and culinary team. Diners can enjoy specialties like the impressive 22oz Cowboy Ribeye in a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant provides a culinary journey showcasing the best of Hoosier cuisine in the heart of Spiceland.
7. Westwood Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Westwood Park offers visitors a variety of outdoor recreational activities in a serene natural setting near Spiceland. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and open spaces perfect for family outings and community gatherings. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the peaceful environment while taking advantage of the park's amenities throughout the year.
8. Baker Park
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE
Baker Park serves as a community gathering place offering recreational facilities for residents and visitors in the area near Spiceland. The park provides a relaxing environment with green spaces, playground equipment, and areas for outdoor activities. Families can enjoy quality time together while taking advantage of this local outdoor resource.
9. Clifty Falls State Park
SCENIC NATURAL WONDER
Clifty Falls State Park captivates visitors with its stunning waterfalls, rugged hiking trails, and historic tunnel. The park encompasses nearly 15 miles of trails that vary in difficulty, allowing hikers of all skill levels to experience the natural beauty. Nature enthusiasts can observe seasonal waterfalls, explore fossil beds, and enjoy panoramic views of the Ohio River valley.
10. Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary
BIRDING PARADISE
Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary offers birdwatchers and nature lovers a tranquil environment to observe diverse bird species in their natural habitat. The sanctuary features hiking trails through varied ecosystems, educational programs, and research facilities dedicated to avian conservation. Visitors can experience the peaceful surroundings while learning about Indiana's native and migratory birds throughout the different seasons.
11. Racer's Grill
TRACKSIDE DINING EXPERIENCE
Racer's Grill provides a unique dining experience located trackside at New Castle Motorsports Park, where patrons can enjoy meals while watching kart racing action. The restaurant serves up casual American fare perfect for race day enjoyment or a pit stop during travels near Spiceland. Visitors appreciate the motorsports atmosphere that adds excitement to the dining experience.
12. Wilbur Wright Birthplace
AVIATION HISTORY SITE
The Wilbur Wright Birthplace preserves the childhood home of one of aviation's founding fathers just a short drive from Spiceland. Visitors can tour the restored farmhouse and museum showcasing the Wright brothers' contributions to flight and their early lives in Indiana. The historic site offers educational exhibits and replicas that bring to life the story of how two bicycle mechanics changed transportation forever.
13. Summit Lake State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION HAVEN
Summit Lake State Park offers a 2,680-acre recreational area centered around a serene lake, providing visitors with opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming near Spiceland. The park features camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails through diverse habitats that support a variety of wildlife, especially birds. Nature enthusiasts can observe waterfowl at the park's designated wetland areas, which serve as an important stopover for migratory birds.
14. Henry County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Henry County Historical Society Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of the region including Spiceland through extensive collections of artifacts, photographs, and documents. Housed in a historic building, the museum offers visitors insight into the development of Henry County from pioneer days through the industrial era. Exhibits highlight notable local figures, industries, and cultural developments that shaped the community over generations.
15. Memorial Park
HISTORIC COMMUNITY PARK
Memorial Park serves as New Castle's central recreational area featuring well-maintained sports facilities, a swimming pool, and historic structures accessible to Spiceland residents. The park includes the beautiful Art Association building, which hosts art exhibits and classes throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the park's peaceful atmosphere while appreciating its role as a community gathering place for generations of local residents.