Planning a weekend getaway to Southern Indiana? You’ll definitely want to visit Dubois County, Indiana. While visiting Dubois County, you’ll be able to explore the rolling hills, picturesque towns, family-friendly festivals, and shopping. Whether you are a solo traveler, traveling with your family, or on a romantic getaway—Dubois County has something for everyone.
Located in the heart of Southern Indiana is Dubois County—a charming area of the Midwest that offers something for everyone. Last April, I was invited to experience all the charm of Southern Indiana. I’ll be sharing highlights of my trip and my recommendations on what to do on your visit!
Grab Coffee at Smalley Coffee
Start your morning off by grabbing a cup of coffee at Smalley Coffee. If I could a give a reward to the most unique coffee shop, it would have to go to Smalley Coffee—a coffee shop built inside a 1966 Airstream Overlander.
They even have a drive thru! How fun is that?!
Smalley Coffee offers a few different non-dairy milk options. I decided to branch out from my usual black coffee. I ordered a latte with almond milk and it was the perfect morning pick me up!
visit historic churches
There are over 20 churches in Dubious County that are over 100 years old. When I studied art history in college, I became fascinated with church architecture and visiting historic churches.
Whenever I travel, I love visiting historic churches with amazing architecture.
Located right in Jasper is St. Joseph Church—an 1880s Romanesque, old world-style church. The church was built by the early parishioners and showcases German stained-glass windows.
Throughout the church, you’ll find Austrian-designed and imported mosaics featuring 50 million stones, pewter and marble statues, altars made of Italian marble, and a communion railing of onyx and brass.
The design of the tower was taken from that of the tower of Big Ben in London. The tower stands at 235 feet tall, with the height from the floor to the apex of the groined naves totals 90 feet.
I remember studying Romanesque architecture in my architecture class in college and it was one of my favorite styles. St. Joseph Church is a great example of Romanesque architecture in the United States.
Attend a Festival
Throughout the year, you’ll find a wide range of festivals perfect for the whole family. While I was visiting, I was to attend the Garden Gate Festival in historic Huntington, Indiana.
The Garden Gate Jazz, Art, Wine, & Craft Beer Festival takes places in the Market Street Park in downtown Huntington.
Sample over a hundred local Indiana craft beer and wines while you listen to jazz music. It is the perfect way to spend the afternoon.
I love trying different local beers and wine when I travel. It’s a great way immerse yourself into the local culture. I love listen to jazz music and the bands playing where really good.
At the festival there was definitely more wineries than craft breweries. Even though the day was a little misty and rainy, there were so many people that attended the festival.
Next year, the festival takes place on April 18, 2020. It is a great time to visit Dubois County!
Visit the Jasper City Mill
The current Jasper City Mill was completed in 2009 and is the third mill to occupy the side. In 1817, the first mill was constructed. The second mill was constructed in 1865 by the Eckert family and stood until 1964, when it was torn down due to flood damage.
The Jasper City Mill is a working grist mill, grinding corn and making cornmeal to sell in its Country Store. You can pick up some cornmeal after exploring the mill. You can also see memorabilia from the old Jasper mills on display.
Ride the Spirt of Jasper
Take a ride on the restored Spirt of Jasper—a luxury passenger train that offers a variety of train excursions. During my visit in late April, the Spirit of Jasper wasn’t running yet, so unfortunately, I wasn’t able to experience one of the excursions.
You can take the Spirit of Jasper to French Lick—a resort that has been on my travel list for awhile now. French Lick is home to two nationally historic hotels, tucked in the hills of the Hoosier National Forest.
The also offer a Ride & Dine excursion from the Jasper Train Depot for an 18 mile round trip dinner experience to Dubois, IN. I would love to go back and experience the “Fall Foliage” Ride & Dine excursion from the Jasper Train Depot for a 30 mile round trip dinner experience to Cuzco, IN. Train rides are the perfect way to experience fall colors!
where to stay
Located just a few blocks from the heart of downtown Jasper, Indiana, A stay at the Winfield West B&B is perfect place for your weekend getaway to Dubois County.
This charming Midwest home was built in the 1880’s featuring the Second Empire style. Owners Fred and Regina Tone have done an incredible job keeping the historic tradition of the Winfield West, while at the same time adding modern amenities—making the guests feel right at home.
I loved my stay at the Winfield West. Fred and Regina were so welcoming. As soon as I arrived, I felt right at home.
Sitting on the porch with a class of white wine was the perfect way to relax and unwind after my drive from Grand Rapids.
There are four bedrooms, each with a different style. I stayed in the Belle Room—a charming room with a gorgeous wrought iron bed, an en-suite bath, and a wonderful view of Jasper.
breakfast at the B & B
Sometimes traveling as a vegan can be a little difficult but Regina made sure that I had a delicious vegan breakfast each morning. It’s the little touches like this that make a trip even more memorable.
The first morning, I had a delicious bowl of oatmeal. It was the perfect fuel for a day so wine tasting at the Garden Gate Festival.
The second morning, Regina offered to make rice pudding—one of my favorites! This rice pudding was out of this world.
I loved exploring the charm of Dubious County, Indiana. Explore the alluring small towns in Southern Indiana on your next weekend getaway in the Midwest.
Watch my travel vlog to see more of Dubois, County!
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Thank you for Visit Dubois County for hosting my visit!
XO Jeni
Huntingburg’s Garden Gate Festival is so much fun! I’m glad you were able to enjoy it! 🙂