Visiting Southern Indiana

The southern border of Indiana ends along the course of the Ohio River, which runs through Indiana cities like Evansville, and separates Clarksville from neighboring Louisville. Indiana’s southwest corner is clipped by Interstate 64, which provides an east-west corridor for travelers from Louisville to St. Louis. Patoka Lake northeast of Dale and the Hoosier National Forest are delightful fall destinations to enjoy the end of warm season’s outdoor recreation. Vincennes in Knox County, on the southwestern Indiana state line, is not only Indiana’s first town but also home to Vincennes University, the state’s first college – enjoy fall and a bit of Indiana history with a visit to Vincennes.

Set on the banks of the Wabash River, Vincennes makes a beautiful fall destination. This is the season to enjoy the full bounty of Vincennes area agriculture. Through the end of October, visit the Riverfront Pavilion for the Farmers Market of Historic Vincennes. The market is filled with freshly harvested local produce, along with artisan-baked goods, fresh flowers and locally crafted specialty items. Market hours are Saturday mornings and Wednesday evenings and feature live entertainment, demonstrations and plenty of friendly Hoosiers.

Be sure to visit the Old State Bank building in Vincennes. This was the oldest bank in Indiana. Through October, visitors can tour the Old State Bank and see artifacts on display from Fort Knox. The Old State Bank is located near the Farmers Market and is open Saturday mornings and Wednesday evenings, the same hours as the market.

The town of Clarksville Indiana, across the Ohio River from Louisville, is called the Sunny Side of Louisville. Famous explorers Lewis and Clark launched their journey on the Ohio River from Clarksville. Falls of the Ohio State Park commemorates the Lewis and Clark expedition with a statue in the Clarksville Park.

The Falls of the Ohio Park is ideal in fall when the river is at its lowest levels, allowing maximum exposure to the park's fossil beds. Visit and enjoy relaxing fall fishing, bird watching and a walk in beautiful autumn weather. October 12th is National Fossil Day - there is no better place in Indiana to explore fossils than the fossil beds at Falls of the Ohio State Park.

Dale Indiana sits off Interstate 64, a hub of commerce and activity for Spencer County. Dale is an ideal stopping point to spend the night and take advantage of area attractions. Lincoln City, just four miles south of Dale is the boyhood home of President Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln State Park honors the former president and makes for great exploring on a fall outing.

The town of Santa Claus is west of Lincoln City and six miles south of Dale. As you can guess, it is Christmas all year in Santa Claus and fall is no exception. Get a jump on the holidays, with a visit to the various Santa and Christmas theme destination in this southern Indiana town.

Southern Indiana Hotel Map