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the adventure begins
Jackson County, IN
With a large collection of outdoor recreation areas and family friendly activities, visitors can find a range of activities by contacting us at the Jackson County Visitor Center. Making it an easy trip form any direction, we are an hour south of Indianapolis, an hour north of Louisville, KY, an hour from Cincinnati, OH, and a hop-skip-and-a-jump from Bloomington and Nashville, Indiana. Just take Exit 50 off Interstate 65 and come see us. Our wide array of family friendly events and festivals, make it possible for you to create unforgettable moments. We encourage you to make us your go-to for all of the information you may need to plan your next adventure to Jackson County, Indiana. Click here for a small guide to Jackson County!
Our Small Towns
Freetown
Platted in 1850, this small community takes pride in it’s heritage. Sitting on state roads 58 and 135, you can stroll from the Freetown-Pershing Museum, home to many treasures including one of the 7 Jackson County bison, to the ice cream shop or Sgt. Rick’s American Cafe and BBQ. Explore the beautiful countryside to Salt Creek Winery and get a taste of their award-winning wines while taking in a beautiful landscape view.
Brownstown
This community celebrates that it is the county seat and home to a rich history with the county courthouse being the matriarch to all historic sites throughout the community and surrounding county. The community enjoys being home to the award-winning Jackson County Fair. Brownstown sits on US50, which is a coast-to-coast highway and a main thoroughfare for east and west transit. While sitting in the scenic hills of the Jackson-Washington State Forest and the Hoosier National Forest, it is only 10 minutes from I-65.
Crothersville
Just a quick jump off I-65 and US 31, Crothersville is home to their proud Tigers and their annual Red, White and Blue Festival. The festival celebrates patriotism and the American Flag. It first took place in 1976 when the United States celebrated its bicentennial. Hamacher Hall plays a role in the heart of this thriving community . Many community events and an occasional dinner theater can be enjoyed in this historic venue. Peppered with restaurants and shops, this is our southern partner in Jackson County hospitality.
Seymour
Seymour is easily accessible at Exit 50 on I-65, U.S. 50, U.S. 31 and Indiana 11. Meedy W. Shields and his wife Eliza P. Shields registered the plat of the city of Seymour on April 27, 1852. Seymour grew quickly with the addition of the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad in 1854 and soon became the largest city in Jackson County. Seymour offers industry, shopping, lodging, dining and great festivals and events, including the Seymour Oktoberfest, which pays homage to Jackson County’s German heritage. Rock’n Roll Hall of Fame inductee John Mellencamp was born in Seymour, and visitors can explore multiple landmarks throughout the community. Seymour also is the site of the world’s first moving train robbery by the local, notorious Reno Gang. Watch a video of the story by clicking here. A great downtown offers a wide variety of opportunities but doesn’t lose that small town feel.
Medora
Medora is located in the southwestern edge of Jackson County and offers breathtaking views and that small town feel. Stop by the longest three span covered bridge in the United States, located on Indiana 235 or see the historic Medora Brick Plant. The Friends of the Medora Covered Bridge organize an annual Dinner on the Bridge, which is a unique dining experience on the bridge in addition to a silent auction and entertainment. Click here to read about the dinner. Medora is the epitome of hospitality and that is apparent during the Medora Goes Pink festival in October or the Medora Christmas Festival in December. Medora is accessible from U.S. 50 or Indiana 235.
Vallonia
Vallonia was the first settlement in Jackson County and was even in the running to be the state’s first capitol. Vallonia is located outside of the county seat and is accessible from Indiana 135. Fort Vallonia is a reminder of Vallonia’s history in the early 1800s and comes alive in October during the Fort Vallonia Days festival. The hills and knobs are visible from Vallonia and several farm markets and produce stands can be found around the area, which is well known for delicious cantaloupe and watermelon.
explore the history of Jackson County
Historical Attractions
One of our biggest attractions for over 60 years has been the Brownstown Speedway, located at the Jackson County Fairgrounds. Races are held eight months out of the year on the dirt track, and we offer different classes. Visitors can also explore the history of Jackson County at any of our six museums, including the Freeman Field Army Airfield Museum and the Fort Vallonia Museum. History buffs can delve into the role Jackson County played in the Underground Railroad, which helped escaped slaves reach freedom. There are also a number of historic pathways, covered bridges, and round barns for visitors to enjoy.
Art lovers enjoy
Local Arts Scene
Art lovers will enjoy visits to Jackson County’s diverse artistic collections. The Southern Indiana Center for the Arts, Swope Art Collection, and Brownstown Fund for the Arts all contribute to the culture of the area. Visitors can also attend a show at one of our community theaters and travel the artisan trail to see more local artists.
outdoor recreation at its finest
Outdoor Recreation
For our outdoor enthusiasts, Jackson County offers a number of recreational options. The Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge provides hunting, fishing and bird watching opportunities. Whether it be in the Jackson-Washington State Forest, the Starve Hollow State Recreation Area or the Hoosier National Forest you can choose a campsite just right for your home-away-from home adventure. Biking, hiking and horseback riding are popular ways to tour these untouched areas, as they span hundreds of thousands of acres. For the sports-inclined visitor, we also offer excellent golfing.
