24 Best & Fun Things to do in Terre Haute (Indiana)

If you’re looking for things to do in Terre Haute, Indiana, look no further. From outdoor activities and parks to art galleries and museums, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Terre Haute is one of the largest cities in Indiana’s Wabash Valley and is also known as the Queen City of the Wabash. Tourists, particularly those going with families and students, choose to travel to Terre Haute.

Terre Haute is a busy city known for the many sports and outdoor activities it has to offer. There are many fun things to do in Terre Haute, such as seeing a show at the Crossroads Repertory Theatre, riding the Spirit of Terre Haute train through Deming Park, or watching car races at the Crossroads Dragway.

Explore the city and love its top-notch museums, historic homes, parks, and nature preserves. We’ve compiled a list of the best, brightest, and most beautiful places to visit in Terre Haute to help you plan your next trip.

What are the Fun Things to do in Terre Haute (Indiana)?

#1. Visit The Sheldon Swope Art Museum

Sheldon Swope Art Museum, built in 1901 in an Italian Renaissance Revival style, is one of the grandest structures in the downtown area that welcomes you. It is located at 7th and Ohio Street.

Michael Sheldon Swope, who lived from 1843 to 1929 and was a successful jeweler and Civil War veteran, started it. He lived most of his life in Terre Haute.

His contribution paved the way for constructing this world-class museum in the Swope Block, which was opened in 1942.

This museum is devoted to American art and the preservation of its rich history. There are works by well-known artists like Grant Wood, Thomas Hart Benton, Edward Hopper, and Charles Burchfield in these collections.

It mostly concentrates on works from the 20th and 21st centuries, including pieces by Eva Hesse, Robert Rauschenberg, and Alexander Calder. There are recurring art exhibitions that feature local artists like John Laska as well.

The museum is open to everyone for free and also offers a variety of educational initiatives, such as youth summer camps.

Address: 25 S 7th St, Terre Haute, IN 47807, United States

#2. Explore Deming Park

If you’re looking for a fun and unique activity in Terre Haute, Indiana, look no further than the Deming Park Fountain.

This historic fountain is in the middle of the city and is thought to be one of the most important public landmarks in all of Indiana.

The park has a lovely playground, an 18-hole disc golf course, a greenhouse, and many other amenities for fishing, picnics, a swimming pool, tennis, and basketball.

The Terre Haute miniature railway is one of Deming Park’s unique features and operates every day during the school summer break and on weekends from April through September.

The fountain at Deming park is worth seeing if you’re in the area, especially at night when it’s lit up and looks breathtaking.

A stroll around the fountain is a great way to get a sense of Terre Haute’s long and rich history. Not to mention, it makes for some stunning photos!

Address: Terre Haute, IN 47803, USA

#3. Hiking at the Gibson Woods

Gibson Woods is the place to go if you’re looking for a great outdoor activity in Terre Haute. This stunning nature preserve is filled with over 200 acres of beautiful forests, wetlands, and prairies, making it perfect for hiking and exploring.

The Gibson Woods Nature Preserve is home to many native plants and wildlife species, giving visitors an up-close look at the natural beauty of Indiana.

Several hiking trails range from easy to moderate, allowing hikers to choose the one that best suits their skill level.

Whether you’re out for a stroll or looking for a more challenging hike, there’s something for everyone at Gibson Woods.

Gibson Woods offers guided hikes and educational programs for those looking for a more immersive experience. There’s something new to learn every time you visit, from bird watching and wildflower identification to learning about the area’s history.

No matter what type of outdoor activity you’re looking for, you will find it at Gibson Woods Nature Preserve.

Address: 6201 Parrish Ave, Hammond, IN 46323, United States

#4. Rent a canoe and explore the Wabash River

If you’re looking for free things to do in Terre Haute today, renting a canoe and exploring the Wabash River should be at the top of your list.

The Wabash River is a major tributary of the Ohio River and is one of the few rivers in the United States that flows south to north. This makes it a great spot for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

When renting a canoe in Terre Haute, you can explore the Wabash River and take in all its scenic views. You can take in the beautiful forested areas and spot some wildlife. You may even catch some fish while out on the river!

The Wabash River also provides plenty of opportunities for adventure. You can try whitewater rafting and paddleboarding or enjoy paddling down the river’s peaceful and quiet nature. No matter your choice, there is no shortage of things to do and see on the Wabash River.

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting way to explore Terre Haute, renting a canoe and heading out on the Wabash River is an excellent choice!

With its beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities for adventure, it’s no wonder why so many people canoe this historic river.

#5. Eugene V. Debs Museum

Eugene V. Debs Museum, situated on the Indiana State University campus, was the former home of labor activist Eugene V. Debs.

The Eugene V. Debs Museum displays items from Eugene V. Debs’ life, including several of his collections and library.

It is a stunning two-story house decorated with expensive and exquisite structures. The fireplace with blue porcelain tile and the antique walls are two of its most noticeable elements.

There is also the mahogany dining and parlor furniture in addition to other little pieces of jewelry. So when you are asked what to do in Terre Haute this weekend, you can tell your friends you want to explore the Eugene V. Devs Museum.

Address: 451 N 8th St, Terre Haute, IN 47807, United States

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#6. Terre Haute Brewing Company

The Terre Haute Brewing Company is the second-oldest brewery in the United States of America and the oldest in Indiana.

They have been elevating their customers since 1837 while producing some of the best-tasting beer in the country. All the beers are made locally and always undergo a thorough quality check to ensure they maintain their original flavors.

Check out one of the four main beers: the stiffy green IPA, Americana lager, or velvet cream milk stout. Guided tours are offered here for individuals who want to learn more about the methods used to make beer.

Address: 401 S 9th St, Terre Haute, IN 47807, United States

#7. Indiana Theatre

The Indiana Theatre is distinguished by its atmospheric design, which guarantees every viewer has a wonderful time. The theater was built in 1922 and was designed by renowned architect John Eberson.

It has a Spanish-inspired design that was popular in the 17th century, and as a result, the walls are decorated with various vibrant themes and other stylized designs.

The lobby’s sophisticated and lavish ceiling is covered with vibrant frescos. The theater is also quite technologically advanced and extensively uses modern equipment like the newest sound system and LED lighting.

Make sure you attend a performance while in town because there are several throughout the year.

Address: 683 Ohio St, Terre Haute, IN 47807, United States

#8. Go Yoga at Common Ground CrossFit & Yoga

If you’re looking for a great way to get your workout in a while in Terre Haute, Indiana, look no further than Common Ground CrossFit & Yoga.

Located at 1625 S 25th St, this fitness center offers CrossFit and yoga classes. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Common Ground will help you reach your fitness goals with their wide variety of classes ranging from beginner to advanced.

They offer one-on-one and group coaching, as well as nutritional advice to help ensure you are getting the most out of your workouts.

Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or are an experienced athlete, Common Ground CrossFit & Yoga has something for everyone. So why not give it a try next time you’re in town? You won’t regret it!

Address: 1625 S 25th St, Terre Haute, IN 47803, United States

#9. Collett Park

This park in the heart of Terre Haute is a spacious 21 acres dotted with lush green grass and trees.

The park opened in 1883 on a piece of land given to the city.

Since 1981, Collett Park has been on the National Register of Historic Places because it has been around for a long time. This park has a beautiful pavilion with a Roman motif.

Residents host various events, including weddings and birthday parties, at a rented space available indoors. There is also a football and soccer field where you can play competitive games and work out your muscles.

There is also a playground for kids, which has a lot of amenities that are going to keep them entertained.

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#10. CANDLES Holocaust Museum and Education Center

The acronym “CANDLES” stands for “Toddlers of Auschwitz Nazi Deadly Lab Experiments Survivors.” The CANDLES Holocaust Museum and Education Center display heartbreaking exhibits that describe what happened to twin children at the death camp.

The CANDLES Holocaust Museum in Terre Haute, Indiana, is an inspiring and lovely place to visit. Established by Eva Kor, a Holocaust survivor, the museum educates visitors about her family’s story as well as the stories of other survivors.

A museum tour includes a multimedia exhibit with a series of photographs, letters, and audio recordings.

Additionally, visitors can take part in a special “Tree of Life” tour, which allows them to trace the Kor family’s journey before, during, and after their Holocaust experience.

On your tour, you will hear firsthand accounts of the horrors of the concentration camps and how the Kor family was able to survive and ultimately reunite. You will also learn about Eva’s life mission of forgiveness and healing that continues to this day.

The museum is open year-round and offers special events and programs like lectures and workshops. Visiting the CANDLES Holocaust Museum is an enlightening experience that will give you a greater understanding of the Holocaust and its impacts on those affected.

Address: 1532 S 3rd St, Terre Haute, IN 47802, United States

#11. LaVern Gibson Championship Cross Country Course

Cross-country races are fun activities you may participate in with your family or friends. The LaVern Gibson Championship Cross Country Course, which spans 240 acres, was created especially for well-attended events.

There are several internal loops along the 1.8-mile-long circuit. The region is huge, and the topography is excellent because the track was constructed on property that was formerly used as a coal mine. Throughout the year, the location hosts several championships meets.

The cross-country squad from Indiana State University uses this course for tournaments and training. Make a point of visiting this location if you happen to be in town when the competitions are in place.

Address: 599 Tabortown St, Terre Haute, IN 47803, United States

#12. Don’t forget to go spa at Alchemy Spa & Beautique

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate in Terre Haute, Indiana, look no further than Alchemy Spa & Beautique!

This full-service spa is great for spending a day or an afternoon getting pampered and refreshed. Their treatments range from massages, facials, waxing, and manicures/pedicures to specialized services like body wraps, medical microdermabrasion, and more.

Their services are designed to make you look and feel your best. They also offer makeup applications, lash extensions, and eyebrow tinting for those looking to enhance their beauty.

At Alchemy Spa & Beautique, you can expect quality service, luxurious products, and amazing results. So why not make time for yourself and treat yourself to some R&R at this fabulous spa?

Address: 3404 S 7th St, Terre Haute, IN 47802, United States

#13. Haute City Center

This huge mall and the commercial complex were formerly called Honey Creek Mall. You can shop until you drop at the renowned brands and stores in Haute City Center. These include retailers like Carson’s, Macy’s, Sears, and J.C. Penney.

After shopping, have dinner at one of the many cafés or restaurants in the area. You can also check out the bars If you’re with friends.

Address: 3401 S US Hwy 41, Terre Haute, IN 47802, United States

#14. Terre Haute Action Track

The Terre Haute Action Track is a half-mile dirt track where entertaining racing action takes place. The action track, one of the hot favorites among adventure lovers, is situated at the Wabash Valley fairgrounds and offers numerous events all year.

The Silver Crown competitions, sprint car competitions, and the annual Automobile Club midget car event are other significant occasions held here.

Watching from the grandstand as the vehicles race down the dirt track to an action-packed finish is entertaining. The Terre Haute Action Track has Parking spots, camping sites, tents, and other seating areas. This action track is one of the fun things to do in Terre Haute, Indiana.

Address: 3901 S US Hwy 41, Terre Haute, IN 47802, United States

#15. Piloni’s Italian Restaurant

Italian food is more than just pasta and wood-fired pizzas. You should taste one of its other stunning and traditional dishes once in your lifetime. You can enjoy genuine Italian flavors at the family-run Piloni’s Italian Restaurant.

The chefs created an exclusive cuisine utilizing recipes handed down through the centuries. The fish, meat, and salad are some of the menu’s noteworthy components. There is also the standard pizza, and all of the sauces are created from scratch to give you a true taste.

You can choose a cocktail from the extensive menu or a craft beer to go with it.

Address: 1733 Lafayette Ave, Terre Haute, IN 47804, United States

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#16. Dobbs Park Nature Center

Dobbs Park Nature Center is a small local museum where you can teach your kids about the wonders of nature and how they profoundly affect human existence.

The hiking and mountain bike paths are excellent and offer a wonderful way to enjoy outdoor recreation.

You can also stroll amid the large trees to relax and commune with nature. Find a lovely shaded location to spread a blanket, pack a picnic lunch, and relax.

There is a nice little pond in the park where you may go fishing.

Address: 5170 E Poplar St, Terre Haute, IN 47803, United States

#17. St. Benedict The Catholic Church

St. Benedict, The Catholic Church, was established in 1864 at the end of the war and was first dedicated to St. Benedict.

The Franciscans took care of the church’s reconstruction into a larger space in 1872. It was updated with a Roman-inspired design by architect Adolph Druiding. Due to its crucifix-like design and two enormous towers, the church is an architectural wonder in and of itself.

This church also has a large nave and a foot-long transept. Three bells are inside the church honoring St. Benedict, St. Francis, and the Blessed Virgin. This is also one of the hidden gems in Terre Haute, so feel free to visit this Catholic Church.

Address: 111 S 9th St, Terre Haute, IN 47807, United States

#18. Sonka Irish Pub

Sonka Irish Pub is a long-standing neighborhood tavern that serves traditional Irish fare and craft beers on tap and by the bottle. It is housed in a historic building on the northwest corner of Wabash Avenue and 14th Street that dates back to 1900.

The menu offers traditional Irish dishes with American twists like cheese boards, fish and chips, nachos, quesadillas, burgers, and fries.

It also offers gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and seafood platters. The pub is open every day for brunch, lunch, and dinner and has a full bar that serves a variety of craft beers on tap and by the bottle, international wines, and traditional cocktails created with exotic spirits.

You may also check out the best restaurants in Terre Haute, Indiana.

Address: 1366 Wabash Ave, Terre Haute, IN 47807, United States

#19. Vigo County Library

Vigo County Library is one of the top educational centers in Terre Haute, founded in 1882. You can find a wide selection of fiction and nonfiction books, magazines, newspapers, children’s story times, and other scholarly resources in this library.

It has a public computer laboratory where you can access eBooks, music, tapes, videos, and DVDs. Regardless of whether they have a service member, all users can access thousands of titles. The library also offers renter service to visitors as long as you meet their requirements.

The library arranges community meetings and “cracker-barrel” discussions with state senators and representatives during the legislative session.

Address: 1 Library Square, Terre Haute, IN 47807, United States

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#20. Terre Haute Masonic Temple

The Terre Haute Masonic Temple is a magnificently preserved Masonic building located at Indiana State University in the Classical Revival style. This temple is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This four-story temple has many facilities besides a solidarity center, including a large ballroom, parlor, executive boardroom, and well-equipped library.

The second story has a separate area with three lodge rooms and a lounge for the Blue Lodge and the Order of the Eastern Star.

The Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, the Commandery of the Knights Templar, and the Council of Royal & Secret Masters, however, are located on the third Storey. An organ storage room and a choir loft are on the fourth floor.

Address: 224 N 8th St, Terre Haute, IN 47807, United States

#21. Hatfield Hall

Hatfield Hall is one of the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology’s most notable buildings. It is a world-class performing center for several presentations.

If you enjoy attending concerts, you must check out their musical productions and dance presentation performances.

The venue hosts a variety of acts throughout the year, and by purchasing tickets in advance, you can guarantee a seat for several events.

The genres span traditional to emerging ones focusing on New Age issues and ideas. Both famous international artists and up-and-coming local artists are encouraged to exhibit their work here.

Address: 5500 Wabash Ave, Terre Haute, IN 47803, United States

#22. Crossroads Repertory Theatre

The Crossroads Repertory Theatre is a non-profit neighborhood theater in Terre Haute, Indiana. The organization performs six Oakley Stage shows for a smaller audience each year in addition to the five plays and musicals performed on the main stage.

The theater produces and presents well-known plays and budding artists’ upcoming performances. Graduate students who wish to get considerable experience and participate in top-notch theatrical productions have been drawn to it.

Address: 536 N 7th St, Terre Haute, IN 47809, United States

#23. Memorial Stadium

The Indiana State Sycamores’ collegiate football team plays at Memorial Stadium, which was constructed in 1924. The original stadium had a horseshoe-shaped grandstand that could accommodate 16,000 spectators. It was used for various sports, including high school football, baseball, and Fourth of July celebrations.

The stadium was renovated and dedicated to those who fought in World War One. The arch erected at the facility’s entrance is one of the unique features of the old stadium after it was restored and remodeled. This remodeled stadium is only used for football games now.

Address: 3300 Wabash Ave, Terre Haute, IN 47803, United States

#24. Charlie’s Neighborhood Pub & Grub

Locally renowned Charlie’s Neighborhood Pub & Grub serves a variety of made-to-order California classics and American roadside favorites like juicy cheeseburgers, excellent hot dogs, chunky onion rings, and thick, hand-spun shakes.

Charlie’s Neighborhood Pub & Grub uses local, fresh ingredients to make both traditional and contemporary versions of the American burger and distinctive toppings and sauces.

Burgers are served on freshly baked buns, and several regionally made beers are on tap and in bottles. Breakfast and lunch are served at Charlie’s Neighborhood Pub & Grub every day.

Address:  1608 Crawford St, Terre Haute, IN 47807, United States

Plan your Trip to Terre Haute (Indiana)

The fact that Terre Haute is less well-known than other American cities shouldn’t deter you from exploring everything that it has to offer.

Terre Haute is a growing Midwest tourist attraction because it is smaller yet more appealing. The variety of amazing things to do and places to see at this undiscovered gem will astound you.

Start making travel arrangements for this lovely city. Save this page as a quick reference while planning your schedule for Terre Haute, and also share it with friends using the share button below.

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