Terre Haute Travel Guide

Terre Haute Travel Guide is a comprehensive look at all the best things to see, do, and eat when you visit Terre Haute, Indiana. This travel guide offers a comprehensive itinerary, recommendations on where to stay and eat according to your budget, safety tips, and information on transportation options to Terre Haute.


Terre Haute Travel Guide

Terre Haute is a city located in Indiana’s Central region. Its name is derived from the French word “terre haute,” which means “high ground.” Terre Haute is known for its colorful history, natural beauty, and thriving cultural scene.

Introduction to Terre Haute

Terre Haute is located in the heart of the Midwest, making it easily accessible from many major cities in the US. It is a charming city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Terre Haute

No matter what your interests are, Terre Haute offers something for everyone. Here are some of the must-see attractions in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Eugene V. Debs Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Eugene V. Debs, a prominent labor leader and political activist.
  • Swope Art Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of American art, including works by Grant Wood, Mary Cassatt, and John Singer Sargent.
  • Candles Holocaust Museum & Education Center: This museum provides educational exhibits and programs that focus on the Holocaust and its impact on society.

Natural Attractions of Terre Haute: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dobbs Memorial Park and Nature Center: This 50-acre park offers hiking, biking, and scenic trails winding through the natural beauty of the area.
  • Griffin Bike Park: This mountain bike park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adrenaline seekers.
  • Wabashiki Trail: This 13-mile paved trail is great for walkers, joggers, bikers, and birdwatchers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Terre Haute

Terre Haute is home to some of the best hiking and biking trails in the Midwest. Here are a few of the top options:

  • Griffin Bike Park: With 16 miles of singletrack trail, Griffin Bike Park is a popular destination for mountain bikers of all skill levels.
  • National Road Heritage Trail: This paved trail stretches for 150 miles and offers fantastic views of the area’s natural beauty.
  • Wabashiki Trail: The Wabashiki Trail is a 13-mile paved trail through floodplain forests, wetlands, and prairies.

Best Things to Do in Terre Haute: Activities and Tours

Terre Haute has plenty of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Ghost Tour: This tour takes guests through Terre Haute’s most haunted buildings and locations.
  • Fishing: Terre Haute has plenty of spots for anglers to cast their lines and catch fish, including Dobbs Memorial Park and Hawthorn Park.
  • Clabber Girl Museum & Bake Shop: Visitors can learn about the famous Clabber Girl baking powder and enjoy some delicious baked goods.

Week-Long Itinerary for Terre Haute

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Terre Haute:

Day Activity
Day 1 Check-in, explore downtown Terre Haute, and visit the Eugene V. Debs Museum
Day 2 Visit Candles Holocaust Museum & Education Center and Swope Art Museum
Day 3 Take a bike ride on the Griffin Bike Park, followed by a visit to Dobbs Memorial Park and Nature Center
Day 4 Visit the Clabber Girl Museum & Bake Shop and go fishing at Hawthorn Park
Day 5 Take a ghost tour of Terre Haute
Day 6 Visit the Wabashiki Trail and explore the city’s food and drink scene
Day 7 Check-out and depart Terre Haute

Food and Drink Scene of Terre Haute

Terre Haute has an excellent food and drink scene, with options ranging from classic American fare to international cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork tenderloin sandwich: A Hoosier staple, this sandwich is large and delicious.
  • Clabber Girl baked goods: This brand has been a Terre Haute icon since 1899.
  • Brain sandwich: A local delicacy that adventurous eaters might enjoy.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: Head to Crosser’s Coffee & Cake to enjoy some of the best brews in the area.
  • Beer: Terre Haute has several breweries, including The Terre Haute Brewing Company and The Guardian Brewing Company.
  • Wine: The Sycamore Winery offers great wines and scenic views of the area.

Where to Stay in Terre Haute: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Terre Haute has a number of lodging options to suit every budget and preference. Here are a few to consider:

  • Hilton Garden Inn: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown and offers comfortable rooms and amenities.
  • Vigo County Inn & Suites: Affordable and charming, this hotel is a great option for budget travelers.
  • Candlewood Suites Terre Haute: This hotel offers comfortable suites with full kitchens, making it a great option for extended stays.

What to Buy in Terre Haute: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for the perfect souvenir or gift to bring back home? Here are a few options:

  • Clabber Girl baking powder: This iconic baking powder has been made in Terre Haute for over a century.
  • Handmade pottery: Check out the pieces at the Wabash Valley Art Guild to find unique, locally made pottery.
  • Terre Haute t-shirts and hats: Show your love for the city with one of these souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Terre Haute

Terre Haute residents are known for their welcoming nature and friendly demeanor. The city is also called “the crossroads of America” because of its location at the intersection of several major highways.

Best Time to Visit Terre Haute

The best time to visit Terre Haute is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the foliage is beautiful. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Terre Haute

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Terre Haute:

Do:

  • Explore downtown Terre Haute.
  • Visit the city’s many museums and historic sites.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
  • Don’t leave without trying one of the local delicacies.

Safety and Health

Terre Haute is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take some precautions to stay safe and healthy.

Safety in Terre Haute

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in less-traveled areas.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place and out of sight.
  • Use caution when crossing the street.

Health in Terre Haute

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Bring sunscreen and bug repellent for outdoor activities.
  • Be aware of any allergies you may have and bring any necessary medication.

Getting to Terre Haute: Transportation Options and Logistics

Terre Haute is easily accessible by car or plane. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Terre Haute

  • Indianapolis International Airport: Approximately 70 miles from Terre Haute.
  • Terre Haute Regional Airport: Located just outside of the downtown area, this airport offers flights to several destinations.

Bus Stations Near Terre Haute

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Located in the downtown area of Terre Haute, Greyhound offers bus service to many destinations.
  • Miller Transportation: Located in the Terre Haute Transit Center, Miller Transportation offers bus service to several cities in the Midwest.

Other Options

  • Driving: Terre Haute is located at the intersection of several major highways, making it easily accessible by car.
  • Rideshare: Services like Uber and Lyft are available in Terre Haute.

How to Get Around in Terre Haute

Terre Haute is a walkable city, but visitors can also use public transportation, taxis, or rideshare services to get around.

Where to Go Next from Terre Haute: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider after visiting Terre Haute:

  • Indianapolis: This vibrant city is just a short drive away and offers plenty of attractions, including the Indianapolis Zoo and Indiana State Museum.
  • Bloomington: Home to Indiana University, this charming city is known for its lively arts scene and scenic parks.
  • Shakamak State Park: Located just 30 minutes south of Terre Haute, this state park is known for its beautiful lake and hiking trails.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has given you a comprehensive look at all the best things to see, do, and eat when you visit Terre Haute, Indiana. With its unique history, natural beauty, and thriving cultural scene, Terre Haute is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a memorable travel experience.

Downtown Terre Haute, looking southwest Downtown Terre Haute, looking southwest Vigo County Courthouse Vigo County Courthouse Swope Art Museum Swope Art Museum