Nine-County Region Travel Guide

This travel guide covers everything you need to know about the Nine-County Region in Indiana, including places to visit, where to stay, and what to do.


Introduction to Nine-County Region

Located in the Midwest region of the United States, the Nine-County Region is a great destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty and rich history of Indiana. The region is named after the nine counties it encompasses: Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Johnson, Madison, Marion, Morgan, and Shelby. Each county has its own unique charm, from picturesque small towns to thriving urban areas. In this travel guide, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the Nine-County Region, including top attractions, best places to stay, and local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Nine-County Region

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors interested in history and culture will find plenty to explore in the Nine-County Region. Some of the top cultural attractions include:

  • Indiana State Museum (Marion County): This museum showcases the natural and cultural history of Indiana, with exhibits on everything from the state’s prehistoric past to its role in the Civil War.

  • Eiteljorg Museum (Marion County): This museum features an extensive collection of Native American art and artifacts, as well as works by contemporary Western artists.

  • Conner Prairie (Hamilton County): This living history museum allows visitors to step back in time and experience life in a 19th-century Indiana town.

Natural Attractions of Nine-County Region: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those who love the great outdoors, the Nine-County Region offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Some of the region’s top natural attractions include:

  • Eagle Creek Park (Marion County): This 1,400-acre park is home to a large lake, numerous hiking trails, and a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles.

  • Brown County State Park (Brown County): Located just outside the Nine-County Region, this park features rolling hills, scenic vistas, and miles of hiking trails.

  • Fall Creek Gorge Nature Preserve (Madison County): This nature preserve offers beautiful views of a deep sandstone gorge, as well as opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nine-County Region

The Nine-County Region is home to numerous hiking and biking trails, including:

  • Monon Trail (Marion County): This 18-mile trail runs from downtown Indianapolis to the suburb of Carmel, and is popular with both walkers and cyclists.

  • White River Greenway (Hamilton County): This 5-mile trail runs alongside the White River and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Southwestway Park (Marion County): This park features over 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as scenic views of the rolling hills of southwestern Indiana.

Best Things to Do in Nine-County Region: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures or cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in the Nine-County Region. Some of the top activities and tours include:

  • Indianapolis Motor Speedway Tour (Marion County): This guided tour takes visitors behind the scenes at one of the most famous racetracks in the world.

  • Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course (Hamilton County): This outdoor adventure park features zip lines, rope bridges, and other obstacles high in the treetops.

  • White River State Park Segway Tour (Marion County): This guided Segway tour takes visitors through the beautiful parks and gardens of White River State Park.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nine-County Region

If you have a week to spend in the Nine-County Region, consider the following itinerary:

  • Day 1: Begin your trip in Indianapolis with a visit to the Indiana State Museum and Indianapolis Zoo.

  • Day 2: Head north to Hamilton County for some outdoor adventures at Conner Prairie and White River State Park.

  • Day 3: Explore the charming small towns of Madison County, including Anderson and Pendleton.

  • Day 4: Take a day trip to Brown County State Park and enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

  • Day 5: Discover the rich history of Hendricks County with visits to various historical sites, such as the Indiana Aviation Museum and the Hendricks County Historical Museum.

  • Day 6: Spend the day in Morgan County exploring the local wineries and breweries, and enjoy the beautiful countryside scenery.

  • Day 7: Finish your trip with a visit to the Speedway, home to the famous Indianapolis 500.

Food and Drink Scene of Nine-County Region

Must-Try Dishes

Indiana is known for its hearty Midwestern cuisine, with plenty of local specialties to try. Some of the must-try dishes in the Nine-County Region include:

  • Pork tenderloin sandwich (statewide): This classic Indiana sandwich features a thick, breaded pork cutlet served on a bun with various toppings.

  • Sugar cream pie (statewide): A creamy, custard-like pie made with sugar, butter, and cream, and topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

  • Fried biscuits and apple butter (Johnson County): A local favorite, this dish features freshly fried biscuits served with a side of tangy apple butter.

Local Beverages

The Nine-County Region is home to several wineries and breweries, producing a variety of delicious local beverages. Some of the top spots to try include:

  • New Day Craft (Marion County): This craft cidery produces a variety of flavorful ciders using locally sourced ingredients.

  • Triton Brewing Company (Hamilton County): This popular brewery offers a variety of craft beers, including several seasonal and limited-edition options.

  • Harmony Winery (Hancock County): This winery specializes in fruit wines, made with locally grown apples, peaches, and berries.

Where to Stay in Nine-County Region: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, the Nine-County Region has plenty of lodging options to choose from. Some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the region include:

  • The Alexander (Marion County): This upscale boutique hotel features stylish rooms and suites, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar.

  • Big Woods Resort (Brown County): This rustic resort offers cozy cabins and lodges, as well as a range of outdoor activities and amenities.

  • Heron Hill Guesthouse (Hamilton County): This charming bed and breakfast is situated on a picturesque farm and offers comfortable rooms and delicious homemade breakfasts.

What to Buy in Nine-County Region: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to take home from your trip to the Nine-County Region, consider the following options:

  • Amish-made crafts and furniture (Shelby County): The Amish community in Shelby County is known for their handmade crafts and furniture, including quilts, baskets, and rocking chairs.

  • Indiana wine and craft beer (statewide): Pick up a bottle of locally made wine or craft beer as a tasty souvenir to enjoy at home.

  • Fudge and other confections (Madison County): Madison County is home to several candy stores and confectioneries, producing delicious treats such as homemade fudge and chocolate-covered strawberries.

Local Culture and Customs of Nine-County Region

Indiana is known for its friendly, Midwestern hospitality, with locals always eager to welcome visitors. Some other cultural customs and traditions to keep in mind include:

  • Respect for the flag (statewide): Hoosiers take great pride in their country and their state flag, and it is considered impolite to display the flag improperly.

  • Relaxed dress code (statewide): Indiana is a fairly casual state, and locals tend to dress in comfortable, practical clothing.

  • Love of sports (statewide): Indiana is home to several professional sports teams, and locals love to cheer on their favorite teams at games and sporting events.

Best Time to Visit Nine-County Region

The best time to visit the Nine-County Region is during the summer months (June-August), when temperatures are warm and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, spring and fall can also be pleasant times to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nine-County Region

Do:

  • Try local specialties (statewide): Indiana has a variety of unique foods and beverages to try, including pork tenderloin sandwiches, sugar cream pie, and craft beer.

  • Explore the outdoors (statewide): The Nine-County Region is home to several beautiful parks and outdoor recreational areas, perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and more.

Don’t:

  • Ignore local customs (statewide): Indiana has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions.

  • Be rude or disrespectful (statewide): Hoosiers are known for their friendly hospitality, and visitors should always strive to be polite and courteous.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nine-County Region

The Nine-County Region is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should still take basic precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking their car doors and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Nine-County Region

Visitors to the Nine-County Region should ensure they have up-to-date vaccinations before traveling, and should take precautions to avoid tick bites and exposure to mosquitoes. It is also a good idea to bring any necessary medications and to have health insurance coverage for the duration of their trip.

Getting to Nine-County Region: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nine-County Region

The closest airports to the Nine-County Region are:

  • Indianapolis International Airport (Marion County): This airport is located just outside the city of Indianapolis and offers frequent flights to major U.S. cities.

  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (Kentucky): Located about 90 miles southeast of Indianapolis, this airport offers a range of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Nine-County Region

Greyhound Bus Lines offers several daily bus routes to and from Indianapolis, making it a convenient option for travelers without access to a car. Other bus lines such as MegaBus also serve the area.

Other Options

Several major highways pass through the Nine-County Region, including Interstate 65, Interstate 70, and Interstate 74. Car rental is widely available and can be a convenient option for travelers who want to explore the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Nine-County Region

The best way to get around the Nine-County Region is by car, as many of the region’s top attractions are spread out and not easily accessible by public transportation. Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in the area, but may be more expensive than renting a car for the duration of your trip.

Where to Go Next from Nine-County Region: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your trip beyond the Nine-County Region, consider the following nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Louisville, Kentucky (80 miles south): This vibrant city is home to numerous cultural attractions and delicious Southern cuisine.

  • Chicago, Illinois (180 miles northwest): The Windy City is known for its architecture, arts scene, and deep-dish pizza.

Conclusion

The Nine-County Region offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures and cultural attractions to delicious food and friendly hospitality. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, this travel guide has everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Indiana’s beautiful Nine-County Region.



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